Lexus CT 200h

2014 Lexus CT 200h: Great economy, utility, refinement

If an average hybrid gas/electric auto seems worthwhile, you might want to try an upper-class one. The 2014 Lexus CT 200h gas/electric hybrid is the lowest list-priced Lexus. But it’s still a Lexus so don’t expect a cut-rate model. This refined compact front-drive hatchback sedan has typical Lexus amenities and delivers a noteworthy, estimated 43 miles per gallon in the city and 40 on highways. The CT 200h uses the same proven hybrid powertrain as the Toyota Prius. Unlike the Prius, it’s rather exclusive because it’s not sold in large numbers. Many Americans still keep their distance from hatchbacks and hybrids. The CT 200h’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder gas engine and 650-volt motor/generator provide a combined 134-horsepower output. Acceleration is brisk off

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Chevy Volt, Honda Insight top best gas mileage cars in past quarter century

With gas, hybrid, electric and now natural gas vehicles now all vying for better gas mileages averages and the marketing fuel efficiency among manufacturers at its peak, it’s hard to keep track of what carmakers top the list. What might come as a surprise, it’s not all current models make the all-time list of best gas mileage average — at least dating to 1986 — or the last quarter century. Here are the top-10 gas mileage average (internal combustion engines) dating to 1986: 1. Chevrolet Volt (2011–12), Plug-in hybrid, 4 cyl, 1.4 L, auto (variable gear ratios), premium gasoline, 60, city; 58 highway, combined, 62.2. Honda Insight (2000), 3 cyl, 1.0L, manual 5-speed, regular gasoline, 53/49/61.3. Toyota Prius (2010–12), 4

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Nissan Leaf Named Kelley Blue Book Green Car of 2011

Despite its miniscule fleet in the United States, the Nissan Leaf electric vehicle  has been named the top green vehicle of 2011 by Kelley Blue Book because of its “ground-breaking combination of range, room and price.” The Chevy Volt, an electric car with a range-extending gas engine finished second in the voting by the renowned car guide. Although there about 20,000 active reservations in the U.S. for the Nissan Leaf, less than 500 have been delivered via mechanical issues or the recent earthquake and Tsunami in Japan. Kelley Blue Book  labeled the Leaf as “the first electric car for the masses.” Here’s a list of the top 10 electric cars of 2011, according to Kelly Blue Book: 1. 2011 Nissan

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Lexus CT 200h 2011 car review

The new, compact CT 200h from Toyota’s upscale Lexus division shares its hybrid gas/electric powertrain with Toyota’s Prius. But the Prius feels like an appliance, while the CT 200h feels and drives like a luxury car. The 2011 front-drive, four-door CT 200h is the first Lexus hatchback and thus is more practical than the Prius. Also, compared to the Prius, the new Lexus has an ultra-rigid chassis, better suspension and a body that, while somewhat chunky, looks rather sporty, partly because of a rakish roofline and short body overhangs. However, a low front end (for aerodynamic efficiency) could be damaged in certain parking areas. The CT 200h was mainly designed for Europe’s narrow streets and tight parking spots, which means

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Lexus announces price, gas mileage for new hybrid

Lexus has announced the price, gas mileage and other specs of its new 2011 CT 200h hybrid, available at dealerships in March 2011 as the manufacturer’s fifth hybrid. The CT 200h will have the luxury industry’s best at 42 mpg and a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $29,120. The CT 200h emits approximately 60 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new car, and has EPA-estimated ratings of 43 mpg city and 40 mpg on the highway utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Moreover, the CT 200h can be operated in a switchable EV mode which generates zero emissions. In addition to the EV and Normal drive modes, the CT 200h offers Sport and Eco modes which can help enhance either

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