2011 Lexus HS Hybrid

Lexus, Toyota’s upscale sub-brand, is among the few luxury automakers that successfully merges technologically-advanced designs with consistently great reliability. Interiors are quiet and finished with finely-crafted materials. The engines are generally smooth and powerful. Many of its cars and SUVs are available with more fuel-efficient hybrid powertrains. Lexus continues to sell sedans, with its ES, IS, and top-shelf LS models. Most of its SUVs have done well in our testing, including the NX, RX, and TX. The brand’s first all-electric vehicle, the RZ, is a luxury version of the Toyota bZ4X EV. Lexus also sells two-door coupes and convertibles, the RC and LC. Multiple Lexus models have earned Consumer Reports’ recommendation for used cars.

The HS 250h is a bit smaller than the Toyota Camry, but uses the Camry hybrid's powertrain. Unlike other Lexus models, the HS feels unrefined. The car is let down by its jiggly ride, as well as intrusive wind and drivetrain noise. The steering feels vague, but handling is very secure. We got 31 mpg overall in our tests of the HS, which is quite good for a vehicle of this size. The HS 250h can also run for a short distance on electric power alone at light throttle up to about 26 mph. Inside, the HS is well finished and comes with a long menu of standard features, but the cabin is narrow and the protruding center console takes up too much room. Though pleasant overall, the HS doesn't have the refinement, quietness and ride comfort we've come to associate with the Lexus brand. Model year 2012 was the last for the HS.