 2010 GS 450h |
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2011 Lexus GS 450h news, pictures, and information | ||
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GS 450h Offers V8-Like Performance with Low Emissions
• 340 HP Total Output wîth Combined 23 MPG Ratings• Powerful Torque Provides Smooth Acceleration
• Seamlessly Blends Refinement and Sportiness
After receiving stylish exterior changes in 2010, the GS 450h enters the 2011 model year as one of the most refined hybrid luxury sport sedans available today wîth a myriad of convenience features. The GS 450h features impressive fuel economy ratings for the smooth and powerful acceleration it provides. In its fifth model year, the GS 450h continues to be a favorite fun-to-drive vehicle.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
Based on the GS platform and featuring Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, the GS 450h offers V8-like performance wîth greater fuel efficiency. In addition to boosting performance and fuel efficiency while lowering emissions, Lexus Hybrid Drive technology also further accentuates the brand's renowned smooth, quiet operation.
As a full hybrid, the GS 450h is capable of operating in gas-only or electric-only modes, or a combination of the two. With its unique transmission, the GS 450h was the first hybrid vehicle to enable the electric drive motor to contribute to highway performance, not just slow-speed driving.
The GS 450h model s version of the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain combines a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine wîth a compact, permanent magnet electric motor all driving the rear wheels. The hybrid powertrain collectively produces 340 horsepower and can effortlessly accelerate the GS 450h from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.
Just as impressive as the GS 450h's acceleration from a stop is how quickly and powerfully torque is delivered during mid-range acceleration. The hybrid system's electric-drive motor delivers maximum torque immediately upon demand. This unique power-delivery characteristic is most noticeable, and most useful, during 30-to-50 mph passing and in traffic-merging maneuvers. The GS 450h returns EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city/25 highway/23 combined and is certified as a Super-Low Emissions Vehicle II (SÚLEV II).
The gasoline V6 uses an Electronic Throttle Control System wîth intelligence (ETCS-i) and a dual fuel-injection system that combines the benefits of direct injection wîth those of port injection. Dual Variable Valve Timing wîth intelligence (VVT-i) operates on the intake and exhaust valves to further enhance power and torque across a broad engine speed range.
The GS 450h hybrid powertrain uses two motor-generators, MG1 and MG2 (the drive motor). Each performs specific functions and can operate as both a motor and a generator, although MG1 is used as a starter motor and provides no motive force. The engine-driven generator (MG1) can charge the battery pack or provide additional power to MG2 as needed.
A 288-volt DC Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack is installed behind the rear seat area. The battery's power is directed through a boost converter that can efficiently raise voltage to a maximum 650V DC. An inverter changes this to AC, providing its elevated power to the 147-kW electric motor, which turns as high as 14,400 rpm. A 12-volt auxiliary battery powers various vehicle systems, including audio and navigation. (posted on conceptcarz.com)
Power from the gas engine and MG2 is distributed to the rear drive wheels via a planetary gear-type Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). This special transmission, which eliminates specific gear ratios, features a two-speed torque-multiplication device that allows drivers to select from among three driving modes: Power, Normal and Snow. Normal provides the smoothest operation and is ideal for city or suburban driving; Power sharpens accelerator pedal response, and Snow mode softens accelerator pedal response making it easier to travel on slippery road surfaces.
The ECVT consists of a motor generator, motive power-dividing mechanism, two-stage motor-reduction device, electrically powered oil pump and hydraulic control system. The two-stage torque-multiplication device varies the gear ratio in two stages by controlling a planetary gear and two wet brakes, similar to the way a conventional automatic transmission operates.
This configuration allows the electric drive motor to operate in high or low ranges, wîth seamless transitions between the two. MG2 can therefore contribute power not just for acceleration, but at higher cruising speeds as well.
The GS 450h is driven solely by its electric motor when starting, traveling slowly, and during low-load driving, the resulting super-quiet operation enhancing the luxury experience. A regenerative braking system further boosts system efficiency. When the vehicle is coasting or the brakes are applied, the electric motors function as generators, capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes and transforming it into useable electricity to recharge the batteries.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The GS 450h matches its powerful acceleration wîth responsive handling while maintaining the ultra-comfortable ride that is synonymous wîth the Lexus brand. Instead of attempting to mask noise, the engineers designed fans and motors to significantly reduce cabin-noise intrusion. Fluid-filled front-engine mounts, additional sound-absorbing asphalt sheets behind the instrument panel, and a sound-absorbing windshield further enhance the quiet ride that redefines the term 'Lexus-like.'
Double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension systems endow the GS 450h wîth engaging handling performance. Like the V8-powered GS 460 gas model, the GS 450h is equipped as standard wîth Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), a driver-selectable shock absorber damping system.
The standard 18 x 8-inch aluminum alloy wheels are unique to the GS 450h and equipped wîth 245/40R18 Z-rated summer performance tires; all-season run-flat tires are available. An optional Active Power Stabilizer system helps to further reduce body sway during cornering. The system uses an Electronic Control Únit (ECÚ) to calculate the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by front and rear electric-powered actuators.
The GS 450h is equipped wîth the brand's highest level of dynamic handling technology: the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system that goes beyond the capability of other stability and traction-control systems. VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle slide while cornering and then help to automatically correct the situation wîth a combination of braking, throttle and §teering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver. VDIM integrates Electric Power Steering (EPS), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), and Traction Control (TRAC).
Safety/Security Features
All Lexus GS models implement a wide array of advanced safety systems. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes variable-force front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. Sensors are designed to determine the severity of an impact and in turn the airbag deployment force, helping to provide an appropriate level of occupant restraint. The GS features a total of eight standard airbags including seat-mounted side airbags for the front seats, knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front and rear side-curtain airbags.
The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce impact damage in an accident. A millimeter-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, §teering-angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS switches the AVS to sport mode to help provide appropriate chassis response, preemptively retracts front seat belts, and pre-initializes BA so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal.
The Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) uses ultrasonic sensors to detect the presence of objects close by and warn the driver of their proximity.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
As the top model in the GS line, the GS 450h features the highest level of standard luxury equipment and includes features that are optional on other GS models: 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, rain-sensing automatic windshield wipers, rear back-up camera and headlamp washers. Controls are simple and intuitive, avoiding needless complexity.
A power-tilt and telescopic §teering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters the air. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. A rear power sunshade adds to passenger comfort on warm days.
The standard 10-speaker 134-watt Lexus Premium Audio system includes an in-dash, six-disc CD changer, Automatic Sound Levelizer, iPod /ÚSB connectivity, Bluetooth hands free phone capability and music streaming, and an integrated XM Radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription included). When connected to the ÚSB port, the iPod can be controlled through the audio system or §teering wheel controls, while information such as names for the artist, track and album is displayed.
Luxury Options
All styles of music come to life in the ultra-quiet Lexus GS interior wîth the optional 7.1-channel Mark Levinson Premium Sound system. Featuring a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers, the system allows users to play both CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.
The available Hard Disc Drive (HDD) Lexus Navigation System eliminates the need for DVD map discs and offers enhanced Bluetooth wîth phonebook download and Voice command, a casual-language based voice recognition feature. This technology allows the driver to give more flexible, conversational commands for easier access to audio, climate, and navigation system functions. Voice command helps users avoid having to speak commands in a specific order making tasks easier to accomplish, in fewer steps, and helping to allow drivers to focus more on the road ahead.
System functions include multiple route calculations, route preview, simplified highway junction graphics, and a dual-map screen mode. Bluetooth wireless technology and compatible phones allow the transfer of personal phone books to the navigation system, from which the driver can make hands-free phone calls.
The Lexus GS 450h also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform wîth Safety Connect , available by subscription. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while vehicles equipped wîth the optional Navigation system have Lexus Enform wîth Safety Connect. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week every day of the year.
Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative XM services including XM NavTraffic , XM NavWeather and XM Sports and Stocks services. XM services require separate XM subscriptions. The XM Sports and Stocks service is included wîth an XM radio subscription. All XM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions.
Exterior Design
The current generation GS sedans introduced the brand's L-finesse design language. A 112.2-inch wheelbase, long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck create a confident, powerful stance for the GS. A low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to maximize highway fuel efficiency and minimize wind noise. Subtle visual differences distinguish the GS 450h from other GS models. These include a blue hybrid designation on the side rocker moldings, aluminum-and-blue enameled rear model designation, front grille, special 18-inch light-alloy wheels, a Lexus Hybrid Drive engine cover, blue front and rear 'L' logos, a blue tint to the headlamps, clear tail lamp covers and a power meter that replaces the tachometer.
Interior Design
Últra-premium wood, polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the GS interior wîth a lavish yet high-precision feel. Touch points convey quality, and controls respond fluidly. Regency leather-trimmed seats are available in Light Gray, Parchment or Black leather matched wîth wood trim in Dark Gray Bird's-eye Maple, Golden Bird's-eye Maple or Red Walnut, respectively. The wood and leather-trimmed three-spoke §teering wheel featuring audio and multi-information display controls is complemented by a matching shift knob. The three-pod analog instrument cluster features an electrochromic display and variable-transparency glass for high visibility in a variety of light conditions.
Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come wîth a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty wîth roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter wîth converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.Source - Lexus
Designed to fill the gap between the ES and LS, the Lexus GS was introduced by Toyota's luxury department, Lexus, in October of 1991. Also called the Toyota Aristo, the GS was a series of mid-size luxury sports sedans that were styled by the famous Italdesigns Giurgiaro firm. Based on the platform and running gear of the Toyota Crown, the original GS was first introduced in Japan in 1991, and two years later in the U.S., Europe and varied markets in Asia.
Made available with two inline-6 powered version for the Japanese market, the Aristo was introduced with the 3.0Q and the 3.0V. While the 3.0Q Aristo had a 2JZ-GE engine capable of producing 226 hp, the 3.0V was equipped with a 24-valve twinturbo 2JZ-GTe engine that produced 276 hp.
On February 22, 1993, production of the Lexus GS 300 was begun at the Tahara, Japan assembly plant. A great example for the time of the latest advancement of Tahara production technology, only 8 spot welds were performed by hand, while the other nearly 4,200 welds were performed by robots.
Wanting to produce a vehicle capable of competing with the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus introduced the GS as the new marketing sports sedan. To further complement the rest of the Lexus lineup, the exterior was styled by Italdesign Giugiaro in a way that blended the elements of both the original LS and the SC in a rounder, aerodynamic shape.
The inside of the Lexus GS 300 featured leather seating, walnut wood trim on the center console, and the availability of a Nakamichi premium stereo system. Other available options included (TRAC) traction control, a moonroof, and a remote 12-CD auto changer. The four-speed automatic transmission was replaced in 1996 with a five-speed automatic.
The main purpose of the GS had been to take the price position of the original LS 400 flagship which had steadily moved upmarket since its introduction in 1989. In comparison to power and available amenities, the first rear-wheel drive sports sedan by Lexus, the GS, exceeded the LS by a far range. However, GS 300 sales were only considered modest, with 1993 being the most productive year at 19,164 units sold. As the Japanese yen rose in value against the dollar in later years, sales dropped as it made the GS more expensive than its rivals. Stiff competition was brought on by more powerful V8 sport sedans as well which further dropped sales. Initially the GS 300 carried the U.S. base price of $37,930, and by 1997 had risen to $46,195.
In 1998 the second generation of Lexus GS was introduced for the first time outside of
Japan, and utilized a new platform that added a V8 version. 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' was the tagline Lexus used for the arrival for this second generation. This new GS was codenamed JZS160 for models that carried the 2JZ-GE engine, and JZS161 for models with the 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo engines. A bump in torque was also made possible by VVT-I now becoming standard. While no four-wheel drive models were offered, the new GS's styling was produced in-house and now featured quadruple headlights similar to the Lexus SC coupe. For the first time an upgraded stereo system along with elecroluminiscent Lexus Opitron gauges were offered as well. Once again offered, the GS 300 now featured a slightly revised version of the previous generation's 3.0 L inline-6 which now produced 225 hp and 225 ft·lbf of torque.
The second generation GS sedan was much more of a success in comparison to the generation prior. Sales mounted to a total of 30,622 vehicles sold in the first year alone. By 2000 sales remained quite steady at around 28000 vehicles. Encouraged by its success, Lexus kept the GS sedan in its vehicle lineup for over eight years. The GS 300 was kept at a U.S. base price of approximately $38,000 and $47,000 for the GS 400.
2001 was the only year with any significant changes for the second generation Lexus GS. The grill was revised slightly, and new subtly tinted headlights were added to the front end. The trunk area also received new clear tail lights with turn signal indicators. While optional on the I6, Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights were made standard on the V8. The GS 300 featured more gleaming wood trim as well as steering wheel shift buttons. Renamed the GS 430 in 2001, the V8 engine received a 0.3 liter bump in displacement. The torque was also increased to 325 ft·lbf, though peak horsepower remained unchanged.
Named Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1998, the GS also made Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list from 1998 through 2000.
Using the same twin-turbo engine as found on the Toyota Supra Mk IV, the GS introduced a new, third model in 2002. The V8-powered 4.0Zi-Four joined the Aristo lineup in this year. This newest model came with a 250 hp engine, along with standard four-wheel drive. This was the same V8 that was used in both the first generation Lexus LS and the Toyota Crown Majesta. Both the GS and Aristo models were equipped with an independent, double-wishbone suspension setup.
.
First introduced as a 2006 model at the 2005 North American International Auto Show, production began on the third generation GS on January 24, 2005. The GS model lineup included the GS 300 which had a 3.0 L V6 3 GR-FSE engine, and the GS 430 with the same 4.3 L V8 that was used in the previous model. Excluding Singapore, the GS 300 featured a direct-injection engine for all markets except Continental Asia.
The first Lexus sedan to offer an all-wheel drive configuration, the GS 300 featured an all-wheel drive option. The Toyota Mark X and the Zero Toyota Crown also featured the 3.0 L engine. In 2006 the current third version of the GS came in V6, V8 and hybrid variations.
The GS was sold as the Toyota Aristo in Japan until 2005 when the Lexus marque was introduced. Seeking to align all world markets, including Japan, using Lexus as their luxury brand worldwide, Toyota chose not to release the equivalent Aristo. The Toyota Aristo was discontinued following the introduction of the third generation of the Lexus GS. The Aristo and the GS essentially differed in both their transmission and engine combinations and equipment packages, though other than that they were virtually identical.
Showcased as Lexus's new L-finesse design philosophy, the third generation GS featured more muscular styling, new swooping lines and a fastback profile. This third generation GS indicated the future direction of the Lexus lineup. First previewed on the earlier Lexus LF-S concept, the slingshot cabin was featured on the GS. Also revolutionary, the GS sedans were the first to feature the most updated generation of Lexus' SmartAccess keyless system. This added a push-button start for the first time.
A driver-side hidden panel for more infrequently used controls, other unique features included a standard touchscreen display in the center console, Bluetooth technology, and LED lighting in the cabin. Optional features include a Mark Levinson premium sound system. Each model had an electrochromic instrument cluster which adjusts for the amount of reflected sunlight, a unique feature for the Lexus GS series only.
For the 2007 model year, the GS 350, using the 3.5 L 2GR-FSE engine replaced the GS 300. The 2007 GS 430 horsepower rating was changed to 290 (with 319 ft·lbf. of torque), due to a change in SAE testing procedures. The V6-powered GS 350 was rated at 303 hp (with 274 ft·lbf. of torque). Both vehicles were reported at 0-60 times of 5.7 seconds by Lexus. For the 2008 model year, a 4.6 L GS 460 (URS191) replaced the GS 430. The 460 was equipped with a brand new 4.6 L 1UR-FE engine that generated 342 hp (with 339 ft·lbf. of torque). An 8-speed automatic transmission was also added to the GS 460. The 460 had a reported time of 0-60 seconds in 5.4 seconds according to lexus.
At the same time as the introduction of the GS 460, the GS lineup received an exterior overhaul that included a new and improved forward bumper and headlights, new wheel options and exterior colors, and turn signals now added to the side mirrors. The GS also received revised instrument cluster gauges and different trim pieces on the inside of the vehicle. For improved handling, the V8-powered GS 460 offers the Active Stablizer Suspension System, along with the hybrid GS 450h and previous GS 430 models.
The GS 350 costs approximately $44,150 while the GS 460 retails at $52,620.
Introduced at the 2005 New York International Auto Show, the hybrid Lexus GS 450h joined the Gs line for the 2007 model year. Producing over 330 hp, the 450h became the first mass-production rear-wheel drive luxury hybrid vehicle. With a naturally-aspirated 3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 engine mated to an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission, the 450h's powertrain makes use of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system of integrating electric and gasoline engine motors.
With an MSRP (that includes delivery) of $55,595, the GS 450h comes with a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle emissions rating. Raising the price by several thousands of dollars, several markets only allow the 450h to be purchased with at least one option package.
The battery is rear mounted, which consumes a significant amount of trunk space. Receiving the Driver Monitoring System in certain markets, the GS 450h is among the first of Lexus vehicles to achieve this. Featuring an infrared steering wheel mounted camera, this safety system monitors driver attentiveness and sounds an alarm if danger ahead is detected and the driver is not paying attention.
Weighing 4134 lbs, the GS 450h is capable of producing 339 hp due to the combined hybrid powertrain, which allows the GS to accelerate to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, compared the GS 460's rated 5.4 seconds.
At a price of $65,000, a total of 75 ‘Neiman Marcus Edition' GS 450h sedans were featured as the annual holiday catalog vehicle. On October 19 2005, all 75 vehicles were sold in less than three hours and were delivered in April of 2006. In Japan, the GS 450h went on sale on March 16 2006.
For 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005, J.D. Power and Associates named the GS series the best midsize luxury vehicle in initial quality. For 2005, AAA named the third generation GS 300 the best car in its class. In 2005, Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus GS as the highest ranked vehicle in predicted reliability in the luxury car class.By Jessica Donaldson
For more information and related vehicles, click hereMade available with two inline-6 powered version for the Japanese market, the Aristo was introduced with the 3.0Q and the 3.0V. While the 3.0Q Aristo had a 2JZ-GE engine capable of producing 226 hp, the 3.0V was equipped with a 24-valve twinturbo 2JZ-GTe engine that produced 276 hp.
On February 22, 1993, production of the Lexus GS 300 was begun at the Tahara, Japan assembly plant. A great example for the time of the latest advancement of Tahara production technology, only 8 spot welds were performed by hand, while the other nearly 4,200 welds were performed by robots.
Wanting to produce a vehicle capable of competing with the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus introduced the GS as the new marketing sports sedan. To further complement the rest of the Lexus lineup, the exterior was styled by Italdesign Giugiaro in a way that blended the elements of both the original LS and the SC in a rounder, aerodynamic shape.
The inside of the Lexus GS 300 featured leather seating, walnut wood trim on the center console, and the availability of a Nakamichi premium stereo system. Other available options included (TRAC) traction control, a moonroof, and a remote 12-CD auto changer. The four-speed automatic transmission was replaced in 1996 with a five-speed automatic.
The main purpose of the GS had been to take the price position of the original LS 400 flagship which had steadily moved upmarket since its introduction in 1989. In comparison to power and available amenities, the first rear-wheel drive sports sedan by Lexus, the GS, exceeded the LS by a far range. However, GS 300 sales were only considered modest, with 1993 being the most productive year at 19,164 units sold. As the Japanese yen rose in value against the dollar in later years, sales dropped as it made the GS more expensive than its rivals. Stiff competition was brought on by more powerful V8 sport sedans as well which further dropped sales. Initially the GS 300 carried the U.S. base price of $37,930, and by 1997 had risen to $46,195.
In 1998 the second generation of Lexus GS was introduced for the first time outside of
Japan, and utilized a new platform that added a V8 version. 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' was the tagline Lexus used for the arrival for this second generation. This new GS was codenamed JZS160 for models that carried the 2JZ-GE engine, and JZS161 for models with the 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo engines. A bump in torque was also made possible by VVT-I now becoming standard. While no four-wheel drive models were offered, the new GS's styling was produced in-house and now featured quadruple headlights similar to the Lexus SC coupe. For the first time an upgraded stereo system along with elecroluminiscent Lexus Opitron gauges were offered as well. Once again offered, the GS 300 now featured a slightly revised version of the previous generation's 3.0 L inline-6 which now produced 225 hp and 225 ft·lbf of torque.
The second generation GS sedan was much more of a success in comparison to the generation prior. Sales mounted to a total of 30,622 vehicles sold in the first year alone. By 2000 sales remained quite steady at around 28000 vehicles. Encouraged by its success, Lexus kept the GS sedan in its vehicle lineup for over eight years. The GS 300 was kept at a U.S. base price of approximately $38,000 and $47,000 for the GS 400.
2001 was the only year with any significant changes for the second generation Lexus GS. The grill was revised slightly, and new subtly tinted headlights were added to the front end. The trunk area also received new clear tail lights with turn signal indicators. While optional on the I6, Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights were made standard on the V8. The GS 300 featured more gleaming wood trim as well as steering wheel shift buttons. Renamed the GS 430 in 2001, the V8 engine received a 0.3 liter bump in displacement. The torque was also increased to 325 ft·lbf, though peak horsepower remained unchanged.
Named Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1998, the GS also made Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list from 1998 through 2000.
Using the same twin-turbo engine as found on the Toyota Supra Mk IV, the GS introduced a new, third model in 2002. The V8-powered 4.0Zi-Four joined the Aristo lineup in this year. This newest model came with a 250 hp engine, along with standard four-wheel drive. This was the same V8 that was used in both the first generation Lexus LS and the Toyota Crown Majesta. Both the GS and Aristo models were equipped with an independent, double-wishbone suspension setup.
.
First introduced as a 2006 model at the 2005 North American International Auto Show, production began on the third generation GS on January 24, 2005. The GS model lineup included the GS 300 which had a 3.0 L V6 3 GR-FSE engine, and the GS 430 with the same 4.3 L V8 that was used in the previous model. Excluding Singapore, the GS 300 featured a direct-injection engine for all markets except Continental Asia.
The first Lexus sedan to offer an all-wheel drive configuration, the GS 300 featured an all-wheel drive option. The Toyota Mark X and the Zero Toyota Crown also featured the 3.0 L engine. In 2006 the current third version of the GS came in V6, V8 and hybrid variations.
The GS was sold as the Toyota Aristo in Japan until 2005 when the Lexus marque was introduced. Seeking to align all world markets, including Japan, using Lexus as their luxury brand worldwide, Toyota chose not to release the equivalent Aristo. The Toyota Aristo was discontinued following the introduction of the third generation of the Lexus GS. The Aristo and the GS essentially differed in both their transmission and engine combinations and equipment packages, though other than that they were virtually identical.
Showcased as Lexus's new L-finesse design philosophy, the third generation GS featured more muscular styling, new swooping lines and a fastback profile. This third generation GS indicated the future direction of the Lexus lineup. First previewed on the earlier Lexus LF-S concept, the slingshot cabin was featured on the GS. Also revolutionary, the GS sedans were the first to feature the most updated generation of Lexus' SmartAccess keyless system. This added a push-button start for the first time.
A driver-side hidden panel for more infrequently used controls, other unique features included a standard touchscreen display in the center console, Bluetooth technology, and LED lighting in the cabin. Optional features include a Mark Levinson premium sound system. Each model had an electrochromic instrument cluster which adjusts for the amount of reflected sunlight, a unique feature for the Lexus GS series only.
For the 2007 model year, the GS 350, using the 3.5 L 2GR-FSE engine replaced the GS 300. The 2007 GS 430 horsepower rating was changed to 290 (with 319 ft·lbf. of torque), due to a change in SAE testing procedures. The V6-powered GS 350 was rated at 303 hp (with 274 ft·lbf. of torque). Both vehicles were reported at 0-60 times of 5.7 seconds by Lexus. For the 2008 model year, a 4.6 L GS 460 (URS191) replaced the GS 430. The 460 was equipped with a brand new 4.6 L 1UR-FE engine that generated 342 hp (with 339 ft·lbf. of torque). An 8-speed automatic transmission was also added to the GS 460. The 460 had a reported time of 0-60 seconds in 5.4 seconds according to lexus.
At the same time as the introduction of the GS 460, the GS lineup received an exterior overhaul that included a new and improved forward bumper and headlights, new wheel options and exterior colors, and turn signals now added to the side mirrors. The GS also received revised instrument cluster gauges and different trim pieces on the inside of the vehicle. For improved handling, the V8-powered GS 460 offers the Active Stablizer Suspension System, along with the hybrid GS 450h and previous GS 430 models.
The GS 350 costs approximately $44,150 while the GS 460 retails at $52,620.
Introduced at the 2005 New York International Auto Show, the hybrid Lexus GS 450h joined the Gs line for the 2007 model year. Producing over 330 hp, the 450h became the first mass-production rear-wheel drive luxury hybrid vehicle. With a naturally-aspirated 3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 engine mated to an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission, the 450h's powertrain makes use of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system of integrating electric and gasoline engine motors.
With an MSRP (that includes delivery) of $55,595, the GS 450h comes with a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle emissions rating. Raising the price by several thousands of dollars, several markets only allow the 450h to be purchased with at least one option package.
The battery is rear mounted, which consumes a significant amount of trunk space. Receiving the Driver Monitoring System in certain markets, the GS 450h is among the first of Lexus vehicles to achieve this. Featuring an infrared steering wheel mounted camera, this safety system monitors driver attentiveness and sounds an alarm if danger ahead is detected and the driver is not paying attention.
Weighing 4134 lbs, the GS 450h is capable of producing 339 hp due to the combined hybrid powertrain, which allows the GS to accelerate to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, compared the GS 460's rated 5.4 seconds.
At a price of $65,000, a total of 75 ‘Neiman Marcus Edition' GS 450h sedans were featured as the annual holiday catalog vehicle. On October 19 2005, all 75 vehicles were sold in less than three hours and were delivered in April of 2006. In Japan, the GS 450h went on sale on March 16 2006.
For 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005, J.D. Power and Associates named the GS series the best midsize luxury vehicle in initial quality. For 2005, AAA named the third generation GS 300 the best car in its class. In 2005, Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus GS as the highest ranked vehicle in predicted reliability in the luxury car class.By Jessica Donaldson
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• The most powerful and technologically advanced Kia in the U.S. market is defined by European-influenced styling and extraordinary levels of refinement and amenities
• Cadenza features class-leading interior room2 and is offered in one trim level with two available option packages IRVINE, Calif., April 19, 2013 – Kia Motors America (KMA) is pleased to announce pricing for its most powerful and ...[Read more...] |
| VOLKSWAGEN CLAIMS BEST HIGHWAY FUEL EFFICIENCY, WITH SEVEN MODELS THAT ACHIEVE MORE THAN 40 MPG | |
 | • New Jetta Hybrid earns EPA fuel economy rating of up to 48 mpg; the first compact hybrid available with a turbocharged engine Herndon, VA - With EPA estimated fuel economy ratings of 48 mpg on the highway, 42 mpg in the city, and a combined rating of 45 mpg, the Jetta Hybrid becomes the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the Volkswagen lineup and the seventh model capable of more than 40 mpg on the highway. With sales of the Jetta Hybrid beginning later this month, Volkswagen wil...[Read more...] |
| Powertrain Innovation Comes Standard on 2013 Regal | |
 | The 2013 Buick Regal luxury sport sedan arrives at dealerships this fall with a standard advanced eAssist powertrain and 36 highway mpg. Two powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engines give Regal one of the most technologically advanced engine ranges in the brand's history. 'With eAssist, Buick is redefining what a 'conventional powertrain' means to customers,' said eAssist global chief engineer Stephen Poulos. 'It changes the fuel economy – but not the experience – for the 97 percent of new...[Read more...] |
2011| Similar Automakers | |
| Audi | BMW |
| Infiniti | Jaguar |
| Land Rover | Mercedes-Benz |
| Lexus: 2011-2020 |
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| CT 200h ES | GS GX | HS IS | LFA LS | LX RX | SC |
| 2010 GS 450h |
