Lexus HS250h is Understated Style in a Hybrid

Lexus has established itself as a leader in the hybrid vehicle segment, and its HS 250h sedan shows why.

This car is a neatly designed, smooth-operating luxury vehicle that gets outstanding gas mileage.

The first thing you'll notice about the HS is how when you turn it on, it doesn't really seem as if you've turned it on.

After starting the ignition, the car remains as quiet as before you hit the button.

For newcomers to hybrid driving, this will throw you for a loop, but those who have been in green machines before will probably not be surprised.

After that, the smooth ride and comfort of the HS remind you that you are in a Lexus, and that's not a bad place to be at all.

The HS features a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that makes 147 horsepower and is linked to two electric motors.

Lexus says the first electric motor controls the starter, generator and continuously variable transmission, while the second is responsible for propulsion.

The result of all this whiz-bang stuff?

How about a whopping 35 mpg city, 34 highway, according to EPA.

In a week of mixed city and highway driving, the tester vehicle got close to 37 mpg combined.

How's its power, you may ask?

Not too shabby.

While 147 ponies might not sound so robust, the HS had no trouble at all merging onto crowded highways and passing vehicles cruising the slow lanes.
Its external styling is certainly not flashy, but is attractive nonetheless. You won't find dramatic lines or bold styling, but you will find a nonpolarizing shape that isn't too trendy.
On the inside, things are nicely proportioned and well-placed, and the styling says understated luxury.

The leather on the steering wheel, seats and door panels provide a rich look that is bolstered by the optional wood trim on the dash.

Comfort and convenience features include automatic dual-zone climate control and optional heated seats and USB/Bluetooth connectivity.

Lexus says the electronically controlled brakes with antilock function and brake assist, paired with the stability control system, provide the driver with outstanding control in challenging road conditions.

LexusInform, the company's infomatics system (similar to General Motors' OnStar), gives crash notification in the event of an accident or communicates the car's location if it gets stolen and can offer other roadside assistance information.
The HS250 is priced from around $34,700 - $37,500.

With its outstanding fuel economy and pleasant interior and exterior, Lexus shows how you can be keen on green.