Argelius

I stopped by the Chicago Lexus dealer after work to see the HS. It was the night of their "salon preview" of the HS, but I was lazy, and wanted to get home, so didn't stay for the formal presentation. They had an HS parked out front (next to the IS convertible). Curiously, the car wasn't equipped with Nav so the mouse controller-thing wasn't there. (One would think they'd have the dealer cars equipped with everything....).

Was pleasantly surprised with the exterior design. It was compact, but "looked like a Lexus" -- think the comparison to the Corolla is just people being needlessly *****y.

The inside was nice, but without the Nav (or the ability to see the instrument cluster illuminated) I think I missed the full wow-factor. The center console jutted out between the seats in an odd -- although not unattractive -- way. Definitely need to see everything all lit up (and with Nav) to get the full effect). The straight-out-of-the-Prius shift lever is a disappointment; I don't mind the unconventional design, but making no significant change from the Prius is disappointing in a Lexus.

The seats and overall design of the dash felt like a Lexus, so it definitely didn't feel remotely like a gussied up Prius or Camry. I obviously didn't drive it yet, so can't comment on that aspect of the car.

Think I'll go back for a second look (when I can get a little more time with the car and, hopefully, see one with all the bells-and-whistles)....

jjbenzo

Lexus of Orlando has several right now. I think I saw 5-6 on their lot. I am guessing they are really going to try and push this new car.

GiantsFan

iTrader: (9)

I saw one driving in San Francisco... looks like it was just bought!

LexFather

My dealer in Atlanta had one. Does look better in person and it was parked next to an IS, you could see the size difference.

Fizzboy7

The one I inspected at Keyes looked smaller than an IS. Maybe it's the dinky wheels making the car look smaller than it is. I wasn't too impressed with the exterior. It could have been used or seen on any other car- nothing special.
The interior was alright, but again, nothing we haven't seen before (like on a Prius). My biggest gripe is the gear shifter, which does not seem to allow any manual shifting for more control. I know that isn't the purpose of this car, but it would be nice to have a car that does get great mileage and lets you have some fun in the process (even with a small sacrifice in economy).
At any rate, I'd say the car was average... nothing standout or too exciting. Not for me, but it will sell decently I suspect.
BTW, the dealer had a mark-up of $3000 for chrome stock rims. Typical tactics.

kyang91

iTrader: (5)

I have seen a few in my dealership........they do look better in person.

yusef

I just saw one on the road earlier by my college. well it was parked haha. not too bad.

bnizzle87

there was one at longo lexus as well as in cerritos. the hs at longo was inside next to the is c, while the one at cerritos was inside side by side with the is 250. the hs surely looks more well rounded than the prius, while offering more amenities (given cuz its a lexus). it'll be interesting to see what the demand is like in comparison to the prius

J LEX

they have them at lexus of annapolis

bnizzle87

saw one in the OC, and it looks pretty nice. although the front does make it look a lil worse than the pics on the lexus website, its a nice look overall and great for the lexus brand.