With its F Sport trim package, the Lexus CT 200h looks fast and handles well, but the hybrid driveline is more focused on fuel economy than speed.
The CT 200h is Lexus' entry-level vehicle.
It only comes in hatchback form with a hybrid gasoline-electric driveline.
With the F Sport trim, Lexus gives the suspension a sport tune.
The CT 200h should qualify as an upscale hot hatchback, but its drive system only produces 134 horsepower.
Even with its sport suspension, the ride quality remains comfortable.
The hatchback allows for flexible cargo space.
2014 is the first model year in which the CT 200h gets Lexus' now-standard spindle grille.
The hybrid driveline consists of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and a 60-kilowatt electric motor, helping the car get over 40 mpg average fuel economy in real world driving.
LED headlights are optional.
The black roof comes as part of the F Sport trim package.
This spoiler is also courtesy of F Sport.
The power adjustable seats are very comfortable.
As is typical in smaller cars, the rear isn't the best seat in the house.
Despite its premium segment, Lexus makes the navigation system optional.
Electric power steering is well-tuned in this car.
In normal or Eco modes, the instrument cluster shows a power gauge on the left side.
In Sport mode, the power gauge changes to a tachometer.
The console includes a drive selector, a drive mode dial, and the Remote Touch controller.
Aluminum pedal covers come with the F Sport trim.
Voice command is very extensive in the CT 200h, controlling normal cabin tech features along with app integration.
The main menu screen makes it easy to find all the functions.
New maps in the navigation system look good while showing traffic conditions and rendered buildings.
Lexus adds a Web search category to destinations, giving quick access to Bing and Yelp searches.
The audio source screen also shows music apps.
The playback screen shows album art when playing from a USB source.
The music library screen offers a quick alphabetical look-up.
The hands-free phone system includes phonebook integration.
The 10-speaker premium audio system delivers very good music reproduction.
Lexus is a little short on driver-assistance features, offering only this back-up camera.