Lexus Hybrid Cars

Toyota popularized hybrid cars more than 20 years ago with its 1997 Prius and, predictably, the range of Lexus hybrid cars available today from their luxury branch is extensive. Hybrids combine internal combustion engines (ICEs) with electric motors and a battery pack to provide owners with excellent gas mileage. It is regarded as a much-needed transition technology between gas cars and electric vehicles. There is an entire range of Lexus hybrid models on the luxury brand’s model roster.

About Lexus Hybrid Models

There are six 2021 Lexus hybrid vehicles available. Two of them cover the compact crossover SUV market and there are mid-size SUV, coupe, and sedan models as well:

• Lexus UX: The Lexus UX is a subcompact luxury crossover - and the smallest premium-brand hybrid crossover currently available. Given its size, it’s easy to drive and very economical. It comes extensively outfitted and boasts a quality interior. Being so small, space for rear passengers and cargo is at a premium, though, and the ICE engine is not very refined, nor is the infotainment system class-leading.
• Lexus NX: One size up, the NX compact luxury crossover shows its age by offering less cargo space than most rivals and a comparatively cramped rear seat. However, fuel economy is excellent and it has more power than the UX. Comfort and quality inside are class-leading, as are safety and refinement.
• Lexus RX: Lexus’ longest-running SUV nameplate, the mid-sized RX is available in both five-seater and six-seater configurations and its hybrid powertrain with V6 gas engine delivers good - if not class-leading - performance and AWD ability. Refinement is very good and the standard features list is long. However, cargo capacity is a weak point, and opting for extras can dramatically up the base MSRP.
• Lexus ES: The ES 300h is Lexus’ mid-size hybrid-sedan, offering a spacious, refined interior and good ride quality. Fuel economy is impressive, but power can be lacking. The infotainment system is not particularly easy to use, and the rear seats don’t fold down to expand cargo space.
• Lexus LS: The large luxury sedan offers the elegance and quality the LS name has become known for, as well as a generous standard specification and class-leading ride quality. As is the case with more than one Lexus, the infotainment system is not very simple to operate. It’s not quite as economical as expected, either. No plug-in hybrid LS is available, unlike some rivals.
• Lexus LC: The large and stylish LC coupe’s hybrid derivative shares its arresting styling with the ICE V8 LC sports car but loses the charismatic engine in favor of a V6. It drives well and quality levels are beyond reproach. However, the back seat is tiny, it doesn’t have the soul of the V8 and it costs nearly $100,000 - before extras.

Price List of New Lexus Hybrids

Here are the starting prices of the new Lexus hybrids currently for sale in the US:

What to Consider Before Buying a Lexus Hybrid

Most of the Lexus hybrids have certain common traits:

Pros

• Above-average fuel economy
• Class-leading interior quality
• Superior ride quality and quietness
• A big range that covers many segments
• Distinctive styling

Cons

• The hybrid hardware means they weigh quite a lot
• On average, the infotainment systems are not very easy to use
• The smaller models offer limited rear-passenger and cargo space
• The power outputs of most models are middling in their class

FAQs

For in-depth Lexus hybrid reviews covering all aspects, such as engine choices, dimensions, and warranty details, you can peruse our detailed gar buyer’s guide. You can also do model comparisons, find the information of last year’s 2020 Lexus hybrid models if you want to compare them or if you are considering buying used.