Lexus GS450H
Thursday, December 20th, 2007
The GS450h serves up a tantalizing mix of power, luxury, and technology, combining a 3.5 litre V6 with the oomph of an electric motor
Lexus has came up with their new environmental friendly hybrid car GS450h that runs on a combination of petrol and electric power, with impressive performance and economy to match.
Until now, hybrids have been all about economy. But that all changed when Lexus got hold of the technology realizing it could also be used to bolster performance. It’s first efforts was the RX400h SUV, followed by the GS450h and more recently the LS600Lh limousine.
The GS is a stylish mid sized, four door car that looks more like a coupe than a sedan. The V6 alone produces 218kW of power. Factor in the boost from a 650-volt electric motor, however, and the combined output jumps to an impressive 254KW.
A large dial to the left of the speedo keeps track of how much power the system is pushing out. The result is a car that can spring from 0 to 10km/h in just 5.9 seconds, quick enough to get the blood pumping.
Fuel economy is rated at 7.9litre/100km from the 65-litre tank, but seems to hover around the 9.3 litre/100km mark. It certainly lives up to the Lexus reputation for being quiet Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission for optimal performance and economy. Enthusiasts will appreciate the responsive throttle and electronically modulated suspension system.
The GS is the world’s first volume-protection rear drive hybrid.
Lexus GS450H specifications:
- Engine: 3.5 litre V6 plus 650-volt
- Features: 10 airbags, pre-collision system, radar-controlled cruise control, rear view camera, Mark Levinson audio, rear guide assist with reversing camera as well as DVD and audio player.
- Price: Approximately $105,000 USD dollars.
Maloo $54,250