NOTE: Pricing based on data collected September 2009. Costs of hybridization and forced features are UCS estimates based on information available on manufacturer websites.
See full Hybrid Scorecard methodology
Vehicle Summary
Lexus introduced the front-wheel-drive HS 250h in model year 2010 as its first and only dedicated hybrid (i.e., there is no conventional counterpart). With a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine (the first four-cylinder Lexus), the HS 250h is a five-seat luxury sedan and gets a combined EPA estimated fuel economy of 35 mpg. With the HS 250h, Lexus has combined hybrid technology with a downsized engine to achieve significant global warming emissions reductions without the significantly higher cost premiums often found in other hybrids. Indeed, the HS 250h is one of the most affordable of all Lexus models, hybrid or conventional. The rear-wheel-drive IS 250 with a 2.5-liter, six-cylinder engine was chosen as the closest model for comparison with the HS 250h based on acceleration performance, peak horsepower, overall size, and interior space. The HS 250h is a full hybrid, offering electric-only operation under certain conditions, idle stop/start, power assist, and regenerative braking.
Environmental Score
With a 31 percent reduction in global warming emissions compared with the IS 250, the HS 250h is in the top tier of hybrids for emissions performance, finishing just behind the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid among sedans. The use of a more efficient gasoline engine with the hybrid system provides comparable acceleration performance to the IS 250 (rather than boost acceleration, as is the case with some hybrids) and allows Lexus to achieve a strong environmental performance with the HS 250h. The smog-forming emissions performance of the HS 250h is very good, earning it an EPA air pollution score of 9 out of 10. These combine for an overall Environmental Score of 7.6.
Scorecard Environmental Score methodology
Hybrid Value
With a relatively low price premium of $1,460 for its hybrid system and a strong environmental score, the HS 250h rates “Very High” on the Hybrid Value scale. This model serves as an excellent example of treating fuel economy as a valued commodity in itself, giving the luxury car consumer a truly fuel-efficient option. And with one of the lowest base prices of any Lexus model, it gives more consumers access to the luxury vehicle market.
Scorecard Hybrid Value methodology
Forced Features
By design, Lexus offers premium features even on its base models. The HS 250 is a mixed bag, with some standard features being slight downgrades from the IS 250 base model and others being small upgrades. On the whole, Lexus has avoided loading up the HS 250h with forced features compared to the base IS 250 model, and earned a Forced Features rating of “$.” Forced features are limited to: XM Radio; Bluetooth technology; one year of Lexus Safety Connect; and power outside mirrors with turn indicators, defoggers, puddle lamps, and auto tilt-down in reverse.
Scorecard Forced Features methodology
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Additional Info
Visit the Who’s Got Hybrids section to read comments and stories from actual hybrid owners.
Visit the Reviews page to see what popular automotive websites think of this hybrid.
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