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Lexus has finally revealed the long-rumoured Prius-style Lexus HS250h at the Detroit motor show.

The Lexus HS250h is billed as the world's first dedicated luxury hybrid and is designed to be a plusher Toyota Prius. Destined solely for the US market, the Lexus HS250h is expected to go on sale in the summer.

The big surprise is that the Lexus HS250h doesn't rely heavily on Prius mechanicals, being based on its own unique front-drive platform and with a different petrol engine, altho...Read the full article

The HS250h is a really exciting product and perfect for the UK, where the IS220d is widely seen as a dud. It would also fit with Lexus' confirmed aim of being a "hybrid-only" manufacturer.

Sadly, it doesn't seem to be destined to reach the UK - which does raise the question of whether Lexus really has a future in Europe. With Lexus dealerships closing left, right and centre, could this be the end of the marque in Blighty?

This looks set to be an excellent car - I think they will bring it here eventually. 

JayWS:

where the IS220d is widely seen as a dud.

 

 Could you explain that comment? I see quite a few on the roads and have heard few horror stories about them.

Well, let's start by saying that I have one, so I'm biased!

Agreed, no horror stories, but you only have to go on the LOC forum to see reports of poor fuel economy, notchy gearbox, interior rattles, agricultural engine, pointless 6th gear, lack of low-down torque...

It's far from a disaster, but the IS 250 is far and away the better bet.

JayWS:

agricultural engine

 

I suppose it would be compared to the latest crop of diesel engines, lexus don't seem to be updating quite at the rate of other manufacturers. Will they get the 2.2 that's going to be found in the new avensis?

Looks more like a mild reskin of the Avensis with a hybrid powertrain. The rear is too much like the version of Camry/Aurion sold in south-western Pacific markets. No wonder it is bound only for US and Japan.