Lexus debuts dedicated HS 250h hybrid at the Detroit auto show

Lexus is no stranger to hybrids, with green offshoots of the GS and LS sedans and RX SUV currently in showrooms. However, joining them this summer is Lexus's first dedicated hybrid, the HS 250h, which made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show.

The new entry-luxury sedan slots between the IS and ES in the Lexus range. Lexus hopes to take advantage of an untapped market following research showing 60 percent of entry-level luxury car buyers would consider purchasing a hybrid.

Past rumors indicate that the Lexus hybrid would be based off the Prius, but according to Lexus spokesman Greg Thome, the HS more closely relates to the Toyota Avensis sold in Europe.

Many hybrid components will be shared with the Prius, but Lexus claims that various parts are specific to the HS. Connected to the hybrid system is a 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder for a total of 187 hp. It is expected to be more than 30 percent more fuel efficient than Lexus's current mileage champ, the RX 400h. However, one should note that the HS is the first Lexus to carry a four-cylinder engine.

Further steps were taken to improve efficiency with the addition of an exhaust heat recovery system to shorten warm-up time for earlier and longer engine-less motoring. The windshield features infrared-ray reduction abilities to keep the interior cooler, extensive aerodynamic work was done to reduce drag and an electric power steering system is employed.

In normal Lexus fashion, special attention was given to reduce noise for optimal cabin quietness. Interior features include the new Remote Touch interface, moonroof, Bluetooth, satellite radio and iPod port. A lane keep assist system, heads-up display, radar cruise control and wide-view front monitor are available options. The greening of the interior comes with the use of plant-based, carbon-neutral plastics being used for roughly 30-percent of the interior panels.

No pricing information has been released, but we can expect the HS to start in the low $40,000 range.

Detroit Auto Show News

By Jonathan Wong