Updated Lexus CT range reaches Australia

Lexus Australia has launched the updated version of its small CT hybrid hatchback, with a range of updates to the car’s styling and value equation aimed at making it more appealing to luxury hatchback buyers. The CT is solely available as a hybrid, making it a unique offering in the small luxury segment.

Coinciding with the update to the NX mid-size SUV and kicking off at $40,990 plus on-road costs (+2,150), the 2018 Lexus CT range continues with its three-tier lineup as before with Luxury, F Sport and Sports Luxury models available.

Lexus chief executive Peter McGregor said the latest updates build on the established strengths of the CT 200h and add to its reputation for efficiency, reliability and driver appeal.

“The new designs are more emotional and sporty, achieving significantly greater impact with a stronger road presence and a more modern and athletic appearance,” Mr McGregor said.

“Together with the higher levels of standard equipment, the updates will enhance the reputation of the CT 200h as the ideal premium hybrid compact car for customers who enjoy spirited driving while caring about the environment.”

Pricing for the updated Lexus CT range now starts from $40,990 plus on-road costs – $2,150 up on the 2017 model, an increase Lexus says is justified by the addition extra standard equipment across the range. All CT200h variants continue to use a 1.8-litre four cylinder petrol + electric motor combination, which produces 100kW of power and returns combined fuel consumption of 4.5L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 95g/km.

Entry level Luxury model is now crucially equipped with Lexus’ Safety Sense+ system, which includes autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, lane departure warning with steering assist, blind spot monitoring, rear traffic alert and radar cruise control.

CT200h Luxury models also gain a larger 10.3-inch infotainment system (up from the former 7.0-inch system) with inbuilt satellite navigation, as well as an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, automatic high beam headlights, new 16-inch alloy wheels, Lexus’ Enform system, a new 4.2-inch driver’s information display and perhaps most curiously and handily for those with daylight savings, an analogue clock that adjusts automatically to time zones.

The F Sport (from $50,400 – +$1,960) is the middle-tier CT200h, and aside from a number of interior and exterior styling treatments, it also includes new bi-LED headlights with headlight washers, LED front foglights, new 17-inch alloy wheels and a bodykit. The CT200h F Sport has also earned new interior colour choices, including ‘F Sport White’ and ‘F Sport Red’, which feature contrasting black trim on the front seats.

Sitting atop the local CT200h range is the Sports Luxury (from $56,800 – +$810), which gains heated and power adjustable front seats, as well as a 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system and electric sunroof.

Lexus offers optional equipment for the CT200h, including $1,000 premium paint, a $4,500 enhancement package for Luxury models (which adds larger 17-inch alloys, LED fog-lights, DAB+ digital radio, leather-accented interior trim, and heated front seats), a $4,500 enhancement package for F Sport models (which includes a moonroof, a 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system and keyless entry and start) and a $2,500 moonroof for Luxury and F Sport models.

2018 Lexus CT pricing (plus on-road costs):
Luxury – $40,900
F Sport – $50,400
Sports Luxury – $56,900

The 2018 Lexus CT range is in Lexus showrooms now. Stay tuned to Chasing Cars for news and reviews regarding the Lexus range.