What is the drivetrain of the Lexus CT 200h?
The Lexus CT 200h uses a front-wheel-drive hybrid drivetrain built around Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, combining a petrol engine with electric motors and powered through a continuously variable transmission. It is designed for efficiency and urban use, rather than a traditional gasoline-only setup.
Drivetrain architecture
The CT 200h blends a petrol engine with electric propulsion in a single transaxle, using a planetary gearset to manage power flow. The system can run on the petrol engine alone, the electric motors alone, or a combination, with energy stored in a rechargeable battery to support electric propulsion.
Core components
The following are the main hardware blocks that make up the CT 200h’s drivetrain:
- 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine (2ZR-FXE)
- MG1 electric motor/generator (generator and motor function within the hybrid system)
- MG2 electric traction motor (drives the front wheels)
- Power-split device: planetary gearset within the transaxle (hybrid transmission)
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT) integrated with the hybrid system
- Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack (high-voltage energy storage)
- Front-wheel-drive layout (drives the front wheels only)
Together, these components enable electric assistance, regenerative braking, and smooth blending of power for improved efficiency in everyday driving.
Drive modes and efficiency features
The CT 200h offers several ways to optimize efficiency and driving feel. Before listing, here is a quick overview.
- EV mode allows limited electric-only driving at modest speeds and short distances, ideal for city streets
- Hybrid mode blends engine and electric motor output automatically for a balance of performance and economy
- Regenerative braking converts kinetic energy back into stored electrical energy to recharge the battery
- Eco and Normal drive settings adjust throttle response and climate control to maximize efficiency
In practice, the system prioritizes electric assistance at low speeds and during braking, with the petrol engine taking over at higher speeds or when more power is needed. The result is a compact, efficient hatchback designed for daily commuting.
Additional notes on drivetrain specifics
Production years for the CT 200h span from 2011 to 2017. The drivetrain is front-wheel drive only; no all-wheel-drive option was offered for this model in the regular lineup. The drive system is derived from Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive used across the Prius family, adapted to Lexus styling and tuning.
Summary
The Lexus CT 200h uses a front-wheel-drive hybrid drivetrain built around a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine (2ZR-FXE), two electric motors (MG1 and MG2), a power-split planetary gearset, and a CVT, all managed by Hybrid Synergy Drive. It delivers electric-assisted and blended propulsion with regenerative braking, designed for efficiency in an urban-hatchback package.
What are common CT 200h problems?
2016 Lexus CT 200h FWD 4dr Hybrid
- head gasket issues
- cylinder misfiring
- coolant leak
- motor oil consumption
- engine water pump / thermostat issues
- high voltage battery issues
- moon roof rattling
What year is the best Lexus CT 200h?
The best Lexus CT200h years are generally considered to be 2014-2017, as this is the period when it received its most significant updates, including the modern "spindle grille," revised bumpers, and updated LED lighting. However, models from 2015-2017 are also highly sought-after for their modern features, such as optional larger screens and the F Sport package, which adds a sportier look and feel.
2014-2017
- Significant redesign: The major exterior and interior updates in 2014 gave the CT200h a much more modern look, incorporating Lexus's signature "spindle grille" and revised bumpers.
- Updated features: These model years included new wheel options, LED daytime running lights, and a new "shark-fin" antenna.
- Top-spec options: Higher trim levels in later years, like 2016, offered remote features through an app and improved navigation.
- F Sport package: The F Sport package offered a sportier aesthetic with enhanced interior and exterior styling.
Pre-facelift (2011-2013)
- Pros: These years are generally reliable and can be good value.
- Cons: The design is less modern than later models, and earlier versions lacked some of the technology features found in the 2014 refresh.
Post-facelift (2018-2022)
- Pros: These models retain the modern exterior styling but have slightly different technology features.
- Cons: They do not receive any mechanical updates over the 2017 model year.
What is the drivetrain of the CT 200h?
The Lexus CT200h uses a hybrid drivetrain consisting of a 1.8-liter, 98 hp four-cylinder engine paired with a 60 kW electric motor, resulting in a combined system output of 134 hp. Power is sent to the front wheels through an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) and a power split device, which combines power from both the engine and motor. It also has four driving modes: Normal, Sport, Eco, and EV (Electric Vehicle).
This video provides a detailed overview of the Lexus CT200h, including its drivetrain: 57sSammy Drives NZYouTube · Apr 20, 2024
Drivetrain components and operation
- Engine: A 1.8-liter four-cylinder petrol engine (Toyota's 2ZR-FXE) produces 98 hp.
- Electric Motor: An electric motor/generator works with the engine, providing up to 81 hp.
- Combined Output: The combined system output is 134 hp.
- Transmission: An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) manages power delivery to the front wheels.
- Power Split Device: A planetary gear set allows the system to blend and distribute power from the engine and electric motor.
Driving modes
- Normal: A balanced mode for everyday driving.
- Sport: Modifies throttle and electric power steering settings for a more responsive feel, and makes stability and traction control less intrusive.
- Eco: Optimizes the system for maximum fuel efficiency.
- EV: Allows the vehicle to run on electric power alone at low speeds (up to 28 mph) for short distances.
This video explains how to use the driving mode selector in the Lexus CT200h: 58sDr SaahbYouTube · Jan 10, 2025
Is the Lexus CT200 RWD?
The Lexus CT 200h is a five-seat four-door hatchback with a gas/electric drivetrain that powers the front wheels. Competitors include conventionally powered models like the Mini Cooper and BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo.
