2010 Lexus HS 250h: The deluxe hybrid!
There’s a trend toward greener, more economical cars. And while some manufacturers are turning to diesel, Toyota still believes that hybrid engines are the way to go. Although the Lexus line already includes three models with hybrid technology, this year the manufacturer is introducing a brand new car, the Lexus HS 250h, an entry level model offered only in a hybrid version.
It turns out that the Lexus IS is the most affordable model at Lexus, but its sportier purpose means that it isn’t the ideal candidate to become the most affordable deluxe hybrid. As for the ES, it’s made more for those who like Buick-style comfort. As a result, the Lexus HS 250h slides in between these two models, hoping to attract fans of hybrid vehicles who haven’t totally given up on luxury. Sure, the Prius has a lot of technological gadgets, but it’ll never be mistaken for a luxury car. That’s where the HS comes in…
Moreover, this newcomer will allow Lexus to try to recreate what Toyota was able to accomplish with the Prius. That is, to make it an icon. We know that hybrid cars based on gas models aren’t as popular as models offered exclusively in a hybrid version. People love to show off how green they are, and driving a car that isn’t immediately associated with hybrid technology doesn’t have the same effect. It’s one of the things that make the Prius so successful and it’s why Honda is bringing back the Insight. Honda needs its green icon too! We’ll have to wait and see if the HS 250h will succeed in this mission because, with its $40,000 base price, it isn’t one of the most affordable. What’s more, some interesting equipment has been relegated to the options catalogue.
A deluxe Prius?
Absolutely not. In fact, the HS 250h has nothing in common with the Toyota Prius. First of all, it uses the platform of a European compact model, the Toyota Avensis. As for size, it’s slightly longer than the IS, but not as wide by a few millimetres. In terms of mechanics, it features many of the new Prius’ hybrid components, but it uses the Camry Hybrid’s 2.4-litre four-cylinder gas engine. Its 187 horses propel it from 0-100 km/hr in about 8.1 seconds and a continuously variable automatic transmission rounds out the ensemble.
The HS 250h is about reason, not emotion, so it won’t turn any heads. But it was designed to reduce drag and not to show off. Above all, this car’s features all aim to improve fuel economy. However, despite its rather ordinary lines, the HS isn’t completely devoid of style. Thanks to various components, including stylized rims and lots of trim, the manufacturer has managed to give it some personality. The translucent LED tail lights also add to the vehicle’s style. In my opinion, the HS 250h is more inspiring than certain other hybrid-only models.
Little compromise on board
Lexus quality reigns inside the car. The passenger compartment features impeccable finish and the materials make for an elaborate and meticulous interior. The seats are comfortable and there’s lots of space for all passengers. The arched design of the front seatbacks leaves increased leg room for those in the back seats, while the manufacturer managed to give the HS respectable cargo space. However, the battery pack located behind the rear bench slightly reduces the space and prevents you from folding the seats down, which represents a small compromise.
The instrumentation is similar to that of a Prius, and with the inclusion of the EV, Econo and Power buttons along with the typical Prius stick shift, it even looks like one. My only complaint is with the wide base of the central console, which protrudes between the passengers, cuts into the available space and makes you feel too enclosed. As for the rest, it truly feels like a deluxe car, and the ergonomics in general are beyond reproach. The various controls are well positioned and easy to access, and a special mention goes to the “Remote Touch” control offered in certain versions, which looks and acts like a mouse that helps you operate the climate control, navigation system and the audio system.
On the road
Behind the wheel, handling is relatively close to that of a Prius. The car is not at all sporty, but of course, that isn’t its purpose. Personally, I’m not a fan of an impersonal ride, but to each his own, I guess.
Its power is more than capable of taking care of daily needs. Just like the Prius, you’ll be able to drive exclusively in electric mode up to a speed of about 40 km/hr. Depending on your tastes, you’ll be able to choose between one of three available modes – Power, Economy and EV – at the touch of a button on the dashboard. These modes are mainly for adjusting accelerator response. The EV mode will help you maximize that various systems in order to drive as long as possible in electric mode. With a combination of electric and gas modes, the official fuel consumption numbers are a more than reasonable 5.7 l/100 km.
It’s tough to predict if a car like this will be successful. Will hybrid and luxury be accepted together? Will this car’s price be prohibitive? Time will tell, but it must be said that the manufacturer really did its homework. The HS has all the tools to fill a void in the market.
