Pros: The 2014 Lexus GS 450h is arguably one of the best hybrid sedans on the market right now -- a feat 25 years in the making. With an adaptive suspension, ride quality rivals other luxury nameplates like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. The interior boasts exceptional fit and finish, as well as a comprehensive array of features. Four-wheel active steering is available to improve handling. And don't forget about Lexus' stellar reputation for initial quality and reliability.
Cons: All is not roses and sunshine with the GS 450h. The mouse-like Remote Touch controller is hardly what I'd call ''user-friendly'' -- why not a conventional touchscreen instead? Also, beware of pricey options.
2014 Lexus GS 450h Price: Making things simple for buyers, Lexus offers a single trim level, and it starts at $64,900.
2014 Lexus GS 450h Fuel Economy: Despite weighing nearly 1,900 kilos, the Lexus GS 450h achieves 6.5L/100km in the city and 6.2L/100km on the highway.
Improvements and Changes: Not much beyond a few cosmetic updates.
2014 Lexus GS 450h Powertrain: A smooth 3.5L V6 teams up with an electric motor as part of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system. Together, they put out 338 horsepower, and torque jumps 25% to 345 lb-ft. A specifically calibrated CVT handles power delivery to the rear wheels.
Cargo Capacity: Due to the rear-mounted battery, the trunk of the Lexus GS 450h (464 litres) is smaller than the gasoline-powered GS 350's (530 litres).
Safety: Standard features include stability and traction control, disc brakes with ABS, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, as well as smart stop technology, which automatically cuts engine power and allows the brakes to take precedence over the accelerator when both pedals are pressed at the same time. There are 10 airbags and available technologies like head-up display, night vision, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert.
Comparing the 2014 Lexus GS 450h: In this highly fuel-efficient luxury car segment, you'll also find the Audi A6 TDI, BMW ActiveHybrid 5, and Mercedes-Benz E 250 BlueTEC.
Cons: All is not roses and sunshine with the GS 450h. The mouse-like Remote Touch controller is hardly what I'd call ''user-friendly'' -- why not a conventional touchscreen instead? Also, beware of pricey options.
2014 Lexus GS 450h Price: Making things simple for buyers, Lexus offers a single trim level, and it starts at $64,900.
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| Photo: Lexus |
2014 Lexus GS 450h Fuel Economy: Despite weighing nearly 1,900 kilos, the Lexus GS 450h achieves 6.5L/100km in the city and 6.2L/100km on the highway.
Improvements and Changes: Not much beyond a few cosmetic updates.
2014 Lexus GS 450h Powertrain: A smooth 3.5L V6 teams up with an electric motor as part of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system. Together, they put out 338 horsepower, and torque jumps 25% to 345 lb-ft. A specifically calibrated CVT handles power delivery to the rear wheels.
Cargo Capacity: Due to the rear-mounted battery, the trunk of the Lexus GS 450h (464 litres) is smaller than the gasoline-powered GS 350's (530 litres).
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| Photo: Lexus |
Safety: Standard features include stability and traction control, disc brakes with ABS, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, as well as smart stop technology, which automatically cuts engine power and allows the brakes to take precedence over the accelerator when both pedals are pressed at the same time. There are 10 airbags and available technologies like head-up display, night vision, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert.
Comparing the 2014 Lexus GS 450h: In this highly fuel-efficient luxury car segment, you'll also find the Audi A6 TDI, BMW ActiveHybrid 5, and Mercedes-Benz E 250 BlueTEC.