In 2007 Lexus introduced the first hybrid luxury sedan, it was also the first front engine – rear wheel drive vehicle to be a hybrid. It is known as the Lexus GS 450h.

“Once again, we’ve applied our formula of no compromise engineering – this time to a luxury sport sedan which proves to us that hybrid power trains can work superbly in virtually any application” said Lexus Vice President of Marketing Mark Templin. “It’s very important to continue pursuing substantial reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, while continuing to improve performance and driving pleasure. Our customers wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The Lexus GS 450h will be a rear wheel drive full hybrid which makes it able to travel at low speeds with electric propulsion only. Lexus says that their GS 450h will use about as much gas as the average 2-liter, 4-cylinder compact sedan.

The Lexus GS 450h is a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle. SULEV-rated vehicles are approximately 90% cleaner than an average new car.

The Lexus GS 450h will have a 3.5-liter V6 engine combined with a high-output electric motor to pack in the horsepower of a V8 engine. Lexus states that their vehicle will have the horsepower of a 4.5 liter V8. With an acceleration of 0-60 expected to be under 6 seconds.

The Lexus GS 450h is built on the GS 430 frame and offers similar equipment and options, including a sunroof, wood grain steering wheel and perforated leather seats. It visually resembles the GS 430 with slight changes like a power meter on the dashboard instead of an odometer, and 18-inch light-alloy wheels.

Hybrid technology, driving dynamics, motoring comfort and generous space inside is what redefines the new Lexus GS 450h. Sporting a more powerful and fuel efficient engine, innovative assistance system, a wide range of safety features and equipment, than its predecessors.