LEXUS is recognised as a leader in the world of hybrids and its latest IS300h demonstrates that being planet-friendly does not mean being mediocre as a driver's car.
In fact, the IS300 is one of the most sparkling executive saloons around and its drivetrain featuring a 2,494cc four-cylinder VVT-I petrol engine and 105kw electric motor linked to an electric CV transmission is a seamless, class act of modern engineering.
With style references to the Lexus LF-CC concept car, the IS300h has a generous wheelbase and width, giving a spacious interior, including a cockpit inspired by the high performance Lexus LFA.
But the car really comes into its own with the F Sport package which brings into focus that this really is a 125mph car with a 0-62mph sprint time of 8.3 seconds.
And if you want to hear what the car is doing there is an active sound control with adjustable volume to relay the engine sound into the cabin using a speaker behind the audio unit.
Although supremely economical with a combined mpg figure of 60.1 and CO2 emissions of 109 g/km, this is without doubt a lively premium saloon that can meet competitors head to head in a very tough market sector.
It has to be exceptional because in the rarified atmosphere in which it operates there are no really bad cars.
Much is said of this car's ability at speed, but there is one aspect which needs to be brought to the fore and that is its amazing low speed control when parking or manoeuvring in tight places. At low speeds it operates on electric power alone it can move very smoothly when edging forward or reversing.
It also offers customers cost of ownership advantages unmatched by any of its 2.0-litre diesel rivals in the premium saloon market, thanks to the combination of low maintenance and running costs and tax benefits and incentives secured by its efficient full hybrid powertrain.
The IS300h's hybrid system is engineered for durability and low maintenance requirements. It has no clutch; the starter motor and alternator are integrated into the system, so require no servicing or replacement during the vehicle's lifetime; and instead of a timing belt it uses a maintenance-free timing chain.
For owners this means lower servicing bills and savings on replacement parts.
The hybrid set up also has an impact on brake and tyre wear with the system's regenerative braking delivers the initial braking force, which significantly reduces wear on pads and discs.
Lexus hybrids run with 20 per cent higher tyre pressure, which helps reduce shoulder wear. The smooth, linear power delivery and the IS's balanced weight distribution also means less wear on the front tyre treads.
The hybrid power system has built a strong reputation for performance and reliability and as a credible, environmentally efficient alternative to conventional petrol and diesel powertrains.
At £33,495 this is definitely one of the most sophisticated management mobiles around.