On a Hy

What we like:

Strong performance at all revs

smooth revving engine

smooth power delivery

impeccable build quality

tree-hugging credentials

improved dynamics over its predecessor

What we dislike:

CVT dampens throttle response

not quicker than the old model on paper

looks heavy from certain angles

unintuitive Remote Touch Interface (RTI) operating system

The Hybrid’s interior is largely similar to the petrol powered GS models other than its exclusive bamboo steering wheel and inlays on the doors, dash and centre console. According to Lexus, the use of bamboo not only gives the interior a distinctive, natural look but is also more eco-friendly than traditional hardwood. The smooth bamboo surfaces do add to the sense of quality of the GS cabin. The Hybrid also features a power transfer display and a graph for fuel consumption figures on the centre console mounted LCD screen. Moreover, the Hybrid’s instrument cluster feature a power gauge within the instrument cluster – this becomes a rev counter when the Drive Mode Select is set to Sport or Sport+.

The GS’s Remote Touch Interface (RTI) operating system is improved over earlier ones in the RX and CT but the cursor for the menus and functions is still a tad hard to control while the main menu itself is far from intuitive to navigate. Perceived quality and luxury levels are exceptionally high for a Lexus and the executive saloon class, only the Audi A6 surpasses the GS when it comes to cabin ambience and overall quality. Unlike its predecessor, the new model uses little Toyota switchgear, which only minor ones like the cruise control stalk shared with Toyota models.

The new model offers noticeably more legroom at the rear when compared to its predecessor while luggage capacity has increased to up to 482 litres thanks to the smart-packaging of the hybrid battery into a stacked format. This is a significant 61 percent increase over the old GS Hybrid, providing ample luggage space for up to four golf bags.

If you’re some one who is not convinced by hybrid technology then the GS450h could well be the model that could change your mind. While eco hybrids like the Prius and the Civic Hybrid serve their purposes in their own right, Lexus’ hybrids offer not only fuel economy but performance as well. With models like the GS450h, who can dare say that hybrids are plain boring and mundane? The GS450h also proves that performance doesn’t come at the expense of fuel consumption.

Credits: Story and photos by Raymond Lai