What's the news?

The all-new Lexus IS has been unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show, and whilst we've already reported on the new model we can now tell you more about the IS 300h - the first ever hybrid IS.

Exterior

Visually, nothing stands out to differentiate the hybrid version from the regular petrol-powered IS 250. The LF-CC-inspired spindle-grille still resides up front, while the cabin has been pushed further back compared with the outgoing model to create a sportier profile.

Interior

Again, sitting inside you'll find few clues to tell you that you're in the hybrid version. Intrusion into the cabin from the battery pack has been kept to a minimum as Lexus has installed it underneath the loading board in the boot. The rest of the interior is made of the same high quality materials as the IS 250 and F Sport versions. The dashboard contains the company's latest infotainment system and introduces Lexus' first-ever finger-touch electrostatic switchgear for the climate control and the like.

Mechanicals

The IS 300h will be powered by the same 204hp, 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine as the IS 250; albeit with a powerful electric motor bolted alongside. Official power figures have yet to be revealed, but we're expecting it to be somewhere around the 250hp mark. The petrol engine uses D-4S fuel injection, intelligent variable valve timing and an exhaust gas recirculation system to aim for Lexus' target of CO₂ emissions below 100g/km. The hybrid is also claimed to manage more than 65mpg on the combined cycle.

Safety features include Lane Departure Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, and a new pop-up bonnet system designed to cushion the blow for pedestrian collisions.

Anything else?

Equipment levels and prices will be announced by Lexus at a later date; as will technical specs for the IS 300h. We're also expecting to see a diesel powered version destined for UK shores.