Lexus HS250h - World's Dedicated Hybrid

[Z-06]

Linkity

Lexus Unveils World's First Dedicated Luxury Hybrid - HS250h

Lexus Stages World Debut of the 2010 HS 250h - the World's First Dedicated Luxury Hybrid - at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit

DETROIT (Jan. 11, 2009) – Lexus today revealed the 2010 HS 250h, the world's first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, at the North American International Auto Show. The HS 250h will be Lexus' fourth hybrid and the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its lineup. It also will be the first Lexus to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design.

A welcomed addition to Lexus' entry-luxury sedan lineup, the HS 250h fits nicely between the IS luxury sport sedan and the ES luxury sedan. Research has shown that more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers would have considered a hybrid if available, and the HS will provide these consumers with a viable purchase option.

Equipped with Lexus' first four-cylinder gas engine, the 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle powerplant is part of the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive System, which generates 187 total system horsepower. The highly efficient Atkinson-cycle engine, made possible by the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, allows the expansion/power stroke to be longer than the compression stroke so that combustion energy can be more effectively used for production of engine power. The HS 250h sedan's expected fuel efficiency will be more than 30-percent better than the most fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup, while earning a SULEV emissions rating utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Among the technologies adopted in the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine are cooling piston oil jets; an optimized balance shaft rate for improved Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) characteristics; and a hot-air venting system mounted behind the radiator.

Like the all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid utility vehicle that made its debut in November, the HS 250h will include a new system designed to improve efficiency. The exhaust heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time, thus allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. A windshield with infrared-ray (IR) reduction properties, which helps keep the interior more cool, has been adopted in order to decrease the amount of air conditioning needed to lower the cabin temperature. In addition to the exhaust heat recovery system and the IR windshield, available power-saving LED headlamps also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and emissions.

The all-new HS 250h sedan's 0.27 drag coefficient (Cd) makes it among the most aerodynamic in its class. Airflow management over the exterior, below the under floor and through the air passages was extensively examined. A unique gull-wing-shaped roof-panel design reduces mass and overall vehicle height, thus reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The front spoiler, rear spoiler, rear under spoiler, and diffuser fins all reduce turbulence. Smooth A-pillar shape and the optimized angle and curvature of the bumper side panels also reduce wake turbulence, as does the increased taper of the fender side panels. The under-floor covers have been optimally positioned for reduced drag, while airflow restriction in the engine compartment has been lowered by optimizing the air-duct profiles around the radiator.

Aerodynamic design has also contributed to decreased wind noise. A smoother transition between windshield (complete with a sound-insulating inner layer) and roof line has improved air flow and reduced turbulence.

As is appropriate for the first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, the HS 250h includes proactive adoption of plant-based, carbon-neutral "Ecological Plastics" or bio-plastics in specific interior areas. Ecological Plastic emits less carbon dioxide during a product's lifecycle than plastic made solely from petroleum. Among the areas of utilization will be an industry-first use in luggage-trim upholstery. Other areas are the cowl-side trim, door scuff plate, tool box area, floor-finish plate, seat cushions, and the package tray behind the rear seats. Overall, approximately 30-percent of the interior and luggage area is covered with Ecological Plastic. Over the estimated lifecycle of the vehicle, the HS 250h will have approximately 20-percent fewer carbon-dioxide emissions as a result of utilizing the Ecological Plastic trim pieces.

Like all Lexus hybrid models, significant time was spent in developing the HS 250h with optimized NVH characteristics. Dynamic dampers at each engine-mounting point reduce noise and vibration, resonators improve intake air noise, and optimized exhaust flow reduces exhaust sound. Special coatings dampen both engine and road noise, while improved seals around doors, hood and fenders reduce wind-noise penetration into the cabin. Vibration has been reduced by improving the shape and thickness of the suspension-mounting points. In addition, power-window speed controllers have been adopted from the LS luxury sedan, which insure a slower, soft closing rate.

The HS 250h chassis design provides an outstanding ride and comfort with the decreased NVH required by a Lexus hybrid. The MacPherson strut front suspension is designed to achieve both straight-line and braking control, and a positive steering feel. A double-wishbone rear suspension provides excellent maneuverability, control and comfort with a low spring mount that contributes to better packaging and superior cargo space. Coil springs, anti-roll bars and shock-absorber rebound springs are utilized front and rear. The HS 250h will have uniquely designed standard 17- and optional 18-inch wheels.

The rack-and-pinion steering system utilizes a brushless Electric Power Steering (EPS) motor on the steering column, which provides improved steering feel, a reduction in harsh feedback, and better emissions by not draining engine power like conventional hydraulic systems.

The EPS is an integral part of an available lane keep assist system, a new driver assist that adds smooth steering torque to help the vehicle stay in the center of the lane. The amount of assisted torque is dependant on a lane-marker detection camera. It includes a lane departure warning feature that is designed to detect possible lane departure; it then gives the driver an audible warning and provides feedback via the steering wheel to encourage corrective action.

The HS is slightly longer than the IS and is taller than both the IS and ES. It also has a greater couple distance (distance hip to hip between front and rear passengers) than any other vehicle in its class other than the ES. The contoured front-seat backs also add to increased rear-seat legroom.

The HS features a unique advanced cockpit and an interior design that emphasizes innovation and craftsmanship. The uniquely stylish cabin has standard leather-trim seats, a moonroof, Lexus premium audio systems, and a new standard multi-media package. The media features include Bluetooth® technology, integrated satellite radio (subscription required), voice recognition, and USB iPod connectivity controlled via steering-wheel controls or a display screen. A high-contrast multi-information display, located in the instrument panel's hybrid system indicator gauge, is controlled via steering-wheel-mounted controls, allowing the driver to easily control various functions and information.

Another key element of the modern interior is Lexus' new available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation System, which features a retractable navigation screen that is positioned well back and up front in the dash. The positioning helps improve visibility and reduce driver eye movement. Similar to the new RX, the HS system features the all-new "Remote Touch" controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic and allows for easy use of the Navigation System. The controller is positioned on the center console and is as natural to the driver's hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback.

The Navigation System also includes a new casual-speech voice recognition feature. This allows drivers to give more flexible, conversational commands for easier access and control of the audio, climate and navigation functions. Also included are XM® NavTraffic® and NavWeatherTM, along with XM Sports and Stock information.

Also helping to reduce driver eye movement is an optional Heads-up Display (HUD). The HUD uses high-intensity LEDs to make the display bright enough to be read even in direct sunlight.

A class-leading 10 airbags will be standard on the all-new HS 250h as well as active front head rests, which help passengers in case of certain types of rear-end accidents. The HS also will feature Lexus' Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

An available wide-view front monitor helps the driver to check hard-to-see areas. Using a camera mounted in the front grille, the monitor provides a 190-degree front view on the Navigation screen with the push of a button on the steering wheel.

The HS 250h will also offer Lexus' next generation telematics systems, Lexus Enform and Safety Connect. Safety Connect will provide automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, 24/7 emergency and roadside assistance.

Lexus Enform's Destination Assist features operators who will help drivers look up points of interest such as shopping centers or other business locations like Zagat-rated restaurants, and then wirelessly send directions directly to the vehicle's navigation system.

Lexus Enform's eDestination service will allow customers to pull up multiple points of interest on any computer and send them directly to the car's navigation system. This innovative new feature will allow drivers to send a total of 200 destinations at a time to their vehicles.

The all-new 2010 HS 250h will reach dealerships nationwide in late summer.

2010 HS 250h PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

2010 HS 250h Total Hybrid System Horsepower 187 hp Engine 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Transmission Transmission Electronically

Controlled Continuously

Variable Transmission Seating Capacity 5 Width (inches) 70.3 Height (inches) 59.3 Overall Length (inches) 184.8 Wheelbase (inches) 106.3 Driven Wheels FWD Wheels 17x7.0

w/ P215/55R17

or

18x7.5

w/ P225/45R18

(Optional) Emissions Rating SULEV

[Intrepidation]

It really does look like a jacked up Corolla

Honda called and wants its grill back.

[AAS]

the World's First Dedicated Luxury Hybrid

What exactly does that even mean?

[Intrepidation]

What exactly does that even mean?

A Prius sedan with an L badge.

Edited January 11, 2009 by Dodgefan

[Z-06]

What exactly does that even mean?

Since when were Toyota's punchlines meaningful?

Edit: Toyota has fetish for FIRST EVAR - so they stuck that out.

Edited January 11, 2009 by smallchevy

[Satty]

Technically, it means its the first hybrid-only model sold under a luxury brand. Until now all the luxury hybrids (Lexus LS, Escalade) had been based on traditionally powered vehicles.

[Cory Wolfe]

It looks like a Corolla.

[loki]

the...paint looks nice.

[pow]

It's a Toyota Avensis, not a Corolla.

[cire]

Honda called and wants its grill back.

I thought the same exact thing when I saw it.

I do agree with empowah: It looks like they took a Toyota Avensis with some exterior styling modifications, dropped a hybrid powertrain in it, slapped a Lexus badge on it, and (Voila!) suddenly the first dedicated luxury hybrid appears. How impressive is that?!

Yawn!

[Sixty8panther]

What a hodge-podge of bad styling.

[AAS]

Technically, it means its the first hybrid-only model sold under a luxury brand. Until now all the luxury hybrids (Lexus LS, Escalade) had been based on traditionally powered vehicles.

Ahhhh... thanks.

[Robert Hall]

Well, it does give Prius buyers an upgrade path when they want to go upscale.

[Satty]

I dont mind the styling, dont love it, dont hate it. I do like the interior, the back seat doesn't look huge, but I doubt that will be a huge concern for most buyers.

[bobo]

I like it. It fits in with the Lexus family styling, boring as that may be. The hybrid badging is pretty discreet.

[balthazar]

>>"Well, it does give Prius buyers an upgrade path when they want to go upscale. "<<

Correct me if anyone knows otherwise, but I don't see the prius being in the normal toyota 'ladder'... ie; I would think people buy it primarily because it's a hybrid, a prius and they're making a statement, not because it's a toyota persay, so I don't see many 'trading up' to even a camry hybrid. The prius just seems to operate independantly of the rest of the line.

One of my mother's cousins is 61, married, with an 18-yr old daughter going to school in NJ (they live in VT). He has a prius and he's driven to NJ a few times in it already to take her to school. He could easily afford a lexus LS, nevermind a camry, but he obviously bought the prius for SOME specific reason (I did not ask).

[Robert Hall]

>>"Well, it does give Prius buyers an upgrade path when they want to go upscale. "<<

Correct me if anyone knows otherwise, but I don't see the prius being in the normal toyota 'ladder'... ie; I would think people buy it primarily because it's a hybrid, a prius and they're making a statement, not because it's a toyota persay, so I don't see many 'trading up' to even a camry hybrid. The prius just seems to operate independantly of the rest of the line.

You missed the point of this car..

The Lexus hybrid is like the Prius--it's a dedicated model and not a regular, pedestrian model with hybrid tacked on like the other Lexus hybrids or the Camry hybrid. I could see some Prius owners moving up to it if they could afford it, because you would get Lexus luxury with Prius eco-cred. This car makes the hybrid statement and has luxury. Best of both worlds for some.

The problem with the Prius is yes, it has eco-cred and distinct styling, but it's a cheap sh*tbox inside. This car gives you luxury with your eco-cred.

Edited January 12, 2009 by moltar

[Intrepidation]

It's an "upgrade" if you're not aware that the body of the car is sold as a Toyota elsewhere, and if you think that plain, econobox interior is an upgrade because it has a few more soft touch surfaces. Oh and if you think owning a Lexus that looks like a Corolla is an upgrade.

[Robert Hall]

It's an "upgrade" if you're not aware that the body of the car is sold as a Toyota elsewhere, and if you think that plain, econobox interior is an upgrade because it has a few more soft touch surfaces. Oh and if you think owning a Lexus that looks like a Corolla is an upgrade.

The body isn't sold as a Toyota elsewhere, is it? I thought this car had a Lexus specific body.

[Intrepidation]

The body isn't sold as a Toyota elsewhere, is it? I thought this car had a Lexus specific body.

Maybe, I was just going on what empowah said about it being an Avensis. Maybe he just meant looks? Either way, it's a POS.

[mustang84]

Weak. It gives off a major Corolla vibe, and if you took the badge off it could easily be a Toyota.

Swing and a miss!

[Robert Hall]

Maybe, I was just going on what empowah said about it being an Avensis. Maybe he just meant looks? Either way, it's a POS.

There is a slight resemblance, but 99% of Lexus buyers in NA have no idea what an Avensis is, since it's not sold here.

I see a strong resemblance to the IS in the roofline and the tail, and the side lower chrome resembles the LS. It's got strong Lexus themes. I would not be surprised if this isn't Lexus' best selling car within a year of it's launch.

Edited January 12, 2009 by moltar

[smk4565]

Why did they release info on a dedicated hybrid whose only selling points are economy and that it is a cheap way to get Lexus, and not include any gas mileage figures? They are selling fuel economy, but make no mention of what it is, at least estimate a number based on testing.

This is a dumb car that dilutes the Lexus brand. a hybrid IS250 would have made more sense.

[Robert Hall]

Why did they release info on a dedicated hybrid whose only selling points are economy and that it is a cheap way to get Lexus, and not include any gas mileage figures? They are selling fuel economy, but make no mention of what it is, at least estimate a number based on testing.

This is a dumb car that dilutes the Lexus brand. a hybrid IS250 would have made more sense.

Gas mileage is only part of the hybrid equation. Remember, the clean (lower emissions) angle also. A hybrid IS250 would have just been a regular car with hybrid tacked on like the GS h, RX h, LS h are...this is like the Prius, a dedicated, hybrid only model..

Green + lux FTW.

This way the trendoids can take care of their green guilt and also have luxury...cake and eat it too.

Same idea as the Cadillac Converj Volt-based concept at the show, except this is a production model.

(Personally, for efficiency and luxury, I'd take a BMW 335d as it has the bonus of performance and pure RWD superiority).

Edited January 12, 2009 by moltar

[pow]

HS is to Avensis as the Camry is to the ES.

The HS shares the same platform - same overall length, width, and wheelbase - as the Avensis, albeit with a hybrid-only powertrain.

The styling should be more blatantly "hybrid", like other "dedicated" hybrids (Prius and Insight).

[siegen]

Wow. This car does not look like a luxury car at all. And it's pretty ugly to boot. The marketing department is going to have its work cut out for it.

It really does look like a jacked up Corolla

Honda called and wants its grill back.

Definitely looks like a Ford grille to me.

[Robert Hall]

HS is to Avensis as the Camry is to the ES.

The HS shares the same platform - same overall length, width, and wheelbase - as the Avensis, albeit with a hybrid-only powertrain.

The styling should be more blatantly "hybrid", like other "dedicated" hybrids (Prius and Insight).

Interesting. Since it has the Prius drivetrain, I assumed it was on the Prius platform. But I do see some resemblance to the Avensis, esp. the windshield and A-pillars.

[pow]

Interesting. Since it has the Prius drivetrain, I assumed it was on the Prius platform. But I do see some resemblance to the Avensis, esp. the windshield and A-pillars.

It has the Camry Hybrid drivetrain. Personally I would rather have an ES250h, but basing a separate model off the Avensis allows Toyota to call this a "dedicated" hybrid.

I have a theory that dedicated hybrids sell better, not only because they look different, but also because you have no equivalent gas-powered model to compare pricing with.

[Robert Hall]

It has the Camry Hybrid drivetrain. Personally I would rather have an ES250h, but basing a separate model off the Avensis allows Toyota to call this a "dedicated" hybrid.

I have a theory that dedicated hybrids sell better, not only because they look different, but also because you have no equivalent gas-powered model to compare pricing with.

I was mistaken then...I got the impression from what I had read that this car was to have the real Prius hybrid system, not the watered-down system from the Camry. With a dedicated hybrid, no one will confuse you with someone driving a regular version of the same car...it's hard to tell a Civic hybrid, Camry hybrid etc from the regular versions, but the Prius and Insight aren't confused with anything mainstream.

[Lamar]

Incidentally, Toyota did reveal a new Avensis in Paris. Here's the gallery on Toyota GB's website...

[SingleStylish]

Since Toyota keeps more of their platform engineering and updating in a shroud of secrecy, I could easily ascert that is VERY closely related to a Corolla. The Avensis must be equally related to the Corolla much like to Aurion is to the Camry. Either way, if we know more than the average consumer about cars and we have this reaction they WILL MOST CERTAINLY see this as a Lexus Corolla dedicated hybrid or not.

I don't see this as a sales winner.

[Satty]

Just for fun:

Overall Length

HS250h 184.8 (all specs from Autoblog)

Corolla 178.7 (all specs from Toyota's website)

Wheelbase

HS250h 106.3

Corolla 102.4

Height

HS250h 59.3

Corolla 57.7

Width

HS250h 70.3

Corolla 69.3

I doubt many people who see it in person will mistake it for the significantly smaller Corolla.

[FUTURE_OF_GM]

*yawn*

Look at that ugly interior.

I guess it matches the rest of the car though....

[gm4life]

Ugly interior and the exterior is plain ugly.

[Satty]

Ugly interior and the exterior is plain ugly.

Your vocabulary flabbergasts me.

[Drew Dowdell]

I've seen the Avensis. It's even uglier than the pictures show.

[smk4565]

335d for sure kills all these luxury hybrids. They don't sell it here, but the BMW 116d gets 53 mpg, which is better than the 2010 Prius. And it is rear drive, so the myth that rear drive sucks gas while front drive is the way to go is false.

[balthazar]

I'd hardly call a 6" difference in overall length "significant". Due to the customary rounding of most car noses, this is not readily apparent even in the same POV. What would stand out first is the taller 'hunchbacked' proportion the lexarolla seems to have vs. the toyorolla.

[carman21]

It really does look like a jacked up Corolla

Honda called and wants its grill back.

Looks like a shrunken Ford grill.

[Nick]

Well, the HS is supposedly based off the Prius, and correct me if I'm wrong but isn't the Prius based off the Yaris platform?

Regardless of what platform this vehicle is based on, the matter is it LOOKS like a corolla/avensis with the similar proportions.

I'll give credit to decent exterior designs such as the IS and GS...this thing is just awful though. And regardless of how good the materials are, that interior design would look foul even in an economy car.

[Drew Dowdell]

335d for sure kills all these luxury hybrids. They don't sell it here, but the BMW 116d gets 53 mpg, which is better than the 2010 Prius. And it is rear drive, so the myth that rear drive sucks gas while front drive is the way to go is false.

you can't compare the fuel economy of FWD v. RWD when the two cars use two different fuels.

I happen to agree with your final statement, it's just the way you got there that was wrong.

I thought the 335d was coming here. Was it canceled/onhold/OMG SHELVED?

[MyerShift]

I'm sorry, but nothing about this vehicle says anything remotely close to "I AM luxury".

Nothing.

[Paolino]

I'm sorry, but nothing about this vehicle says anything remotely close to "I AM luxury".

Nothing.

+1

The design inside and out, are disastrous. A couple of splashes of wood and some chrome do not make a luxury car. That center stack, well, it looks like things were just thrown on at random!

[Intrepidation]

It looks like what it is: an economy car with a Lexus badge, some leather, and a hybrid system.

[Lamar]

It looks like what it is: an economy car with a Lexus badge, some leather, and a hybrid system.

Edited January 14, 2009 by Lamar

[Z-06]

I thought the 335d was coming here. Was it canceled/onhold/OMG SHELVED?

It is here along with the standard engine starter inside the rear left tire well.

[Intrepidation]

Well look at that, 36 mpg highway. And Lutz says RWD can't meet CAFE. GM is so full of &#036;h&#33;.

[Drew Dowdell]

It is here along with the standard engine starter inside the rear left tire well.

Mr. Lutz, would you like to see a picture of my next new car?

Signed,

Dedicated Cadillac Fan

[pow]

335d for sure kills all these luxury hybrids. They don't sell it here, but the BMW 116d gets 53 mpg, which is better than the 2010 Prius. And it is rear drive, so the myth that rear drive sucks gas while front drive is the way to go is false.

You have to compare apples to apples. The Prius gets 65.7 mpg (imperial) combined (NEDC), while the 116d gets 64.2 mpg, combined. The Prius emits less pollution, too.

That said, I'd rather have the diesel.

[Bimmer325]

I've already seen three or four 335d's around.