What was the last year of the Lexus HS 250h?

The last model year of the Lexus HS 250h was 2012.

The HS 250h was introduced in 2009 and launched as a 2010 model year in Lexus’ lineup, built on the Toyota Prius hybrid platform. It remained on sale through the 2012 model year before Lexus shifted its hybrid strategy toward the ES-based lineup. This article reviews its lifecycle, reasons for discontinuation, and what came after in Lexus’ hybrid strategy.

Lifecycle snapshot

Key dates and milestones mark the HS 250h's brief run. The timeline below outlines when it debuted, when it went on sale, and when production ended.

• Launch and model-year introduction: Unveiled in 2009 at the North American International Auto Show as a 2010 model year, the HS 250h used Lexus' hybrid system derived from the Toyota Prius.


• Sales window: Sold in the United States and other markets from 2010 through the 2012 model year, with various trims and feature packages.


• Discontinuation: Lexus announced the end of the HS 250h after the 2012 model year, citing slower-than-expected sales and a shift in hybrid strategy.


• Legacy and successor: The ES 300h joined the Lexus lineup as a dedicated hybrid sedan, beginning with the 2013 model year, as part of a broader move to consolidate hybrid offerings under fewer nameplates.

In summary, the HS 250h operated as a 2010-2012 model line, with 2012 marking its final year on dealer lots. Its discontinuation reflected a broader realignment of Lexus’ hybrid strategy toward the ES-based platform.

Context: why the HS 250h ended and what came after

The HS 250h faced a competitive luxury-hybrid market and limited overall demand within the Lexus range. As the brand refined its product strategy, it shifted emphasis toward hybrids integrated with the ES sedan platform. Beginning in 2013, Lexus introduced the ES 300h, a hybrid variant that aligned with the brand’s mainstream luxury identity and platform philosophy, effectively absorbing the hybrid leadership that the HS 250h once represented.

Summary

The Lexus HS 250h had a relatively short production span, being produced for the 2010, 2011, and 2012 model years, with 2012 as its final year. Its discontinuation paved the way for Lexus to concentrate hybrid development on the ES-based lineup, culminating in the ES 300h as the brand’s primary hybrid sedan in the following years.

When was the Lexus IS 250 discontinued?

The Lexus IS 250 was discontinued for the 2016 model year. It was replaced in the lineup by the new IS 200t (rear-wheel drive) and the IS 300 AWD models, while the IS 350 continued. 

• Last model year: The final model year for the IS 250 was 2015.
• Replacement models: For the 2016 model year, the IS 250 was discontinued and its place was taken by the IS 200t and the IS 300 AWD.
• Engine change: The IS 200t featured a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and the IS 300 AWD used a detuned 3.5-liter V6 engine.

What year to avoid Lexus is 250?

You should avoid Lexus IS 250 models from the 2006-2009 years, as they are prone to issues like carbon buildup in the engine, melting/sticky interior plastics, and an outdated infotainment system. Models from 2010 and newer are better because they have updated piston rings to address the carbon buildup issue and revised interior components. The Lexus IS 350 is often recommended as a better alternative due to its more powerful engine and avoidance of the specific 250's direct injection engine problems. 
Years to avoid

• 2006-2009: These years are known for significant problems.
  • Engine: The direct injection engine is prone to carbon buildup, which can lead to oil consumption and misfires. This issue was a major reason some owners avoid these years altogether.
  • Interior: Many owners reported melting or sticky dashboards and door panels, especially in these model years.
  • Infotainment: The navigation and overall infotainment system is considered very outdated by modern standards. 

Recommended models

• 2010 and newer: These models are the preferred choice for the IS 250 because they feature an updated engine with revised piston rings to combat the carbon buildup problem.
• 2010 and newer: These years also have updated interior components, which should prevent the melting/sticky dash and door panel issues.
• IS 350: If your budget allows, the IS 350 is often recommended as a more powerful alternative that does not have the specific direct injection engine problems found in the IS 250. 

Other considerations

• Even with the updated 2010+ models, regular maintenance is crucial. Owners recommend consistent oil changes and checking the fluids to ensure the longevity of the vehicle. 
• Some owners of the IS 250 have successfully maintained their older models by following a rigorous maintenance schedule and addressing issues as they arise. 

Is the Lexus HS250h reliable?

The Lexus HS 250h has a generally good reliability rating, with a score of around 3.5 to 4.5 out of 5 depending on the source, and low annual repair costs. However, common issues can include potential oil consumption in the 2.4L engine and expensive hybrid battery replacement, particularly at high mileage. It's important to have a hybrid battery checked and consider a pre-purchase inspection.
 
You can watch this video for a review of the Lexus HS 250h with high mileage: 1mAvalon Auto Group YouTube · Aug 28, 2025
Positive aspects

• Overall reliability: The HS 250h is often described as reliable and trouble-free, with some owners reporting excellent experiences. 
• Low repair costs: The average annual repair cost is estimated to be low, around $361. 

Potential issues

• Hybrid battery: Hybrid batteries can be expensive to replace, with costs potentially ranging from $5,000 to $5,200. At high mileage, you should be prepared for potential battery issues. 
• Oil consumption: The 2.4L engine, which is shared with the Toyota Camry Hybrid, can have issues with oil consumption, though frequent oil changes can help manage this. 
• Rear tie rods: One common recall for the HS 250h involves the rear tie rods potentially failing due to rust on the threaded area. 

What to do

• Get an inspection: A thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial, especially to check the health of the hybrid battery and the condition of the engine. 
• Request a vehicle history report: This will provide information on past maintenance and accidents. 
• Be prepared: Given the vehicle's age, budget for potential maintenance items and have a plan for hybrid battery replacement if needed. 

When was the Lexus HS250h discontinued?

2012
Discontinuation. In late 2011, Ward's AutoWorld reported that Lexus was discontinuing sales of the HS 250h in the U.S. A Lexus representative confirmed this in May 2012, "Production of the HS 250h ceased in January, 2012.