Her and His Reviews
January 7, 2010
2010 Lexus HS 250 Hybrid
There are always two sides to everything, right? Well, the truth is there are many more than that!
To keep our car reviews innovative and well-rounded, we are providing you with not just one, but two points of view on the same exact vehicle –
Her and His perspectives.
Her: Anne Fleming, Car Buying Advocate,women-drivers.com
His: Chuck Kerber, Writer, AutomobileJournal.com
| Anne | Chuck |
|---|---|
| Price | |
| $44,967 as tested | Price as Tested: $44,967.00 |
| Performance | |
| 2.4-liter, 4 wheel power with an Electric Drive Motor w/ Hybrid provides 187 horsepower to two front wheels through an Electronically Controlled Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT).
When fully stopped, there is a need to floor accelerator and after a second or two delay, the HS gains power and is good to go. On the highway or up the hills of Pittsburgh, the car, once in motion, picks up speed Four wheel power assisted front & rear assisted disc brakes |
2.4 Liter, 16 Valve DOHC VVT-I producing 147 Horsepower. Electronic-Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT)
When you hit the accelerator not much happens. Firstly, the electric motor engages (quietly), and then the internal combustion engine kicks in for that extra needed power, and believe me, it's needed. Acceleration in the Lexus HS 250 is mediocre unless you press the pedal to the metal. The ride is very comfy and soft. The car isn't lively on the road, but it doesn't feel detached either. Steering is concise thanks to the electronic Power Rack-and-Pinion Steering. |
| Fuel Economy | |
| 34 mpg/City and 35mpg/Highway.
Est. annual fuel cost: $1,115 |
35 MPG City, 34 MPG Highway -- Impressive. |
| The Car | |
| This car is a first for Lexus entering the hybrid market and it's a welcomed addition
The enhancing interior has neutral cream color and black and mahogany lines Advanced navigation system included. Lots of holders for cups, but missing is a pockets on back of front seats for storage of books, and games for kids 18" Alloy wheels |
The Lexus HS 250 is nicely equipped inside. The 10-way adjustable Semi-Analine leather seats are very snug and supportive.
All of the controls in the vehicle are placed within easy reach. It does take some time to go through the manual, as this particular test car was loaded with technology. Steering wheel mounted controls make talking on the phone, and controlling the audio system a breeze. There are plenty of cup holders in the front as well as the rear of the vehicle. Although the HS 250 is a small car, leg room is plentiful for all passengers. The heated seats are great when it's chilly. The AC blew cold air throughout with ease, even reaching passengers in the back of the vehicle. |
| Safety | |
| Advanced front airbags, driver and passenger knee airbags, front/rear side airbags
Vehicle theft deterrent system Smart Access w/ push-button starter Safety Connect™ phone system with one-year subscription Backup monitor automatically engages when car is put into reverse. As always ladies, don't get lazy with this device - still turn around both ways to check for any blind spots. There is nothing lacking in this car; the design team included the standard Tool Kit, First Aid Kit and Tire Pressure monitor in the trunk. Three (3) headrests in back seat. Also three (3) TETHER systems for children's seats |
Anti-Locking Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
Advanced Airbags with Driver's and Front and Passengers Knee Air Bags Front and Side Impact Air Bags Side Curtain Airbags Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) 3-Point Seat Belts for all seating Positions with Force-Limiting Pretensioners |
| Technology | |
| Driver information Center with Trip Computer
Safety Connect™ phone system with one-year subscription Backup monitor automatically engages when car is put into reverse. As always ladies, don't get lazy with this device - still turn around both ways to check for any blind spots. Advanced navigation system included Premium Audio System is truly wonderful in this vehicle... I heard instrumental sounds out of this system I have never heard before when listening to "Go Your Own Way" over the last 30 years. With a 6 disc CD changer. USB Input; mini plug auxiliary input for MP3player XM Satellite™ Radio for 90 days trial - that's too much of a tease and abit stingy on a vehicle in this price range. BlueTooth® technology include |
It's Loaded...
Smart-Access Key with Push-Button Start/Stop Electroluminescent Optitron Gauges Inside Auto Dimming Electrochromic rear-View Mirror with Compass Driver information Center with Trip Computer Lexus Premium Audio System with Automatic Sound Levilizer (ASL) 6-Disc In-Dash CD Changer, USB, I-Pod input Jacks XM Satellite Radio with 90 day trial subscription Bluetooth technology Heads-UP-Display *The HUD could be adjusted up and down, but not side to side. I could only see half of it...so annoying! Rain-Sensing Wipers |
| Aesthetics & Styling | |
| The car's interior is smart and attractive. The front looks like you are inside a Cessna Sky Catcher cockpit; really.
The exterior has something to be desired. Almost too much of a stately and mature look to it. The heated seats were terrific as was the air-vent option is a delight on those summer days. All seats are mutli-positional and offer personalized, luxurious feel. Premium Audio System is truly wonderful in this vehicle... I heard instrumental sounds out of this system I have never heard before when listening to "Go Your Own Way" over the last 30 years. With a 6 disc CD changer. |
The Lexus HS 250 looks are average at best. Although the finish on the vehicle is excellent, it still looks too much like a Toyota Corolla |
| Warranty | |
| 48 month or 50,000 miles. The power train warranty extends to 5 years and 70,000 miles | 48 Months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first |
| Non-tangibles / Other | |
| While a great technological addition to the Lexus line-up, the styling is the one things I was disappointed with .The grill with its 'venetian blinds' looks too much like a Ford and the body misses the mark for a hot, luxury brand. | The Lexus HS Hybrid 250 is the first Hybrid-dedicated vehicle for the luxury car company. It has a superior finish and an abundance of technological features.
Even with these new features is it really worth the $44, 967.00 as tested price? If you really want the Lexus badge, then it may be an option. If you're truly looking for an A-list Hybrid machine that will save you big bucks on fuel and the car, consider the latest Toyota Prius. |
