High performance luxury sedan boasts many hybrid firstsJust when folks were getting their heads wrapped around small, economical hybrids such as Toyota's Prius, Lexus moved the goal posts
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| 2007 Lexus GS 450h (Photo: Rob Rothwell) |
with their luxurious RX 400h, hybrid SUV. While the automotive field realigned itself to the altered posts, Lexus struck again- this time even harder. The new GS 450h is the world's first full-hybrid sedan to feature a front engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration. Although I haven't seen the research to confirm this, I am prepared to venture onto a limb and say that it's also the world's fastest and most self-indulgent hybrid sedan currently in pro
duction, but as you may have guessed, competitors are nipping at its 18-inch wheels.
Lexus claims the sophisticated powertrain in the GS 450h develops power
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| 2007 Lexus GS 450h (Photo: Rob Rothwell) |
consistent with that delivered by a high-performance, 4.5 litre V8 while returning the fuel economy of a compact sedan. The 3.5 litre V6 snugged under the hybrid's hood combines with a high-torque electric motor to effectively net the GS 450h a whopping 339 horsepower. Adding to the ultra efficiency of the hybrid technology is an Electronically-controlled Continuously variable Transmission (ECVT). Lexus claims the gearless wonder will facilitate a smooth, pavement scorching run from nada to 100 kilometres per hour in less than 6 seconds. One stab of the accelerator confirms such potency.
That a car that can drive silently on its electric power yet take-off so forcefully is impressive indeed, making the GS 450h's throttle response otherworldly. Thanks to ECVT technology, acceleration is jet-aircraft
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| 2007 Lexus GS 450h (Photo: Rob Rothwell) |
smooth. No shift changes are perceptible as one's backside is sucked further into the perforated leather and held there until the driver's right foot releases its prey. From pretty well any speed, the GS 450h will rocket forth, strangely absent the guttural growl associated with such inertia- this is a very quiet but audibly pleasing car. Unlike the continuously variable transmissions used in a multitude of other vehicles, the unit employed in the GS hybrid allows the driver to mimic a conventional, manual-mode automatic transmission. Placing the console-mounted stick shift into its manual-mode gate allows the driver to switch between numbered gear increments, 6-5-4-3- and so on. This feature rewards enthusiastic motorists by enabling greater driver input and eliminating downshift lag by holding a desired gear.
With so much cutting-edge performance under the hood, Lexus knew the GS 450h required outstanding handling qualities if it was to deliver the full driving experience intended. Keeping the GS 450h fastened to the road is Lexus's front and rear, Adaptive Variable Suspension system, which is fully
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| 2007 Lexus GS 450h (Photo: Rob Rothwell) |
independent. At the front is a double wishbone setup complemented by a multi-link design at the rear. Stabilizer bars complete the sophisticated arrangement, which can be instantly fortified by flicking the console-mounted switch from "normal" to "sport" mode. A slight hardening of the car's compliant but firm ride, along with a more nailed-down feel, can be detected in the "sport" setting. In either mode though, the GS 450h handles extremely well for its size and weight, both of which are generous. The GS 450h is similar in length to the Mercedes Benz E-Class but outweighs it by 196 kg (431 lb). Much of the extra weight can be attributed to the hefty battery pack hidden behind the rear seat of the GS 450h. Its presence also significantly erodes trunk space while eliminating the possibility of a fold down rear seat and the versatility therein. Despite the extra poundage, aggressive cornering produces little to no body lean however steering-feedback has a detached, virtual feel to it, probably due to being electrically powered.
duction, but as you may have guessed, competitors are nipping at its 18-inch wheels.
