Automotive Review

Among the small number of luxury hybrid sedan in the market, the 2012 Lexus HS 250h is one of the few that puts emphasis on fuel efficiency . While most others in this niche segment is more expensive and tends to put the performance of fuel economy , more affordable and compact HS 250h switch priority .

The uninitiated might consider the HS 250h is based on the Prius , but is not . Featuring a unique chassis that measures between the Corolla and Camry , employs the HS 250h powertrain from the Camry Hybrid - the previous generation , which gives the Lexus performance is significantly better than the Prius . Although an estimated 35 mpg combined is quite impressive , it is still far below the 50 mpg delivered by the Prius .

The most direct rival to the 2012 Lexus HS 250h is the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid . MKZ offers fuel economy better , roomier cabin and more standard equipment . The lack of brand cachet and the interior is less luxurious Lincoln s downsides . There is also the brother of HS , Lexus CT 200h , which provides increased versatility of the hatchback body style with sporty handling . Such shares with the Prius powertrain , the CT is slower but more economical than the HS 250h .

Like almost all wear badges Lexus vehicles , the HS 250h 2012 has a luxurious interior with top-notch materials and flawless fit and finish . HS 250h also comes loaded with many high-tech features , and thankfully intuitive controls . Opting for the navigation system will make you a "Remote Touch " controller that mimics a computer mouse with haptic feedback for a " feel " screen audio , climate and navigation buttons . There are also hybrid status indicator on the instrument panel allows the driver to know when they re driving green .

Although the size of the smaller HS 250h , the rear seats offer a decent amount of head and legroom for the higher ones . Likewise , short trunk opening wide and deep , internal boxy shape that allows you to drop straight golf bag without jostling required . Rod provides up to 12.1 cubic feet of cargo space , but the rear seats folded , and there was not much less utility than in the CT 200h hatchback or a Prius .