2014 Lexus CT 200h

2014 Lexus CT 200h Shows its Full Face at Guangzhou Motor Show

• More Dynamic, Sophisticated Exterior Design
• Refined Interior With EnhancedVisual and Tactile Quality
• Distinctive New F SPORT Design With Únique Exterior and Interior Styling and Improved Driving Dynamics

GÚANGZHOÚ, China (Nov. 21, 2013) — Mean and green, the Lexus CT 200h compact luxury hybrid showed off its new front fascia at the Guangzhou Motor Show premiere in China.





The new CT 200h is available in a choice of six body colors including an all-new Lexus red. A Lexus first, a sporty black roof is available with six color schemes to provide a unique two-tone look. All exterior paint now benefits from a scratch-resistant, self-restoring top coat.

Refined Interior Design and Úpgraded Equipment
The 2014 CT 200h interior has been refined to offer enhanced levels of equipment and improved visual and tactile quality.

The driver benefits from a new, 14.6-inch diameter steering wheel. The Optitron instrument panel is now available with a 4.2-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen which may be linked to the multimedia system and controlled via steering wheel-mounted switches.

The available center screen is now fixed and thinner. The second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) features a new, more user-friendly push entry control switch.

The Lexus Display Audio (LDA) and Electro Multi Vision/Navigation (EMV/N) multimedia systems feature added functions, improved operability, enhanced hands-free, voice recognition control and a new, center-console-mounted controller.

The sound quality of the Lexus audio system has been enhanced by the adoption of the world's first bamboo loudspeaker technology. Bamboo fiber, plant opal and charcoal are combined in an injection molding process to create the industry's thinnest loudspeaker diagram, which results in noticeably improved sound quality.

Additional equipment upgrades include the availability of rear view and backup monitors for the LDA system, as well as Intuitive Parking Assist, a Tire Pressure Warning system and a Traction Control 'Off' switch.

The CT 200h offers revised center console trim colors and combinations for 2014. A new door panel trim and upholstery design incorporates stitching for added visual quality. A choice of five trim finishes now includes Shimamoku, or 'striped wood.' Anew, more sophisticated, metal film finish has been added to the center console switchgear.

Interior upholstery choices include leather or Lexus NuLuxe in Black, Caramel, Flaxen and Parchment.

Enhanced Driving Performance
The 2014 CT 200h combines increased body rigidity, suspension revisions and enhanced aerodynamics with comprehensive NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) measures to offer a more agile, engaging driving performance and an even quieter cabin environment.

Body rigidity has been improved through additional spot welding and the extensive use of structural adhesive technology.

Increased body rigidity has also allowed for suspension re-tuning. Coil spring rates have been optimized, a new shock absorber valve adopted, and the rear stabilizer bar diameter altered to enhance ride comfort with no loss of handling agility.

Complementing the inherent quietness of the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain, more than 94 separate measures have been adopted to further reduce NVH. A Lexus hybrid first, a new inlet duct design realizes both excellent intake efficiency and a high level of quietness.

Distinctive F SPORT Design
The 2014 CT 200h F SPORT has been designed with a more powerful road presence, to give it a stronger differentiation from the standard CT 200h.

A new spindle grille design features the same aggressive mesh pattern as that of the new IS F SPORT, which is reversed between the upper and lower sections. The fog lamp housings share the same mesh finish, and are underscored with a fin also finished in black.

To the rear, an exclusive roof spoiler features cut-outs to provide additional downforce for even greater grip and stability.

Seventeen-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels feature an F SPORT-unique surface treatment. The vehicle is available in a choice of nine exterior colors including F SPORT-exclusive White Nova, and seven two-tone colors with a black roof.

The F SPORT interior features exclusive upholstery, ornamentation and trim. The seat upholstery has been upgraded with synthetic leather side bolsters and headrests, fabric center panels and enhanced stitching. A choice of four F SPORT-exclusive color schemes includes a newly developed Slate Grey. Full leather upholstery is also available, in a choice of Black or Dark Rose. A choice of four trim finishes includes F SPORT-exclusive Wedge Metal.

The F SPORT features all the driving performance enhancements of the 2014 CT 200h model range. In addition, it benefits from sport-tuned coil spring settings and optimized front/rear roll rigidity distribution to further enhance its sporting driving dynamics.

In addition to its alluring style the CT 200h has one of the best EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings in its segment with a combined rating of 42 mpg, 43 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.

Source - Lexus

Green and Mean for 2014, the Lexus CT 200h Shakes Up the Hybrid Scene

• Revised Exterior Brings Even More Fun, Style and Attitude
• Available F SPORT Features Eye-Catching Solid Black Roof
• Thinner, Fixed Optional Navigation and Display Audio Screen
High-efficiency, high torque highways are heaven for this hybrid. The 2014 Lexus CT 200h looks and drives like no other luxury vehicle. It has a remarkable EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined fuel economy rating. Since its introduction, this premium machine has exceeded expectations for a high-efficiency luxury car by bringing an agile, sporty spirit into the mix. The high-torque hybrid powertrain combined with low vehicle weight and sport-tuned suspension make the CT 200h a true 'driver's hybrid.'




One of five hybrid vehicles offered by Lexus – the most of any luxury brand – the CT 200h exemplifies the vehicle diversity and versatility possible with Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. The stellar EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings draw immediate attention from customers looking for a progressive, environmental luxury vehicle. The 43-mpgcity rating and 40-mpghighway ratings stand with a 42-mpgcombined rating as among the best in the luxury hybrid category. That the CT 200h delivers its optimal performance and efficiency using regular-grade gasoline further underscores the excellent value this model delivers.

Four-Mode Hybrid Performance
A full parallel hybrid, the CT 200h blends the power of a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor through an electronic continuously variable transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The total system output of 134 horsepower, combined with instant torque produced by the electric drive motor and the E-CVT's ability to quickly find the optimal gear ratio, give the CT 200h responsive performance ideal for an everyday vehicle – with an emphasis on driving enjoyment. A second motor in the hybrid system serves as both engine starter and generator to charge the hybrid battery pack.

Únder certain conditions, the CT 200h can be driven in quiet EV mode, which allows it to drive short distances at low speeds with zero tailpipe emissions. It's ideal for running a quick local errand or scouting for a parking space in a crowded lot or garage.



A four-wheel independent suspension, with a double-wishbone rear configuration, delivers on the sporty driving character promised by the bold exterior design. Special lightweight suspension components, along with 17-inch light alloy wheels and optimized vehicle weight, help endow the Lexus CT 200h with exceptional agility. The CT 200h F SPORT model further sharpens both handling and styling. The grille gets an exclusive mesh pattern, and the rear spoiler design is new. Sport-tuned suspension makes curves seem even more inviting, and, new for 2014, the package's 17-inch wheels show off a new split five-spoke design with a two-tone machined graphite finish. The sporty demeanor carries inside for the F SPORT, where the enthusiast driver grips a perforated leather steering wheel and shift knob.

A decidedly performance-focused cockpit in the CT 200h presents bolstered front seats, a wide-grip steering wheel and triple-dial instrument gauge panel. The driver gets a standard 10-way power seat. Dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth®, Smart Access with push-button start/stop and a premium audio system with ÚSB/iPod® connection all come standard. The standard safety technology, which includes eight airbags, can be augmented with an available Pre-Collision system.

Advanced, Intuitive New Multimedia
The available center screen now features, a new thinner, fixed design. For vehicles equipped with the optional navigation system, it can bedivided into three sections, customizable by the user. The screen can be configured as a single display (navigation/map), dual display (navigation/map + audio, compass or other function) or three displays on the same screen (navigation/map + audio + weather).

With the available Display Audio and navigation system, HD Radio™ offers an array of services subscription free when driving within HD Radio range including basic traffic maps and weather forecasts. Add the navigation system, and the CT 200h delivers full and predictive traffic updates, Doppler radar and weather forecasts.

Also with optional navigation, the CT 200h comes equipped with Lexus Enform® and the App Suite. With your smartphone paired via Bluetooth wireless or the ÚSB connection, Enform provides access to the subscription-free Lexus App Suite. These voice-enabled apps let you search the Internet through Bing™, make restaurant reservations through OpenTable®, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com™, tap into internet radio, including Pandora® or iHeartRadio™, search business reviews on Yelp®and check in on Facebook Places™.

With the available Display Audio option, the CT 200h steps up to the next-generation Remote Touch Control with one-push confirmation for smooth, intuitive operation of climate, audio, phone, optional navigation system and more. The included rear back-up camera gains dynamic gridlines for 2014. These help the driver guide the CT 200h into a parking space, or maneuver in tight confines, such as a parking garage, when reversing.

Sustainable – for the Long Haul
The Lexus CT 200h applies the concept of sustainability not just in its ultra-efficient hybrid powertrain, but also in its innovative use of sustainable and environmentally progressive materials. For example, the standard NuLuxe interior trim looks and feels like quality leather, yet its manufacturing process emits 65 percent less CO2than processing leather, and it contains little or novolatile organiccompounds (VOCs).

The audio speaker diaphragmsare made from bamboo, one of the fastest growing plants on Earth, and also a boon to sound quality. Some interior trim is also made from bamboo, and Ecological Plastics with 30 percent plant-based Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) materials are used for the floor mats, deck side and deck board trim. The CT 200h is crafted to be 90-percent recyclable and is designed to be easily dismantled. Recycle marks have been placed on the front, rear and tailgate trim to facilitate optimum recycling.

New for 2014

Design changes:
• New front-end design with spindle grille, LED daytime running lights and optional LED headlamps and fog lamps
• New front bumper with revised tow hook covers
• 17-inch split five-spoke wheels with new design; with two-tone graphite machined finish for F SPORT
• Revised fog lamp surround (mesh design on F SPORT)
• New rear bumper, reflectors and diffuser
• Aero-stabilizing fins added to tail lamps and side mirrors
• Larger rear spoiler (+3 cm); unique spoiler with cutouts for F SPORT
• LED lighting for rear license plate
• Shark fin antenna replaces post antenna
• Solid black roof on F SPORT

Optional New multimedia and user technology:
• Thinner, fixed Navigation and Display Audio screen with triple-display capability
• Display Audio adds Remote Touch Controller (dial)
• Second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) for Navigation
• Backup camera adds dynamic gridlines
• Enhanced audio quality (six and 10 speaker systems)

New luxury details:
• Redesigned steering wheel and controls
• Gear shift redesigned, leather trim added (perforated leather trim for F SPORT model)
• Sliding driver and passenger sun visors
• Auto cut-off added to cabin illumination
• Improved cabin air filter
• Metal front scuff plates with 'LEXÚS' logo
• Metallic accents added to center console
• Premium Package – rain-sensing wipers added

Vehicle Details

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
• MacPherson strut front suspension system and a fully independent double-wishbone rear suspension.
• A unique lateral performance damper system absorbs and minimizes body vibrations to offer a more linear steering feel and further enhanced ride comfort.
• The CT 200h braking system is augmented by regenerative braking that helps recharge the hybrid battery pack and help enhance fuel economy ratings.
• Standard 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels are equipped with P215/45 R17 all-season tires.

Safety
• Standard eight-airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags and knee airbags, side curtain airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags.
• Optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) designed to help reduce collision damage with a front-mounted radar sensor devised to detect certain obstacles in front of the car. DRCC uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a pre-set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
• 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support and four-way manual-adjustable front passenger seat.
• The standard six-speaker audio system features the world's first automotive speakers constructed with sustainable bamboo and resin.
• Voice recognition and Bluetooth technology hands-free communication when paired with a compatible smartphone.

Luxury Options
• Optional Navigation Package includes HDD navigation system, back-up camera with dynamic grid lines, and voice command. Also features Bluetooth hands free phone, phone book download capability, and Lexus' exclusive Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback. Includes App Suite and HD Radio with iTunes®tagging,10 speakers and a second ÚSB connection.
• Display Audio Package includes the Lexus premium audio system with 10-speakers, backup camera with dynamic grid lines, second ÚSB connection, and Remote Touch Control. Premium Package includes rain sensing variable intermittent wipers, HomeLink, electrochromic rear view mirror, four-way power passenger seat, heated front seats.
• Luxury Package includes leather seats, driver seat memory, rain sensing variable intermittent wipers, HomeLink, electrochromic inside rear view mirror, electrochromic exterior mirror with reverse tilt and memory, four-way power passenger seat, heated front seats
• LED headlights with dynamic auto-leveling, headlamp cleaners and LED fog lamps
• Electrochromic (auto-dimming) rearview mirror with backup camera and compass
• Intuitive Parking Assist helps the driver detect obstacles at the front, rear and corners of the vehicle and helps guide the CT into the garage or parking spaces.
• Seat Comfort Package: Heated front seats and four-way power passenger seat.

F SPORT Package
• New solid black roof
• Combines F SPORT-tuned suspension and 17-inch wheels with two-tone graphite machined finish
• Spindle grille with mesh inserts, unique metal front scuff plates, a perforated leather steering wheel with F SPORT badge, leather shift knob, aluminum sport pedals and metallic trim on the dash panel, add to the sporty feel.
• Black NuLuxe trimmed seats or perforated black leather-trimmed seats with white perforation are available in the F SPORT package.

Warranty
• 48-month/50,000 miles basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles.
• 72 months/70,000 miles powertrain and restraint system coverage.
• 72 months corrosion perforation protection coverage, regardless of mileage.
• Eight years/100,000 miles hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery-control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter.

Source - Lexus

• More stylish and sophisticated exterior design
• Refined interior with improved visual and tactile quality
• Class-leading CO2 emissions, reduced to as low as 82 g/km
• Enhanced driving experience and lowered NVH
• The first Lexus developed by a female Chief Engineer

Brussels, Belgium - Reinforcing the progressive luxury that is the hallmark of the Lexus brand, the new compact luxury hatchback offers more sophisticated exterior styling, a more refined interior with upgraded equipment, enhanced driving comfort and a stronger differentiation of the F SPORT version.

A key model for Lexus in Europe
The CT 200h plays a critical role for Lexus. Positioned in the C-premium segment, the largest and most competitive segment of the European market, it represents the entry point to the Lexus brand. Designed to appeal to younger customers, it also attracts 85% of buyers from other brands.

The CT 200h has a short history, but has quickly established itself as a core model in Lexus' European line-up. Since its launch in January 2011, the CT 200h has sold no less than 42,000 units throughout the continent, representing about 25% of total global sales for this model.

The CT 200h is the best-selling Lexus in several European countries, including France, ÚK, Italy, Spain, Norway and the Netherlands.

Significant resources have been invested on the development of the new CT 200h. More than 1,400 engineers and staff have been associated with this project, focusing on two main objectives:

Firstly, to reinforce the Progressive Luxury image of the CT 200h through a bolder design, in line with the new Lexus brand strategy.

Secondly, to enhance the driving experience, both through the improvement of the vehicle's drivability and the traditional Lexus values of comfort, refinement and high technology.

SOPHISTICATED EXTERIOR DESIGN


The front introduces a further evolution of the Lexus 'spindle grille' design. The centre has been pushed forwards to create a powerful, more three-dimensional form which generates the highly aerodynamic shaping of the bonnet, lower bumper and front fenders.

The new grille features bottom corners spaced 100mm wider than on the current model, and a lowered spindle 'pinch point', reinforcing the CT 200h's low front profile and wide, sporting track.

Its spindle shape emphasised by a dark finish, the contrast between the upper chrome and lower metallic paint trim surrounds further emphasises the more sophisticated, three-dimensional structure of the new grille.

As with every Lexus, the grille is positioned lower than the headlamps to create the resolute look which hallmarks the brand. The headlamps themselves feature new, projector LED lamps with a new, high quality, smoked metallic finish.

Fog lamp housings at the lower bumper extremities have been detailed to match the dark finish of the spindle grille. They feature integral, aerodynamic slits which help smooth the flow of air around the front of the vehicle for improved high speed stability.

In profile, the new CT 200h may be identified by a choice of newly developed, 10-spoke, 16' and 17' alloys, and a new shark fin-style roof antenna.

To the rear, a new bumper design which is 20 mm lower at the extremities features a more horizontal structure. It incorporates distinctive, L-shaped reflector housings and a black lower centre section to emphasise the vehicle's low centre of gravity and broad rear stance.

The new CT 200h is available in a choice of 11 body colours including a new Red. And all paintwork now benefits from a scratch-resistant, self-restoring top coat.

REFINED INTERIOR DESIGN AND ÚPGRADED EQÚIPMENT


The new CT 200h interior has been refined to offer greater comfort, enhanced levels of equipment and improved visual and tactile quality.

The driver now benefits from a new, 370 mm diameter steering wheel matching that of the IS model range.

The Optitron instrument binnacle is now available with an integral, 4.2' TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen which may be linked to the multimedia system and controlled via steering wheel-mounted switches. The central meter surround has been accentuated with a bright metal finish.

The central TFT multimedia display screen is now of a thinner, fixed design. The Lexus Media Display and Lexus Premium Navigation systems feature added functions, improved operability, and enhanced hands-free and voice recognition control. The former features a new, centre console-mounted controller.

Added functions include twin port, multi-ÚSB compatibility; a ÚSB-stored photo display function; a mirror link function (LDA); album cover art display; and a cache radio function which records 20 minutes of a programme for replay if missed.

Fully described below, the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) features a more user-friendly push entry control switch, the Lexus Navigation System has been substantially upgraded, and the Lexus audio systems benefit from the adoption of the world's first bamboo loudspeaker technology.

Additional equipment upgrades include the availability of rear view and back guide monitors for the LDA system, as well as Intuitive parking Assist, a Tyre Pressure Warning system and a Traction Control 'Off' switch.

A new Light Control System features Welcome lighting, which illuminates selected exterior and interior lights for 15 seconds when the vehicle is unlocked; a Follow Me Home system which illuminates the headlamps and selected other lighting for between 30 and 120 seconds; and the automatic cut-off of interior lights 20 minutes after the ignition is switched off.

The centre console insert colours and combinations have been revised. A new door panel insert and upholstery design incorporates stitching for added visual quality. A choice of 5 trim finishes now includes Shimamoku wood. And a new, more sophisticated, metal film finish has been added to the centre console controls.

A choice of 5 fabric and 3 genuine leather upholstery finishes is available. And the interior also features a new colour scheme: Topaz Brown.

Remote Touch

Integral to the Lexus Navigation System, the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) features a more user-friendly push entry control switch. It operates on the same fundamental principles as a computer mouse, but has been specifically adapted and perfected for use in the driving environment.

Via a Remote Touch knob incorporating reaction force feedback for enhanced tactility, it offers simple and intuitive operation, with users able to manipulate the cursor quickly and easily across the central TFT multimedia display screen to access the audio, navigation, climate, phone and vehicle set-up systems.

The system automatically 'pulls' the cursor to an icon passed in close proximity, making it extremely fast and easy to use, minimising driver distraction time.

Lexus Navigation System


The new CT 200h may now be equipped with a choice of two navigation systems; an entry level Lexus Navigation system, and a high end Lexus Premium Navigation system incorporating Lexus Connected Services. Operated by a rotary dial and using the 7' Lexus Media Display, Lexus Navigation is a fast, user-friendly system offering a wide variety of mapping options.

Accessed via the Remote Touch system, the Lexus Premium Navigation system benefits from a powerful, 40 Gb HDD capacity. It covers the whole of Europe, and includes the traffic information infrastructure of each country. The system features voice recognition in several languages, including Russian, and a menu that can be operated in numerous languages, including Cyrillic characters.

The new CT 200h's enhanced Lexus Premium Navigation system features no less than 29 upgrades and additional functions, including 3D City View, Google Street View, Panoramio and digital terrain modelling.

Lexus Audio Systems with Bamboo Charcoal Speakers

A Lexus first, the unique, bamboo charcoal-based resin diaphragm speakers are constructed using a complex compound combining bamboo charcoal, bamboo fibre and resin, which is injection moulded to a thickness of only 0.2-0.3 mm. They are some 10-15% lighter than a conventional speaker diaphragm, yet 20% stiffer and with a 10% greater sonic speed. As a result, the sound is clearer and more natural than that of a conventional resin diaphragm.

Mark Levinson Premium Surround Audio System with 13 Speakers

The top-of-the-range Mark Levinson Premium Surround Audio System features 13 speakers and an 8-channel ML amplifier. Benefiting from the navigation system's HDD hard drive, the Mark Levinson audio system also features a 'Sound Library' facility, using Compact Disc Data Base technology to transfer and store music files up to a 10gb capacity.

The system incorporates several unique features to guarantee unparalleled sound quality. A centre channel coaxial speaker unit comprising a 90 mm metal cone mid-range and 16 mm tweeter widens the scope of supported frequencies to produce vocals and instrumentals with a greater degree of precision than that of a conventional system, whilst additionally matching harmonics between the front right and left channels.

Secondary 90mm coaxial speakers have been mounted in the centre and rear cabin pillars to expand the sound reproduction frequency range. Satellite speakers have been positioned at the top of the rear pillars to lift the rear mid- to high-range tones upwards for a more realistic sound. And a 200 mm Mark Levinson subwoofer is housed in a bespoke enclosure within the loadspace wall, producing extremely deep bass with ease.

CLASS-LEADING CO2 EMISSIONS

Significant reductions in emissions award the new CT 200h class-leading CO2 figures.

Vehicles equipped with 15' wheel are now fitted, as standard, with low RRC (Rolling Resistance Coefficient) tyres, lowering CO2 emissions by 5 g/km, from 87 to just 82 g/km.

Fully described in the following chapter, extensive aerodynamic enhancements have reduced the CT 200h's emissions from vehicles equipped with 16' wheels by 6 g/km, from 94 to 88 g/km.

IMPROVED DRIVING COMFORT AND REFINEMENT

With its highly focused driver's environment, the CT 200h has been specifically developed to combine superior handling and a dynamic driving experience with the ride comfort expected on any Lexus.

Superior handling stability is assured through the high structural rigidity of the body shell, the lowest possible centre of gravity and the minimising of the yaw inertia moment through the use of an aluminium bonnet, tailgate and bumper reinforcements.

A front L-arm type MacPherson strut suspension system combines with fully-independent double wishbone and trailing arm rear suspension architecture to offer superior levels of ride comfort and handling.

Introduced for the first time on a Lexus, a unique lateral performance damper system is designed to absorb and minimise body vibrations, promoting a linear steering feel and further enhanced ride comfort.

The new CT 200h combines increased body rigidity, revisions to its suspension and steering, and enhanced aerodynamics with comprehensive NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) measures to offer a more agile, engaging driving performance and an even quieter cabin environment.

Increased Body Rigidity

Body rigidity has been improved through the adoption of 20 additional spot welds around the tailgate aperture and extensive use of structural adhesive technology throughout the lower bodyshell.

Improved Suspension and Electric Power Steering

Increased body rigidity has allowed for suspension re-tuning. Coil spring rates have been optimised, a new shock absorber valve adopted, and the rear stabiliser bar diameter altered to enhance ride comfort with no loss of handling agility.

The Electric Power Steering (EPS) has also been optimised in conjunction with the increase in bodyshell stiffness and the rigidity of the steering column mount has been improved, providing a smoother feel and greater steering responsiveness.

Enhanced Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics have been enhanced through the addition of aero stabilising fins to the door frame covers and rear lamp clusters, which streamline air close to the bodyshell to reduce vehicle vibration.

New, aerodynamic fins on the engine and rear floor undercovers optimise downforce to improve grip and stability. A new roof spoiler design also aids aerodynamic performance, most notably the F SPORT-exclusive design featuring cut-outs to increase downforce.

Comprehensive NVH Measures

Complementing the inherent quietness of the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain, no less than 94 separate measures have been adopted to further reduce NHV and, specifically, the intrusion of mid- to high-frequency noise into the cabin.

A new Lexus hybrid first inlet duct design combines a highly porous material with the world's first silencer plate, combining improved quietness with a pleasing intake air sound.

The position and weight of the rear engine mount damper has been optimised and the holes in a thicker, expanded dashboard silencer filled, reducing engine noise. Sound absorbing rear wheel arch liners and new front fender separators combat road noise intrusion into the cabin.

The rigidity of the performance damper mounting brackets has also been increased, helping to suppress bodyshell vibrations.

CVT Remapping

In conjunction with these comprehensive dynamic enhancement measures, the CT 200h driving experience has been further refined through the remapping of the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain's E-CVT intelligent electronic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The result is a more linear build up of revs, more closely matched to vehicle speed, in the manner of a conventional automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)

Drive Mode Select – Two Distinct Driving Moods

Supplementing the NORMAL drive mode of the CT 200h's Full hybrid powertrain, three 'on-demand' drive modes –EV, ECO and SPORT- may be selected via the rotary Drive Mode Select knob or the adjacent EV switch, adapting the vehicle to either a Dynamic or Relaxing driving mood while further improving either driving efficiency, fuel economy and emissions or performance and dynamic ability.

EV, ECO and NORMAL drive modes place the emphasis on a Relaxing driving mood, with particular attention paid to ride comfort, smooth acceleration and the minimisation of NVH.

From start up and at speeds of less than 45 km/h, the CT 200h can automatically operate in EV mode, allowing for relaxed driving under electric motor power alone, for up to two kilometres. The driver may also select EV mode manually. This unique driving mode is not available to drivers of mild hybrids, requiring the full hybrid technology of Lexus Hybrid Drive.

In ECO mode, throttle response to aggressive accelerator pedal inputs is reduced and air-conditioning control optimised for improved fuel economy. The ECO mode can help customers adopt a relaxed driving style, and can achieve a perceptible reduction in fuel consumption.

Maximising hybrid system voltage to deliver greater electric motor power, SPORT mode focuses on a more dynamic driving mood. Engine revs are held higher, throttle and Electric Power Steering (EPS) settings are modified to give a faster response to driver inputs, and the operation of the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) systems is less intrusive, optimising the CT 200h's performance and agility.

The highly distinctive character of both the Dynamic and Relaxing driving moods is further reinforced through driving mode selection-synchronised changes to the driver's instruments. Backlit in hybrid blue for the EV, ECO and NORMAL modes, the instrument panel illumination, Drive Mode Select knob and centre cluster spotlight automatically alter to red when the SPORT mode is selected. Simultaneously, the hybrid power indicator function alters to that of a tachometer.

Lexus Hybrid Drive Powertrain

Combining a 99 DIN hp/73 kW, 1,798 cc Atkinson Cycle petrol engine with a powerful, 82 DIN hp/60 kW electric motor, the CT 200h's Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain features a unique Energy Management System.

Through the application of brand-specific engineering solutions and bespoke software tuning, Lexus engineers have focused on enhancing both the environmental and driving performance of the full hybrid series/parallel system, as well as its uniquely low NVH levels.

With a total system output of 136 DIN hp/100 kW, the CT 200h will accelerate seamlessly from 0-100 km/h in 10.3 seconds, and on to maximum speed of 180 km/h –performance on a par with rivals positioned at the very heart of the premium compact segment.

Conversely, the CT 200h boasts remarkably low fuel consumption -a combined cycle figure of only 3.6 l/100 km- and, offering significant cost of ownership benefits in many European countries, class-leading CO2 emissions as low as just 82 g/km.

Lexus Hybrid Drive generates significantly less NOx and particulate emissions that an equivalent diesel engined vehicle. Moreover, when operating in EV mode, it generates zero CO2, NOx and particulate emissions.

Further enhancing the Lexus Hybrid Drive system's outstanding environmental credentials, the CT 200h incorporates numerous additional energy saving and environmentally conscientious measures. These include an energy-saving air-conditioning system with pro-active seat heaters, power saving LED lighting, an energy-efficient audio system amplifier and bamboo charcoal speakers, and the extensive use of bio-sourced materials.

DISTINCTIVE F SPORT DESIGN

The new F SPORT has been designed with a more powerful road presence, to give a stronger differentiation with other versions of the CT 200h model range.

A new spindle grille design features the same sporting, aggressive mesh pattern as that of the new IS F SPORT, which is reversed between the upper and lower sections. The fog lamp housings share the same mesh finish, and are underscored with a fin also finished in black.

To the rear, an exclusive roof spoiler features cut-outs to provide additional downforce for even better grip and stability, and the rear reflector housings are also finished in the same mesh pattern as the front grille.

17', 10-spoke alloy wheels offer an F SPORT-unique surface treatment. The vehicle is available in a choice of 9 exterior colours including new Red and F SPORT-exclusive White Nova.

The F SPORT interior features exclusive upholstery, ornamentation and trim. The seat upholstery has been upgraded with synthetic leather side bolsters and headrests, fabric centre panels and enhanced stitching. Which is offered in 3 colour schemes: Black, Dark Rose and Ocean Blue. Full leather upholstery is also available in a choice of Black or Dark Rose finishes.

The F SPORT interior may be further identified by aluminium pedals and scuff plates, a perforated leather steering wheel and dimpled leather shift lever, and F SPORT badging. A choice of 4 trim finishes includes Shimamoku wood or F SPORT-exclusive Silver Metal film.

The F SPORT features all the driving performance enhancements of the new CT 200h model range. In addition, it benefits from bespoke coil spring settings and optimised front/rear roll rigidity distribution to further enhance its sporting driving dynamics.

CLASS-LEADING ACTIVE SAFETY

The CT 200h is equipped with the most comprehensive range of active, passive and pedestrian impact safety features in the premium compact segment. Offering drivers class-leading preventative safety through the use of the most advanced technology, the CT 200h has achieved 5-Star Euro NCAP and NCAP (ÚSA), and 6-star J-NCAP (Japan) crash test programme ratings.

The CT 200h may be equipped with a pre-emptive, Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system incorporating Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Eight airbags and Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats are fitted as standard, and an upgraded Electronically Controlled Braking-Regeneration system (ECB-R) incorporates Anti-Lock brakes (ABS), Brake Assist, Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

Pre-Crash Safety

The new CT 200h may be equipped with a sophisticated Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS) that can help reduce collision damage and injury. The PCS system features a millimetre-wave radar sensor, operating within a 20 degree scanning radius to detect obstacles in front of the car, even during cornering. Via numerous sensors, a pre-collision system computer monitors vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate inputs to help determine in advance whether an impending collision is unavoidable.

If there is a high possibility of a collision, PCS will alert the driver via both a buzzer and a warning on the multi-information display, activate the Pre-Crash Seatbelt pretensioners to retract all slack from the front belts and, when he begins to brake, provide Pre-Crash Brake Assist to supplement his own braking effort. If the driver does not brake and a collision is inevitable, Pre-Crash Brake will automatically apply the brakes to reduce impact speed.

Adaptive Cruise Control

Complementary to the PCS system, the Lexus premium compact full hybrid also features an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system.

Capable of differentiating between vehicles directly ahead of the Lexus and those in an adjacent lane, the vehicle-to-vehicle distance control system employs the PCS millimetre-wave radar sensor, allied to constant speed, decelerator, follow-up and accelerator controls, to automatically slow the CT 200h, match the speed of the vehicle in front and, once the road is clear ahead, accelerate to the previously selected cruising speed.

THE FIRST LEXÚS DEVELOPED BY A FEMALE CHIEF ENGINEER

The new CT 200h has been developed by Chika Kako, the first woman to be appointed Chief Engineer within the company.

Kako-san is a Material Engineer. She joined Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) in 1989 and was responsible for developing interior, exterior and sound-proofing materials, as well as solving specific issues such as fogging or odour problems in vehicle interiors.

The first female TMC employee to be posted overseas in an R&D capacity, she moved to Europe in 2001, where she worked on a special project to enhance the sensory quality of interiors.

Returning to Japan in 2004, she transferred to the Lexus Brand Planning department before being assigned to Lexus Product Planning, where she assisted the Chief Engineers of both the RX and IS model ranges.

Source - Lexus