FITTED with a super-efficient hybrid system and all the spec you could wish for as standard, the Lexus IS 300h is quite a tempting offer for business drivers who want to set themselves apart from the more traditional trends.

Admittedly, the price-tag of just shy of £40,000 may scare some but for that outlay you won't receive any extra unexpected costs along the way.

Some brands offer a reasonable starting price and by the time you have added basics such as floor mats and a sound system, the costs have rocketed - I'll mention no names.

It has to be said the IS 300h looks great from any angle with its sharp definitive styling, sweeping light clusters, LED daytime running lights, smart alloys, front fog lamps and electric, folding, heated, auto-dimming door mirrors.

The interior certainly has a premium feel to it with a very driver-focused layout. The leather seats can be heated or ventilated plus electrically adjusted to find the ideal position with memory settings.

Techno treats include a 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system with DVD player and DAB tuner, Lexus Premium Navigation, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, a rear-view camera, cruise control, and a Drive Mode Select which offers a choice of Eco, Normal or Sport and alters the car's handling and dynamics accordingly.

Most of the vehicle's systems can be controlled via a remote touch controller similar to a mouse which does take a little getting used to as it's very sensitive initially.

The interior can easily accommodate four adults - five at a bit of a squeeze - and back seat passengers are treated to ample leg, head and elbow space.

One word of warning though - if you are sitting behind the driver watch your knees. That's because if the ignition is turned off the driver's seat automatically moves backwards to make it easier to get out.

However, that minor gripe aside, I thoroughly enjoyed the 300h and clocked up well over 850 miles.

It pulls away in total silence in electric mode and even with the petrol engine in full flow, there is very little noise.

Acceleration is very smooth via the CVT automatic gearbox and there is certainly a noticeable increase in power when driving in Sport mode where the instrument dial showing the charge and Eco driving stats is replaced by a more traditional rev counter.

The road-holding is excellent and comfort levels high for all occupants.

Lexus claims the IS 300h can deliver combined fuel efficiency of 60.1mpg and during my test I was seeing in the mid-50s which is pretty close to the official figure.

Safety specifications are comprehensive with anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, traction control, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, numerous airbags and plenty more besides.

All in all, the Lexus IS300h is a great alternative if you're looking for a car that covers the miles in a comfortable, economical and enjoyable manner. It goes about its business without any fuss.