Lexus Discontinues the HS 250h

Weak sales and a new hybrid on the horizon have prompted Lexus to cancel its HS 250h compact hybrid sedan. "Production of the HS 250h ceased in January 2012. Lexus continues to monitor sales for each product and we make adjustments to make sure that we meet market demand, and the discontinuation of HS was part of that adjustment," spokesman Curt McAllister told Cars.com. Sales of the HS 250h have been tapering off for a while. Last year, Lexus sold just 2,864 units compared to 10,663 in 2010. So far this year, sales are down 40% compared to 2011; just 28 were sold in April. Though Lexus claims it's not a replacement for the HS, the brand's ES 300h hybrid sedan is due later this year. Power will come from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system and a two-speed continuously variable automatic transmission. Lexus says the ES 300h will likely achieve an EPA-estimated 40/38 mpg city/highway. The EPA rates the HS 250h at 35/34 mpg. Related Research the 2012 Lexus HS 250h 2013 Lexus ES 300h at the 2012 New York Auto Show More Lexus News from KickingTires http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/

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