2010 Lexus HS250h
The Lexus HS250h shares its underpinnings with the athletic new European-market Toyota Avensis, so there's a chance that the brand's first hybrid-only model could accidentally inject some fun into the lineup. The HS's hybrid system - pinched from the Camry Hybrid - consists of a 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder and two electric motors good for 187 total horsepower. Of course, comparisons with the new-for-2010 Toyota Prius are inevitable, although the cars are essentially unrelated despite an identical wheelbase. The HS250h isn't as fuel-efficient as the Prius (about 34 mpg combined, against the Prius's 50), but creature comforts count for something, right? The HS250h, which is longer than an IS but shorter than an ES, hums into Lexus dealerships late this summer. ...next page >>