Pre-sales indicate new Lexus CT200h is a winner

5 April 2011

Pre-sales indicate new Lexus CT200h is a winner

Lexus New Zealand reports strong customer interest in its new luxury compact sports hybrid, the Lexus CT200h, which officially went on sale on Friday, 1 April.

Lexus dealers received 33 advance customer orders in March for the revolutionary CT200h, more than the leading model in the luxury compact segment had sold in the first two months of the year.

The news comes on the back of Lexus' strong March sales, which were the best monthly performance since 2007.

Lexus National Manager, Debbie Pattullo says the world's first full hybrid luxury compact car is ready to challenge for leadership of the luxury compact segment in New Zealand, and provide fresh impetus to Lexus.

"The CT200h's pre-release sales, at more than a car a day since we started taking orders, are unprecedented for a Lexus model in New Zealand."

Debbie Pattullo says this indicates that the CT200h's perfect contradiction between sports performance and hybrid technology is clearly appealing to a new group of Lexus customers.

"There's a definite trend toward compact vehicles that do not compromise on features and the CT200h, the fifth Lexus hybrid on sale in New Zealand, gives Lexus a compelling offering in the growing luxury compact segment."

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For more information please contact:

Debbie Pattullo

Lexus New Zealand

Phone: (06) 3503 430

Mobile: 0292 517 091; Email: debbie.pattullo@lexus.co.nz

Facts about the Lexus CT200h:

* CT200h is available in three models - CT200h, CT200h Limited, and CT200h F Sport.

* Using the latest generation Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, CT200h seamlessly combines an innovative 1.8 litre petrol engine with a high-output electric motor, an advanced compact battery and a sophisticated energy management system.

* Safety is paramount, including 10 air bags, a parking assist monitor, and a forward thinking pre-crash safety alert on the Limited model.

* Fuel consumption is just 4.1 litres per 100 kilometres with 94 grams of CO2 emitted per kilometre.

* Standard equipment includes climate-controlled air conditioning; reversing camera; cruise control; a leather steering wheel with audio controls; chrome and leather gear lever; multi-information display with comprehensive hybrid system information; engine immobiliser; auto dimming inside rear view mirror; a six speaker audio system with CD player, audio input jack, USB jack and digital audio player holder; and power windows with auto up/down.

* A key part of the new luxury compact's sporty driving experience is its highly focused driver's cockpit. It features a low driver's seat with enhanced lateral and lumbar support, a sporting, wide grip steering wheel and a driver-focussed instrument panel.

* The front seats have been specially designed to improve lateral holding performance while the front edge of the base cushion has been shaped for a large contact area, reducing fatigue on long drives.

* The sporty, wide-grip steering wheel has a low, 21 degree steering angle, while accelerator and brake pedal angles have been optimised to suit the low hip point.

* The CT200h F Sport offers performance and visual enhancements over the CT200h and CT200h Limited. It is distinguished on the outside by dark silver 10-spoke 17 inch alloy wheels; rear privacy glass; a sports style grille; side skirts; and a larger style rear spoiler. 'F Sport' badges feature on the front fenders.

* The sporty image is continued inside with uniquely styled leather seats; an F Sport style steering wheel; scuff plates with 'F Sport' logo; sports pedals; and a metallic style instrument panel.

* CT200h has the option of adding leather seats with front seat heaters. Customers can also select a Satellite Navigation package with 10 speaker CD changer system, Bluetooth hands-free telephone capability, Lexus remote touch, rain-sensing windscreen wipers and a smart entry and start system.

* The recommended retail price for the CT200h is $51,500 while the CT200h Limited and CT200h F Sport are priced at $67,600 and $69,000 respectively.

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