2010 Lexus HS 250h

Luxury hybrid sedan

By Nina Russin

2010 Lexus HS 250h

When the Toyota Prius migrated from the fringes of the automotive market into the mainstream, it proved to manufacturers that producing hybrid cars could be highly profitable. Since then, Lexus has introduced a hybrid version of almost every model: halo cars that meld environmental friendliness with performance.

This year, Lexus introduces its first hybrid-only model: the HS 250h. The new HS bridges the gap between the Prius’ extended gas mileage and Lexus’ hybrid performance cars. While the new sedan’s average fuel economy of 35 miles-per-gallon lags behind the Prius, it is significantly higher than comparable gasoline-powered models.

The HS 250h is a poster child for other sustainable technologies, such as the use of bioplastic material throughout the interior. The interior fabric is created from plant sources: the first automotive application of its kind. About thirty percent of the vehicle’s interior and trunk are built from ecological plastic, which engineers claim reduces carbon emissions about twenty percent over the car’s life cycle.

Knowing that its audience is technology-savvy, the HS comes with a multi-media package that includes voice recognition, Bluetooth interface, satellite radio, and USB iPod connectivity. A mouse device on the center console controls the optional navigation system. With displays including points of interest, traffic, weather, sports and stocks updates, the navigation screen has more interactive graphics than most video games.

An all-new telematics system, available by subscription offers automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, emergency assistance and roadside assistance.

Given that the HS has the most environmentally-friendly, technologically advanced interior of any Lexus vehicle, one question remains: what is the new hybrid sedan like to drive? Read the rest of this entry »