The 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid is the luxury compact hatchback engineered to make excellent fuel efficiency without trading off style, comfort, and technology. Being one of the few luxury hybrids offered in its class, the CT Hybrid combines Lexus’s reputation for reliability and refinement with impressive eco-friendly credentials. Whether you are a city commuter seeking excellent gas mileage or a driver who values a premium experience, 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid offers an attractive package.
In this article, we will discuss the characteristic attributes and features that the model holds for itself, namely design, performance, technology, safety, etc, along with providing a comprehensive review of what’s different in this compact hybrid.
Introduction
A + compact hybrid hatchback, the 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid is indeed a plus vehicle for those of you who wish to enjoy the sophisticated mixture of luxury and efficiency with practicality. Made upon Toyota’s hybrid technology; it being shared with the Toyota Prius, it is indeed an apt vehicle for ecologically-driven users, as it does not let luxury be compromised as much. The 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid comes as a design that hails as modern style with intuitive technology, because safety features impress both young professionals and seasoned luxury buyers.
Lexus first launched the CT Hybrid in 2011, and this has been incredibly sporty-looking – and with that, its usage is quite environment friendly. In course of time, the vehicle has won accolades for such exceptional build quality and so smooth a ride alongside matchless fuel economy.
Exterior Design
Slim, sleek looks with a modern shape combines aerodynamic efficiency with a sporty feel. Signature spindle grille gives an aggressive feel, bold stance for those sharp angles and clean lines. It is so easy to nip into tight city spaces, with its dimensions, knowing exactly where you’re headed, and the lower stance hints at the sporty character of the car.
Aesthetic features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and power-adjustable side mirrors. The rear spoiler is more than a good looker-it also slices through the air better and gets better gas mileage as part of the overall aerodynamic efficiency of the car.
The F Sport package adds a unique front bumper, blacked-out exterior trim, and sportier suspension for added aggressiveness inside or out.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, it has an interior feel of luxury and refinement, courtesy of high-quality materials and an intuitive layout. It is a silence cabin since there is splendid sound insulation, reducing most road noises and that of the engine. Enjoy much driving without getting tired since seats are well padded to give the proper support.
The CT Hybrid is a compact vehicle, so front-seat passengers don’t feel cramped. The driver’s seat adjusts in nearly all directions, and the leather upholstery, which is standard on higher trims, makes the car feel extra premium. The hatchback design gives this car more cargo versatility than most sedans do, with 14.3 cubic feet available.
Not much can be said of the rear seat but only that it’s no better than the norm for this class of vehicles, meaning that someone taller than six feet will have some issues getting comfortable.
Engine and Performance
2016 Lexus CT Hybrid Under the hood, the configuration is a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor that brings a combined total of 134 horsepower. The engine configuration is basically the same as the Toyota Prius, focusing on fuel efficiency rather than anything remotely close to performance. Though the CT Hybrid is not exactly the most flashy car of its class, it is more than adequate for daily driving and is smooth and quiet.
Hybrid technology automatically switches between gasoline and electric power to optimize both performance and fuel efficiency. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is engineered for a smooth ride, although one may miss the drama of a traditional transmission; otherwise, it is well suited for stop-and-go and highway cruising.
The dynamics of driving are also spirited for the CT Hybrid. Considering the placement of batteries, it has a low center of gravity and so should be stable during cornering. Having the suspension as optional through the F Sport package would give a sportier feel to the ride, though this slightly makes the ride stiff.
Fuel Efficiency
Most distinctive about the 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid is that it comes with fantastic mileage. The CT Hybrid was rated at an impressive 43 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway, which classed the model among the luxury cars, putting the greatest fuel efficiency in its good books. It is attributed to a highly efficient hybrid powertrain and the car’s very light design.
For the environmentally conscious driver, there are driving modes such as EV mode and Eco mode. The former provides electric-only operation for short distances, while the latter tweaks the throttle response along with climate control settings to maximize efficiency.
Technology and Infotainment
Regarding modern technology, the Lexus company fitted the 2016 CT Hybrid model with several features aimed at improving the driving experience. The infotainment system’s base model features a 7-inch display and includes Bluetooth connectivity and a six-speaker sound system. Higher trims feature the premium audio system with 10 speakers and even offer navigation systems and an advanced controller for infotainment.
Lexus also offers the Remote Touch interface, which uses a mouse-like controller to navigate through infotainment menus. Some will find this system to be less intuitive than standard controls on a touchscreen, but does provide a techy feel inside.
Additional tech includes keyless entry and start, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Also available are standard features of sunroof and heated front-seat features.
Safety Features
The 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid is, in fact a pretty wise choice if safety matters to you; the lineup includes some truly great safety features. Safety standard features for the 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid include:
Eight airbags
Stability and traction control
Antilock brakes
A rearview camera
Other requested safety options: pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors.
And actually, it is also comparable to the latter when rating of crash test is concerned, with high ratings both coming from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Driving Experience
The driving experience for the 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid is totally one of smoothness and relaxation. It is an ideal urban car because of its small size, wide visibility for all directions, and fuel efficiency, making it a great daily drive. Its acceleration mainly focuses on comfort and efficiency rather than high-performance thrills.
The hybrid system allows this car to seamlessly switch between electric and gas power for a quiet cabin and a smooth ride quality. Its handling is nimble enough for any urban route, and the suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride over most road surfaces. But if you are looking for a sportier driving experience, then other rivals would better serve with more powerful engines on their offer.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding fuel efficiency (43/40 MPG)
- Luxurious, well-built interior
- Reliable hybrid powertrain
- Quiet and comfortable ride
- Premium tech and safety features
Cons:
- Limited rear-seat space
- Modest performance compared to rivals
- Infotainment system can be less intuitive
Conclusion
The 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid, a luxury compact car that holds the utmost importance on efficiency and fuel performance, boasts top-quality build, modern technology, and an impressive blend of gas mileage. One of the most efficient luxury hybrids, it performs according to the expectations of most individuals. Being the least potent in its class does little to dent its otherwise sensible green credentials and silky-smooth driving manner. The CT Hybrid makes a great communter and long-distance runaround, costing very little.
FAQs
How many miles per gallon will the 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid get?
The 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid gets an estimated 43 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway.
Is it good for families?
Yes, mainly because it’s quite comfortable to ride in and can be equipped with premium features; however, the rear seat is pretty cramped so it’s really designed for smaller families.
Does the 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid come with Apple CarPlay?
No, the 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid does not, although nor with Android Auto; it does, however, feature Bluetooth connectivity.
What safety features does the 2016 Lexus CT Hybrid feature?
It comes with standard eight airbags, stability and traction control, antilock brakes, and a rearview camera. Additional ones like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision systems are available too.
