Lexus CT200h launched in Japan

MANILA, Philippines - Last January, Lexus launched the world’s first Luxury Full-hybrid compact, the 2011 CT200h at its home country in Japan. Japan, which only welcomed the Lexus brand last 2005, is one of the first countries to offer the premium-hybrid cars in the world.

The CT200h is powered by an innovative 1.8L Atkinson cycle combustion engine designed specifically for use in hybrid vehicles. This engine is coupled with Lexus Hybrid Drive, allowing the front-wheel drive Lexus hybrid to top its class with a fuel efficiency rating of 34.0Km/L in the 10-15 test cycle outlined by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). MLIT testing is very generous though and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimate puts the hybrid at around 18Km/L in combined city and highway driving.

The main feature of the Lexus CT200h Dual mode driving select dial that allows the hybrid to shift between economical, performance and electric modes.

“The difference is huge,” explains Carlo Chungunco, Lexus Marketing Officer. “You really feel the change in the way the car feels and handles. In sport mode, power delivery is better and steering is given more weight and feel, while ‘Eco’ mode delivers a serene drive that really places the focus on fuel economy.”

With an extremely rigid state-of-the-art chassis design and a newly developed suspension system, the CT200h allows for an exhilarating drive that does not overlook environmental awareness.

In addition to the standard CT200h, Lexus also introduced an F-Sport variant equipped with performance dampers which increases the rigidity of the suspension system without compromising Lexus’ signature ride comfort.

Lexus expects to sell 1,500 of the new luxury hybrid vehicles in Japan per month.

Originally designed for European markets, the CT200h will be made available in North America and China later in the year while the local subsidiary, Lexus Manila, is expecting delivery of the dedicated hybrid within February.

Interested enthusiasts can contact Lexus Manila at 856-5050 for a private viewing of the CT200h luxury hybrid prior to its official Philippine launch on the 21st of February.