Hybrid engine technology that combines both fuel and electric power is typically used to improve a vehicle's fuel economy. However, there's no rule that it has to be used exclusively for that purpose, as a hybrid powertrain can also be utilized to provide enhanced performance. For an example, look no further than the Lexus GS 450h.
The first hybrid model introduced to the North American market that didn't have maximum fuel economy as a primary goal, the rear-wheel-drive GS 450h sport sedan delivers the power of a V8 with the fuel consumption of a V6. The GS 450h is also loaded with technology, including an adaptive suspension system and advanced electronic safety equipment. While the GS 450h may not slash through corners with the precision of a German-engineered sport sedan, it is able to boast being a one-of-a-kind performance hybrid.
Current Lexus GS 450h
The Lexus GS 450h is powered by a gas-electric hybrid system, which combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a high-output electric motor. Though Lexus typically names its vehicles after engine displacement, it felt that "450" was appropriate given that the hybrid's output is equivalent to a 4.5-liter V8.
The electric motor supplements the gas engine with low-end torque during starts and offers additional power under heavy acceleration, recharging itself under braking through a process called regenerative braking. Together, the hybrid system puts out a total of 340 horsepower. The only transmission is an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which comes with three modes: Normal, Snow and Sport.
When you buy the Lexus GS 450h, you're pretty much getting the top-of-the-line GS. The cabin is decked out with high-quality wood and leather trim. The seats are heated and cooled. Dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and start, a power-adjustable steering wheel, a moonroof and a 10-speaker audio system with an in-dash CD changer are just some of the vehicle's extensive standard features.
Buyers will also want to consider some of the optional high-tech luxury features, including adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision safety system, a voice-activated DVD navigation system and a 330-watt Mark Levinson audio system with 14 speakers. Stability control, traction control, ABS, emergency brake assist and every airbag possible, including dual front knee bags and side curtain bags, come standard.
One surprise inside the cabin is the relatively limited amount of headroom. While it might be fine for most of the population, tall drivers may find things a little cramped inside. And due to the bulk of the electric motor's battery pack, there is noticeably less trunk space in the GS 450h than in regular GS series sedans.
In road tests, our editors found the Lexus GS 450h to be remarkably fast and powerful. Zero to 60 mph takes just 5.5 seconds. It runs in all-electric mode up to around 15 mph before the gas engine kicks in. And the transition is seamless -- you don't experience the sudden shudder found in earlier hybrid vehicles. A clever Adaptive Variable Suspension system allows the driver to select between normal and "sport" settings. In "sport" mode, the GS 450h corners well without noticeable body roll. An optional active stabilizer adds even more control to the sedan's already well-balanced handling characteristics.
Used Lexus GS 450h Models
The Lexus GS 450h debuted for the 2007 model year. There have been minimal changes since, though 2007 and '08 models have a smaller trunk (8 cubic feet) compared to the newer, 11-cubic-foot capacity introduced for '09.
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