Lexus Compact Hybrid CT 200h Confirmed for U.S. Market

Lexus have announced in a Press Release today confirming that the CT 200h Compact Hybrid will be at dealerships in early 2011 for the American market.  It is highly possible that this also includes Canada.

Lexus expects the CT 200h to lead in fuel economy in the segment and also aims to be a safety leader with eight airbags as standard.  The CT 200h joins the HS 250h as the second dedicated hybrid for the Lexus brand and will be shown in NYC Auto Show in early April.The CT 200h is driven by a 1.8L atkinson cycle  4-cylinder with VVT-i combined with Lexus Hybrid Drive technology using NiMH batteries and rides on 17" wheels.

There are four 'drive modes' including Eco, Normal, EV and Sport.  EV drives on battery power alone(range has not been announced) while eco regulates functions such as A/C to increase efficiency.  A sport mode sharpens the electric steering inputs and throttle response sensitivity.  Like the HS 250h and the Prius much effort was put into making the CT 200h as aerodynamic as possible.