2016 Lexus GS 450h

Some significant changes have occurred for the 2016 model year. Front fascias have been revised and rocker panels are new, while bi-LED headlights and arrowhead-shaped daytime running lights have been added. Machine-finished, five-spoke 18-inch wheels are new.

Navigation now is standard on the GS 450h. Multimedia features have been enhanced, including an available 12.3-inch screen. A revised Remote Touch Interface should make it easier to control primary functions, and Siri Eyes Free integration can provide Apple users with turn-by-turn directions. New Lexus Safety System + includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert is standard.

The GS 450h is neither a strict performance hybrid nor a miser on fuel. With a swift zero-to-60 mph acceleration time of 5.6 seconds and an EPA-estimated fuel-economy rating of 31 mpg in combined city/highway driving, it's a carefully balanced example of a mainstream luxury sedan. More specifically, the GS 450h is estimated at 29 mpg in city driving and 34 mpg on the highway, versus no more than 20/29 mpg for a GS 350.

Working together, the 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine and a pair of electric motors produce total output of 338 horsepower. The gas engine itself develops 286 horsepower and 257 pound-feet of torque. Also aboard is a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, mounted in the trunk area. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Technical features include an adaptive variable suspension system and selectable shock-absorber damping.

The GS 450h cabin contains leather-trimmed seat upholstery, ventilated and heated front seats with a driver’s memory, keyless ignition with pushbutton start, a heated power-adjustable steering wheel, a power rear sunshade, and a 12-speaker surround-sound system with CD player and satellite and HD radio. The navigation system uses a 12.3-inch screen. Other standard fare includes automatic wipers, a sunroof, LED exterior lighting, heated auto-dimming outside mirrors, Bluetooth phone and audio, padded instrument panel, laser cut wood trim, and 18-inch five-spoke wheels. You also get vehicle-monitoring smartphone apps.

The F Sport version of the GS 450h gets 19-inch split-five-spoke wheels, an F Sport-tuned adaptive variable suspension with Sport S+ mode, larger front brakes, variable gear-ratio steering, aluminum pedals and interior trim, black headliner, and sportier trim throughout. Up front, the grille gets a mesh insert. Dynamic Rear Steering also is included.

The available Lexus Safety System + includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, “intelligent” high beams, and lane-departure alert with steering assist.

Options for the GS 450h include a head-up display, an automated parallel-parking system, heated rear seat, power trunk opener, and 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.

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