The new Lexus GS 450h full hybrid makes its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The GS features an all-new exterior and interior reflecting a further development of Lexus’ unique, L-finesse design philosophy. Its new bold and dynamic exterior including a more aggressive frontal design gives the new GS the powerful, commanding road presence appropriate to a Lexus performance saloon. The new GS interior represents a continuation of the next generation Lexus interior design theme. An ergonomically designed, driver-focused cockpit with advanced Human Machine Interface technologies enables customers to remain alert and comfortable over long periods of time.
Several highly innovative technologies make a first appearance in the new GS model range. A new, energy saving air-conditioning system with S-Flow and ‘nano’ technologies; a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) linked to the world’s largest on-board multi-information display screen; and a choice of audio systems offering unparalleled power and clarity. The GS 450h is the world’s first premium performance saloon to be equipped with a V6 Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a two-motor hybrid system, in a front engine rear-wheel drive vehicle.
Its second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system features improvements to every aspect of its full hybrid powertrain, combining significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2, NOx and PM emissions. The new, fourth generation GS model range has been designed to offer customers an engaging driving experience. It combines sharp, accurate steering and excellent body control with outstanding high speed stability and all the ride comfort appropriate to a Lexus performance sedan.
The significant improvements to its driving dynamics have been achieved through a re-engineered bodyshell, new suspension, more powerful brakes and leading-edge technologies such as Active Variable Suspension (AVS) and Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS).
The GS 450h can also be equipped with the Lexus Dynamic Handling system; the world’s first integration of AVS, Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and Step 5 of Lexus’ unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, to coordinate every aspect of front and rear wheel control and provide agile, sharp and confident driving behaviour with a more direct response to the driver’s actions.
The new Lexus GS is comprehensively equipped with the most technologically advanced active safety and driver assistance systems available on the market today. VDIM Step 5 now integrates the newly developed Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) system. An Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS) incorporates a Driver Monitor Camera, and a complementary Adaptive Cruise Control system (ACC), which on the GS 450h, now functions at all speeds down to 0km/h.
Additional active safety features include a Lane-Keep Assist (LKA) system, a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system, the Lexus Night View system, and a Head-Up Display (HUD) with an expanded content menu.
This introduction of the new GS 450h will be followed by a lower displacement version in 12 months time.
The 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show also marks the European debut of the new CT 200h F-Sport version, which will expand the appeal of the CT 200h to a wider audience. The new F-sport may be readily identified by several, more aggressive exterior and interior design elements and enhanced standard equipment specification. The CT 200h F-Sport also features a new suspension set-up, offering an even more dynamic and engaging drive.
