The CT has room for 4 and a useful area under the hatch. Rear cargo space measures 14.3 cubic feet which is very large. The 2nd row of seats also folds flat yielding over 32 cubic of total volume. The interior trim is deluxe and the seating is comfortable. Navigation is available along with ash, bamboo or metal inlays. A handy universal device holder for phones and music players is offered along with a 120volt AC power receptacle to keep your devices within easy reach and charged. The standard seating material is called NuLuxe which is a man-made vinyl-like material that looks like leather. Real leather is an available option. Unfortunately cooled seats are not offered in this entry level Lexus.
The CT uses the current hybrid drive technology. This means it has a nickel metal hydride battery and no plug-in technology. This system has proven to be very reliable and delivers excellent fuel economy. 4 driving modes are available in the CT. EV mode will run the vehicle in pure electrics for as long as the battery has power. ECO mode optimizes the driving experience to maximize fuel economy meaning plan on slow driving. The Normal mode is the balance between the ECO and Sport mode and is what the car defaults to. The Sport mode gives max acceleration and improved handling. The suspension tightens up and delivers the sensation of more grip and control.
The CT is billed as a sporty car. From a handling standpoint, that is true but it is not a fast car. Maximum acceleration to 60 is a leisurely 9.8 seconds…yawn! It’s a great cruising car and will take a corner but it’s not going to win many acceleration races.
Not only does the CT excel in styling, interior, handling and quality but it is also a safe vehicle. Available safety equipment includes Pre-Collision with Adaptive Cruise Control, 8 air bags including driver and front passenger knee bags, whiplash injury system, anti lock brakes, brake assist, traction control and stability control. The CT also has a rigid body and the handling prowess to help drivers avoid collisions.
Bottom line is that for an affordable price you can own a Lexus that is luxurious, fun and entertaining to drive, and that also delivers killer fuel economy and zero emissions.
By Kelly Foss - MyCarData
