Car Prices Blogs


Car Price Comparison: Toyota Prius and Lexus CT 200h

April 23rd, 2012

Hybrid cars are here to stay. Hybrid vehicles are not only quiet, refined, and fuel-efficient, but they are also fun to drive as well. Ever since the introduction of the Toyota Prius in the US automotive scene, this car has proven once and for all that it is possible to make a reliable and dependable hybrid car, without sacrificing interior comfort and design.

Enter the Lexus CT200h. When it comes to luxury, Lexus cars are one of the best–and one of the most expensive as well. But the CT 200h is different. Many might say that the Lexus CT is just a more plush version of the Toyota Prius, but this is not the case. The CT is properly sporty, with a revised suspension and a lower stance compared to the Toyota Prius.

As an added bonus, it just so happens that the Lexus CT 200h is the cheapest Lexus model in the lineup.

Both cars are made by Toyota, and both cars cater to the same market. But can the Lexus CT 200h justify the more expensive price tag over the Toyota Prius?

Engine and Power Train

The Toyota Prius is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a pair of electric motors, which is the same with the Lexus CT 200h. Both vehicles produce 134hp. Even though the Lexus was designed for sportier driving, the Prius is marginally faster when it comes to acceleration, hitting 0 to 60 mph in 10.1 seconds, compared to the Lexus’ 10.4 seconds.

Fuel Economy

The Toyota Prius is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in America, achieving an impressive fuel mileage of 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. The Lexus CT 200h achieves 43 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. The Prius is more fuel efficient, but the Lexus is heavier and has larger wheels and tires. Besides, not many cars can achieve the fuel mileage of the Lexus CT 200h.

Equipment Levels

The Lexus CT 200h comes with a premium badge, hence it is expected to come with more standard equipment. Available in two trim models, the base CT already comes with large and lightweight 17-inch alloys, keyless entry, a dual zone climate control system, Bluetooth, a power adjustable driver seat, and a 6-speaker audio system.

The Toyota Prius is not short on features, either. Base models come equipped with automatic climate control, trip computer, heated power mirrors, and 15-inch alloy wheels.

Safety

The Toyota Prius has an impressive list of safety features that includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, side airbags, curtain airbags, and a knee airbag. The Lexus CT 200h has the same level of safety features as the Toyota Prius but adds a passenger-side knee airbag, the Vehicle Proximity Notification System that alerts pedestrians on the presence of the whisper-quiet Lexus, and the Safety Connect telematics feature.

Price

The Toyota Prius starts at around $23,000 while the Lexus CT 200h starts at around $29,000. If you need a hybrid car for the family, then the Toyota Prius is a wiser and more economical choice. But if you need a personal hybrid car that is sporty, luxurious, and refined, then the Lexus CT 200h should be your top pick.

Find and compare hybrid car prices before approaching the dealer so you can easily figure out the right hybrid vehicle for your needs and budget.