2008 Lexus GS 450h

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The Lexus GS 450h hybrid-powered sport sedan produces V8-style power with the fuel economy of a four cylinder.

The Lexus GS 450h is the hybrid-powered variant of the GS sedan. It is optimized for performance, but still returns good fuel economy. Its styling is sexier than that of many other hybrids.

The sedan is powered by what Lexus calls Hybrid Synergy Drive. The system combines three main components: one electric motor/generator powers the rear wheels; a second acts as a primary generator and starter, and controls engine speed; and a gasoline-powered, 3.5-liter V6 engine provides extra oomph.

At lower speeds, the first electric motor/generator propels the vehicle exclusively. It can also provide added power as needed. A battery pack recharges itself with energy recovered from engine deceleration and braking.

Together with the gasoline-powered V6, the tandem produces the equivalent of 340 horsepower, which is more than some V8 engines kick out. The power is controlled by a gearless, continuously variable transmission (CVT) that channels a seamless flow of power to the rear wheels.

The Lexus GS 450h is engineered more for thrills than for ultimate fuel economy. However, it’s no slouch in the efficiency department, either. It gets an estimated 25 mpg city/28 mpg highway, which is comparable to some four-cylinder engines. You may see fewer miles per gallon in real-world use, however, especially if you’re an aggressive driver.

It is also unlikely that the typical owner will save enough money on gas to recover the $10,000 premium the hybrid GS carries over the conventional model.

The car’s sophisticated suspension delivers good road feel, ride comfort and cornering. An optional active stabilizer system counteracts body sway to deliver additional vehicle control and quicker handling. The GS 450h includes Adaptive Variable Suspension with a Sport mode that allows motorists to stiffen up the car’s ride and handling when the road begins to twist. A sophisticated Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system coordinates the car’s electronic power steering, stability control and electronic brake system. The last includes antilock functionality, brake assist and brake-force distribution.

Like conventionally powered models, the Lexus GS 450h has flowing lines with a long hood, short rear deck and a futuristic-looking front-end treatment. Inside, the handsome interior is trimmed in metal, wood and leather. Several little-used switches reside behind a panel to the left side of the steering wheel to cut down on clutter, but it also makes them difficult to access while driving. A tall center stack houses a touch-screen video monitor that doubles as a navigation display as well as a control center for the audio system and other features. It’s more difficult to operate than a simple series of buttons and switches. The instrument panel skips typical Lexus electro-luminescent gauges for a more mechanical look.

Seating is comfortable, though taller riders may not find enough backseat legroom or front-seat headroom. Shorter riders might find that the car’s high dashboard and windowsills hamper their outward visibility.

Besides the hybrid technology, the Lexus GS 450h also gets additional standard features not found on conventionally powered models, like a navigation system, rear backup camera, adaptive headlamps and a power moonroof. A short options list includes items like an audiophile-grade Mark Levinson audio system; the Lexus Link communications/safety system; and a Pre-Collision System tied to the adaptive cruise control that anticipates when a crash is imminent and applies the brakes.

Is the Lexus GS 450h for You?

Buy the GS 450h if	You want a stylish and powerful rear-wheel-drive sport sedan that has a technological edge over European offerings; owning a hybrid, albeit one this costly and sporty, appeals to your eco-friendly side.
Keep Looking if	You don’t feel the added acceleration and nominally better fuel economy are worth the cost and complexity of the hybrid drive system.
Who Fits?	Taller riders might not find enough headroom in the front or legroom in the rear; shorter passengers might find the car’s tall dashboard and windowsills reduce visibility.
Closest Competitors	Lexus LS 600h L Lexus RX 400h Toyota Camry Hybrid