The brand’s sole hatchback gets a facelift, more kit but the same 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid.
After being on the market for seven years, Lexus has given its slow-selling CT200h another update including some design tweaks and more driver-assist technologies.
The front end of the brand’s sole hatchback has been brought into line with other new models by getting more accentuated spindle-like grille, air vents and daytime-running lights. Other alterations include new rear bumper and lights, as well as new-look 16-inch wheels.
The interior has been slightly revamped to accommodate a new 10.3-inch display called Electro Multi Vision in Lexus speak. Likewise, three new driver-assist tech from the brand’s Safety System+ feature. They include lane-keeping function, active cruise control and pre-crash mitigation that alerts the driver of a possible front impact before automatically applying the brakes if necessary.
The CT200h retains the same 136hp 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid and CVT automatic transmission driving the front wheels. It’s the same drivetrain used in the outgoing, third-gen Toyota Prius.
Prices remain similar and there are four grades to choose from: Luxury at 1.999 million baht and an additional 346,000 baht for leather upholstery and some other petty items, Premium at 2.63 million baht and racy F-sport at 2.965 million baht.
Most of the CT200h’s competitors have also past mid-life. They include the BMW 1-series, Mercedes-Benz A-class and Volvo V40.
The V40 is being sold with 190hp 2.0-litre petrol-turbo engine in T4 guise costing 1.749 million baht, while the 118i features 136hp 1.5-litre petrol-turbo going for 1.959 million baht.
Mercedes-Benz, meanwhile, has already stopped selling the A180 and A250 for quite some time already as it wanted to concentrate on the Thai built CLA coupe-like saloon and GLA baby SUV.
