Conversely, the GS 450h also proves substantially more frugal than comparable V8 sedans, returning 7.9 l/100km (35.8 mpg) in the combined cycle; fuel consumption on a par with petrol cars two segments below. Moreover, the new Lexus returns CO2 emissions of just 186 g/km - on par with 4-cylinder economy diesels of the same segment. In addition, GS 450h also achieves the market's lowest levels of NOx and HC emissions combined (0.01 g/km), amongst vehicles equipped with combustion engines.



DRIVING DYNAMICS

Within an all new, third generation GS platform of exceptional torsional stiffness, the installation of the new high-performance Lexus Hydrid Drive system confers 50:50 weight distribution (including driver) and a better moment of inertia in comparison with GS 430, thanks to the 3.5 litre V6 engine, 17% lighter than the 4.3 litre V8. These aspects contribute to a more dynamic, agile handling.


Rear-wheel grip and traction are enhanced by positioning the hybrid system's battery directly over the rear axle, an aspect further improved by the installation of a limited-slip differential.


The Electric Power Steering (EPS) incorporates Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) which alters the steering gear ratio according to vehicle velocity, combining minimal low speed effort with improved feel and feedback as speeds increase. The VGRS system is linked to both the AVS system and Lexus' unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system (VDIM), helping maintain vehicle stability and enhance driving enjoyment at the limit of the performance envelope.


A sophisticated front double wishbone and rear multilink suspension format includes an Adaptive Variable Suspension system (AVS), with a choice of two damper settings to optimise ride and handling in either "Sport" or "Comfort" modes.


Selecting "Sport" mode automatically increases the difference between inner and outer shock absorber damping through corners to further reduce body roll. Simultaneously, VGRS automatically reduces the steering gear ratio whilst the EPS increases steering assist torque to compensate for the increase in steering effort.


Moreover, "Non-linear H control" provides independent control of all four shock absorbers to optimise ride comfort in response to changing road surfaces.



SAFETY

The new Lexus GS 450h is comprehensively equipped with the most technologically advanced pre-emptive, active and passive safety systems available on the market today. A Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS) pre-emptively optimises front seat belt and emergency braking systems to help reduce collision damage and injury, whilst a complementary Adaptive Cruise Control system (ACC) automatically matches the speed of the new GS 450h to that of the vehicle ahead.


The GS 450h features the latest generation of Lexus' state-of-the-art Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), integrating the Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) active safety systems with the Active Variable Suspension (AVS), Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) systems to enhance performance, traction control and vehicle stability.


The new Lexus GS 450h comprises the most complete airbag passenger protection in class: two-stage frontal (two), knee (two), curtain shield (front and rear) and side (four, optional at the rear) airbags. In addition, GS 450h features 4 lateral collision sensors that enable a better assessment of the impact situation.


Seatbelt pretensioners with force limiter are available at the front and rear outer seats.

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