Lexus HS250h: New Hybrid-Only Lexus Sedan

Back in August we told you Lexus plans to unveil a new hybrid-only model at the Detroit Auto Show in January at the same time as the reveal of the new third-generation 2010 Toyota Prius. Now, a newly published rendering from Japanese buff book Mag-X may give us some clues of what to expect from a car they claim will be badged as the Lexus HS250h.

We'll let Mag-X take it from here:

The drawing reveals a well-proportioned four-door car with Prius-like lines and angles—especially the front slope of its windshield and hood—while retaining design cues which are unmistakably Lexus, most notably the back-end and taillight styling.

The publication says the Lexus HS250h will most likely be outfitted with the 2.4-liter engine and electric motor combo found in the Toyota Camry Hybrid, and share many of the same mechanicals as that car. This includes the current-generation nickel metal hydride battery. Carrying over the powertrain would be significantly more cost-effective than developing an entirely new system for the Lexus brand.

Setting itself apart from the more mainstream Toyota brand, the Lexus concept car will feature a technology and entertainment module, controlled from the center console, much like BMW’s iDrive system. A roster of luxury equipment not offered by the Prius or Camry Hybrid will also be included.

If the HS250h sedan comes to fruition, it could join the Lexus lineup by late 2009 or early 2010. Price, technical specs, and other key stats will remain unknown, until official word from Toyota.

[Mag-X via HybridCars]

Send an email to Ray Wert, the author of this post, at ray@jalopnik.com.

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