2010 Lexus HS 250h

2010 Lexus HS 250h
2010 Lexus HS 250h
Padding its hybrid model count to four, Lexus' newest gas/electric model will be its first dedicated hybrid, and not based on a conventionally powered vehicle already in the lineup.

Due in showrooms this summer, the 2010 Lexus HS 250h will slot in size between the luxury brand's IS and ES sedans. The new sedan will be Lexus' first-ever 4-cylinder model.

CG Says...
While other makers seemingly stretch their resources to produce even one hybrid model, Toyota and luxury-division Lexus crank them out with seeming ease. Time will tell if near-luxury shoppers are prepared to do their ecological duty in a car less-obviously green than the Prius. Think of the HS as the ride for newly promoted Prius drivers. The only question is whether or not the Coexist stickers can be pulled off and reapplied.
Power for the HS comes from a 2.4-liter engine assisted as necessary by an electric motor. A CVT is the only transmission offered. The engine incorporates Atkinson-cycle valve timing that, in many applications, provides additional efficiency gains at higher RPMs.

The HS will be available with Lexus' newly launched ENFORM telematics system. ENFORM is the brand's answer to General Motor's OnStar, a system Lexus once licensed.

Lexus has not announced pricing for the HS 250h, but Consumer Guide predicts that Lexus will try to keep the new hybrid under $40,000.

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