Lexus GS 450h Launched in Australia

Lexus Australia has just launched its latest generation GS Hybrid – the GS 450h.

The company expects its most efficient GS to achieve the highest rating for vehicles in its class, in the Australian government’s Green Vehicle Guide, when it hits showrooms in June.

The latest GS features Lexus’ new Atkinson cycle 2GR-FXE 3.5-litre all-alloy dual-injection (D-4S) quad cam multi-valve engine that churns out 215kW of power at 6000rpm, and 352Nm of torque at 4500rpm.

It works in tandem with a 650-volt synchronous electric drive motor that has 147kW of power and 275Nm of torque. In combination, the system delivers a total power output of 254kW and accelerates the GS 450h from standstill to 100km/h (62mph) in just 5.9 seconds (down from 6.0 seconds).

The drawcard in the GS 450h’s fine armoury is its fuel efficiency. It consumes just 6.3l/100km – 20% less than the outgoing model – an impressive achievement for a large car with V8 level of performance. CO2 emissions are similarly good, as low as 147g/km.

Not only is the GS 450h the most efficient GS Lexus has ever produced, it also sets a number of world and Australia-firsts for a hybrid vehicle:

World-firsts include:

• First all-wheel steer hybrid with the GS 450h F Sport – for greater driving dynamics
• First application of direct and port injection on an Atkinson cycle hybrid – for greater efficiency
• First use of bamboo for a steering wheel – for reduced environmental impact and sustainability
• First hybrid to feature two-piece brake rotors – for greater stopping power

Australian-firsts include:

• First hybrid vehicle to feature All-Speed Active Cruise Control – managing speed down to and up from zero
• First Lexus hybrid to feature paddle shift CVT for greater driving enjoyment
• First luxury vehicle to feature digital audio (DAB+)
• First Lexus hybrid with a Tyre Pressure Monitor – aiding safety and economy

All these are complemented with more space and technology than its predecessor. The innovatively stacked Nickel-Metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries contribute to 45% more space for the boot, an increase of 145 litres to 465 litres.

Lexus has also continued with its tradition of highly specifying its cars. On top of the above mentioned features, there are also an advanced Pre-Collision safety System (PCS), a Driver Fatigue Monitor camera, Blind Spot Monitor and Head-Up Display that displays road speed, cruise control, gear position, navigation instructions and tachometer.

The GS 450h line-up reflects that of the non-hybrid models, featuring Luxury, F Sport and Sports Luxury

Lexus Australia CEO, Tony Cramb said: “From its advanced hybrid drivetrain to its innovative onboard features, it is hard not to be impressed by the all-new GS 450h hybrid.”

As an added bonus, the new GS 450h range are also cheaper than the outgoing model.

Australian pricing for the GS 450h is as follows (RRP excl statutory charges or other on-road costs):

GS 450h Luxury – $99,900

GS 450h F Sport – $111,900

GS 450h Sport Luxury – $121,900

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