Before plug-in hybrids became widespread in the luxury segment, many automakers built standard hybrids that spanned a wide range of vehicles. Here are 13 forgotten luxury hybrids that paved the way. These offered something for everyone. However, several quietly disappeared for varying reasons.
Luxury Hybrids: BMW ActiveHybrid Models
BMW offered several hybrid models wearing the ActiveHybrid name. Everything from the 3 Series to the 7 Series and even the X6 offered this variant. However, unlike one of its chief competitors, Lexus, these hybrids used electrification to enhance performance. Yes, they had a slight improvement in efficiency, but not much more than their gas-only variants.
Lexus HS 250h
The HS 250h was Lexus’s first dedicated hybrid-only model and was closely related to the Japanese market Toyota Sai. Powering it was the venerable Toyota Hybrid System coupled to a 2.4-liter I-4 for 188 net hp. In terms of MPGs, it checked in the mid-30s according to the EPA, meaning you lost quite a bit by forgoing the Prius of that era for its more luxurious cousin.
Luxury Hybrids: Acura ILX Hybrid
Acura offered the ILX Hybrid as an entry point to the brand. However, its Integrated Motor Assist setup made it mechanically identical to the Civic Hybrid of that generation. Additionally, its EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings failed to break the 40 mpg mark, all while only producing a paltry 111 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque.
Infiniti Q50 Hybrid
Produced from 2014 to 2018, the Infiniti Q50 Hybrid blends power with efficiency. With 360 hp going to the rear or all four wheels, a capable chassis, and MPG ratings that rival compact cars, this is proof that a sports sedan can have it all. Unfortunately, its Direct Adaptive Steering system kept it from offering the same levels of fun and engagement as its predecessor, the G37.
Luxury Hybrids: Lexus LS 600h L
This generation of the Lexus LS took the hybrid in a different direction because it sported a 5.0-liter V8 engine. The result is a deceptively quick full-size luxury sedan that retains all of the refinements that the LS is known for.
Acura RLX Hybrid
The Acura RLX Hybrid took the NSX’s electrified bits and flipped them around. As a result, it features two electric motors in the rear that allow for torque vectoring. Additionally, it features a third motor sandwiched between the 3.5-liter V6 and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. As a result, the RLX Hybrid had torque vectoring capabilities, enhancing its driving dynamics.
Luxury Hybrids: Infiniti M35h/Q70 Hybrid
The Infiniti M35h, later known as the Q70 Hybrid, was way ahead of its time. It blended performance and efficiency so seamlessly, resulting in a smooth yet powerful midsize luxury sedan. Among luxury hybrids, this one was a standout that, unfortunately, quietly exited the market with the rest of the Q70 lineup.
Lexus GS 450h
Lexus showed that power and efficiency can coexist with the GS 450h. To complement its 338-hp output, the available F Sport model included a specially tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension, upsized brakes, and four-wheel steering that sharpens up the drive.
Luxury Hybrids: Porsche Panamera S Hybrid
Before its foray into plug-in hybrids, the Porsche Panamera offered a standard hybrid. Featuring 375 hp and 428 lb-ft, this big sedan hustles. It also laid down the foundations for electrification at Porsche, paving the way for its e-Hybrid and all-electric models.
Lexus LC 500h
Essentially a concept car for the streets, the Lexus LC 500h also featured a unique powertrain. With 354 hp combined, this grand tourer bundled together two electric motors, a 1.1-kWh battery, a 3.5-liter V6, a planetary gear set, and a four-speed automatic. Got all that? Good. Despite being so much fun to drive, the V-8-powered LC 500 overshadowed the hybrid variant, resulting in its recent discontinuation.
Luxury Hybrids: Infiniti QX60 Hybrid
The Infiniti QX60 Hybrid brought electrification to the three-row luxury SUV space before others even bothered to do so. It featured a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 20-hp electric motor, and a small lithium-ion battery. It had a total output of 250 hp and 243 lb-ft, and an EPA-estimated rating of 25/28/26 mpg city/highway/combined. However, it only stuck around from 2014 to 2017.
Acura MDX Hybrid
Available from 2017 to 2020, the MDX Hybrid stood out as the sporty entry among three-row midsize luxury SUVs. Like the RLX Hybrid, it took bits from the NSX and paired it to a 3.0-liter V6 and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The result? 321 hp and 289 lb-ft plus smooth, responsive handling courtesy of its optional active dampers.
Luxury Hybrids: Cadillac Escalade Hybrid
From 2009 to 2013, Cadillac built an Escalade Hybrid, one of its first forays into electrification. It featured a V8 engine, two electric motors, and a nickel-metal hydride battery. That gave the SUV 379 hp. However, its EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings barely crested 20 mpg.
