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Lexus GS 450h Review
The new Lexus GS 450h hybrid is by no means the car that will ensure a super clean environment for future generations to come with mileage ratings in the mid 20's but the performance will put a smile on your face today. Future generations can adopt the bicycle or work from home but for now the marriage of low end electric power and high end conventional gas power makes this car a thrill to drive while still being outwardly socially conscious.
See also the main fact sheets for the 2007 Lexus GS 450h.
High Points
- High out-put powertrain.
- Luxurious and refined.
- Superb handling and drivability.
- Reduced fuel and emissions impact.
Low Points
- Expensive and limited availability.
- Mileage in the 20's rather than the 50's like other hybrids.
- Heavy vehicle at over 5000 lbs.
- Reduced trunk space due to batteries.
Performance and Handling
The key factor in performance for this car has to be the power vs. economy formula and the engineers at Lexus probably were torn on which was more important. Power is abundant for sure but it is also the placement of the power that is noteworthy. Rather then waiting for the gas engine to hit its peak horsepower at 4800 RPMs the electric motor has already produced its peak at 0 RPMs. As a result the GS 450h can accelerate on par with cars like BMWs, Corvettes, Mercedes and Porches...impressive.
To keep things under control is very important especially with a rear wheel drive vehicle of this weight and power. Lexus has incorporated all the handling technologies under one system called the VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management). This encompasses antilock brakes, stability control, and suspension amongst other things to make a well sorted ride.
Gas Milage
Fuel consumption is rather good for the comparable class at 25/28 MPG.
Safety
- Driver and front passenger airbags including front, side, side curtain and knee.
- Rear side curtain airbags.
- Electronic Traction Control.
- Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) electronic stability control.
- Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS).
- Braking Assist.
- Electronic Controlled Braking (ECB) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
- Tire pressure monitor system.
- Highly rigid body structure.
- Side impact door beams.
- Front and rear crumple zones.
- 3-point seatbelt with Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) for driver.
- 3-point seatbelts with Automatic Locking Retractor/Emergency Locking Retractor (ALR/ELR) for all passengers.
- Child Restraint Seat (CRS) tether anchor brackets.
- Child safety locks and window lock button on driver door control.
- Full-color display backup camera.
- Intuitive electronic park assist.
- Theft-deterrent and engine immobilizer system.
- High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS).
- Headlamp washers.
- Daytime running lights.
- Integrated foglamps.
- Rain-sensing variable intermittent windshield wipers.
Interior and Comforts
Interior design and creature comforts is a hallwark of Lexus vehicles and the traditions continue with the Lexus GS 450h.
