Lexus HS 250h Review

While the idea of an environmentally responsible luxury car may sound like a contradiction, the Lexus HS 250h sets out to show that the two ideas aren't necessarily mutually exclusive. Larger than the entry-level CT 200h but smaller than the automaker's midsize ES 350, the Lexus HS 250h is powered by the same gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain as the Camry Hybrid. The result is performance that's fairly lively, though EPA fuel economy estimates (35 mpg city/34 mpg highway) aren't quite as impressive.

The Lexus HS 250h's eco-friendly take on luxury extends to its relatively roomy interior, with green details that include plant-based seating foam and easy-to-recycle plastics. But of course there are still plenty of high-end features, including leather seating, keyless ignition/entry and a head-up display. In other words, the HS 250h offers everything you'd expect from a true luxury sedan -- except perhaps the guilty conscience.

Current Lexus HS 250h
The Lexus HS 250h is offered in two different trim levels, including a base model and the top-of-the-line Premium. Both are powered by a hybrid powertrain that marries a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 187 horsepower. The combination drives the front wheels via a specialized continuously variable automatic transmission.

The entry-level HS 250h is well-equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, keyless entry/ignition, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker audio system with six-disc CD changer, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface. The Premium model adds 18-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming outside mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, genuine wood trim and upgraded leather upholstery.

The options list is filled with upgrades such as a front and rear parking camera system, adaptive LED headlights, a head-up display, a premium audio system and a hard-drive-based navigation system that also delivers real-time weather forecasts, traffic conditions, sports scores and stock prices.

In our testing, we've generally been impressed by the Lexus HS 250h. Though it lacks the oomph of a traditional luxury sport sedan, both acceleration and handling are better than you'd expect from a hybrid. Our testers did note that the electric power steering doesn't offer much feedback and the brakes can seem a bit touchy until you get used to them.

The quiet passenger cabin is both handsome and comfortable, with a decent amount of head- and legroom for four adults. While the good-sized trunk will easily swallow a pair of golf bags and a couple of modest-size suitcases, the lack of fold-down rear seatbacks limits its cargo-carrying flexibility.

Used Lexus HS 250h Models
The Lexus HS 250h debuted in the 2010 model year and has not changed since.