Lexus set out to shake the quirky image typically associated with hybrids by introducing the first luxury sedan designed from the ground up to be offered with a hybrid powertrain only.
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The car was first unveiled at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, which was fitting since the annual event was the birthplace of Toyota’s luxury brand 20 years earlier.
The standard version has a retail price of $34,650 (plus $875 for delivery), while the Premium model will carry a price tag of $37,420. Although the new hybrid sedan is slightly shorter than the IS, the HS 250h is intended to slot between Lexus’ IS and ES ranges.
The hybrid-only luxury car received EPA-estimated ratings of 35 mpg city and 34 mpg on the highway for a combined 35 mpg utilizing regular gasoline. The HS’ .27 drag coefficient and widespread use of spoilers and diffusers help overall efficiency.
As with most Lexus hybrid nameplates, the car’s “250” moniker slightly exaggerates the displacement of what’s actually under the hood. The HS 250h employs a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, rated at 147 horsepower.
Combined with the electric motor, total output is 187 horsepower. Although most premium engines require high-test gasoline, the HS 250h is fully capable of running on 87 octane.
Also keeping with the green theme, 30 percent of the HS’ materials are derived from plant-based materials, with 85 percent of the car being fully recyclable — including the batteries.
Not to forget the luxury part of its title, the HS comes packed to the gills with plenty of amenities, including LED taillights, a heads up display, power seats and Lexus’ new Enform telematics. Optional equipment includes satellite navigation with traffic, stocks, sports and weather updates and LED headlights. One cool feature of the HS’ navigation system is that it lets you upload destinations from any internet-enable device, ensuring you don’t miss any tourist spots on you next road trip.
