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 compared to 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 for the interior.

F SPORT: A More Assertive Exterior

First, we drove the GS450h F SPORT. This is the sports specification, named after the acronym for Fuji Speedway, the home of Lexus sports, and is designed for drivers who actively enjoy handling. It features a unique suspension setup focused on enhancing handling.

A key feature of the F SPORT is the LDH (Lexus Dynamic Handling System), a rear-wheel steering system. The car's onboard sensors monitor the vehicle's speed, how much and at what speed the driver turns the steering wheel, and the type of curve the vehicle is navigating. The computer then adjusts the rear wheels to provide steering input. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same phase for agile movement, while at low speeds, they turn in the opposite phase for enhanced maneuverability.



The strengths of the GS450h F SPORT truly shine on winding roads. It navigates curves with agility, making it easy to forget its substantial size. The car responds crisply and corners with satisfying precision.

The suspension is firm, effectively suppressing body roll when turning the wheel. Thanks to the LDH system, the joy of driving remains consistent across all speed ranges. In corners, the entire sequence from entry to mid-turn and exit with acceleration is executed with remarkable fluidity.

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

Selecting Sport mode via the dial selector optimizes the engine to operate within its most potent range. By leveraging the torque curve's peak above 3,000 rpm, one can truly appreciate the high level of the GS series' fundamental chassis design.

The exterior design also reflects its dynamic capabilities. The F SPORT is equipped with exclusive features such as the new-generation spindle grille and a three-dimensional spoiler-integrated bumper, leaving a powerful impression on the viewer.

The Value of Version L

In contrast, the GS450h version L leans towards comfort over sportiness. The optional steering wheel, combining bamboo processed from Kochi prefecture with genuine leather, is indicative of the version L's character.

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

This model seems targeted at those who prefer a more leisurely driving experience, perhaps enjoying good music while making smooth steering inputs, rather than seeking immediate, sharp responses from the car.



Of course, the driving performance is by no means poor. We also experienced high-speed driving in the version L, and the control of transitions between the hybrid and gasoline engine felt refined and prioritized smoothness.

The acceleration at high speeds is the same as the F SPORT, but it provides a sense of unhurried, effortless momentum rather than being pressed back into the seat. As Lexus claims, "By reviewing the driving position and seat performance, we have achieved improved operability and an accurate, fatigue-reducing driving posture," the noise levels are low, and driver fatigue is minimized.

Hybrid + New GS = ?

Overall, the impression of the new GS series is that the level of "car craftsmanship" has increased significantly compared to the previous generation. It feels as though the developers had a clearer vision and purpose during the vehicle's development. Their aim appears to be a sedan that harmoniously blends luxury and driving enjoyment, comparable to the sporty models from BMW (or Alpina) and Mercedes (or AMG).

In this regard, 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 assessment.

Is this praise, or not? It's a conclusion that even I, the writer, find difficult to answer definitively.

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 Transmission
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)