The all-new 2012 Lexus GS 450h hybrid is now on sale in Australia. The new model features an Atkinson cycle hybrid V6 powertrain, with 254kW on tap. Prices start at $99,900.
Joining the 2012 GS 250 and GS 350, the GS 450h is the flagship model and is available in three different trim levels. At the lower end is the Luxury, then the Luxury with Enhancement pack, then the F Sport, then the F Sport with the Enhancement pack, and the range-topping Sports Luxury.
Standard features include head up display, a reverse camera and parking sensors, 12-way electric adjustable front seats with memory function, satellite navigation, and adaptive suspension. The F Sport model gets dynamic rear steering, sports suspension and a sporty bodykit, while the Sports Luxury adds, among other things, a huge 12.3-inch wide-screen infotainment interface.
The highlight of the 2012 Lexus GS 450h is of course the Atkinson cycle hybrid powertrain. Most of the power for the rear wheels comes from the same 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine as seen in the GS 350. However, an electric motor assists propulsion, conserving fuel. The new package breaks a number of world firsts according to Lexus.
The company recently said the 2012 GS 450h is “the world’s first hybrid available with all-wheel steering, the first to feature an Atkinson cycle engine driving the rear wheels, and the first Atkinson cycle engine to feature direct and port injection”.
Overall power is rated at 254kW, up from 233kW in the GS 350, with 0-100km/h coming up in just 5.9 seconds, down from 6.0 in the GS 350. Despite the great performance, the GS 450h comes with an average fuel consumption rating of just 6.3L/100km.
Pricing for the new range is as follows (excluding on-road costs):
2012 Lexus GS 450h Luxury – $99,900
2012 Lexus GS 450h Luxury + Enhancement pack – $103,400
2012 Lexus GS 450h F Sport – $111,900
2012 Lexus GS 450h F Sport + Enhancement pack – $116,900
2012 Lexus GS 450h Sports Luxury – $121,900
