Used 2008 Lexus GS

Lexus established some decidedly lofty benchmarks when it set out to create the world’s first hybrid luxury sport sedan. Beyond a suitably generous load of comfort and convenience features, this rear-drive mid-size four-door was charged with providing the performance of a vehicle with a 4.5-liter V8 engine (hence the name) while turning out 80 percent lower emissions, operating ultra-quietly in full-electric mode, delivering all the expected levels of luxury and still possessing the requisite amount of enthusiast-grade handling behavior. Launched as a 2007 model, the GS 450h does a first-class job of meeting all of those criteria with few compromises. While owning its specific sub-segment outright, the GS 450h also faces off against many of the same players as its GS 460 kin, namely up-line versions of the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Infiniti M and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Well-mannered, well-controlled, well-isolated and admirably quick, the GS 450h’s exceptional blend of personality traits makes it an excellent all-around performer. Developing maximum torque at zero rpm, the car’s electric “booster shot” really does impart a GS 460-like V8 feel to the GS 450h, and its V6 seamlessly stops and starts as necessary to help save fuel. The suspension tuning trades a bit of edge in return for all-around comfort; however, this heaviest GS version also boasts the best overall weight distribution figures and its optional Active Power Stabilizer Suspension System does a great job of keeping body roll during cornering in check. Despite a slightly artificial feel to the GS 450h’s electronically-assisted variable power steering and the energy-regenerating circuitry of its ABS disc brakes, the former is quick and precise and the latter reassuringly capable. Those determined to explore the outer reaches of its formidable handling envelope can simply switch off various elements of the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management stability and traction controls.

Supple leather, brushed aluminum and bird’s-eye maple define the GS 450h’s well-organized, well-isolated and exceptionally comfortable cabin. While sharing much with other GS models, including outstanding fit and finish, the revamped white-on-black gauges in the Hybrid include a kilowatt-use meter and a supplemental power-flow display, but lack a tachometer. The well-positioned basic controls are supplemented by a drop-down panel on the dash that hides switchgear for less-used functions until they’re needed. Nicely formed and supportive power front seats are matched with a semi-bucketed rear bench that has sufficient head and legroom to handle two adults, but the center spot is strictly for smaller children.

Embracing the division’s L-Finesse styling language, the GS 450h brings a legitimate sense of design passion to its sleekly flowing sheetmetal. For 2008, that prominent aero flair gets a minor massage courtesy of an edgier front fascia, bigger air inlet and new chrome grille surround set off by revised “Hybrid” badging. A well-proportioned glass area provides good outward visibility while bi-xenon HID headlamps and quick-responding LED taillamps make it easier for you to see and be seen, day or night. Like the GS 460, the GS 450h comes with Z-rated 245/40 performance tires on 18-inch alloy wheels and offers like-sized, all-season run-flat tires as an option.

Hybrid Synergy Drive
This well-executed and virtually transparent variation on the basic Toyota dual-mode theme matches a smooth 3.5-liter V6, high-torque electric motors and a continuously variable automatic transmission to deliver quicker acceleration and better fuel economy numbers than the V8-powered GS 460.

Hideaway Controls
Affording an even tidier look to the already business-like cabin of the GS, a concealed panel on the left side of the dash houses a bank of power adjuster switches for several items, including the outside mirrors, rear sunshade, instrument illumination levels and odometer resets. Normally out of the way, it pops into view at the push of a button.

In keeping with its Lexus pedigree, the GS 450h offers features to please the most discriminating buyer. Beyond its hybrid powertrain, you’ll find leather-covered and heated and ventilated 10-way power front seats, a comprehensive array of power assists, SmartAccess keyless locking and starting, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents, 10-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/cassette audio, a seven-inch multifunction display screen, an advanced anti-lock brake package, driver-selectable Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system (that includes stability and traction controls) and front, front-side, side-impact and knee airbags. Like the GS 460, it also has the Adaptive Variable Suspension and the corner-following Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), but adds rain-sensing wipers, headlamp washers and Intuitive Parking Assist.

The extras list for the GS 450h is fairly short, and includes a 330-watt Mark Levinson Premium Sound System, DVD-based voice-activated navigation system and the Lexus Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Other single items of note include computer-controlled Active Power Stabilizer Suspension System, all-season run-flat tires, a rear spoiler and the Lexus Link safety, security and information services feature.

The GS 450h’s Hybrid Synergy Drive package teams a 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes 292 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque with two electric motors: A pure generator/starter unit and one that supplies extra drive force for the rear wheels. It’s backed by an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) that creates six “virtual” ratios with the lever in its “Sport” gate. Capable of operating in pure electric mode at lower speeds and recharging its battery energy while coasting or braking, the system’s combined effective output of 340 horsepower gives the GS 450h a claimed acceleration from zero to 60 miles per hour of 5.2 seconds, making it even quicker than the 189-pound-lighter V8-powered GS 460. Modest but still respectable EPA fuel economy figures of 22 mpg city/25 mpg highway also top those of the GS 460.

3.5-liter V6 with 35-kilowatt Permanent Magnetic Electric Drive Motor
292 horsepower @ 6400 rpm
267 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4800 rpm
340 horsepower total combined gasoline/electric system output
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/25