Coolest Lexus Hybrids for Earth Day April 22th (photos)
Toyota invented the modern hybrid, and then they shared the technology with Lexus and gave it some luxury and class. If you value efficiency and the environment, a Lexus hybrid might be for you.
1. 2006-2017 Lexus GS 450h
The GS 450h ranks as one of the most impressive products in the Lexus catalog. While this mid-sized sedan is larger than other hybrids, the "Grand Sedan" is remarkably efficient for what it is, combining excellent gas mileage and reduced carbon footprint with more power, and the elegantly luxurious experience we've come to expect from Toyota's luxury division. In addition to the powerful performance and green efficiency, the GS 450h comes with a stylish sustainable bamboo-accented interior. Lexus haven't been ones to rest on their laurels either. Recent models have been upgraded to use Toyota's impressive 2GR-FKS motor configuration, with a 3.5 liter V6 plus electric assist for more than 238hp total.
2. 2011-2017 Lexus CT 200h
Borrowing a page and some hardware from the brilliant Toyota Prius, Lexus brings hybrid tech to the compact luxury class with its CT 200h. While the chassis bears a resemblance to the Toyota Corolla and Matrix, the CT 200h has a ride and handling that is pure Lexus. Particularly interesting is the model's inclusion of four driving modes, including a full EV mode, which produces no emissions and travels on just the merit of its two electric motors. Recent incarnations have been updated to include the trademark Lexus spindle grille, but every CT 200h is a remarkably efficient vehicle without losing a straw of its elegance.
3. 2013-2017 Lexus IS 300h
Sorry, America, you don't get this Lexus hybrid powered sports sedan. The European and Asian market IS 300h, is one of the smallest sedans available from Lexus, but it is also one of the sportiest. Unsurprisingly, the IS 300h is one of the most efficient sedans around, while still being fun to drive. With a classy stitched leather interior and an exterior design that screams Lexus, you can't go wrong with this one. The hybrid powertrain combines a 4 cylinder motor and electic power for a total of 220hp, and according to European Union ratings, gets 55 mpg. It's our hope that we'll eventually see a version of the IS 300h available in the States.
4. 2013-2017 Lexus ES 300h
This time, the Lexus acronym stands for "Executive Sedan", though every Lexus is fit for an executive to drive. Taking over the market space once occupied by the arguably inferior HS 250h, its size is belied by a very efficient hybrid powertrain, with 2.5L four cylinder engine and electric motors. Considering it's bigger than the CS 200h, but nearly matches it in efficiency, the ES 300h may be the most impressive Lexus hybrid from a technical standpoint balancing size with gas mileage. THe EPA estimates you can get 40 mpg in the city in this midsize sedan, and 39 on the highway.
5. 2008-2017 Lexus RX 450h
An eco-conscious SUV seems like a contradiction, at least at first, but on the other hand, what could most benefit from a hybrid powertrain better than a big people mover? Compared to virtually any other SUV on the road, it's doubtful you can do better than the RX 450h for fuel economy and luxury combined. A SUV hybrid is clearly something people wanted in any case, because the RX is the best-selling Lexus hybrid, counting for roughly a third of hybrid sales. If you're in the market for the 450h, get the two-wheel drive version instead of the 4WD, and you'll see a further bump in MPG to 32 city and 28 highway. Lexus are constantly pushing their hybrids further, so while it's never too soon to do your part for the Earth, we're confident that even more impressive feats lie in Lexus' future.
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