.
Lexus GS 450h Review: Difference between revisions
205.205.28.3 (talk | contribs) |
No edit summary |
||
| Line 2: | Line 2: | ||
The new [[Lexus|Lexus]] GS 450h [[Hybrid Cars|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. The combination low end electric torque and high end conventional gas [[HP|horsepower]] make the car a thrill to drive, all the while pretending to be socially conscious. | The new [[Lexus|Lexus]] GS 450h [[Hybrid Cars|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. The combination low end electric torque and high end conventional gas [[HP|horsepower]] make the car a thrill to drive, all the while pretending to be socially conscious. | ||
The [[Lexus|Lexus]] GS 450h seems to be | The [[Lexus|Lexus]] GS 450h seems to be an attempt to leave behind the stigma of [[hybrid]]s and low power outputs, since the GS 450h produces power normally associated with [[V8]] engines. In addition, [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid vehicles]] in the marketplace are more so a trendy (if not conscientious) choice. Plans are in place to have [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] offerings throughout the [[Lexus|Lexus]] lineup which will be marketed as the premium vehicle trim. | ||
See also the main fact sheets for the 2007 [[Lexus GS 450h]]. | See also the main fact sheets for the 2007 [[Lexus GS 450h]]. | ||
Revision as of 09:43, 21 July 2006
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. The combination low end electric torque and high end conventional gas horsepower make the car a thrill to drive, all the while pretending to be socially conscious.
The Lexus GS 450h seems to be an attempt to leave behind the stigma of hybrids and low power outputs, since the GS 450h produces power normally associated with V8 engines. In addition, hybrid vehicles in the marketplace are more so a trendy (if not conscientious) choice. Plans are in place to have hybrid offerings throughout the Lexus lineup which will be marketed as the premium vehicle trim.
See also the main fact sheets for the 2007 Lexus GS 450h.
High Points
- Glorious acceleration
- Luxurious cabin
- Excellent handling
Low Points
- Fuel mileage isn't great (terrible if you compare it to other Hybrids)
- Expensive
- Heavy beast of a vehicle (4,134 lb curb weight)
- Reduced trunk space due to batteries
Performance and Handling
Lexus engineers seemed to have been torn in what to strive for when creating this car. Power is abundant, although it is at the expense of fuel economy, which is poor for a hybrid. This powerplant has a gasoline V6 which produces its peak horsepower at 4800 RPM, in addition to which an electric motor produces its peak torque at 0 RPMs. The result of this gives the GS 450h acceleration similar to BMW 550i, Mercedes E550 and Porsche 911 Carrera 2 which is quite impressive.
Lexus has incorporated all the handling technologies under one system called VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management). This encompasses Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), stability control, and suspension amongst other things to make a well sorted ride. The system seems to do an excellent job controlling the GS 450h's weight and power, although driving enthusiasts will be dissappointed with the generally numb steering feel.
Gas Mileage
|
Trim |
|
|
Engine |
|
|
3.5L V6 |
|
|
MPG (City/Highway) |
|
|
25/28 |
|
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
Reliability
Interior and Comforts
Interior dashboard design is cleanly executed and the standard equipment level is generous. Eight airbags, a back-up camera, stereo sound system with 14 speakers, wood trim and leather seats are standard equipment. Interior space is less than many of its competitors, but this can be expected from all the extra entailments of the hybrid powertrain.
Material grades and assembly precision is among the best in the automotive industry and typical of offerings from Lexus.
Exterior
Lexus has taken a new styling direction lately that suits this car rather well. The body design is a welcome break from the mundane looks of the previous GS model line. The wide stance conveys some impression of the power under the hood, combined with the exposed dual exhaust and 18-inch alloy wheels. Some people my not care for it's somewhat annoynomous styling while others may connect with it. The High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights offer superb output, while the rear LED tailights increase safety in addition to looking great. The 18 inch wheels look great, although some prospective hybrid buyers might wish to see Low Rolling Resistance Tires offered (to aid in fuel economy).
Styles and Options
Standard Equipment
- 3.5-liter V6 gas engine coupled with a high-output electric-drive motor, producing 340 total net HP
- Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT)
- Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) advanced stability management
- Traction control
- Regenerative braking to capture energy and recharge the battery
Optional Equipment
- Lexus voice-activated DVD Navigation System - $1,900
- Mark Levinson® 14-speaker 330-watt premium surround sound audio system - $1,780
- Lexus Pre-Collision System (PCS) and dynamic radar cruise control - $2,850
- Active Stabilizer Suspension System (requires run flat tires) - $3,400
- Rear Spoiler - $200
- All-season run-flat tires - $400
- Summer run-flat tires - $480
Dealer Accessories
- 18-inch G-Spider alloy wheels
- All-weather floor mats
- Car cover
- Cargo net
- Trunk mat
- Wheel locks
- XM® Satellite radio capability
