Toyota's Lexus division unveiled the HS 250h at the 2009 NAIAS. The new mid-sized hybrid will sit between the smaller IS and larger ES models in the company's portfolio, bearing an all-new design with a best-in-class drag coefficient of 0.27 (better than that of the new Prius).

We've been hearing rumors about Lexus' first dedicated hybrid model for quite a while now, but today, the Japanese automaker officially confirmed that the all-new HS 250h will make its worldwide debut at next month's 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Lexus has not disclosed any official information whatsoever on the HS 250h, but according to the grapevine, the dedicated hybrid sedan will be similar in size to the company's IS Sedan.

Lexus plans to display two concept vehicles at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show next week. The LF-Xh SUV will make its first global appearance alongside the subtly revised LF-A premium sports car concept first unveiled at the 2005 Detroit Motor Show.

Measuring 4.8-meters in length, the LF-Xh is a specialty SUV based on the Lexus design philosophy of L-finesse. A taut shoulder line accentuates the vehicle's flanks, while a sharp shoulder line separates the DLO - with glass roof - from the lower section of the vehicle. By combining a powerful and sculpted body with an elegant interior, Toyota's luxury division is aiming to give this next-generation SUV a dynamic look and feel.

The show car is powered by the latest "Lexus Hybrid Drive" system, which, according to the automaker, 'features a sophisticated fusion of superior environmental and power performance'. The all-wheel drive LF-Xh is powered by both a V6 gasoline engine and a high-output electric motor, claimed to achieve outstanding driving performance, quiet operation, high fuel-efficiency and low emissions.

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Lexus LF-A - Detroit 2005
Review: Lexus LF-A
Lexus LF-Xh concept - Tokyo 2007
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