2010 Lexus HS 250h

The standard multi-media package includes voice recognition, wireless Bluetooth, satellite radio (free for three months) and USB iPod connectivity. The optional nav system comes with Lexus’ exclusive computer-mouse-like controller with adjustable “haptic” feedback that lets you physically feel when its cursor “drops” into each selection and new “casual-language” voice recognition for audio, climate and navigation functions. It can manage such verbal requests as, “Call Bob at home,” “Make it cooler,” “Find XM channel 46,” “Show me Japanese restaurants,” or “I need a gas station.”


An all-new Lexus Enform system includes XM NavTraffic and XM NavWeather. The former reports current traffic conditions with real-time displays and alerts the driver so the route can be adjusted. The latter provides near-real-time weather displays and forecasts based on National Weather Service data. Also available (by subscription) is XM Sports and Stocks.

Safety Package

The HS 250h boasts a class-leading 10 airbags, including dual-stage front and knee bags for the driver and front passenger, side curtain bags and front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, as well as active front-seat head restraints. Safety Connect, another Lexus Enform feature available by subscription, offers four (GM OnStar-like) features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and enhanced Roadside Assistance. It can be further enhanced with Destination Assist and eDestination, which can help drivers find a specific address, business or type of business by sending coordinates to the nav system for routing. A one-year trial subscription is standard.


A Pre-Collision System (PCS), available with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Driver Monitor, uses radar to measure and maintain a pre-set following distance from vehicles ahead. It can detect obstacles in front of the car, determine when a collision is highly possible, alert the driver with audible and visual warnings, preemptively tighten the front seat belts and pre-initialize Brake Assist for increased braking the instant the driver hits the pedal. Another useful new safety feature is Lane Keep Assist (LKA), which can help drivers stay within their chosen lane. Activated by the driver when dynamic radar cruise control is on, it alerts the driver and gently steers toward the center of the lane when wandering is detected.

Driving Impressions

Perhaps this hybrid’s most remarkable attribute is its near-transparency as a hybrid. It drives much like any compact “entry” luxury sedan, only more efficiently. We’re not fond of the CVT’s habit of pushing engine revs ahead of vehicle speed on acceleration, but that’s typical. At about 8.4 seconds from 0 to 60 in “Power” mode, it’s far from quick, yet not annoyingly slow. It feels little different in Normal mode, but throttle response slows significantly in Eco, where we expect fuel-thrifty owners will operate most of the time. Its passable passing power is aided by the electric motor’s instant torque and the CVT’s ability to quickly find the optimal gear ratio.


Its respectable handling, comfortable ride and low noise levels begin with its stiff body structure and suspension: MacPherson struts in front, double-wishbones in back. Its vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power steering (EPS) improves efficiency by eliminating a conventional system’s belt-driven pump, and its electronically controlled braking system is augmented by regenerative braking, which also helps recharge the battery back.


If you’re thinking fuel-efficient hybrid, but neither Toyota’s smaller Prius nor Honda’s still smaller new Insight don’t quite suit your taste or needs, there’s a new technology-laden choice at your nearest Lexus store. You might want to give it a ride. (www.lexus.com)

About the Author
Former automotive engineer Gary Witzenburg has been writing about the auto industry, its people and its products for major magazines, newspapers and web sites for more than 20 years.