[Cloud Hidden]

I just saw this review of the CT200h in today's LA Times. I saw the car at the LA Auto Show last fall, but it was roped off, so never actually sat inside it. I have yet to see one on the road, so I'm relying on info from current owners to form my opinion on whether to buy one later this year.

The LA times reviewer is dinging the car for being noisy; at least noisier than other Lexus models. Is this true? What about engine vs road noise? I hope it's at least quieter than my Scion Xb!

Also, they complain about the stereo in the base model looking like something from the 1980s, but also mention that the stereo upgrade is an expensive option. What's everyone's opinion on this?

They did mention the seats being comfortable, which is very important to me. I'm 6' 1" and need a car with good head and leg room -- any input from taller CT200h drivers would be appreciated.


Here's the link to the LA Times article:
http://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-lexus-ct-200h-review-20110331,0,6561613.story


BTW, the title of the print article was much more derogatory than the online version -- something along the lines of: "if you're looking for a really noisy Hybrid, this is the car for you".

Thanks

 

[MikeLIX]

I'm 6'3" and have no problem fitting in the car. For me the headroom is just barely enough and pretty much no one but maybe a small child could fit behind the driver's seat when I have it all the way back and adjusted to my liking. Sure the CT is noisier than an LS460, but I don't find the car to be noisy at all. Was driving an extremely quiet S-Class Benz before and I have no problems with the interior sound level of the CT. The only noise issue I have encountered is driving through deep puddles where the water hits the thin plastic wheel well liners and makes a bit of noise. Part of the wheel well liners (at least in the back) I noticed have a sound-deadening fabric-like coating. Puddle splash noises from the front might not be as loud if all the wheel well liner surfaces had this same coating.