Toyota and its up-level Lexus Luxury division did not necessarily invent the gas-electric hybrid technology, but they certainly have perfected it.
No other automaker in the United States boasts as many models with varying degrees of gas-electric hybrid engineering. It's an evolving process and Toyota's commitment to the technology has the company miles ahead of rivals.
The 2013 model year ushers in the arrival of the fourth-generation, mid-size Lexus GS sedan, one of the longest-running (on sale since 1993) and best-selling offerings in Toyota's upscale division. The gas-exclusive version arrived early in the 2012 calendar year while the new-and-improved hybrid 2013 GS 450h (requiring NO nightly plug in to recharge) found its way to dealers during Chicago's long, hot summer. In addition to the four-door GS, the entry luxury Lexus ES and full-size LS sedans are both available with gas-electric hybrid powertrains, all designated with an 'h' suffix.
The sole powertrain in all 2013 GS gasoline trims is a potent 3.5-liter V-6 generating 306 horses. This marks a shift from the third generation GS where both V-8 and V-6 engines were offered. That's where the next-generation 2013 hybrid edition earns an extra look. For those 2013 GS shoppers seeking an extra boost in horsepower from the conventional six, the gas-electric GS 450h delivers. While shoppers may not equate hybrids with performance, the boost of dueling technologies is unmistakable and welcome. Also, the GS 450h opts for a continuously variable transmission (CVT that also shifts automatically) rather than the conventional GS's six-speed automatic.
The mid-luxury GS sedan has offered a hybrid variant since 2007, but this 2013 edition delivers not only better fuel economy than its humble gas-only brother in arms, but a significant boost from the outgoing GS hybrid. The 2013 edition delivers 29 miles per gallon city and 34 miles per gallon highway, a significant improvement (35 percent better) from the previous generation's 22/25 mpg respectively. The gas-exclusive GS with 3.5-liter V-6 delivers 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
Battery technologies in gas-electric hybrids like the GS 450h and all-electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf vary widely in price and electric storage/output. It's not a one-size fits all proposition. Even among gas-electric hybrids from the same company, differences exist. Toyota's iconic Prius lift back (with four-cylinder gas engine) is built to squeeze every bit of fuel from a gallon of gas, delivering more than 50 miles per gallon in the city. The Lexus GS 450h adds more performance (thanks to its V-6 gas engine) to the equation while managing top mileage in the mid luxury segment.
The GS 450h features Lexus' second-generation hybrid drive system combining its V-6 gas engine with a water cooled electric motor powered by a continually-charging nickel metal hydride battery interacting with a generator. These two powertrains drive the rear wheels, both independently and in tandem, qualifying the GS 450h as a 'full' hybrid. 'Mild' hybrids have become more prominent during the past half-decade, but differ significantly since the electric motor acts as an assistant to the gasoline engine, not a stand-alone propellant. Mild hybrids have a lower starting price, but fuel economy figures fall below what full hybrids deliver.
While the gas-exclusive GS comes with the choice of rear or all-wheel drive, the performance-friendly hybrid version remains strictly rear drive. The transaction process is relatively straight forward with one trim (base) and a couple of option packages along with a half dozen or so stand-alone extras. Adaptive variable suspension that's optional in the gas V-6 comes standard in this hybrid model. This electronic system automatically adjusts to existing road conditions for the most optimal ride possible.
Pricewise, a GS450h lists for $58,950, about $12,000 higher than a gas-exclusive version starting at $46,900. The closest competitor is probably Infiniti's M35 hybrid listing at $54,650, but Nissan's luxury brand's sole hybrid generates slightly less mileage estimates (two miles per gallon less in each category).
The two option packages include a $5,645 luxury package with heated rear seats and a $7,405 Luxury Package with night view system. Stand-alone options fall into the high-tech safety category and include a $500 lane departure warning, $500 blind spot warning, a $900 heads-up front window display and $2,000 radar cruise control. Our tester came loaded for bear with a $68,139 bottom line and included the Luxury Package, lane departure, pre-collision system and $875 destination charge.
When first slipping behind the wheel, the high-tech interior is apparent, but does not overwhelm. Between the front buckets are a twist dial and a two-inch by two-inch square joy stick like device interacting with the in-dash information screen.
Drivers use right-hand fingertips to push and tap this square pad to toggle through and approve screen selections. Portable electronic devices, hands-free phones and Bluetooth connections can plug into this interface also. While climate controls and radio function commands can be summoned through the in-dash screen, secondary, old-school dashboard buttons and knobs are available. Drivers also have a choice of FIVE different driving modes/settings, including an "Eco" mode for optimal fuel economy. For those wishing just to set it and forget it, a "Normal" mode offers the best of all worlds.
The backlit instrument panel includes two circular gauges including a right-side speedometer. The left gauge changes graphic information depending on what driving mode is selected. The GS 450h's simplistic hybrid graphics are not as detailed, animated or potentially distracting as in the Toyota Prius. The entire dash, including glove box, gets ensconced in soft-touch materials. Lexus sedans feature some of the most subtle, yet supportive front bucket seats. A welcome sight among the high tech is a distinguished analog clock smack dab in the dash's center. Push-button start is standard and the heated steering wheel includes light brown bamboo wood-like trim.
The trunk region is reconfigured to better handle baggage in 2013. A stacked hybrid battery configuration allows the GS 450h more room (13.2 cubic feet) cargo room than the previous third-gas-exclusive generation GS 350. While not huge by conventional sedans, for hybrids that stow battery packs between the back seat and trunk, the usable cargo room is impressive.
Despite the rear-drive transaxle hump running vertically down the floor's center, three adults can fit comfortably in row two, aided by doors that swing out far enough to provide amble leg entry room. A goodly number air bags are on board (a total of 10) including knee airbags for both front riders. The fuel tank holds a relatively healthy 17.4 gallons of recommended premium unleaded fuel.
The interior remains whisper quiet (even when the gas engine kicks in) and the smooth, butter-like shifting of the CVT provides a smooth experience from zero to 60 miles per hour when punching the accelerator aided by enhanced lower torque output from the electric motor. Even in Eco mode, the ride is smooth as glass.
This fourth-generation GS continues with a conservative, shapely exterior while conveying an essence of posh elegance. The new face of Lexus is front and center, a narrow, trapezoidal grille with center "L" logo. Concealed tail pipes facilitate a smooth, clean exterior. Also in back; can't-miss, jewel-like L-shaped tail lights. Unlike the Toyota Prius which can sometimes be thought of as a rolling billboard for gas-electric hybrids, the GS 450h takes a subtle approach. The blue-hued Lexus "L" trunk logo is one gentle indicator of hybrid technology, along with small 'hybrid' wording at the bottom of rear doors.
At a Glance
2013 GS 450h
Price as tested: $68,139
Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
Overall Length: 190.7 inches
Overall Width: 72.4 inches
Total system horsepower: 338
Fuel Economy: 29 mpg city/ 34 mpg highway
Curb weight: 4,190 pounds
Hybrid related component warranty: Eight years
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