FIRST DRIVE: 2010 LEXUS HS 250h — A match made in heaven

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This article was published 18/09/2009 (6201 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

They came from Quebec, they came from Ontario, they came from British Columbia, and one guy even came all the way from Saskatchewan.

The reason for their journey to Winnipeg? To witness the unveiling of the all-new 2010 Lexus HS250h sedan.

Earlier this week, more than 40 automotive journalists from across Canada arrived in Winnipeg for the city’s first-ever new-car unveiling. Yep, you read it right: Lexus introduced a new car right here in Winnipeg.

The HS250h is being billed as a groundbreaking luxury hybrid designed for the masses, and if first impressions were any indication, this sedan is poised to take the country by storm.

With a starting price point that rings the register at just under $40,000, the latest entry in the luxury automaker’s growing lineup of hybrid vehicles was not only well-received by the nation’s auto scribes, but also drew more than a few looks from local car aficionados.

The unveiling included a detailed presentation at the Fairmont Hotel and an extended test drive that took auto writers from the streets of Winnipeg all the way to the sandy shores of Gimli.

Lexus claims that the 2010 HS 250h brings attainable, sustainable luxury to Canadian consumers. My extended test drive revealed a truly unique luxury car that maximizes fuel economy with an estimated fuel-consumption rating of just 5.7 litres per 100km in combined city/highway driving. Lexus also managed to shrink its impact on the planet by using ecologically advanced materials that include plastic parts made from plant-based materials.

Powered by a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine mated to a potent electric motor, the HS 250h features the first 4-cylinder engine ever installed in a Lexus. The combination of gasoline and electric power results in a more-than-capable 187 horsepower.

All of the models tested featured a definite luxury car appeal. The entry-level Premium model, with an MSRP of $39,900, is loaded with comfort and convenience features that include leather seats with 8-way power-adjustable controls, an audio system with integrated XM Satellite Radio and USB audio connectivity, and stylish 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

The Premium Sport package, bumping the sticker to $41,400, adds features that include a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, heated seats, sport pedals and a wallet-sized smart card key.

The top-of-the-line Ultra Premium model, at $48,750, includes heated and ventilated seats covered in premium leather that are equipped with the Lexus driver-seat memory system, a voice-activated navigation system with integrated back-up camera, a concert hall-quality 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, LED headlamps with the Lexus auto levelling system, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a power rear sunshade and auto-dimming side-view mirrors.

One of the big questions that surround hybrid technology is how it will perform in places like Winnipeg when the temperature drops in the winter months. Similar to the Lexus RX 450h hybrid sport utility vehicle, the HS 250h employs an exhaust heat-recovery system that captures the heat of spent exhaust gases to both speed engine coolant warm-up and stop the gas engine earlier and more often in the driving cycle.

The HS 250h also incorporates a drive-mode switch that allows the driver to select between four modes: Normal, Power, Eco and EV. Each switch position changes the rate of throttle opening. Normal mode has a linear throttle response that gives naturally progressive power, while the Power mode can be selected for a more responsive feel. In Eco mode, air-conditioning settings are adjusted and throttle response is reduced to enhance fuel economy. The EV mode allows the vehicle to be driven short distances using only the electric motors.

The efficient two-motor system also uses an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission that is both extremely smooth and quiet. The result of all this technology not only offers exceptional fuel economy, but also allows the driver to take full advantage of the 187 horsepower on tap.

In city driving, the HS250h is eerily quiet, but when the accelerator pedal is mashed, a throaty growl emits from the exhaust pipe. Despite the obvious mantra of fuel efficiency, the car offers spirited acceleration. The handling characteristics are in line with other Lexus models and the end result is akin to a luxury performance sedan with an environmentally friendly conscience.

The general consensus from auto journalists that I spoke with was that the HS 250h is a nice blend of both luxury and practicality. Despite the fact that the cars share almost no DNA, many commented that the HS 250h is a highly refined and long-overdue upscale version of the popular Toyota Prius hybrid. The fact that it has sleek body lines and a distinct level of luxury clearly differentiates the HS 250h from the quirky-looking Prius.

On the surface, it may seem odd that Lexus chose Winnipeg to unveil the HS 250h. But, on closer inspection, it’s apparent that this is a car that shares many characteristics of our fair city: It’s able to pull off being sensible, understated and refined, all in one environmentally friendly breath.
 
willy@freepress.mb.ca

THE SPECS:

Type of vehicle: Front-wheel-drive luxury hybrid 4-door sedan
Engine: 2.4L 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder with Lexus Hybrid Drive
Power: 187 hp 5,000 rpm.; 38 ft-lbs. of torque (187 gas-engine only) @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission: Continuously variable
Brakes: Front and rear disc with ABS
Tires: P215/55R17 / P225/45R18
Length: 4,695mm (184.8 in.)
Width: 1,505 mm (59.3 in.)
Wheelbase: 2,700 mm (106.3 in.)
Curb weight: 1,670 / 1,710 kg
Price: $39,900 (Premium); $$41,400 (Premium Sport); $48,750 (Premium Sport)
Transport Canada fuel economy L/100 km: 5.6 city, 5.9 hwy.
Standard features: Air conditioning, tilt steering, leather seats, AM/FM/CD audio system with Bluetooth and XM Satellite, keyless entry, Smart Key, 10 airbags, anti-theft, 17-in. alloy wheels, halogen headlamps, moonroof. Ultra Premium: 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, driver seat memory, backup camera, heated seats, voice-activated navigation system, rear power sunshade, LED headlamps, 18-in alloy wheels.