New Lexus 250h hybrid a fuel-sipper
ASSOCIATED PRESS
The 2010 Lexus HS250h is shown at the North American International Auto Show on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2009 in Detroit.
DETROIT–Lexus unveiled a new hybrid at the North American International Auto Show on Sunday, saying it will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the luxury brand's lineup.
The 2010 HS250h sedan, Lexus' fourth hybrid, will be the first standalone gas-electric vehicle for Toyota Motor Corp.'s luxury nameplate. Lexus said the car will arrive at dealerships this summer.
Mark Templin, group vice-president and general manager of Lexus, told reporters that more than 60 per cent of entry-level luxury car buyers would have considered buying a hybrid if one were available.
He said the HS200h is designed to meet that need.
"They also want a car that is kinder to the environment with outstanding gas mileage and low emissions, as well as one that offers advanced features, the latest electronics and one that delivers exceptional comfort," Templin said.
The HS250h is the first of two Toyota debuts – both hybrids – at the Detroit auto show. Toyota is set to reveal its 2010 Prius hybrid Monday. Lexus also unveiled a hybrid version of its RX450 sport utility vehicle at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
Toyota spokesman Irv Miller said an official price for the HS250h will be released in the spring, but the car will have a base price between $30,000 and $35,000.
No EPA fuel economy rating has been assigned yet, but the carmaker said its city fuel economy rating will be better than that of the Smart Fortwo two-seater, which gets 33 city miles per U.S gallon (7.8 L/100 km).
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