The 2010 Lexus HS 250h will go on sale later this year in the U.S. with prices starting at $34,200; however, Lexus has ruled out selling its dedicated hybrid model in Europe. Instead Europe will get a hybrid variant of the Avensis and the Lexus IS.

“Selling the HS 250h here would be an emphatic no because of Toyota’s plans to put a hybrid in every range by 2020,” Lexus told AutoCar. ”The car would be premium d-segment and a direct competitor to the Avensis and the IS, which already meet premium needs.”

Power for the 2010 Lexus HS 250h will come from the company’s first 4-cylinder 2.4L Atkinson engine mated to the Lexus Hybrid Drive System. That gives it the ability to make a total of 187-hp allowing it to go from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds while averaging a combined fuel-economy of 35 mpg.

2010 Lexus HS 250h:

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: AutoCar

Japan’s Nikkei business daily is reporting that Toyota has received about 1,500 pre-orders for the new Lexus HS 250h in Japan, which is roughly three  times more than the company’s monthly sales target.

Nikkei says that the 2010 Toyota Prius has been selling so well that there is a eight month backup on deliveries after placing an order. Customers eager to get into a Toyota hybrid are expected to switch their existing orders to the Lexus HS hybrid.

The publication said that about 90 percent of the orders for the Lexus RX SUVs in April were for the hybrid models. In the U.S., hybrid versions of the Lexus RX SUV represented 7.2 percent of all RX models sold in June.

The 2010 Lexus HS 250h will go on sale in the U.S. later this summer. Prices will be announced closer to launch date. The 2010 Lexus HS 250h is expected to return EPA-estimated combined 35 mpg.

2010 Lexus HS 250h:

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Green Car Congress (via AllCarsElectric)

Toyota is hoping to sell about 25,000 units of its all-new 2010 Lexus HS 250h in the first 12 months of the cars sale, said Mark Templin, group vice president of the Lexus Division for Toyota North America. Lexus’ first dedicated hybrid model is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. later this summer and will be the luxury-brands first hybrid-only model. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

“More than 60 percent of entry luxury sedan buyers said they would consider hybrids, and this is a segment nobody’s in right now,” Templin told Reuters.

Power for the 2010 Lexus HS 250h comes from Lexus’ first 4-cylinder 2.4L Atkinson engine and the Lexus Hybrid Drive System. The drivertrain, mated to a CVT transmission, produces a total of 187-hp. That allows the HS 250h to go from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds.

The 2010 Lexus HS 250h is expected to return EPA-estimated 35/34 mpg (city/highway) for a combined 35 mpg.

Click through for the high-res image gallery.

2010 Lexus HS 250h:

- By: Omar Rana

Lexus will be bringing a concept version of its Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series fighter to the Frankfurt Motor Show later this year. While that may be exciting for you high-performance compact hatchback lovers, the real big news is that the model will be a hybrid-only model like the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, which was introduced at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

According to Top Gear, the model will go on sale in later-half of 2010 and will be priced below the IS.

By now you’re probably looking at photos of the HS 250h and getting very depressed thinking to yourself that the car won’t look half as good as the A3 or the 1-Series. Relax.

Insiders say that while the car will be based on the front-wheel-drive Toyota Prius platform and will share most of its technology with the HS 250h, it will get an aggressive, sleek and smaller body design. Of Course, it’ll be a 5-door hatchback.

Power will most likely come from a 2.4L Atkinson mated to the Lexus Hybrid Drive making 187-hp.

2010 Lexus HS 250h:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Top Gear

Usually it’s us on the stateside getting angry at Europe for getting all the cool cars. Well, this time we can point the finger and laugh. The new 2010 Lexus HS 250h, which was unveiled at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, will not be making its way to Europe – at least for now.

“The HS 250h is intended mainly for North America and Japan, sales are not currently planned for Europe,” said Serge Gachot, head of Toyota Motor Europe marketing communications.

According to Automotive News, sources say that the main reason the HS 250h won’t make it to Europe is because that its CO2 emissions are too close to the IS 220d.

The 2010 Lexus HS 250h will go on sale on the stateside later this summer. Pricing and fuel-economy figures will be revealed closer to launch date.

2010 Lexus HS 250h:

• •  2010 Lexus HS 250h is the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid.
• •  Competes with: Itself.
• •  2.4L Atkinson with the Lexus Hybrid Drive makes 187-hp.
• •  Arrives in dealerships later this Summer.

Lexus has unveiled its brand new 2010 Lexus HS 250h, the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid sedan and the fourth hybrid in Lexus’ hybrid onslaught. According to Lexus, more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers said that they would consider a hybrid if it was available. The HS will provide those customers with that very option later this year. The 5-passenger, front-wheel-drive 2010 HS 250h fits between the IS sedan and the ES sedan.

Power comes from Lexus’ very first 4-cylinder 2.4L Atkinson engine and Lexus’ Hybrid Drive System. The drivertrain, mated to a CVT transmission, produces a total of 187-hp. No fuel-economy figures have been released yet but Lexus says that the HS 250h’s expected fuel efficiency will be more than 30-percent better than the most fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup.

Standard features on the 2010 Lexus HS 250h include leather-trim seats, a moonroof, and a new standard multi-media package. It also features Bluetooth, USB and iPod connectivity and voice recognition. All can be controlled via steering-wheel controls or a display screen. Optional features include Lexus’ new Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation System (which also includes XM NavTraffic and NavWeatherTM, along with XM Sports and Stock information) and a Heads-up Display. The HS 250h will have standard 17- and optional 18-inch wheels.

The 2010 Lexus HS 250h will arrive in dealerships nationwide in later summer 2009.

Click through for the high-res image gallery and the press release.

2010 Lexus HS 250h:

Press Release:

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.