Overview & Reviews

While the idea of an environmentally responsible luxury car may sound like a contradiction, Lexus hoped to prove otherwise with its HS 250h. Smaller than the automaker's midsize ES 350, the Lexus HS 250h was powered by a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain that was more potent than that of a Prius. The result was fairly lively performance and good fuel economy.

As for luxury, the Lexus HS 250h had a relatively roomy interior, plus the expected number of high-end features. But this distinctive combination never really clicked with consumers, and Lexus ended production after a short three-year run. As a used model, the HS 250h is an agreeable choice, but keep in mind that it is a car of compromise; you can get better fuel economy from a dedicated hybrid or greater comfort and performance from a traditional small or midsize luxury sedan.

Most Recent Lexus HS 250h
The Lexus HS 250h was produced from 2010 through 2012 and was virtually unchanged throughout its brief run. It came in base and Premium trim levels. Both were powered by a hybrid powertrain that married a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 187 horsepower. The combination drove the front wheels via a specialized continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

The entry-level HS 250h was well-equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker audio system with six-CD changer, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface. The Premium model added 18-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming outside mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, genuine wood trim and upgraded leather upholstery.

Options included a front and rear parking camera system, adaptive LED headlights, a head-up display, a premium audio system and a hard-drive-based navigation system that also delivered real-time weather forecasts, traffic conditions, sports scores and stock prices.

In reviews, we found that the Lexus HS 250h offered a distinctive middle ground in terms of the performance and fuel economy trade-off. Compared to the typical entry-level luxury sedan, both acceleration and handling were lackluster. Yet the HS did perform better than the Prius, and fuel economy was decent, with a 35 mpg rating in city driving.

Inside, the HS 250h was handsome and comfortable, with a decent amount of head- and legroom for four adults. While the good-sized trunk would easily swallow a pair of golf bags and a couple of modest-size suitcases, the lack of fold-down rear seatbacks limited its cargo-carrying flexibility.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 59.00

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  Not a Camry or Prius - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By valente - September 22 - 3:50 pm

  Ive owned mine now for about 3 weeks. I came from a 2010 Prius which was too low to the ground for my back problems. Ironically, the dimensions are almost identical but for some reason, the HS seats are higher and the car is easier to get in and out of. I also owned a Camry Hybrid for about 4 months. Hated it. The gas mileage was terrible, the quality was awful and the door sill was low and I frequently bumped my head getting in and out. (Im 510") I dont have any of those problems with the HS. As for luxury and quality and ride - TOP NOTCH! Made in Japan. Camry, Made in Kentucky....(I think) My biggest complaint is lack of storage space up front and the engine whine when braking.

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  Love the mouse and mpg - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By Jim - September 24 - 10:40 am

  Getting 40.7 for first 7,000 miles. The large display with the very functional mouse is a hoot. Get my stock updates, team scores, etc. Love this car. It certainly is not a slow car and is very capable on the long road.

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  Impressive Lexus - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By Consul - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Im impressed by this Lexus Hybrid, get close to 40MPG, can use regular unleaded fuel, fully loaded with awesome technology found previously in a LS600. It is pricey almost $50K but for the mileage and contributions to the environment, Im pleased with it. Nice comfortable interior and yes, the brakes does get some getting used to. The navigation is easy to use, head up display on windshield is helpful and the front angled camera has saved me many times. Not to mention the lane keep assist for those late nights in the office when you are tired, it can save you from an accident and tickets. Awesome car and I recommend it.

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  Nice car overall - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By gblakeley - July 26 - 9:53 am

  Went to buy a Prius, wife said no way would not drive an egg. Weve had the car for about 9 months, bought used (demo) with 18k miles. Have about 28k miles. Very nice car, but the into gas miles are not close to want Lexus states. On flat surface drive it might get 30 to 31 miles. With slight hills in area around 25 mpg. On the freeway at 60-62 mph will get over 40 mpg!! But bought the car mainly for in town driving. Wife does not like to drive because she cant see front end because of the way the hood is shaped :]. I have no problem. Seats a a little narrow for those of us over 230 lbs.

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  After 4 days, I am on my 3rd Jump Start! - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By Winning2000 - August 18 - 7:20 am

  This is unreal!! Purchase date Wednesday 8/25/10 car had 94 miles on it. On Sunday 8/29/10 at 9:00 am. I needed my first jump. Had to call road side assistance. At 4:00 pm while at the mall same day, I needed a second jump start. Then only to find that the dealership was not open on Sunday so the car could not be towed. On Monday 8/30/10, Again My brand new car would not start. I then needed a third jump. After complaining to the dealership, they stated they were going to bring me a new battery. They then called back as said no battery was in stock. I am now driving a loaner vehicle. This has been by far the worst car buying experience ever!

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  winter mileage drop - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By Anonymous - May 12 - 2:00 am

  When I purchased this car in February, I was getting 37mpg. I live the Chicago area and with the winter cold, it has dropped to less then 30. I took it to the dealer who said it was normal due to the engine running more for the emissions. Seems like too big of a drop to me. the car itself is fun to drive, handles well, although the grunt of the engine turning on does seem to be a little underpowered. Trunk space is diminished due to the batteries and the stereo is not what I consider top of the line for a Lexus, particulalry in the back seat. I also wish there was a wee bit more headroom in the front and the center console does intrude.

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  Great Value Package - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By EEnglander - February 10 - 9:06 am

  Ive had the car for three weeks and its awesome!!! The car handles very well for a hybrid but it would be nice to have the option for more zip in acceleration in exchange for a few less MPGs. The suspension is a little soft and the driving experience could improve if the suspension were sportier-maybe similar to the IS. I have the HS Premium with navigation and the gadget loaded interior quickly makes you forget the drive-train and truly enjoy each drive.

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  Amazing luxury for the fuel economy. - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By nareautogo - November 9 - 4:15 am

  Yes, 37,000 for a car that does not possibly "perform" like a luxury car sedan can be a bit strange. BUT, listen, youre just not going to get excellent fuel economy in a car that has a sportscar like drive. I guess the BMW 3series is the gold standard in this class for the car thats a fun driving experience and I guess it is. BUT, try driving in a "fun" way in that and appreciate your 20mpg and exhaust that is not as ecofriendly as it can be. This car is one of only about 14 to receive the EPA highest rating for environmental impact. Car drives pretty good, handling is great. Quiet drive, but does have some weird winding noise when breaking -- you get used to it.

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  Try trading in - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By zag - April 16 - 2:00 am

  I purchased hs 250 h last year with a price tag of 45,000.I am not totally happy with the ride,so I looked into upgrading to GS or RX.I was offered 25,000 as trade in value for a car with 17,800.This is not the value I expected from a Lexus.

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  HS250 Blinker low sound - 2010 Lexus HS 250H
  By jackieauclair - May 3 - 12:10 pm

  Have had the car for three days and am annoyed that the blinker has hardly any sound. Is this true of other owners? Dealer has said it cant be made louder, yet in our other non hybrid Lexus, it is quite loud. We love the Lexus line and this is our third Lexus. Car does need more storage, but well manage.