Lexus CT review (2011-2020)
The Lexus CT is a worthy addition to the compact luxury hatchback market. This model stands its ground against those slightly pricier models offered up by its big German rivals. More economical, therefore less sporty, than its competitors, the CT is still quite a tempting option as either a company car or family runaround. Check out our in-depth Lexus CT review.
)
Pros
- Just as efficient as a Prius
- Sporty looks
- Good quality interior
Cons
- CVT gearbox isn't great
- Ride can be a bit firm
Interior
Our rating: 7/10
The CT is Lexus’s entry-level model, but it still has that high-end finish and feel to the interior.
Whether it’s leather, chrome or even plastics, everything feels built to last and put together with care, using top-quality materials.
The design and layout of the dashboard and controls are intuitive and thoughtfully laid out, albeit you could argue the whole thing looks a wee bit dated in certain areas.
Tech and features
Forego the basic model for the middle specifications and you can enjoy a ride elevated by plush leather and the driving ease you get with a well-crafted cruise control set-up.
The infotainment system with its seven-inch touchscreen isn’t great, with rivals providing set-ups that are much easier to use.
The CT’s is a little clunky, with poor graphics. The interface is possibly the worst thing about the inside of this Lexus.
Driving position
Drivers and passengers will enjoy plenty of leg and headroom at the front, perhaps ever so slightly at the expense of space at the back.
The newer top-spec CTs boast the enviable Mark Levinson sound systems, which are a real audio treat.
Musos looking for incredible sound quality might want to consider forking out that little bit extra to get theirs.
Performance
Our rating: 6/10
Engines and power
The Lexus CT only comes with a single engine option. This means you know what you’re getting and that’s a self-charging 1.8-litre petrol hybrid.
Handling and ride comfort
The CT can easily handle motorway and countryside forays, even if it’s primarily designed for town and city driving.
These high-end Japanese hatches are pretty fleet of foot, with enough get-up-and-go to have you got up and gone wherever and whenever you need.
They’re also silky smooth and whisper quiet. What you get is about as gentle a ride as you can hope for, for the price.
Sure, there are more engaging, entertaining and exciting cars in the class - few of them are as pleasingly effortless.
Practicality
Our rating: 6/10
Boot space
If you’re planning on taking a holiday in the Lexus CT, you’ll want to pack light.
The batteries for the hybrid system have forced the designers to create quite a small and shallow boot. So, it’s Speedos, not Bermuda shorts, we’re afraid. Bikinis, not swimming costumes.
There is, of course, a lot more space when the back seats are folded down. Even then, the CT can’t compete with its rivals for space.
Storage solutions
There’s better news on the cubby hole front. You can keep your chocolate cool in the CT’s air-conditioned glovebox, as well as make use of a fair few handily placed cupholders.
There’s also a sturdy and handily lidded central console area that's pleasingly large.
Running costs
Our rating: 8/10
If you’ve been a little underwhelmed by the findings of this Lexus CT review so far, we understand. Hold tight. Here’s where we start gushing a little.
Fuel economy
The running costs of these cars are seriously impressive. The hybrid engine offers those more cautious and less adventurous drivers a bank account-pleasing 55mpg.
Reliability
If low running costs aren’t quite enough to make you consider the CT all that seriously, perhaps a little insight into its safety and reliability will be.
This model is packed with safety features and is a serious hit with owners, with customer reviews online universally effusive.
The verdict
Interior
7/10
Performance
6/10
Practicality
6/10
Running costs
8/10
There’s plenty to admire here. Not only is this a mature and lavish-looking executive hatchback, but it’s also incredibly reliable and has safety features galore.
Its hybrid engine means the Lexus CT is inexpensive to run, so it has obvious appeal to anybody doing a lot of miles.
However, in some areas, the CT is a pretty average hatchback and others have it beat, especially on things like c
Similar to the review
