Don’t let the spindle grille confuse, 2014 Lexus CT 200h is a Prius in a tuxedo

By Nick Jaynes November 12, 2013

dont let spindle grille confuse 2014 lexus ct 200h prius tuxedo preview — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Entry-level, luxury, and hybrid: these are the three areas in which the entire automotive industry is leaning.

There was one car, though, that beat cars like the Jetta Sport Hybrid and the Acura ILX Hybrid to the market: the Lexus CT200h. First introduced in 2010, it was the first of its kind. While it’s never been quite good, if you were in the market for a compact hybrid with a luxury badge, it was the only way to go.

Now, a refreshed CT 200h is slated to debut at the Guangzhou Motor Show in China later this month and Lexus has released a couple teaser images.

Lexus CT 200h preview2 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re a keen observer of all things Lexus, you’ll immediately noticed the new spindle grille has been strapped to the front of the Prius of Lexus, as have new alloy wheels and other miniscule exterior changes. Lexus hopes these mild tweaks will make the CT 200h appear more sporty and sophisticated.

Surprised I referred to the CT 200h as the “Prius of Lexus”? Don’t be. That’s exactly what it is. The CT 200h is powered by the same 98 horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder and 80 hp electric motor as the Prius. So don’t let the CT 200h and its fancy new spindle grille fool you; with a total of 134 net system horsepower, it’s not in any way sporty.

I am going to hold my breath, however, and hope that Lexus stepped up power output at least a bit for 2014, because I really love the looks of this thing. Luckily for my brain cells, I won’t have to go breathless for long, as the 2014 Lexus CT 200h will bow next week.

So, if you’re interested in the entry-level luxury hybrid, be sure to check back soon for more.

Editors' Recommendations

Don’t let the gimmicks fool you. The Ioniq 5 N is a serious track car

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.