2010 Lexus HS 250h Official Details and Photos

The luxury division of Japanese manufacturer Toyota has released details and photos of what they say it is the world's first "hybrid-only luxury car", the Lexus HS250h. The manufacturer say it has created the hybrid by using "advanced materials, clever packaging of people and components" and by "eradicating waste wherever possible". Below you can find the details of the HS 250h, so you can see for yourself if that is so.

The vehicle is powered by Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine, working in conjunction with a hybrid system. The environmentally friendly characteristics are further emphasized by the use of an exhaust heat recovery system, a new evaporative emissions system and driver-selectable driving modes.

The four cylinder engine develops, in conjunction with the electric motor, a total of 187 horsepower, 147 of them from the regular powerplant alone. The two-motor hybrid system, taken separately, develops 141 horsepower but, to make things clear, you should know that the two power units cannot be used simultaneous at their peak power. The second motor in the hybrid system serves as both engine starter and generator to charge the hybrid battery pack.

The driver can choose from four different driving modes, Power, Normal, Eco and EV, designed to best adapt the vehicle to the road and traffic conditions. The HS 250h has an EPA estimated 35 mpg (6.7l/100km) in combined cycle. When used in the Eco mode, the Lexus is 20 percent more fuel efficient than the fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup.

Leaving the engine and motors aside, you should know that the HS 250h, being a Lexus, is packed with technology and gadgetry. Starting with the newly developed electronic controlled brake (ECB) system and going all the way through the telematics system Lexus Enform with Safety Connect, the new hybrid lives up to its "luxury vehicle" tag.