2010 Lexus HS 250h: Hybrid efficiency, Lexus luxury

By Ken Chester Jr., Motor News Media Corporation

Last update: November 13, 2009 - 3:53 PM

With the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, designers and engineers took the opportunity to create a truly unique luxury car that maximizes fuel economy while further shrinking its impact on the planet.

The HS 250h is propelled (on the fossil-fuel side of things) by a 2.4L, four-cylinder engine chosen for its high efficiency and compatibility with hybrid operation. The twin-cam engine uses four valves per cylinder and Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i) on the intake side. It also meets the California SULEV and federal Tier 2 Bin 3 exhaust emission standards, emitting 70 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new car; it is also augmented by a new system that reduces emissions to near zero.

Hybrid efficiency is at the core of the HS 250h. Using a two-motor hybrid system, the HS 250h uses a 141-horsepower drive motor that combines with the gasoline engine. A second electric motor in the hybrid system serves as both engine starter and generator to charge the hybrid battery pack.

The two-motor system also uses an electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is a model of efficiency, simplicity and compact size with extremely smooth and quiet operation. A motor speed-reduction gear unit helps provide high power output in this small package.

The HS 250h also uses an easy-to-operate, shift-by-wire system that eliminates the need for bulky shift cables, saving space and weight while allowing much more design freedom in placing the shift lever in the interior.

The interior of the HS 250h was designed to provide the usual high level of innovation inherent with the craftsmanship expected from Lexus products. Lexus' exclusive Remote Touch navigation system controller is a focal point of the interior design because of the high frequency of interaction with it. The center stack sweeps rearward to the Remote Touch which naturally meets the driver's hand atop a "floating" form over the center console. Switches and displays are neatly arranged for ease of operation and free of visual complexity, courtesy of Remote Touch.

Front door trim that mirrors the shape of the center stack and armrest provide a comfortable symmetry. And the steering wheel center pad appears to float on the wheel, surrounded by control switches that mimic the design and color of those on the center stack. Leather-trimmed seats are standard and special, soft-touch stitched details on the center stack and instrument hood provide an extra premium touch in the cabin.

EPA fuel economy:

City: 35, Highway: 34

Base Price:

$34,200 to $36,970

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