INSTAPUNDIT TEST DRIVE: Lexus CT200 Hybrid. So I drove past the Lexus dealer and they had one out front, and since I had some free time I gave it a test drive. This is the “Lexus Prius,” a compact 4-door hatchback hybrid that gets 40+ MPG. I have to say I was pretty impressed. While the get-up-and-go wasn’t overwhelming, I went from a standing stop to merging in 65 mph traffic at the top of the ramp with no trouble. Handling was nice — somewhat reminiscent of a VW Golf — and the car had an overall feel of quality and solidity that was a solid step up from the Prius. The seats were comfortable and the interior was high-end, very attractive and functional. With the rear seats folded, the hatchback opened to decent-sized cargo space; with them up it still wasn’t bad, though the cargo compartment floor seemed a bit high, I suppose because of the batteries.

I also sat in, but didn’t drive, the larger HS hybrid, which I didn’t like quite as much. The interior seemed a bit less luxurious, and even though it’s a bigger car, it seemed to lack headroom for me. Granted I’m 6’3″ — but the smaller CT had plenty of headroom. Anyway, if you’ve thought of a Prius but want something a bit fancier, this might be worth a look.