Review of the Month: Lexus HS 250h
The Lexus HS 250h is the carmakers very first dedicated hybrid model. The HS 250h (what a name) is akin to the Prius by Toyota, but the HS 250h does not get its design from other offerings by the carmaker. The HS 250h has a novel design. Its size positions the HS 250h as a hybrid sedan between the IS and the ES by Lexus. The Lexus HS 250h is the first hybrid with a four-cylinder engine made by the carmaker. The vehicle has a 2.4 Liter, Atkinson cycle DOHC Inline-four coupled with two electric motors. The result is an auto producing 187 horsepower from its Hybrid Synergy Drive system. The tranny coupled with the setup is a CVT offering. The entire system is like the powertrain identified in the Toyota Camry hybrid.The Lexus HS 250h has an interior with two-toned coloring. The cabin is very spacious and it has superior amenities. The vehicle has things like a remote touch controller, an impeccabl3e navigation system, and it has an optional heads up display as well. This vehicle unifies luxury with practicality.
The Range
Body styles: Sedan
Engines: 2.4L I-4
Transmissions: Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
Models: HS 250h
Engines: 2.4L I-4
Transmissions: Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
Models: HS 250h
What’s New
The HS 250h was all new for 2010, so no mechanical or interior changes were announced for the new model year. There was a safety recall that happened for the 2010 HS, which involved reprogramming the antilock brakes. Otherwise, the only news is with exterior color changes: Satin Cashmere Metallic replaces Golden Almond Metallic, Deep Sea Mica replaces Black Sapphire Pearl, and Aurora White Pearl has been discontinued.
Exterior
The HS looks like a smaller car than it actually is. And this is not a rebadged Prius; this is a Lexus sedan with plenty of Lexus styling cues. The HS rolls on standard 17-inch wheels with 18-inchers available as an option.
Interior
Plenty of tech features here: iPod connectivity and Bluetooth, optional navigation system comes with the computer-mouselike Remote Touch controller, there’s an optional heads-up display, voice command, and lots of gauges to monitor the hybrid system.
Performance & Handling
The HS 250h gets to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds from a stop and through the quarter mile in 16.2 seconds at 87.9 mph. Even though the HS is 500 pounds heavier than the Prius, it’s also more powerful, which explains why the HS is two seconds faster to 60. The HS is quiet on the freeway and handles well in turns, although this is no sport sedan.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, dual front knee airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags are standard. Also standard are disc brakes with four-sensor ABS with brake assist, and stability control.
EPA Fuel Economy
35 mpg city/34 mpg highway
You’ll Like
- Beautiful interior
- Remote Touch mouse
- Great brakes
You’ll Dislike
- Uninvolving drive
- High price
Sum Up
Hybrid in a fancy suitIf You Like This Vehicle You Might Also Like
- Toyota Camry Hybrid
- Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
- Lexus CT 200h