First impression: 2010 Lexus HS 250h hybrid
At a recent New York introduction, Consumer Reports Senior Auto Test Engineer Gabe Shenhar and I had a chance to drive the new Lexus HS 250h hybrid, the brand’s first four-cylinder model. It’s designed for hybrid buyers who want a little more luxury without giving up great fuel economy. And for entry-level luxury car buyers who want a car with better fuel economy. So far, the HS is in a class of its own.
We drove two of the front-drive sedans about 40 miles, and thought we’d share some early impressions from our hands-on experience. (For a full preview, see the Lexus HS 250h report from the New York auto show.) First, the HS 250h is available with just about every whiz-bang new electronic feature on the market, including laser-guided cruise-control, forward and rear-view monitors, lane departure warning with steering assist, and a heads-up display. Behind the wheel
Gabe and I found the ride rather stiff—especially for a car wearing a Lexus badge. Handling is OK, but the HS 250h is not particularly agile. Engine noise can be relatively pronounced for a luxury car.
Inside, the HS 250h feels narrow, with the back seat being especially tight. The second row struck us as being roomier than the Lexus IS rear seat, but not as spacious as the more accommodating Prius. Trunk space is compromised by the batteries. Adding green appeal, the interior uses organic fabrics on the seats that make a passable imitation of leather, and organic materials are also found in the carpet and dashboard.
Lexus says their customer research shows that 60 percent of hybrid buyers also own a luxury car, and 60 percent of luxury car owners express an interest in buying a hybrid. In addition to Lexus’s current performance-focused hybrids that are quick but yield only moderate economy gains, the HS 250h will soon give those buyers a thriftier alternative. Over a 9-mile city-loop driving route, we averaged fuel economy in the high 30 mpg range, according to the trip computer. EPA figures are 35/34/35 city/highway/overall.
To be offered exclusively as a hybrid, the HS 250h will go on sale at the end of August. We’ll buy one for our full test program shortly thereafter, and then we’ll see how the HS 250h really stacks up.
Learn about driving green in the Consumer Reports special fuel economy section









