Lexus

Lexus Overview:

Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota, producing vehicles known for their quiet and refined interiors and comfortable rides. Over the last several years, Lexus has made a concerted effort to expand its selection of hybrid vehicles and now it offers five models with hybrid drivetrain technology thanks to the introduction of the new ES 300h.

(The HS 250h was discontinued for 2013.)

The IS-class of cars is the most versatile of the Lexus offerings. Both the IS 250 and IS 350 sedans are also available as hardtop convertible coupes, the IS 250C and IS 350C respectively. The IS-class is arguably the most engaging series of cars that Lexus offers, especially when the performance-oriented IS-F and its 416-hp V-8 are considered.

Next in line is the ES-class of midsize luxury sedans which were redesigned for 2013. The ES 350, keeps its 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 and a six-speed automatic under the hood, but adds new, modern exterior styling and upgraded interior features for the new model year. Brand new for 2013 is the ES 300h which gets 40/39 mpg city/highway and ably combines efficiency and luxury.

After taking 2012 off, the GS-class of sport sedans is back for 2013 with a new focus on performance. Splashed across the front of the GS 350 and the GS 450h are Lexus' new corporate pinched front grille and under the hood each features a V-6 with different goals (power and performance in the GS 350, efficiency in the GS 450h). The new GS is more fun to drive, more fuel efficient, and of course offers the latest in technology and creature comforts.

The largest sedans Lexus has to offer are members of the flagship LS-class: the LS 460 and the LS 600h, which come in standard and long-wheelbase versions. These two full-size sedans offer luxurious trappings and comfortable rides, while also keeping plenty of power on tap. The LS 460 features a 4.6-liter V-8 that outputs 380-hp with rear-wheel drive, and 357-hp if all-wheel drive is equipped. Interestingly, the LS 600h offers even more power with 438-hp from its gas/electric system and a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds while delivering better fuel economy.

Lexus also offers the exclusively hybrid CT 200h. The CT 200h is the entry level Lexus, and the five-door hatchback is marketed as a “sporty” hybrid with more aggressive styling and handling than you’ll find in most of the other cars Lexus makes. At 43 mpg/city and 40 mpg/highway, it’s also the most fuel efficient car in the lineup.

Moving on, the RX-class of crossovers also features one gas powered model (RX 350) and a more efficient hybrid version (RX 450h) which were both updated for 2013. A new F-sport trim has been added as well. The RX 350 has long been one of the most popular luxury crossovers, and its 3.5-liter V-6 takes regular gas which will save you money at the pump. Speaking of saving money at the pump, the RX 450h features a hybrid system that outputs 295-hp while also getting you 30-32 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. All-wheel drive is available on both models.

Need more space? Then the seven-passenger GX 460 SUV, with full-time all-wheel drive and a 4.6-liter V-8 will happily swallow more people and cargo than the RX.