I need some honest feedback. I recently put my deposit down on a CT200h after a limited test drive. Since then, I have been reading and re-reading some of the reviews and have become concerned with the performance of the car during acceleration and long hill climbs.
Now, I fully realize that I didn't buy a rocket ship, but just how annoying can the engine and CVT noise be when climbing long highway grades or hills?
After having my CT200h for 3 months I am fully satisfied with the vehicle and performance. I think the reviews that say it is underpowered are overblown. From A dead stop going up a moderate hill the car holds its own with almost every vehicle save for a big muscle car.
Is it the best car to load 5 people in and a ton of sports equipment, no way.
If you need an SUV or a minivan then that is what you need.
The CT200h has a certain niche. Compact car, near luxury interior, quiet ride, great fuel economy, ability to carry up to 5 people, fair carrying space.
For 99% of the time the car meets my needs well. If I occasionally need to get bags of mulch from Home Depot then I break out the SUV. I now drive the SUV rarely but keep it for long family trips. At 130,000 miles my Honda Pilot has been a solid performer
As far as the noise from the CVT transmission you will notice it on a steep hill climb initially The cabin is pretty insulated so the noise isn't that noticeable. Plus once you are at a level point and cruising the engine quiets down significantly.
The Sport mode can be utilized for extra throttle on hills. I do not live in an exceptionally steep hill area so I can't comment on this. I guess route 70 through Colorado could be an issue but then again it is for many vehicles.
If you want to be first off a light and leave the other cars in the dust, don't buy the CT200h.
My issue was with gas. I was going nuts putting $75.00 in the tank of my SUV and feeling every time my money was going to one of the oil kingdoms that hate us. Now I fill up for less than $30.00 and keep $45.00 to spend at the mall or go out to dinner, or buy food for the family.
It's all in your perspective. I am much happier at the gas station and this means way more to me than just rocketing off a stop light.
My local Lexus dealer is offering to buy the car back from me as the car is popular and in short supply.
My only gripe is I wish the colors were a bit more varied. I would have really liked a blue or green offering.
My next additional car, a Nissan LEAF or maybe a Tesla S.
Tell the Arabs to shove it. We will all be better off.
CT200h premium, Starfire Pearl, Navigation, Premium audio.