Lexus GS Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Lexus GS Hybrid ranks 3 out of 13 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 57 published reviews and test drives of the Lexus GS Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Lexus calls the GS 450h a “no compromises hybrid,” and it’s easy to understand why. It offers the power of a V8 with the fuel-efficiency of a V6, and the kind of opulent cabin that Lexus is known for. It is a tight fit for taller drivers, however, and still trails the best sport sedans in handling.
When most car shoppers think of hybrids, they picture oddly-shaped, smaller hatchbacks with lackluster performance but great fuel economy. That’s Toyota’s fault – the Prius set the mold. The luxury division of Toyota, however, has broken that same mold with several quick, luxurious hybrids that don’t trade away much of anything in pursuit of fuel-efficiency. The Lexus GS 450h, like the larger LS600h, is among the most fuel-efficient cars in its class, but it doesn’t offer the kind of sky-high fuel economy numbers you’ll see on the window sticker of a Prius or a Lexus HS250h.
Instead, the GS Hybrid offers performance that competes with luxury sport sedans, a sumptuous passenger cabin, stylish bodywork and excellent safety ratings.
It can’t hang with the most performance-focused large luxury cars on a winding road. Reviewers say the steering of the GS Hybrid is too light, leaving the driver detached from road feel. It also won’t suit taller owners.
Lexus calls the GS 450h a “no compromises hybrid,” and it’s easy to understand why. It offers the power of a V8 with the fuel-efficiency of a V6, and the kind of opulent cabin that Lexus is known for. It is a tight fit for taller drivers, however, and still trails the best sport sedans in handling.
When most car shoppers think of hybrids, they picture oddly-shaped, smaller hatchbacks with lackluster performance but great fuel economy. That’s Toyota’s fault – the Prius set the mold. The luxury division of Toyota, however, has broken that same mold with several quick, luxurious hybrids that don’t trade away much of anything in pursuit of fuel-efficiency. The Lexus GS 450h, like the larger LS600h, is among the most fuel-efficient cars in its class, but it doesn’t offer the kind of sky-high fuel economy numbers you’ll see on the window sticker of a Prius or a Lexus HS250h.
Instead, the GS Hybrid offers performance that competes with luxury sport sedans, a sumptuous passenger cabin, stylish bodywork and excellent safety ratings.
It can’t hang with the most performance-focused large luxury cars on a winding road. Reviewers say the steering of the GS Hybrid is too light, leaving the driver detached from road feel. It also won’t suit taller owners.
Other Cars to Consider
Several reviewers have noted that the GS line of cars, including this hybrid version, aren't comfortable for drivers much over six feet tall. Those drivers might want to test drive an Infiniti M or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan instead. Headroom is tight at all four seating positions in the GS hybrid. And while neither of those cars is available in a gas-electric version this year, both automakers have hybrid editions in the pipeline, which may reach showrooms as early as the 2011 model year.
Lexus GS Hybrid: The Details
The GS 450 Hybrid comes in only one trim level. Its equipment list is close to comprehensive, but a handful of upgrades are offered. For 2010, the GS hybrid gets a slightly modified grille, standard 18-inch wheels and a new power rear sunshade.
