It’s too easy to ignore the Lexus GS in a sector swirling with BMWs, Mercedesand Audis’. Too easy, but also detrimental to the consumer. You see, the new Lexus GS is a much better proposition than people seem prepared to give it credit for. Marginalised due to the reputation of its dominant rivals, it’s a car that simply has to stop going unnoticed.
The Lexus GS pioneered the petrol electric hybrid engine back in 2006 in the full-sized executive saloon segment. It dared to be different and set a blueprint which has only just been matched by the Germans. The problem now for Lexus is that, now it has been matched, this brand has to up its game further. The new Lexus GS is therefore more powerful, more efficient, and offers greater practicality. It also offers the option of a more affordable Lexus GS450h variant in a bid to entice consumers. Let’s take a closer look at what the Lexus GS offers.
Quiet As A Mouse, Quick As A Gazelle
The Lexus GS 450h hybrid variant offers a super smooth ride that, for large times, is actually silent. And when it isn’t completely silent, it’s offering up only the slightest of murmurings to penetrate your stillness. The V6 petrol engine only truly begins to make itself heard once you go faster than 25mph. You can monitor your power output via a graphic display neatly positioned in the dash, which means you can either use just the battery pack, or you can combine it with the engine. Up to you.
It all adds up to a car that is very efficient, and which is also very quick. The Lexus GS450h hybrid reaches 0-60mph in 5.9seconds en route to 155mph. If you choose to opt for the more conventional new Lexus GS250 V6, you can achieve figures of 0-60mph in 8.6 seconds en route to a very satisfying 144mph. Whichever unit you choose, you will be given the chance to utilise the Drive Mode Select System which allows you to flick between ‘eco’ and ‘sport’ to satisfy your mood.
Confident Looks
Looks might not be everything in the full-sized executive saloon segment – but they’re certainly important. After all, nobody wants to be the guy who spoils the company car park with an unorthodox looking machine that the boss demands be towed before he’s had his morning coffee. Fortunately, Lexus have upped their game, with the new Lexus GS possessing a confidence it’s not really had previously. This means revised upper and lower front grilles, as well as a more pronounced body that is emphasised by shorter overhangs front and back. Lexus have always done interiors very well, and continue that tradition with the new Lexus GS. Inside you’ll find satin trim, impeccable stitching and aluminium highlights. The remarkably lengthy dash is also as sexy as ever, adding to the overall sense of space for the driver and passenger. In the back, adults will have more room overall without feeling penned in, and because the battery has been relocated, boot space has improved by 55%.
Final Thoughts
Lexus GS offers start at around £32,000 for the entry-level V6 unit, though you would have to pay around £45,000 if you want the Lexus GS450h hybrid. You can, however, get your hands on the GS300h hybrid for about £32,000, with its running costs exemplary and enough to make rivals go red in the cheeks. Standard across the range are bi-xenon headlamps, alloys, front fog lamps, leather upholstery, cruise control and a 12-speaker audio system. The entry-level GS250 doesn’t come with satellite navigation, metallic paint or rear parking sensors. The Lexus GS 450h returns figures of 46.3mpg and 141g/km CO2, which matches the figures of a 5 Series, A6 or E-Class, but beats them for performance, smoothness and quietness.
The new Lexus GS is certainly a breath of fresh air in a masculine segment dominated by competitors that seemingly care little for either emissions or a bit of peace and quiet behind the wheel. There is no diesel engine on offer, but it isn’t really needed. The Lexus GS is a fulfilling, hugely satisfying machine.
If you want to get hold of the new Lexus GS, don’t hesitate to leave us a message on our contact page, or give us a call on 01903 538835 to find out more about our Lexus lease deals.
