2010 Lexus GS 450h 4dr Sdn Hybrid Sedan

What's New for 2010

The 2010 Lexus GS 450h rings in the new year with technology upgrades inside and freshened styling outside, including a hybrid-exclusive new grille, clear taillamp covers and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Introduction

For luxury car customers who appreciate comfort and efficiency in equal measure, Lexus offers something nobody else does -- a full range of hybrid models. The 2010 Lexus GS 450h represents the midsize, mid-priced entry in the hybrid fleet between the compact HS 250h and the flagship LS 600h. Utilizing technology similar to them all, the GS 450h boasts the power of a V8 engine but with gas mileage closer to a V6.

Equipped with the Lexus Hybrid Drive system working in tandem with the company's eager 3.5-liter V6 engine, the sporty GS 450h offers up a healthy 340 horsepower for your right foot to engage. Fuel economy represents a 30 percent improvement over similarly responsive V8 sedans. The city fuel economy number of 22 mpg is definitely impressive, and the 25 mpg highway number is exceptional considering the horsepower. And the hybrid model is 2 seconds quicker in the 0-60-mph sprint!

Aside from its hybrid-specific instrumentation, blue badging, updated grille, taillamp covers and 18-inch alloys, the 2010 Lexus GS 450h appears much like its gas-powered GS 350 and 460 brethren. As the flagship of the GS line, the 450h is loaded with premium equipment and features the same rich styling, outstanding fit and finish, quiet cabin, and superb ride and handling as its siblings.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Lexus GS 450h is a midsize hybrid-powered luxury sport sedan offered in a single well-equipped trim level. Standard features include exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, performance tires, adaptive variable suspension, automatic parking assist, automatic wipers, automatic and adaptive xenon headlights, a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, leather upholstery, power front seats with memory and lumbar adjustment, heated and cooled front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt--and-telescoping steering wheel trimmed in wood and leather, a power rear sunshade, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a back-up camera, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, Safety Connect telematics service, and a 10-speaker audio system with six-CD changer, satellite radio and iPod interface.

The HDD Navigation package adds a hard-drive navigation system, rearview camera, real-time traffic, voice control and additional telematics services. Other options include run-flat tires, an advanced suspension (requires run-flat tires), adaptive cruise control (includes Pre-Collision System) and a 14-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound stereo.

Powertrains and Performance

The Lexus GS 450h's 3.5-liter V6 engine and high-output electric motor combine to generate up to 340 hp. Its power is transmitted seamlessly to the rear wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Like other full hybrids, the GS 450h can launch and operate at low speeds under electric power only, and then seamlessly engage the V6 when more get-up-and-go is needed. Its performance is impressive in either mode, with abundant V8-like power reserves on tap at any speed.

Lexus estimates the GS 450h goes from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, which would be better than average for a V8-powered midsize luxury sedan. Its EPA-estimated fuel economy is better than average for a V6-powered midsize luxury sedan at 22 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.

Safety

Lexus strengthens its commitment to safety by adding standard Safety Connect telematics and active front headrests to the 2010 GS 450h. Other carryover features include antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control, stability control, front and rear side-impact airbags, front knee airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. The optional adaptive cruise control includes a pre-collision system that detects impending collisions and responds by pre-tensioning the seatbelts and activating brake assist. Run-flat tires are also available. The 2010 Lexus GS 450h is a top-ranked performer in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash testing, receiving the highest rating of "Good" for both frontal-offset and side-impact collisions.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 2010 GS 450h's cabin reflects Lexus' reputation for fine craftsmanship, and sports supple leather upholstery accented with genuine wood and aluminum trim. Four average-sized adults will fit comfortably, but adding a fifth at the elevated rear center position can make for a slightly tight fit in back. Likewise, headroom is fine for most.

Driving Impressions

The 2010 Lexus GS 450h delivers finely balanced ride and handling, with a good blend of sport sedan precision and touring sedan composure. For more focused driving styles, the adaptive suspension serves up a soft, cushy ride in Comfort mode, yet firms up control noticeably in Sport mode when more responsiveness is called for. For enthusiasts who like to rock but not roll, the optional active stabilizer system counteracts body sway by determining the appropriate amount of force required, which it then applies to the front and rear stabilizer bars. Our only dynamic gripe involves the GS 450h's regenerative braking system, which presents a pedal that can feel overly sensitive and non-progressive to unfamiliar drivers. However, once you've adapted to its peculiar brake modulation, the GS 450h stops quickly and confidently. Overall we would give the GS450h an A Rating based on our experience.