Pros: More nimble and fun to drive than you might expect for a hybrid, especially in F Sport trim; upscale interior materials; impressive fuel economy
Cons: Middling acceleration; some drivers dislike Remote Touch system’s joystick control interface; seating is cramped both front and rear for large occupants; poor rear visibility; fairly stiff ride
CG Says: For 2014, Lexus’s hybrid compact car gets refreshed exterior styling and minor interior updates such as revised multimedia features, revamped shift knob, and a redesigned steering wheel. Lexus positions the CT 200h as a fuel-sipping alternative to other small, luxury-oriented hatchbacks. Though not in the same league as them performance wise, it (more often than not) will blow them away when it comes to fuel consumption. At its base sticker price of about $32,000, the CT is a decent value and a nice way to get your foot in the door of the Lexus brand. Pricey options make it easy to send the sticker price into the stratosphere, putting the CT at a disadvantage against similarly priced rivals. Unless you place top priority on the Lexus badge and the privileges of ownership that entails, you would be better served with the thriftier, more practical, mechanically similar Toyota Prius.
