Lexus was one of the first premier automakers to introduce a series of hybrids in its line-up. In 2009, Lexus launched its first dedicated hybrid model, the HS 250h.

However, due to a failure to meet market expectations, Lexus has reportedly decided to end its run. Although a time frame has yet to be officially proposed, chances are it will come sooner rather than later. Last month, Lexus had only sold just 205 units, bringing the yearly amount to only 2,383. Compared to last year, the figure has suffered a 72.8 percent decrease.

One possibility for the HS250h’s lack of success is its $37,030 price tag, nearly four-grand more than a Lexus IS. It’s place will likely be filled with a hybrid version of the ES, while Lexus seems to have found more success with its new CT200h model.

GALLERY: Lexus HS 250h

[Source: WardsAuto via LeftLaneNews]

Click here to read AutoGuide’s 2012 Lexus CT200h Review

Despite a strong presence on this side of the Atlantic, Lexus has yet to penetrate the European market. But they folks at Toyota’s luxury arm are hoping that a premium level hatchback in the compact segment – that also just so happens to be a hybrid – will help them win over a new (younger) generation of customers.

The LF-Ch Concept is a look at what that vehicle may look like.

Lexus is staying tight-lipped about the possible hybrid drivetrain but it is expected to be either that found in the new 2010 Prius or in the HS250h – that later of which is not scheduled to go on sale in Europe. Lexus also did not comment on if the LF-Ch production version would see U.S. shores.

A production version is planned to start in 2010 to compete against cars like the BMW 1 Series, Audi A3 and Volvo C30. The name is expected to be CT200h, as Lexus has already submitted a patent for that alphanumeric combination, as well as a few variants.

GALLERY: Lexus LF-Ch Concept

Official release after the jump:

LF-Ch CONCEPT
•    Conceptualisation of the first Lexus full hybrid in the European premium compact segment
•    L-finesse design creates a unique juxtaposition of powerful, machine-like surfacing and fluid, hand-sculpted detailing
•    Advanced interior design featuring asymmetric dashboard and Remote Touch control, emphasising outstanding driver ergonomics
•    Blacked out B pillars with concealed rear door handles create the image of a powerful, pillarless coupe
Making its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Lexus LF-Ch full hybrid concept is a clear visualisation of the company’s first approach to the highly competitive European premium compact segment.
Reflecting an ever increasing demand for smaller, more fuel and CO2 efficient cars which, nonetheless, do not compromise on either refinement or driving pleasure, the compact segment will grow to represent the largest share of the premium automotive market by 2010.
Reaffirming Lexus’ European market commitments, the LF-Ch concept combines compact dimensions, stylish 5-door packaging, full hybrid technology and low emissions to perfectly fulfil the most demanding premium compact customer requirements. With the unparalleled levels of quality, refinement and sophisticated on-board technology which hallmark every Lexus, the LF-Ch is designed specifically to appeal to a new, younger generation of customers.
Exterior Design
Bringing enormous visual impact to Lexus’ Frankfurt 2009 stand, the new LF-Ch concept represents an exceptionally powerful evolution of the company’s unique L-finesse design philosophy.
This ground-breaking design rationale is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. It is identified in every aspect of the full hybrid 5-door concept, not only in the development of harmonious visual synergies between the interior and exterior design, but also in the combination of leading edge engineering and technology with an entirely humanised, extra-ordinary simplicity of function.
The LF-Ch designers have focused on the careful juxtaposition of opposing major and minor elements. Intriguing contrasts between the powerful, machine-like overall surfacing of the bodywork and the painstaking detailing of even the smallest elements has created a unique synergy of technologically-driven design and fluid, hand-sculpted quality.
With a new, more aggressive Lexus grille design over a deep, full-width bumper and air dam, the front of the LF-Ch expresses the perfect balance of precision and power. Sharply sculpted, aerodynamic front wings overlap the bumper to create deep, front brake-cooling air intakes, while powerfully reinforcing a purposeful, wide-track stance hinting at excellent agility and high speed stability.
In profile, tapered glazing above a muscular, rising beltline and an aggressively truncated rear overhang instantly identify the LF-Ch as a premium, compact segment 5-door concept. The steeply raked windscreen, long flowing roofline and blacked out B pillars combine with rear door handles seamlessly integrated into the compact pillar window trim to give the stylish 5-door design the appearance of an elegant, sporting, pillarless coupe.
To the rear, the finely honed trailing edge of the roof overhangs the rear window to create a seamlessly integrated rear spoiler. A pronounced step in the tailgate section flows from the muscular rear wheel arch shoulders, and is anchored by a sweeping, wraparound tail lamp design. Careful aerodynamic detailing of the lower bumper both smoothes airflow from beneath the car and provides cooling ventilation to the rear brakes.
Discreet, Lexus hybrid blue badging and sharply tapering chrome mouldings subtly enhance the LF-Ch’s hybrid image. And the design’s harmonious synergies and juxtapositions are further reflected in the contrast between the dynamism of the LF-Ch’s energised yellow exterior finish and the tranquil, calming blue illumination of the interior.
Interior Design
The visual impact of L-finesse is carried into the interior. Once again, a powerful simplicity of form harmonises with the hand-crafted quality of even the smallest details to create a uniquely calm, efficient and elegant cabin design.
The LF-Ch concept’s interior features a strongly asymmetric dashboard which focuses on the driver, placing the emphasis on outstanding ergonomics. The Lexus seamlessly anticipates the driver’s needs through several surprising elements that provide a new driving sensation. When the car is started, the navigation screen greets the driver, while the headliner lighting subtly reveals an ambient pattern reminiscent of a sophisticated lounge.
The extensive use of semi-aniline leather, polished aluminium, wood and dark, soft touch materials reinforces the premium quality of the environment. The subtle use of natural materials reinforces the theme of harmonious contrast in the dashboard, door panels and seating, elegantly integrating high technology within hand-crafted finishes.
The seating is inspired by the handcrafted essence of high quality furniture design. With an exposed metal frame, lightweight leather and grained black wood, the seat structure is built up in a carefully calculated rhythm of inter-related layers, shaped to reflect the intrinsic nature of each material used.
Appropriate to the performance of the LF-Ch’s full hybrid powertain, the low, highly supportive driving position is dominated by a sporting, wide grip steering wheel with integrated paddle shift controls and an instrument binnacle housing large, high-visibility, twin dials embellished with a unique, turbine blade motif.
Helping the driver to maintain an uninterrupted focus on the road ahead, distracting instrumentation and switchgear clutter has been minimised through the adoption of the Lexus Remote Touch control first seen in the new RX 450h.
Via a dash-top mounted multi-information display screen, Remote Touch operates on similar principles to a computer mouse, allowing the driver to access, control and customise a wide variety of infotainment and vehicle set-up programmes.
As with every Lexus, hospitality lies at the heart of the ownership experience, and the LF-Ch’s comprehensive on-board entertainment technology includes iPhone docking capability for rear seat passengers.
Powertrain and Driving Performance
Allied to a wide track, long wheel base and low centre of gravity, the LF-Ch’s sophisticated, full hybrid powertrain technology is designed to deliver all the performance customers expect from a premium compact segment 5-door, whilst simultaneously returning low fuel consumption, CO2 and NOx emissions.
Benefiting from the full hybrid technology of Lexus Hybrid Drive, the LF-Ch concept can be driven on EV mode; a fully electric driving mode not available to drivers of mild hybrid vehicles. With vehicle range dictated by battery charge, the EV drive mode allows for urban driving with minimal noise and zero emissions.
Dimensions (mm)
Overall length:    4,300
Overall width:    1,790
Overall height:    1,400
Wheelbase:    2,600

Tyre Size
Front:    225 / 35R20
Rear:    225 / 35R20

Demand for the new 2010 Lexus HS250h hybrid sedan is so high in Japan that the automaker fears it might not be able to keep up with expected sales volumes in the U.S.

The world’s first stand-alone luxury hybrid has just gone on sale in Japan and its popularity has far exceeded expectations. Toyota initially planned to sell 500 units a month of the new Lexus model but so far the automaker has already received 10,000 orders.

Toyota’s first priority will be meeting demand in its home market, where profit margins are much higher. Due the the decreased value of the Yen against the U.S. dollar, vehicles sold in the U.S. are far less profitable.

Lexus is unlikely to delay the launch of the HS250h in the U.S., which is expected to take place next month, so long waiting lists are expected. Pricing for the new model is expected to start at $35,075.

This is the second hybrid model supply issue for Toyota in recent months, as a shortage of batteries has slowed the company’s ability to keep up with demand for the 2010 Prius.

[Source Automotive News via Autoblog]

With the entry-level premium marketing continuing to grow in Europe, Lexus is planning to get in on the action by bringing a vehicle to market that will complete with the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series.

The new vehicle will slot in under the IS250 and will be a hybrid. This may sound a lot like the upcoming HS250h (pictured above), but it’s not. For starters, Europe will not get the HS250h, and this new model will be a hatchback. It will, however, use the new Prius platform and be front-wheel drive.

The vehicle will not be a performance car but aimed at economy-minded diesel offerings from Audi and BMW. A concept version of the entry-level Lexus hybrid is expected to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September.

[Source: TopGear]

Lexus unveiled to the press a dedicated hybrid vehicle the HS250h – an entry level luxury hybrid that the company says will get better city fuel milage than the Smart micro-car.

Even more impressive is that it will operate on regular 87 octane gas. Lexus VP Mark Templin couldn’t help but use the opportunity to stick it to the Germans by pointing out how much cheaper 87 octane is than diesel.

The HS250h uses a hybrid powertain with a 2.4 liter engine that produces 187hp.

Lexus has built the HS250h in response to customer demand. According to its research 60 percent of entry level luxury buys would have considered a hybrid if one had been available.

One particularly neat feature is that the on-board LCD screen can show a 180 degree picture of what is ahead of the car – perfect for navigating in tight urban areas.This device has been adapted from the Lexus flagship SUV, the LX570.

The HS250h will come with the new Enform system, wich operates much like GM’s OnStar and even features a stolen vehicle locator.

The HS250h will go on sale this summer.

Lexus also announced that the HS250h is the first of 10 new hybrids Toyota will unveil in the next few years.

Official release after the jump:

Lexus Stages World Debut of the 2010 HS 250h – the World’s First Dedicated Luxury Hybrid – at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit

DETROIT (Jan. 11, 2009) – Lexus today revealed the 2010 HS 250h, the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, at the North American International Auto Show. The HS 250h will be Lexus’ fourth hybrid and the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its lineup. It also will be the first Lexus to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design.

A welcomed addition to Lexus’ entry-luxury sedan lineup, the HS 250h fits nicely between the IS luxury sport sedan and the ES luxury sedan. Research has shown that more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers would have considered a hybrid if available, and the HS will provide these consumers with a viable purchase option.

Equipped with Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine, the 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle powerplant is part of the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive System, which generates 187 total system horsepower. The highly efficient Atkinson-cycle engine, made possible by the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, allows the expansion/power stroke to be longer than the compression stroke so that combustion energy can be more effectively used for production of engine power. The HS 250h sedan’s expected fuel efficiency will be more than 30-percent better than the most fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup, while earning a SULEV emissions rating utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Among the technologies adopted in the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine are cooling piston oil jets; an optimized balance shaft rate for improved Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) characteristics; and a hot-air venting system mounted behind the radiator.

Like the all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid utility vehicle that made its debut in November, the HS 250h will include a new system designed to improve efficiency. The exhaust heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time, thus allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. A windshield with infrared-ray (IR) reduction properties, which helps keep the interior more cool, has been adopted in order to decrease the amount of air conditioning needed to lower the cabin temperature. In addition to the exhaust heat recovery system and the IR windshield, available power-saving LED headlamps also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and emissions.

The all-new HS 250h sedan’s 0.27 drag coefficient (Cd) makes it among the most aerodynamic in its class. Airflow management over the exterior, below the under floor and through the air passages was extensively examined. A unique gull-wing-shaped roof-panel design reduces mass and overall vehicle height, thus reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The front spoiler, rear spoiler, rear under spoiler, and diffuser fins all reduce turbulence. Smooth A-pillar shape and the optimized angle and curvature of the bumper side panels also reduce wake turbulence, as does the increased taper of the fender side panels. The under-floor covers have been optimally positioned for reduced drag, while airflow restriction in the engine compartment has been lowered by optimizing the air-duct profiles around the radiator.

Aerodynamic design has also contributed to decreased wind noise. A smoother transition between windshield (complete with a sound-insulating inner layer) and roof line has improved air flow and reduced turbulence.

As is appropriate for the first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, the HS 250h includes proactive adoption of plant-based, carbon-neutral “Ecological Plastics” or bio-plastics in specific interior areas. Ecological Plastic emits less carbon dioxide during a product’s lifecycle than plastic made solely from petroleum. Among the areas of utilization will be an industry-first use in luggage-trim upholstery. Other areas are the cowl-side trim, door scuff plate, tool box area, floor-finish plate, seat cushions, and the package tray behind the rear seats. Overall, approximately 30-percent of the interior and luggage area is covered with Ecological Plastic. Over the estimated lifecycle of the vehicle, the HS 250h will have approximately 20-percent fewer carbon-dioxide emissions as a result of utilizing the Ecological Plastic trim pieces.

Like all Lexus hybrid models, significant time was spent in developing the HS 250h with optimized NVH characteristics. Dynamic dampers at each engine-mounting point reduce noise and vibration, resonators improve intake air noise, and optimized exhaust flow reduces exhaust sound. Special coatings dampen both engine and road noise, while improved seals around doors, hood and fenders reduce wind-noise penetration into the cabin. Vibration has been reduced by improving the shape and thickness of the suspension-mounting points. In addition, power-window speed controllers have been adopted from the LS luxury sedan, which insure a slower, soft closing rate.

The HS 250h chassis design provides an outstanding ride and comfort with the decreased NVH required by a Lexus hybrid. The MacPherson strut front suspension is designed to achieve both straight-line and braking control, and a positive steering feel. A double-wishbone rear suspension provides excellent maneuverability, control and comfort with a low spring mount that contributes to better packaging and superior cargo space. Coil springs, anti-roll bars and shock-absorber rebound springs are utilized front and rear. The HS 250h will have uniquely designed standard 17- and optional 18-inch wheels.

The rack-and-pinion steering system utilizes a brushless Electric Power Steering (EPS) motor on the steering column, which provides improved steering feel, a reduction in harsh feedback, and better emissions by not draining engine power like conventional hydraulic systems.

The EPS is an integral part of an available lane keep assist system, a new driver assist that adds smooth steering torque to help the vehicle stay in the center of the lane. The amount of assisted torque is dependant on a lane-marker detection camera. It includes a lane departure warning feature that is designed to detect possible lane departure; it then gives the driver an audible warning and provides feedback via the steering wheel to encourage corrective action.
The HS is slightly longer than the IS and is taller than both the IS and ES. It also has a greater couple distance (distance hip to hip between front and rear passengers) than any other vehicle in its class other than the ES. The contoured front-seat backs also add to increased rear-seat legroom.

The HS features a unique advanced cockpit and an interior design that emphasizes innovation and craftsmanship. The uniquely stylish cabin has standard leather-trim seats, a moonroof, Lexus premium audio systems, and a new standard multi-media package. The media features include Bluetooth® technology, integrated satellite radio (subscription required), voice recognition, and USB iPod connectivity controlled via steering-wheel controls or a display screen. A high-contrast multi-information display, located in the instrument panel’s hybrid system indicator gauge, is controlled via steering-wheel-mounted controls, allowing the driver to easily control various functions and information.

Another key element of the modern interior is Lexus’ new available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation System, which features a retractable navigation screen that is positioned well back and up front in the dash. The positioning helps improve visibility and reduce driver eye movement. Similar to the new RX, the HS system features the all-new “Remote Touch” controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic and allows for easy use of the Navigation System. The controller is positioned on the center console and is as natural to the driver’s hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback.

The Navigation System also includes a new casual-speech voice recognition feature. This allows drivers to give more flexible, conversational commands for easier access and control of the audio, climate and navigation functions. Also included are XM® NavTraffic® and NavWeatherTM, along with XM Sports and Stock information.

Also helping to reduce driver eye movement is an optional Heads-up Display (HUD). The HUD uses high-intensity LEDs to make the display bright enough to be read even in direct sunlight.

A class-leading 10 airbags will be standard on the all-new HS 250h as well as active front head rests, which help passengers in case of certain types of rear-end accidents. The HS also will feature Lexus’ Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

An available wide-view front monitor helps the driver to check hard-to-see areas. Using a camera mounted in the front grille, the monitor provides a 190-degree front view on the Navigation screen with the push of a button on the steering wheel.

The HS 250h will also offer Lexus’ next generation telematics systems, Lexus Enform and Safety Connect. Safety Connect will provide automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, 24/7 emergency and roadside assistance.

Lexus Enform’s Destination Assist features operators who will help drivers look up points of interest such as shopping centers or other business locations like Zagat-rated restaurants, and then wirelessly send directions directly to the vehicle’s navigation system.

Lexus Enform’s eDestination service will allow customers to pull up multiple points of interest on any computer and send them directly to the car’s navigation system. This innovative new feature will allow drivers to send a total of 200 destinations at a time to their vehicles.

The all-new 2010 HS 250h will reach dealerships nationwide in late summer.