2010 Lexus HS 250h at 2009 Detroit Auto Show
- Competes with: Nothing; there are no other hybrid-only luxury models on the market
- Looks like: Some of us think it resembles a Toyota Corolla
- Drivetrain: Hybrid gasoline/electric drivetrain with a combined 187 hp
- Hits dealerships: Late summer
This is it — the first hybrid-only luxury car. While a few automakers already have hybrid luxury cars, they’re all based on existing models. Lexus’ 2010 HS 250h is a stand-alone model that the company will slot between its IS and ES sedans. In terms of length, that’s also where the HS lands. It is, however, taller than both those cars.
Lexus hasn’t revealed mileage yet, but says the HS will get 30% better mileage than any other Lexus on the market. The IS 250 currently has that distinction, coming in at 24 mpg combined. A 30% improvement over that would be 31.2 mpg, which is quite good.
The HS is based on a European Toyota platform, but it features the company’s new navigation and entertainment system that we recently tested in the 2010 Lexus RX and RX hybrid. Base models will come with 17-inch wheels, with 18s optional. A head-up display will also be available as an option.
More photos below.
