Lexus CT 200h Evolves with Sportier Styling, Interior Updates and Innovative Equipment

FRANKFURT INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2017: the details below give first information about the refreshed Lexus CT 200h. Details concerning the availability and specifications of UK market models will be announced nearer the vehicle’s on-sale date, later in 2017.

• Updated exterior and interior styling for Lexus’ original hybrid luxury compact hatchback
• Added appeal for one of Lexus’ top-selling models – more than 300,000 global sales since 2011
• Revised, more modern frontal design and new alloy wheel designs
• New interior colour options and larger Lexus Navigation System display
• Specific design upgrades for the CT 200h F Sport
• Range now available with Lexus Safety System + active safety and driver assistance features

When Lexus debuted the CT 200h at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, it introduced the compact hybrid hatchback to the luxury automobile segment. The CT 200h has become one the brand’s best-selling hybrid models; since its launch in 2011, Lexus has sold more than 300,000 CT 200h globally, including about 75,000 in Europe, one the largest markets for the model.

With this latest update, Lexus looks to build on the model’s strengths and its well-earned reputation for efficiency and reliability, introducing a refreshed exterior that captures its driver-appeal – without compromising its user-friendliness and fuel economy.

Chika Kato, Chief Engineer of the CT 200h, summed up the impact of the changes: “The CT 200h has been refreshed and revitalised by enhancing its progressiveness. Its updated design is more emotional and sporty, making it the ideal premium hybrid compact car for younger customers who enjoy spirited driving, but care about the environment.”

EXTERIOR DESIGN: A MORE DRAMATIC PRESENCE
The programme of revisions is clearly evident in the car’s new look, given significantly greater impact with a reworking of the frontal design. The daytime running lights keep their arrowhead pattern but have been repositioned so that they sit above the single-projector headlights, generating continuity with the character lines that extend down each side of the car.

The grille has been given a stronger look with the introduction of a sophisticated new mesh pattern in place of the horizontal bar arrangement, and the removal of the integrated bumper section that divides the upper and lower grille sections. Detailed touches include new metallic grey bezels for the fog lights, set in sharp-edged triangular surrounds.

Together these changes give the CT 200h a stronger road presence and more modern and athletic appearance.

“We have pursued a new look by reversing the position of the LED headlight unit and DRL compared to the previous model. The result is a look that’s more impactful than before. Moreover, the “L” motif of the DRL strengthens the Lexus signature,” said Tetsuo Miki, Chief Designer of the CT 200h.

There are changes at the rear, too, with new Lexus L-shaped taillights that create a wider, sportier look. The lights are now all-LED units, with the turn indicators moved to the lower edge of the unit, strengthening the overall L-motif. The upper and lower lines of the light-emitting section of the taillights thicken as they curve outwards, accentuating the width of the units and giving the rear of the car the sense of a strong, stable presence.

A new tailgate garnish has been added, enveloping the Lexus emblem between the rear glass and the taillights. Also, the lower part of the rear bumper has been reshaped and given a new metallic silver and black finish. The rear reflector bezels have a metallic grey finish to match the front fog lights.

Sportier wheel designs spice up the CT 200h’s profile — from the entry-level 15-inch rims  to the F Sport’s 17-inch. dark metallic alloys. There is also a new 10-spoke 16-inch wheel that features a combination machined and dark metallic finish.

 INTERIOR UPDATES
Even at first glance it is easy to appreciate the status of the CT’s cabin as among the best in its class, thanks to the use of high-quality materials, rich surface textures and an attractive “form-follows-function” styling philosophy.

The optional Lexus Premium Navigation System benefits from a significantly larger screen, increased in size from seven to 10.3 inches for a clearer display and greater ease of use.

Customers can also choose from a wider colour palette for the range of upholsteries, which includes two-tone smooth leather, combination fabric and durable leather-effect material and a new all-fabric option.

CT 200h F SPORT
The CT 200h F Sport benefits from specific changes that reinforce its status as the sports-focused model in the range. These include an exclusive new mesh pattern for the spindle grille with a metallic black finish. The same mesh design is used as a backdrop for the fog light inserts and surrounds.

Also exclusive to the F Sport, the upper and lower sections of the grille moulding have a new jet black plating, while there is a new metallic black lower trim garnish. New high-grade headlights house a single projector high/low beam lamp.

“The F Sport attracts younger customers, so we’ve strengthened the vehicle’s exclusive black items to reinforce its sporty nature, namely the rear bezel and the rear lower garnish. The rear bezel has the same mesh design as the front grille, and the lower garnish is painted metallic black here while the normal grade colour is silver,” the CT 200h Chief Designer Miki said.

For 2018, the CT 200h F Sport will be available with a two-tone exterior paint finish and distinctive new colours – Solar Flare and Azure Blue.

In the cabin F Sport-exclusive combination finishes are available, including two-tone leather upholstery and elegant Naguri-pattern trim details, showcasing Lexus’s Takumi craftsmanship and exclusive to the F Sport model.

 LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM +
Another welcome addition to the updated Lexus CT 200h is the availability of the Lexus Safety System + that offers enhanced safety with advanced technologies such as Pre-Collision System (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with steering wheel control function, Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlights, and Road Sign Assist (RSA).