It goes without saying that the Lexus CT 200h->ke3482 is about as unique a car you can find for a hybrid hatch->ke304. Lexus->ke47 has done a lot of work to bring out the best of this model in the past few years, even adding the unique spindle grille styling for the 2014 model. But even that wasn't enough for the company because lo and behold, we now have the CT 200h F Sport.

The graduation from the standard model to the one with an F Sport stamp of approval is mostly limited to aesthetic and aerodynamic changes, but the difference between the two is pretty drastic, particularly on how sportier and more aggressive the front section of the CT 200h F Sport looks. Those inserts really do a lot to bring out the hybrid's menacing look, right?

We certainly think so, and that's one of the reasons why we think highly of the model, other than its obvious performance and efficiency numbers.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2014 Lexus CT 200h F Sport.

2014 Lexus CT 200h F Sport

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Lexus CT 200h F Sport
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  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 134
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The exterior of the CT 200h F Sport is one that can be best described as sporty and sophisticated, and that's even without all the added goodies that comes with the F Sport package. It doesn't have the classy cache of its big brother models, but the CT 200h still benefits from Lexus' unique design characteristics.

The company's noted spindle grille is front and center on the front section of the hatchback and is finely complemented by the striking LED headlights that have also become a Lexus design staple. Adding sportiness to the look of the hatch are the muscular wheel arches, the steeply raked roofline, and the deep rear spoiler, evoking a clear image of a car that means serious business.

Once you add the F Sport package into the mix, the CT 200h receives another round of aerodynamic modifications, including new upper and lower grille inserts, to go along with a front fender badge and a new set of 17-inch 5-twin spoke alloy wheels with a two-tone graphite and machine finish.

Lexus CT 200h F Sport - Exterior Dimensions

Overall Length

171.2 in (4,350 mm)

Width

69.5 in (1,765 mm)

Height

57.3 in (1,455 mm)

Wheelbase

102.4 in (2,600 mm)

Ground Clearance

5.3 in (135 mm)

Cargo Capacity (rear seats up)

14.3 cu ft (405 L)

Cargo Capacity (rear seats down)

Over 30 cu ft (Over 850 L)

Curb Weight

3,130 lb (1,420 kg)


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Interior

Lexus' reputation as a luxury Japanese brand clearly shows itself in how the company treated the interior of the CT 200h. From the form-fitting bucket seats to the stacked console highlighted by an 8-inch LCD multifunction display, the CT 200h's cabin is a picture of class and elegance.

It might be a little bit of a surprise for a car like the CT 200h to receive this kind of cabin, but Lexus doesn't compromise with its models, especially those that have a multi-market appeal like this hybrid hatchback.

The simulated leather that's 60 percent lighter than real hides is also a welcome addition, as are the bamboo speaker frames, and brightly lit gauges that makes for an attractive aesthetic dynamic for the CT 200h.

Talking about the lengthy standard and optional features of the CT 200h, you can be impressed with the keyless ignition, Bluetooth hands-free pairing for voice and audio streaming, iPod control, SiriusXM satellite radio, and the Lexus Safety Connect system, among others.

Lexus CT 200h F Sport - Interior Dimensions

Headroom (front/rear)

38.3/37.0 in (974/940 mm)

Legroom (front/rear)

42.1/32.9 in (1,069/835 mm)

Shoulder Room (front/rear)

53.9/52.6 in (1,370/1,335 mm)

Hip Room (front/rear)

53.0/51.8 in (1,345/1,315 mm)


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Drivetrain

The CT 200h F Sport's powertrain dynamics was left intact, leaving little in the way of hope for improvements in performance. That being said, the hybrid powertrain features the same 1.8-liter, inline-four engine and a high-output electric-drive motor with EV mode as its base variant.

Combined together, the CT 200h F Sport is still capable of producing a modest 134 horsepower. That won't blow your socks off but with an improved mileage of 43 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, the CT 200h F Sport's hybrid setup will make the car worth it for the everyday city driver.

Lexus CT 200h F Sport - Drivetrain Specifications

Type

In-line 4, Atkinson-cycle, aluminum block and head

Displacement

1.8 Liters (110 cubic inches)

Valvetrain

Dual cam, four valves per cylinder, with continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i)

Compression Ratio

13.0:1

Electric-Drive Motor

High-output, permanent-magnet, electric-drive motor with EV mode

Total System Horsepower

134 HP

Fuel Requirement

Regular unleaded, 87 octane

0-60 MPH Acceleration

9.8 seconds

Top Track Speed (electronically limited)

113 MPH

EPA Fuel Economy Ratings (city/highway/combined)

43/40/42 MPG

Aerodynamic Drag Coefficient

0.29

Turning Circle (wall-to-wall)

34.2 FT.


Prices

The base Lexus CT 200h has a starting price of $32,050, but the CT 200h F Sport pushes the price up to $35,230. Adding the F Sport package with NuLux pushes the price up to $38,120.

Pricing (+ $910 Destination Fee)

2014 Lexus CT 200h F Sport W/ Leather

$35,230

2014 Lexus CT 200h F Sport W/ NuLux

$38,120


Options and Accessories

F SPORT Sway Bars

$599

F SPORT 17-in trident five-spoke alloy wheels

$1,100

F-sport lowering springs

$399


Competition

Audi A3 Sportback E-Tron

At this point, the CT 200h F Sport doesn't have a whole lot in the way of competing models, but if there's one that can really make Lexus sweat, it's the upcoming Audi A3 Sportback E-Tron.

Like the CT 200h F Sport, the A3 Sportback E-Tron will carry a hybrid engine featuring a 1.4-liter, gasoline engine with 150 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque that will be combined with a 75 kW electric motor. Taken together, the output bumps up to an impressive 204 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, well clear of what the CT 200h F Sport is capable of.

Thanks to its more powerful hybrid, the A3 e-tron is expected to be significantly faster than the CT 200h, with a 7.6-second run to 100 km/h (62 mph) and a 138 mph top speed. It also travels 31 miles on electric only.

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Conclusion

The Lexus CT 200h F Sport is as stylish a sporty, five-door hatchback can get. It also has adequate power and efficiency for a car of its size, so when it comes to sheer uniqueness, the CT 200h F Sport has all the makings of a popular sell.

It does have some issues, like most hybrid hatches do. Interior space could be a problem, as is the lack of performance bite for a Lexus. But if you can look past what the CT 200h F Sport lacks, you could be enchanted by what it does offer.