2011 Lexus CT 200h Launched In Malaysia From RM168K

Lexus Malaysia, a division of UMW Toyota Motor, has launched the CT 200h and CT 200h Luxury, priced at RM 168,000 and RM 196,500 (both prices exclude insurance) respectively. The cheapest entry to the Lexus club, the fully-imported CT 200h would have been twice as expensive if not for the import and excise duty exemption granted by the Malaysian government last year, according to Lexus Malaysia.

Instantly recognisable as a Lexus from the front, the CT 200h is designed as a five-door hatchback with its key market Europe in mind. Its slippery hatchback shape translates into a drag coefficient of 0.29, while the external LED count of 89 is the highest yet on any Lexus. Seven exterior colours—of which the Fire Agate Mica Metallic and Flare Yellow Mica Metallic are reserved for the Luxury version—and three interior colour schemes are up for selection.

The hybrid powertrain is borrowed from the Toyota Prius, meaning a 98 bhp, 142 Nm 1.8-litre 2ZR-FXE engine is paired to an 80 bhp, 207 Nm electric motor and a 168-cell nickel metal hydride battery pack. The combined power output of 134 bhp is directed to the front wheels via an electronically-controlled continuously-variable transmission (E-CVT).

The petrol engine automatically shuts down when the CT 200h stops or coasts along. Four driving modes are available for selection: the EV, ECO, NORMAL and SPORT modes. EV (electric vehicle) mode lets you drive using electric power alone, though the maximum distance is only around 2 km. ECO mode comes in handy when you want maximum fuel efficiency. SPORT mode sharpens the throttle and steering response, while limiting the influence of the safety controls.

The standard CT 200h version is equipped with 16" alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, perforated leather seats, and six-speaker audio system with CD-player and USB/AUX connectivity. Safety items include eight airbags as well as braking (ABS, BA, EBD), traction and stability controls.

The Luxury version adds on twin LED low beam lamps, daytime running lamps, eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, smart entry, rain sensing wipers, reverse camera, Lexus navigation system, 10-speaker audio system with six-disc in-dash CD-changer and Bluetooth connectivity, and Lexus' Remote Touch Controller, which functions like a computer mouse for easy access across the climate/audio/navigation/phone systems.