C ar S cene I nvestigation: Lexus GS450h

With the new GS launched, the hybrid version follows right up its alley. We come to see how well it does.

· Design & Engineering:

From the front, the usual GS shines through—meaning quality, reliability and comfort. In addition, Lexus’ new spindle grill design ventures into the hybrid, allowing for a more futuristic and masculine appearance. Of course, the hybrid blue Lexus badge takes the place of the traditional badge. Being the top of the range trim among the GS lineup, the hybrid (varying from country to country) comes standard with the F-sport trim, the F standing for Japan’s acclaimed Fuji Speedway. From the side, Lexus’ L-finesse statement carries through, exuding aero dynamism topped off with the automaker’s environmental sense due to the blue hybrid badge on the sides. From the rear, I especially appreciate how Lexus has paid so much attention to detail, in order to conceal the exhausts, while at the same time adding a dark coloured plastic piece to help with the aerodynamics of the vehicle, and to ‘replace’ the hidden exhausts. Very clever indeed.

· Interior

On the inside, Lexus’ forte at attention to detail is clearly shown, through the use of one rather simple element—wood trim. Though the interior is almost identical to the rest of the GS lineup, Lexus uses bamboo. You heard me. Bamboo. According to Lexus, it allows for a more eco-friendly feel and look. To me, it seems like an imitation traditional Japanese spa—with the use of dark supple leather and bright bamboo wood. I particularly adore two things about the GS’s interior—hybrid or not. For starters, the extensive use of grain-soft leather which covers almost every imaginable surface. As for the final number, the humongous center console screen featuring the navigation system, audio, hybrid, drive mode, etc. In addition, the revolution counter on the speedometer can change, when toggled between sport and the rest of the modes. Engage to sport mode, and the hybrid meter snaps to a rev. counter, allowing for one’s sporty nature to come alive.

· Ride & Handlings

Lexus’ 3.5-liter V6 pairs with a pair of motor generators and batteries, making up the hybrid system. Combined, total output amounts to an impressive 345BHP, 6 more than its predecessor, and 5 more than its competitor, BMW’s ActiveHybrid5 (see previous articles). With the F-sport suspension setup, the century sprint can be achieved under 6 seconds, with the engine truly opening up once past 45km/h. As expected, wind intrusion and road noise is kept to a minimal, with audiophile approved Mark Levinson speakers supplementing the only ‘noise’ throughout a journey. Since we’re talking about a hybrid, I guess it’ll be good to know that the GS450h is capable of hitting 6.2 liters of petrol/100km traveled. That’s good stuff.

· Verdict

Sharp and masculine looks; even more quiet that the rest of the GS lineup. Bamboo interior might come off as a bit tacky though… Great suspension and ride comfort—superb performance on the go as well. Looks like the hybrid market just got a bit more interesting.