2012 Lexus CT 200h

The most fuel-efficient luxury hybrid  (and the cheapest Lexus) you can buy, the 2012 Lexus CT 200h hatchback (Base MSRP: $29,120 to $31,750) strikes experts as a solid entry-lux pick.

Introduced in 2011, the CT 200h gets only a couple of minor additions for 2012: It now pipes out a sound to warn pedestrians that the car's approaching in otherwise-silent electric mode, and a new F Sport Special Edition options package adds a sportier suspension and some special styling touches.

At 42 mpg overall, the Lexus CT 200h out-sips other luxury hybrids -- but not its cousin, the 50-mpg 2012 Toyota Prius (Base MSRP: $24,000 to $29,805). The heavier Lexus is slightly slower than the Prius, too. However, the Lexus does have a "Sport" mode that sharpens up the steering and throttle response a bit, plus a more upscale (but tighter) cabin.

The 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (Base MSRP: $34,755) is a roomier entry-lux hybrid that gets 39 mpg, but critics more often cite the sportier 2012 Audi A3 TDI (Base MSRP: $30,250) -- a fuel-sipping diesel hatchback that gets 34 mpg -- as the CT 200h's main rival.

EPA Fuel Economy Estimates

• City: 43 mpg

• Highway: 40 mpg

• Combined: 42 mpg

NHTSA Safety Ratings

• Not rated

IIHS Safety Ratings

• Front Offset Impact: Good

• Side Impact: Good

• Rear Impact: Good

• Roof Strength: Good

• Named 2012 Top Safety Pick

For additional details, see our review of the 2011 model

The Lexus CT 200h hasn't changed significantly since it debuted in 2011. For full details and an analysis of what experts think of this hybrid luxury car, please see our report on the 2011 Lexus CT 200h.