Archives for January 2016

My Week Driving the Lexus CT

Some of you may remember when I had the opportunity to review the 2015 Toyota Pruis C. (If not, feel free to check out that post after this one.) As luck would have it, I was contacted again this year; but this time to test out the Lexus CT 200h. It is another hybrid vehicle like the Prius C, so of course I was STOKED to try it out. And I mean, c’mon, it’s a Lexus. I was much less apprehensive this time around, because I knew the drill. So when they delivered the car to me, I felt like an old pro. 😉 Look at this beauty? I’m so happy I got another fun color too!IMG_1842

I was pleased to learn that even though this is a Lexus, it’s not gonna break the bank. It’s reasonably priced with other cars in its class, so the base model is quite affordable at $31,250.

The CT that I received was the F Sport model, which means that even though it’s a hybrid vehicle, it still has the option to get up and GO! The biggest drawback (for me) with the Prius was the lack of horsepower. So I was very excited to know a hybrid car exists with a little more power. (Now, of course I know about Teslas, but I’m talking about an affordable car.)

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At this point, I should emphasize that I am in no way a car expert, so this review is going to be very fluffy. 🙂

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The CT200h had the option to go into Eco, Normal or Sport mode with the twist or tap of a knob. Twist to the right and you are in sport mode, the dash light turns red, and the light around the knob does too! Tap, and you are back in normal mode. Now, if you are really economical you could twist left and get into Eco mode… or the drive super slow with no pick-up mode. 😉 Eco mode was blue, and please note Mr. Zucchini Runner took that photo while I was driving.

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When I made a list of things I liked, and things I didn’t like about the car, the LIKE list was much longer. For starters, it was nice and small, so it was very easy to park. Because it was a sport model, it had nice bucket seats which help you to stay “tucked in” your seat on turns. There was a very handy phone holder in the center console which gave me incredibly easy access to my phone. Also, to put the car in park you simply pushed a little button on the center console! I should also mention shifting was incredibly smooth and easy as well. One of the drawbacks which is worth noting; the backup beeping. The car beeped the entire time you were in reverse and therefore backing up. The first 3 times I thought something was in my way, or a door was ajar… it was very alarming and distracting. I wonder if there is a way to turn if off or if that is standard on every model?

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But back to the good stuff… the drink holder, was the PERFECT size for my water bottle and was nice and deep to hold it snugly in place.

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We looked super cool getting our groceries or taking our friends to dinner. 😉 hehe

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Overall, I did enjoy the Lexus CT200h… and if you are super passionate about owning a Lexus but don’t want to break the bank, this car might be a good fit for you! One of my favorite things about hybrid cars is how smooth and quiet they are. You can tell the vehicle you are driving is where all cars will be in the upcoming years. When the time comes for me to get a new car, I KNOW I will be getting a hybrid or electric car.

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