Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota, producing vehicles known for their quiet and refined interiors and comfortable rides. Over the last few years, Lexus has made a concerted effort to expand its selection of hybrid vehicles and now it offers five models with hybrid drivetrain technology.
The IS-class of cars is the most versatile of the Lexus offerings. Both the IS 250 and IS 350 sedans are also available as hardtop convertible coupes, the IS 250C and IS 350C respectively. The IS-class is arguably the most engaging series of cars that Lexus offers, especially when the performance-oriented IS-F and its 416-hp V-8 are considered.
Next in line is the ES 350 midsize sedan which offers a luxurious interior and more space for passengers than the compact-sized IS-class. The front-wheel drive ES 350, as expected due to its name, gets a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 and a six-speed automatic under the hood.
The largest sedans Lexus has to offer are members of the flagship LS-class: the LS 460 and the LS 600h, which come in standard and long-wheelbase versions. These two full-size sedans offer luxurious trappings and comfortable rides, while also keeping plenty of power on tap. The LS 460 features a 4.6-liter V-8 that outputs 380-hp with rear-wheel drive, and 357-hp if all-wheel drive is equipped. Interestingly, the LS 600h offers even more power with 438-hp from its gas/electric system and a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds while delivering better fuel economy.
Lexus also offers a pair of exclusively hybrid models in the CT 200h and the HS 250h. The CT 200h is the entry level Lexus, and the five-door hatchback is marketed as a “sporty” hybrid with more aggressive styling and handling than you’ll find in most of the other cars Lexus makes. At 43 mpg/city and 40 mpg/highway, it’s also the most fuel efficient car in the lineup. The HS 250h sedan focuses on luxury and fuel efficiency, and gets a new bumper and grille for 2012 to update its appearance.
Moving on, the RX-class of crossovers also features one gas powered model (RX 350) and a more efficient hybrid version (RX 450h). The RX 350 has long been one of the most popular luxury crossovers and for 2012, its 3.5-liter V-6 now takes regular gas which will save you money at the pump. Speaking of saving money at the pump, the RX 450h features a hybrid system that outputs 295-hp while also getting you 30-32 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. All-wheel drive is available on both models.
Need more space? Then the seven-passenger GX 460 SUV, with full-time all-wheel drive and a 4.6-liter V-8 will happily swallow more people and cargo than the RX.
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