• First Drive: Lexus GS 450h

    by  • June 6, 2012 • Car Reviews, First Drives

    Pin It
    2012 Lexus GS 450h exterior

    The Lexus GS 450h features an all new look, both inside and out

    Lexus is offering an enhanced luxury experience in its new GS 450h, which arrives in Ireland on Friday.

    This is the fourth generation of the hybrid saloon, and Lexus promises improved design, better driving dynamics, and a more spacious interior.

    Boot size is also remarkable, being 55 per cent larger than that of the previous model.

    2012 Lexus GS 450h interior cockpit

    The Lexus GS 450h has a stunning cockpit, with a two-zone dashboard – the display zone and the operation zone. It features the largest ever in-car LCD multi-display screen

    With a sleek and muscular exterior, the Lexus GS 450h’s luxurious cabin is not for the indecisive, as it presents a myriad of settings, from the drive of the car, to comfort, to entertainment. In truth, it’s a techie’s delight.

    A hybrid, the Lexus 450h offers three drive options: Eco, which sees lower level air conditioning; Normal, for everyday driving and Sport.

    Based on a short spin I took in the entry level Executive model at today’s Irish launch, I was impressed enough to want to see more.

    With an automatic gearbox, the Lexus GS 450h had no problem with the city and motorway traffic on my Dublin route.

    The beautiful leather driver’s seat was really comfortable and you didn’t feel the bumps on even the more uneven roads.

    It’s fast, too, with 345bhp, Lexus says it can go from 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds and boasts a top speed of 250kph.

    2012 Lexus GS 450h interior clock

    The analogue clock added another stylish touch

    I also liked the heated and cooling buttons on the front seats of the GS 450h, and the retro-looking clock.

    The new Lexus GS 450h will be available in three grades in Ireland, the entry level Executive, the F Sport and the Premium level.

    Among the specifications that come as standard are 17” alloys; smart entry; parking sensors; heated and ventilated seats; 12 speaker audio; USB and a rear parking camera.

    Adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitor, night view and head up display are all available as options.

    Lexus expects to sell 50 units of the new model in 2012, doubling that number in 2013 and it hopes the GS range will give it ‘a real opportunity to become the real premium brand in the country’.

    Prices for the Lexus GS 450h start from €59,950 for the Executive grade. The F Sport will start from €72,950, with prices for the Premium grade starting from €76,250.

    Visit lexus.ie for more information.