The update seems to have worked. Ultimately, the electronics teamed up to keep the HS in line on a variety of slippery surfaces, under breaking, or during high-speed panic manoeuvres. Even during panic ‘brake-and-evade’ tests over a variety of surfaces, the HS remained safe, steerable and stable as gravel, snow and ice passed underfoot.
Best of all, the stability control isn’t invasive-- and actually minds its own business during mild slides unless drivers panic and fight the steering. Note that winter tires were mounted, giving each stability and braking system more traction to work with.
Minor Gripes
Complaints? Trunk space is limited thanks to the battery packs, there are a few cheap interior trim pieces, and noise levels at speed were a little higher than expected.
End of the day, the HS proves that the compromise factor associated with driving a hybrid is quickly disappearing. This is Lexus’s first dedicated hybrid model, too-- meaning it was developed as a hybrid from day one, rather than fitting a hybrid drivetrain to an existing car.
Take that to mean Lexus is pretty confident this technology is sticking around.
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| End of the day, the HS proves that the compromise factor associated with driving a hybrid is quickly disappearing. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |
Best of all, the stability control isn’t invasive-- and actually minds its own business during mild slides unless drivers panic and fight the steering. Note that winter tires were mounted, giving each stability and braking system more traction to work with.
Minor Gripes
Complaints? Trunk space is limited thanks to the battery packs, there are a few cheap interior trim pieces, and noise levels at speed were a little higher than expected.
End of the day, the HS proves that the compromise factor associated with driving a hybrid is quickly disappearing. This is Lexus’s first dedicated hybrid model, too-- meaning it was developed as a hybrid from day one, rather than fitting a hybrid drivetrain to an existing car.
Take that to mean Lexus is pretty confident this technology is sticking around.
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