As was demonstrated by the RX 400h, the visual differences between conventional and hybrid models are nearly indistinguishable
inside and out. Aside from the rear badge, only new 5-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels are unique, while on the inside the standard tachometer is replaced by a power meter that displays the total output of the combined powertrains. As the vehicle comes with a standard TFT dashboard display, the hybrid system's activities are displayed like a flow chart, as on the Prius, Highlander Hybrid Limited and RX 400h.
With the GS 450h upping the ante on the GS range, there's a good chance that the entire Lexus GS range will be revitalized in accordance to this. Currently, the GS 430 is powered by the well-seasoned
4.3-litre V8, which has served Lexus for many years, however, the latest 3.5-litre V6 used in the new IS 350 exceeds its power output. It has been speculated that the engine's successor will be a 4.6-litre V8 with 350-horsepower, or more. Also, despite the fact that 250-horsepower is merely adequate in this day and age, for a premium luxury car at least, Lexus will most likely replace the GS 300's 250-hp 3.0-litre V6 with the aforementioned 306-hp 3.5-litre V6.
The GS 450h is expected to arrive in showrooms in early spring 2006, and, if our estimates are correct, will command a $5,000 premium over the GS 430 model. In the mean time, keep posted to this space; expect a significant update filling in the critical gaps about the hybrid drive system, plus specific price and equipment should come early in the New Year.
Specifications:
Base Price (est. MSRP): $85,000
Body Type: 4-door sedan
Layout: front engine, RWD
Engine (combined, est.): 350-hp, 320 lb-ft of torque, 3.5L, 24-valve DOHC V6 direct-injection Gasoline-Electric Hybrid
Transmission: CVT
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, BA, EBD
Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4825 / 1820 / 1430 / 2850 mm (190.0 / 71.1 / 56.1 / 112.2 in)
Performance (0-100 km/h): under 6.0 seconds
Seating Capacity: 5
Wheels: 18-inch
Fuel Economy (combined, est.): 8.1 L/100 km (29 mpg)
Website: www.lexus.ca
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| As was demonstrated by the RX 400h, the visual differences between conventional and hybrid models are nearly indistinguishable inside and out. (Photo: Lexus Canada) |
With the GS 450h upping the ante on the GS range, there's a good chance that the entire Lexus GS range will be revitalized in accordance to this. Currently, the GS 430 is powered by the well-seasoned
 |
| The GS 450h is expected to arrive in showrooms in early spring 2006. (Photo: Lexus Canada) |
The GS 450h is expected to arrive in showrooms in early spring 2006, and, if our estimates are correct, will command a $5,000 premium over the GS 430 model. In the mean time, keep posted to this space; expect a significant update filling in the critical gaps about the hybrid drive system, plus specific price and equipment should come early in the New Year.
Specifications:
Base Price (est. MSRP): $85,000
Body Type: 4-door sedan
Layout: front engine, RWD
Engine (combined, est.): 350-hp, 320 lb-ft of torque, 3.5L, 24-valve DOHC V6 direct-injection Gasoline-Electric Hybrid
Transmission: CVT
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, BA, EBD
Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4825 / 1820 / 1430 / 2850 mm (190.0 / 71.1 / 56.1 / 112.2 in)
Performance (0-100 km/h): under 6.0 seconds
Seating Capacity: 5
Wheels: 18-inch
Fuel Economy (combined, est.): 8.1 L/100 km (29 mpg)
Website: www.lexus.ca
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