His and Her Review 2010 Lexus HS 250 Hybrid

By anne fleming

anne fleming

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1,929 views Feb 11, 2010

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

PRICE

Anne: $44,967 as tested

Chuck: Price as Tested: $44,967.00

PERFORMANCE

Anne: 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

Chuck:  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

Anne:  34 mpg/City and 35mpg/Highway. Est. annual fuel cost: $1,115

Chuck: 35 MPG City, 34 MPG Highway -- Impressive.

THE CAR

Anne:  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

Chuck:  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

Anne: 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

Chuck:  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