Hybrid Model Arrives for New GS Family

The new Lexus "GS," announced on January 26, 2012, is a large four-door sedan. We were able to test drive the hybrid version, the Lexus "GS450h," which was released on March 19, following the GS250 and GS350.

The Lexus "GS450h" is a rear-wheel-drive model combining a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor. It is advertised as offering "acceleration comparable to a V8 gasoline engine" and a fuel efficiency improvement of approximately 40 percent over the previous model.



The lineup is primarily composed of the F SPORT (8 million yen), which emphasizes handling performance, and the version L (7.9 million yen), which pursues a unique sense of luxury with sophisticated materials like bamboo used in the interior.

F SPORT: An Exterior That Exudes Power

First, we drove the GS450h F SPORT. This is the sport specification, named after the acronym for Fuji Speedway, the home of Lexus sports, and is designed for drivers who actively enjoy handling. The suspension also features a unique setup to prioritize handling.

The F SPORT is also characterized by its LDH (Lexus Dynamic Handling System), a rear-wheel steering system. Vehicle sensors monitor the driver's steering input speed and angle, as well as the vehicle's cornering path, allowing the computer to control the rear wheels' steering angle. At high speeds, the rear wheels steer in the same phase for agile movement, while at low speeds, they steer in the opposite phase for tighter turns.



The appeal of the GS450h F SPORT shines on winding roads. It navigates curves with agility, making it easy to forget its substantial size. It moves crisply and corners with satisfying precision.

The suspension is firm, suppressing body roll when turning the steering wheel. Thanks to the LDH, the joy of handling is maintained at any speed. In corners, the entire sequence from entry to mid-corner and exit acceleration is executed with exceptional smoothness.

Furthermore, the F SPORT offers driving modes that include a "Sport" mode, which utilizes higher engine revs, and a "Sport+" mode that enhances cornering performance by adjusting chassis control.

Selecting Sport mode via the dial selector allows you to experience the most "delicious" part of the gasoline engine's performance. Utilizing the peak of the torque curve above 3,000 rpm, you can feel the high level of the GS series' fundamental chassis design.

The exterior also reflects this driving performance. With exclusive F SPORT features such as the new-generation spindle grille and a three-dimensional spoiler-integrated bumper, it leaves a strong impression on the viewer.

The Value of Version L

In contrast, the GS450h version L is more comfort-oriented than the F SPORT. The optional steering wheel, combining bamboo sourced from Kochi with genuine leather, also reflects the character of the version L.

While the powertrain, with a total system output of 348 ps, is the same as the F SPORT, the body's vertical movements are more relaxed, and the handling feels more subdued.

The target audience is likely those who prefer to steer with slight adjustments at moderate speeds while enjoying music, rather than those seeking immediate vehicle response to minimal steering input.



Of course, the driving performance is by no means poor. We also tested the version L on the highway, and the control of transitions between the hybrid and gasoline engine felt refined and prioritized smoothness.

The acceleration on the highway is the same as the F SPORT, but it's not the kind that pushes you back into the seat; rather, it's a sense of unhurried progress. As Lexus claims, "By reviewing the driving position and seat performance, we have achieved improved operability and an accurate, fatigue-resistant driving posture." The noise level is low, and fatigue is minimal.

Hybrid + New GS = ?

Overall, the impression is that the new GS series represents a significant leap in "car quality" compared to its predecessor. It feels as though the developers had a clearer vision during the vehicle's development. Their aim seems to be a sedan that blends luxury and driving enjoyment, comparable to the sporty models from BMW (or Alpina) and Mercedes (or AMG).

In that sense, the GS can be recommended to those who actively enjoy driving. The gasoline-powered "GS250" and "GS350" are both exceptionally well-executed. While not dismissing the hybrid, the fundamental enjoyment of the GS seems to shine brighter in the gasoline variants. Those interested in the GS450h should also test drive the GS350 and other models before making a final decision.

Is this praise or criticism? It's a conclusion that's difficult even for the writer to answer.

LEXUS GS450h | LEXUS GS450h
Body Size | Length 4,850 x Width 1,840 x Height 1,455mm
Wheelbase | 2,850mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,575/1,590mm
Minimum Ground Clearance | 130mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,860kg (I package 1,820kg)
Transmission | Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable
Engine | 3,456cc V6 DOHC
Bore x Stroke | 94 x 83mm
Compression Ratio | 13.0
Maximum Engine Output | 217kW (295ps) / 6,000rpm
Maximum Engine Torque | 356Nm / 4,500rpm
Fuel Supply System | Direct Injection + Port Fuel Injection (D-4S)
Maximum Motor Output | 147kW (200ps)
Maximum Motor Torque | 275Nm
Drive Battery | Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery
Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy | 18.2km/ℓ (JC08 mode) 20.5km/ℓ (10-15 mode)