Lexus is stepping up it's game and not letting Recall-Mania get to the best of them. The Lexus CT 200h is the first premium compact hybrid to be hitting the market, and will be making its world debut at the New York International Auto Show March 31.

 

The CT 200h features a 1.8-liter engine with, a high performance battery, power control unit, a transmission with an electric motor generator, and a power split device to re-allocate power from the engine and electric motor generator according to operational requirements.

Four drive modes will be at the driver's fingertips to enhance the capabilities of the CT 200h's Lexus Hybrid Drive technology and change the rate of throttle opening for a given throttle-pedal angle.

 

EV mode allows for ultra-quiet running on electric motor power alone. Normal mode has an essentially linear throttle response while Eco mode reduces throttle response relative to the pedal angle and adjusts air conditioning settings to emphasize fuel economy. The Sport mode provides a more responsive throttle and modifies the Electronic Power Steering settings to give a faster response to driver inputs.

 

Lexus says that particular attention has been paid to the aerodynamic efficiency of every aspect of the CT 200h's design. The front and rear corners have been pulled in tight to improve the flow of air down the sides of the vehicle and minimize wind turbulence within the wheel arches. The sides of the cabin have been tapered, the rear edge of the roof lowered and even the lower body detailed to optimize airflow. Completing the look are 17-inch alloys and blue badging specific to Lexus hybrid vehicles.

 

Not much as been said about the interior besides that it will use darker and modern-looking materials.

 

theCD's take: Sexy, green, utilitarian, and hopefully sporty. We expect the CT 200h to be priced from $25-$30k.