Lexus CT200h is the second version of Lexus hybrid technology; it is an updated version of the Prius. The car will be built on blade platform having 5-door hatch back. The car will be priced $30,000 to $35,000 when it arrives to the US market, at the end of this year or in 2011.
The new Lexus was made keeping in mind the European market. It is a five door car, with full hybrid technology and having low emissions. Their customers are environment-conscious and have unique perspective. Its size and packaging is made in such a way so as to satisfy the requirements of its customers.
It provides high quality, refinement and a memorable driving experience that are major characteristics of every Lexus car.
The interior and the exterior are designed in order to fulfil the needs of the target customers. The exterior part of the car is designed to get maximum smooth efficiency and to decreases the amount of wind noise. The interior is designed to provide a soft touch surface and metallic finishing. It also offers a roomy interior and has a sufficient capacity for luggage storage.
Lexus CT200h will be the new rival of Audi A3 and BMW 1-series in the profitable luxury rear road market of Europe. The company is planning to shift the car around 30,000 units per year, in order to maximize the Lexus business in Europe.
The new Lexus is 4320mm long, 1765mm and 1430mm high. It is much longer and wider than A3 and 1-series. The wheel base is 2600mm and has 345-litre boot, whereas A3 has 350 litres capacity.
In Prius, there are three distinctive driving modes namely eco, normal and sport. These modes have retuned CT200h to make it a modified Lexus car. There are four driving modes in new Lexus.
The four driving modes give unique features. The Eco and normal mode aims at increasing efficiency; sports mode increases the performance on the driving experience; and, comfort is meant to provide a calm and comfortable ride.
The new Lexus runs the same engine as that of Prius, and also has the same size. The CO2 emission is under 100g/km and fuel economy 70mpg. A 1.8 litre petrol engine is installed to an electric motor. It is purely an electric car that runs at a speed of 28mph.
Most people are of the view that the new Lexus will be unattractive. This is because hybrids are usually expensive and have a sporty image. And, Lexus is not a well known brand for some people. People generally go for Audi, BMW or Benz for 1-series dealership. Buyers are looking for well-equipped cars that could satisfy their individual needs. It will be a failure in Europe due to its inappropriate strategy. They must have a simple engine installed.
The interior is liked by most buyers, but some still prefer A3 series. The exterior is also UN appealing and that of BMW wins.
