Lexus has ruled out bringing the HS 250h to the UK because it will clash with an upcoming IS hybrid model.
The HS 250h, the firm’s first dedicated hybrid model, will go on sale in the US from $34,200 (£20,600).
But a company source said the model will not come to Europe because both the Avensis and the Lexus IS model will be getting a hybrid powertrain.
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The Lexus IS, which is likely to get a hybrid version for the next generation, is only slightly larger than the HS 250h and would be a direct competitor.
Lexus said there is a larger premium market in the US and this wouldn’t be an issue.
“Selling the HS 250h here would be an emphatic no because of Toyota’s plans to put a hybrid in every range by 2020. The car would be premium d-segment and a direct competitor to the Avensis and the IS, which already meet premium needs.”
The twin-cam engine with Variable Valve Timing in the HS 250h has an output of 145bhp. In combination with the hybrid drive motor, the powertrain generates 184bhp.
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