The Lexus GS
450h Hybrid
The all-new GS 450h
high-performance hybrid luxury sedan made its
first appearance at the New York Auto Show in March
2005.
Click here for the press release.
The Lexus 450h
is the first rear-wheel drive hybrid ever offered.
According to Lexus, "the Super Ultra Low
Emissions-rated GS 450h will provide an unparalleled
combination of high performance, luxury-refinement
and unexpected fuel efficiency."
Early reports
indicate that the GS 450h will achieve 28 mpg
and offer some of the lowest emissions of any
hybrid, while achieving 339 hp. Electric motor
torque will help the car achieve 0-60 mpg in 5.2
seconds. With
an MSRP of $54,900, the GS 450h will be the most
expensive hybrid on the market and will cost roughly
$3500.00 more than the GS 430. "It's
very important to continue pursuing substantial
reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, while
continuing to improve performance and driving
pleasure," said Lexus
Vice President Mark Templin said in the statement. In
fact the Lexus GS 450h required the development of a
new hybrid powertrain. "The
system's massive electric motor is capable of
delivering maximum torque, immediately upon
demand." Lexus added. "This unique power
delivery characteristic is most noticeable — and
most useful — during 30-to-50 (mph) passing and
merging maneuvers. It is an experience that must be
felt to be fully appreciated."
--More on the Lexus
GS450h hybrid.
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