2011 Lexus HS Hybrid
That's what Lexus is offering in the recently released HS 250h hybrid vehicle.
So, can a luxury hybrid offer some zip? EV mode provides pure battery-powered driving for short distances at low speeds, such as extreme congestion when idling is more common than driven. ECO mode helps increase fuel efficiency by managing throttle activity and AC demands. Power mode increases acceleration response. The HS 250 isn't just a souped up Prius with some extra ammenities. Likewise, the Electronic Power Steering and MacPherson strut front suspension delivers quick, responsive steering in the HS 250h hybrid.
Ultimately, the 250h hybrid provides a much more performance-driven experience than the Prius.
The Lexus HS 250h was introduced this past year, as the highest-mileage luxury hybrid sedan. The HS is actually larger and wider than the Mercedes C-Class, BMW 3-Series, or Lexus IS—or about six inches shorter than the Lexus ES and about six inches longer than a Toyota Corolla sedan.
With a blunt nose and distinct, cab-forward proportions, the 2011 Lexus HS 250 doesn't look nearly as beautiful in silhouette as Lexus's IS compact sport sedan, or have the sleek, elegant aura of the ES 350.
Inside the HS, there are some futuristic elements to the instrument panel design, which groups audio, climate controls, and infotainment into a center stack that wedges outward. The hybrid powertrain in the 2011 Lexus HS 250h is essentially what's tried and true from the Toyota Prius (and Camry Hybrid); it's a version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, here combining a 147-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine with a 40-horsepower electric motor system to produce 187 horsepower altogether.
The electric-assist steering has a rather quick ratio and reasonably good weighting, but soft suspension tuning means there's plenty of lean (and nosedive when braking); overall the HS handles in an unexciting but safe way. Braking is one of the high points; while hybrids often have touchy, jerky brake-pedal action due to regenerative action, the HS 250h stops predictably and without a hitch.
The 2011 Lexus HS 250h is otherwise tight and quiet inside, thanks to details like an acoustic windshield and triple-layer door seals. All-LED headlamps are a segment first, according to Lexus, and paired with Adaptive Front Lighting, Intelligent High-Beam, and headlamp washers. As can be expected on a Lexus, there's a fine-sounding 330-watt Mark Levinson audio system available.
The Lexus HS 250h returns for its sophomore year as an entry-level luxury vehicle for the hybrid market.
The Lexus HS offers a fairly reserved and buttoned-up exterior. In terms of size, this Lexus hybrid is a bit smaller than the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid, but still large enough to properly accommodate front and rear passengers. Road noise is also notably louder than on most Lexus vehicles.
Fuel figures for the Lexus HS Hybrid come in at 35 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. These solid numbers serve to make the hybrid the most efficient vehicle in the luxury vehicle class. Lexus also allows drivers to choose between three driving modes – Eco, Power and EV. Review full 2011 Lexus HS 250h specifications.
Standard safety features for the HS 250h include anti-lock brakes, brake assist, traction control and stability control. The vehicle also boasts ten standard airbags (including side curtain airbags and dual front-knee airbags).
The 2011 Lexus HS Hybrid starts just below $35,000. Available options include driver memory settings, heated/ventilated front seats, park assist, navigation system and rain-sensing wipers.
