[citation needed] It is the first production model in Lexus's family to introduce the "Spindle Grille" design as seen in its fascia.

It made its debut at the March 2010 Geneva International Motor Show,[4] six months after the unveiling of the LF-Ch concept car; it is primarily targeted at the European market but is being sold worldwide[5] and was introduced to North American markets at the April 2010 New York International Auto Show.

"CT" stands for "Creative Touring" and "200h" refers to the hybrid performance being equal to that of a conventional 2.0-litre engine.

[14] The CT 200h is powered by the same 1.8-litre VVT-i four-cylinder petrol engine (Toyota's 2ZR-FXE) as used in the Auris and Prius, producing 73 kW (98 hp) and 142 N⋅m (105 lbf⋅ft) of torque, paired with electric motor/generators in the hybrid drive system; together the engine and electric motors produce up to 100 kW (134 hp) and 207 N⋅m (153 lbf⋅ft) of torque along with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.

[18] The Lexus CT 200h features a front MacPherson strut suspension and a rear double wishbone design.

[21] In 2013, for the 2014 model year, the styling of the CT was refreshed, using the Lexus corporate "Spindle" grille.

Standard features on the CT 200h include SmartAccess with push-button Start/Stop and touch sensors on exterior front-door handles, leather steering wheel, a six-speaker, audio system with a CD player, and Bluetooth phone connectivity, iPod connectivity, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and dual zone automatic climate control.

The event, supported by CAMS and sponsored by Lexus Australia, was promoted as the world's first race containing only petrol-electric vehicles.

[24] Following the introduction of stricter crash safety regulations, the CT, along with the IS sedan and the RC coupe, were pulled out from the Australian market in November 2021.

[citation needed] In North America, the CT launched in early 2011 for the 2011 model year.

At the time, the "F Sport" package was offered, including a different variation on the spindle grille and other cosmetic differentiation.