2012 Lexus HS: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
For 2012, Lexus added more ecological plastic to selected interior fabrics, carpeting, and package-tray materials. Otherwise, the HS carried over from 2011 with the same trims, hybrid system, and equipment strategy.
About the 2012 Lexus HS
1st generation (2010-2012 US), final US model year.
Lexus positioned the HS as a dedicated luxury hybrid sedan for drivers who wanted quiet comfort, strong fuel economy, and lower emissions without giving up Lexus cabin quality. Its identity was built around “sustainable luxury”: leather seating, a calm ride, easy controls, and a hybrid system engineered into the car from the start rather than added later to a gas sedan. Compared with rivals, the HS leaned harder toward efficiency and everyday comfort than sporty performance.
The 2012 HS 250h is a front-wheel-drive luxury-hybrid sedan with standard leather seating, a power moonroof, Bluetooth, and a 187-horsepower hybrid system. The Premium trim uses the same powertrain but adds heated and ventilated semi-aniline leather front seats, driver memory features, and walnut wood interior trim.
What changed, by category
2012 Lexus HS specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 35 mpg | 35 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 138 lb-ft | 138 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.1 cu-ft | 12.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.5 in | 34.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Driver Attention Assist Monitor | ||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Lexus HS compared with the 2011 model?
The only concrete update was the use of more ecological plastic in selected interior fabrics, carpeting, and package-tray materials. The trims, hybrid powertrain, and overall equipment strategy otherwise carried over.
Did the 2012 Lexus HS get a different hybrid powertrain?
No. The 2012 HS retained its 2.4-liter hybrid system with 187 total horsepower, front-wheel drive, and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.
What is the difference between the 2012 HS 250h and HS 250h Premium?
The HS 250h Premium adds more upscale cabin equipment rather than extra performance. Its upgrades include heated and ventilated semi-aniline leather front seats, driver memory features, a power-adjustable steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, and walnut wood trim.
Is the 2012 Lexus HS a major update over the 2011 model?
No. The 2012 HS is essentially a carryover, apart from the increased use of ecological plastic in several interior materials.
Was 2012 the final US model year for the Lexus HS?
Yes. The 2012 HS was the final model year of the first-generation HS sold in the United States.
Sources
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus Hs 250H Hybrid Luxury Sedan Low Emissions And Comfort
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus Prices 2012 Models
- pressroom.lexus.com — Hs 250H Demonstrates Lexus Hybrid Commitment As The Worlds First Hybrid Only Luxury Vehicle
- pressroom.lexus.com — 2013 Lexus Es300H Hybrid Lineup Epa Estimated Economy 40 Mpg
- pressroom.lexus.com — Lexus Announces Pricing For New 2010 Hs 250H Worlds First Hybrid Only Luxury Vehicle