2011 Lexus IS250

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Lexus IS250
The 2011 Lexus IS 250 looks the part of a sport sedan, and this year's minor face-lift adds to its athletic appearance. The new oblique front fascia strakes and optional LED daytime running lights definitely increase the sense of visual aggression. But are appearances enough, or is the IS 250 a weakling in a letterman's jacket? With only a 2.5-liter V6, the IS 250 is a bit like a bench warmer on the junior varsity team. But hey, it still gets to wear the jacket, right?

Beneath its edgy exterior, the IS 250 is as refined as your typical Lexus. Comfort and luxury take priority over performance, and the car gets your attention with a top-notch cabin and solid workmanship. On the highway, the IS 250 is nearly silent in its operation and isolates occupants from the harsh outside world.

This focus on comfort comes at the expense of athleticism, however. When you're trying to have fun, there's plenty of body roll, and the lifeless steering does little to encourage exuberance. This is further compounded by a 204-horsepower 2.5-liter V6 that achieves good fuel economy but lacks the oomph to stir the soul.

In its defense, Lexus IS 250 does offer some performance upgrades through the new F Sport package and dealer-installed accessories. Then again, if buyers really are that interested in a sportier Lexus IS, they can always upgrade to the more powerful IS 350 or raucous IS F. Unfortunately, all of these IS variants suffer from a lack of interior space. A cramped backseat and limited headroom might deter those who frequently shuttle multiple passengers.

On either side of the comfort/performance scale, the 2011 Lexus IS 250 remains a second-stringer among star athletes. Buyers who lean toward comfort will find similar luxury and more space in alternatives that include the Acura TL, Audi A4, Cadillac CTS, Mercedes C-Class and Volkswagen CC. And if you want real performance to go along with sporty appearances, we suggest checking out the BMW 3 Series or Infiniti G Sedan.

INTERIORAn optional Luxury Plus Package includes wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats, plus three-position memory for seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column and auto-dimming outside mirrors.

Like all Lexus models, the IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is available in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback with 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation system’s color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.

The Lexus IS also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®, available by subscription.  Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features.  Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system.  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 with an XM radio subscription. All XM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions.

The IS models’ luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird’s-eye Maple trim, contribute to an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.

The multi-information display located within the speedometer integrates a trip computer and an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location. When equipped with the available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers.

EXTERIOR
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and “air kick” tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).

A highly rigid body structure is the starting point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals, acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there.

ENGINE
Powering the 2011 IS 250 is a 204-horsepower, 2.5-liter V-6 engine, which is mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.  This all-aluminum engine features direct injection and variable valve timing for maximum performance and efficiency. Fuel economy ranges from 19-21 mpg in the city and 27-30 mpg on the highway.  The IS 250 is available in a coupe/convertible model (IS 250C) and a more-powerful version (IS 350), and competition includes the Mercedes-Benz C300, Audi A4 2.0T and BMW 328.

SAFETY
Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and Safety Connect. The latter is a traditional telematics service with automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator and emergency assistance button.

In Edmunds brake testing, an IS 250 with 18-inch wheels and all-season tires came to a stop from 60 mph in a short 113 feet.

In government crash testing, the IS 250 managed four stars (out of a possible five) in frontal impacts for the driver and front passenger as well as side impacts for rear passengers. Driver side-impact protection garnered it five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the IS 250 a perfect "Good" rating for its performance in both frontal-offset and side-impact tests.
reference:www.edmunds.com,www.autoguide.com,www.newcars.com

2011 Lexus HS250h

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Lexus HS250h\
When it comes to hybrid vehicles, there are luxury cars and SUVs that are eco-friendly in name only. And then there are some that truly deliver admirable fuel economy numbers. The 2011 Lexus HS 250h falls into the latter group even as it delivers all of the luxury trappings you'd expect from a Lexus -- a unique combination when you think about it.

Despite first impressions, the HS 250h is not a rebadged Toyota Prius. Instead, it features a unique chassis that is bigger than a Corolla's but smaller than a Camry's. The Lexus does, however, borrow its powertrain from the Camry Hybrid, which gives the HS significantly better performance than a Prius. As far as fuel-conscious hybrids go, the Lexus HS 250h is quick, accelerating from zero to 60 mph in only 8.7 seconds. Fuel economy suffers as a result, with an EPA-estimated 35 mpg that falls well short of the 50 mpg delivered by the Prius.

Inside the cabin, the 2011 HS 250h is loaded with plenty of luxury features, surrounding passengers with the fine leather surfaces and wood trim that you'd expect in any Lexus. Buyers should know, though, that tacking on options will make the final price climb fairly quickly.

Eco-friendly entry-level luxury sedans haven't hit showrooms in large numbers quite yet, leaving the 2011 Lexus HS 250h little in the way of competition. The forthcoming Lexus CT 200h will be a hybrid of a luxury car and a hatchback. as it will be a hybrid in powertrain performance. Since it shares its drivetrain with the Prius, it is slower but more economical than the HS 250h. The less expensive Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a compelling alternative with better fuel economy, a roomier interior and higher levels of standard equipment. A lack of brand cachet and a less

INTERIOR
The HS 250h interior was designed to communicate the high level of innovation inherent in the car with the craftsmanship expected from Lexus products. The center stack sweeps rearward to the Remote Touch which naturally meets the driver’s hand atop a “floating” form over the center console. Switches and displays are neatly arranged for ease of operation and free of visual complexity, courtesy of Remote Touch.

Standard leather-trimmed and special soft touch stitched details on the center stack and instrument hood provide an extra premium touch in the cabin. Interior trim colors include Black leather, Light Gray leather, Parchment leather, and for the optional Touring Package, a distinctive Black/Light Gray two-tone leather trim. A high-finish dark gray trim is featured on the standard model while the Premium model has brown walnut wood trim.

Front door trim that mirrors the shape of the center stack and armrest provide a comfortable symmetry. The steering wheel center pad appears to float on the wheel, surrounded by control switches that mimic the design and color of those on the center stack.

A tall profile and more forward A-pillar location allows for a higher seating position for both front and rear passengers, improved passenger vision, easier egress/ingress, and a better location for the batteries. The battery components, including the high-voltage battery pack, auxiliary battery and battery-connected devices, were carefully packaged to take advantage of this layout, resulting in a spacious cabin and surprisingly large trunk space.

Underlying the HS 250h’s forward-thinking interior design is the implementation of bioplastic material. Known more formally as ecological plastic, the bioplastic uses plant sources as raw material and is used for parts of the interior upholstery in the HS 250h.

Ecological plastics are used in a number of injection-molded, foam and board components throughout the car, including trunk compartment trim, cowl side trim, door scuff plates, seat cushions and the package tray. Overall, approximately 30 percent of the combined interior and trunk are covered in ecological plastic.

EXTERIOR
Body designers looked to the Lexus L-Finesse design language to create a new shape for their first dedicated hybrid. The silhouette displays a smoothly flowing line from front to rear; the C-pillar has a unique arrowhead shape; the grille is set low in the front with no openings to facilitate smooth airflow over the hood; there is an air inlet directly below the grille to cool the hybrid system and a larger one lower in the fascia to cool the engine and radiator. The standard projector-beam headlamps provide a focused look, while innovative, efficient LED headlamps are available. LED taillamps with a clear blue-accented frame intentionally signal “hybrid.”

Striving to create a sleek and aerodynamic shape with a roomy cabin while containing the physical footprint of the car and packaging the hybrid system components, HS 250h designers had their work cut out for them. To accomplish their goals, they used a somewhat taller profile and more forward A-pillar location than used in conventional sedans.

Ambitious goals were set requiring designers to work closely with aerodynamicists from the outset to create a low-drag form in an attractive, spacious, yet compact package. Their work yielded a coefficient of drag (Cd) among the best, 0.27, which makes a considerable contribution to fuel economy, especially at highway speeds.

The low nose encourages airflow while also helping enhance vehicle dynamics. Smooth transitions along the front fender and A-pillars avoid disturbance of the airflow. Subtle front- and rear-bumper spoilers and an available rear-lip spoiler contribute to low drag and minimize lift. The body sides taper from the center pillar to the rear where they meet the slightly kicked-out tail lamps, helping reduce drag-inducing wake turbulence.

Several measures were also taken under the car to promote airflow and reduce drag. Airflow resistance in the engine compartment was improved by optimizing the duct profiles around the radiator. Careful positioning of numerous underfloor covers plus added diffuser fins on the rear covers further reduce drag while enhancing straight-line control.

ENGINE

The 2011 Lexus HS 250h is powered by a combination of a 2.4-liter inline-4 that works in tandem with a pair of electric motor/generators. Combined output results in 187 horsepower that is sent to the front wheels via a specialized continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). In Edmunds performance testing, an HS 250h accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds, which is quick for a hybrid. Fuel economy checks in at 35 mpg city/34 mpg highway and 35 mpg combined, which is about average for a midsize hybrid sedan.

The engine runs the efficient Atkinson cycle, which Lexus' other hybrids do not, resulting in disproportionately higher mileage — about 30 percent better than the most efficient Lexus model on regular gasoline. An exhaust-heat recovery system gets the engine warmed up quickly so it can turn off and switch to electric-only operation earlier. The feature should also help decrease engine-on time in colder temperatures, saving fuel. Mechanical features include:

    *Front-wheel drive
    *2.4-liter four-cylinder teams with an electric motor for a total of 187 horsepower

SAFETY
The HS 250h comes standard with antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control, side curtain airbags, front-and-rear seat-mounted side airbags and dual front knee airbags.

Included with the optional adaptive cruise control is the Lexus Pre-Collision system, which can pre-tension the front seatbelts and activate brake assist immediately when the driver presses the brake pedal if an impending collision is detected. The optional Technology package includes the Pre-Collision system as well as lane-departure warning and driver-attention monitors.

The 2011 Lexus HS 250h has not been rated using the government's new, more strenuous 2011 crash testing procedures. Its 2010 ratings (which aren't comparable to 2011 tests) resulted in a perfect five out of five stars in frontal and side impact protection for all passengers. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the HS 250h its highest rating of "Good" for frontal offset and side impact protection and a second-best "Acceptable" for roof-strength integrity.
 reference:www.cars.com,www.autospectator.com,www.edmunds.com
Safety features include:

    *10 airbags standard
    *Standard active front-seat head restraints
    *Standard antilock brakes
    *Standard electronic stability system
    *Optional lane departure warning system
    *Optional adaptive cruise control

2011 Lexus GX 460

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Lexus GX 460
Based heavily on the smaller of Toyota's two world market Land Cruisers, the latest Lexus GX 460 has arrived to replace the outgoing GX 470. The GX 460 is Lexus' answer for those seeking a luxury SUV that can still truly perform off-road when necessary.

Significantly upgraded from its predecessor, including a lower displacement but more powerful V8, the GX 460 slots in above the RX 350 but below the hulking LX 570.

Building a luxury SUV with considerable off-road chops has to be an automotive engineer's nightmare assignment. You're tasked with crafting metal, fluids, wires and hoses into something soft and pliable on-road, but unbreakable in the wild. The 2011 Lexus GX 460 is one of a handful of vehicles that excel within that considerable compromise. Like Land Rover vehicles, the Lexus benefits from proven existing DNA, notably the Toyota Land Cruiser, FJ and 4Runner legacies.

Beneath its luxury veneer, the GX 460 is still a top-class off-road truck, which is either an asset or a liability depending on your wants. Lexus engineers have taken great pains to soften the ride quality on pavement. Large adaptive stabilizer bars help minimize body roll when rounding corners and can be disengaged off-road to allow maximum suspension travel. Likewise, an adaptive suspension features three driver-selectable modes of suspension firmness.

INTERIOR
Inside, the GX 460 ups the previous model's luxury content by a nine-speaker, 6-CD audio system with Bluetooth and iPod integration, available heated and cooled seats, power-folding third row seats and an optional rear seat entertainment system with dual monitors. A 17-speaker premium system is on the options list.


The interior of the GX 460 is upscale and assembled with precision, though the overall opulence factor isn't quite as high as we've come to expect from other Lexus vehicles. The lengthy features list translates into a somewhat busy-looking control panel, but these controls are easy to use, thanks to intuitive placement. The gauges are easily read, as is the optional navigation system.

The 60/40-split-folding rear seats and power-folding third-row seats help add convenience for most everyday suburban affairs, though we've found the second-row seats are hard, flat and not particularly comfortable. Cargo space with both rear rows lowered measures a useful 92 cubic feet. Rather than having a typical liftgate, the GX 460 comes with a swinging rear cargo door hinged on the passenger side. The design complicates curbside loading, though a flip-up rear window allows for stowing of smaller and lighter packages. The GX adds more rear passenger space for the new model, but the cargo bay shrinks by 13 cubic feet.

Seven-passenger seating in three rows is standard. The second-row bench seat can slide forward and backward for optimal legroom, and the seat's backrest also reclines. When more cargo room is needed, the standard power-folding third row folds flat with the floor. There are a few minor interior trim changes for 2011.

The cabin features a symmetrical dashboard design with a large center control panel finished in silver-colored trim. Interior features include:

    *Standard leather seat trim
    *Standard heated and ventilated power front seats
    *Standard moonroof
    *Optional navigation system
    *Optional Mark Levinson audio system
    *Optional backseat entertainment system

EXTERIOR
The GX 460 Premium adds adaptive variable suspension (with rear adjustable height control), additional chrome trim, auto-dimming sideview mirrors, adaptive xenon headlights, upgraded leather upholstery, a heated wood-trimmed steering wheel, heated second-row seats and rear air-conditioning.

The GX 460 has a tall stance. The GX has smooth body sides accented by large front and rear fender flares, and its face has an uncanny resemblance to Subaru's Outback wagon, thanks to similar headlights. Exterior features include:

    *18-inch wheels standard
    *Rear window can be opened independently of the gate

ENGINE
Significantly upgraded from its predecessor, including a lower displacement but more powerful V8, the GX 460 slots in above the RX 350 but below the hulking LX 570.

As its name implies, the GX 460 uses a 4.6-liter V8 that puts out 301 horsepower (up from 263) and 329 lb-ft. of torque (up from 323 lb-ft.). The sole V8 is mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission and an off road-oriented two-speed four-wheel-drive system.

Fuel economy is up to 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway compared to the outgoing model's rather dismal 14/18.

Although the GX 460 is based on one of the most rugged SUV platforms produced today, its positioning as a Lexus makes it a decidedly luxury-oriented SUV. Standard 18 inch wheels (up from 17 inchers) add to its on-road presence, as do standard illuminated running boards and a Lexus family waterfall-like horizontal grille.

SAFETY

The 2011 Lexus GX 460 comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, hill descent control, hill start assist, front- and rear-seat side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags and roll-sensing side curtain airbags spanning all three rows. A collision mitigation system is included with the optional adaptive cruise control, and lane departure and distracted driver alerts are also optional features.

In brake testing, the GX 460 slowed from 60 mph to zero in 127 feet, average for its class.

Driving Impressions

Because the 2011 Lexus GX 460 carries on as a body-on-frame SUV, it drives more like a truck than car-based crossovers. Still, the GX manages to impress with a refined, smooth ride and respectable handling. Those who take their corners with spirit will notice ample body roll and intervention from the stability control system.

The Premium trim's adaptive variable suspension and rear adjustable height control enhance versatility and convenience by allowing the driver to select a stiffer or softer suspension tuning for various conditions. These features also adjust the rear height by more than an inch for added off-road ground clearance for easier cargo loading.

Acceleration from the V8 is fine around town, but with about 5,300 pounds to lug around, the GX 460 can feel winded during highway passing maneuvers. The transmission shifts smoothly, though it can occasionally be hesitant to downshift.
reference:www.leftlanenews.com,www.cars.com,www.edmunds.com

2011 Lexus GS 460

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Lexus GS460
On its own merits, the 2011 Lexus GS 460 is a fine choice as a luxury sport sedan. It delivers performance, prestige, comfort and plenty of upmarket features to please some of the most discerning of shoppers. Pit the GS 460 against some of the competitors from Europe, however, and its appeal fades as those sedans seem to do most things just a little bit better.

The GS 460's drawbacks, as minor as they are, include a bit less headroom and a less responsive suspension. For average-sized drivers with little desire for athletic handling, these faults are easily forgiven, since the Lexus excels in nearly every other category. The quiet and calm cabin delivers segment-leading comfort while enveloping occupants in top-notch materials and expert craftsmanship.

The 4.6-liter V8 produces an ample 342 horsepower to give the GS 460 relatively swift acceleration, which should satisfy the vast majority of luxury sedan buyers. It is worth noting, though, that it is down on power when compared to other V8-powered luxury sedans. There is also a V6-powered GS 350 for drivers with a smaller appetite for performance, and a more fuel-efficient GS 460h hybrid -- both of which are covered in separate reviews. Regardless of which GS model you may be interested in, you can expect an abundance of standard features and state-of-the-art safety systems.

Among the GS 460's competitors, the biggest threat comes from Germany. The BMW 5 Series offers more space and higher performance. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is hard to beat in terms of style and prestige, while the Audi A6 presents a well-rounded and understated alternative. Luxury sedans hailing from Asia are also worth a look, with the Hyundai Genesis representing a relative bargain, as does the Infiniti M56 with its focus on performance. Even though the 2011 Lexus GS 460 may not be a front-runner in this segment, its reputation for reliability and quality should not be overlooked.

INTERIOR
The standard Regency leather-trimmed, heated, 10-way power front seats (perforated leather trim on GS 460) are comfortably contoured for support on long trips. Ventilated front seats are standard for the GS 460 and available for the GS 350. A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters the air. An optional rear power sunshade may add to passenger comfort on warm days.

All four windows offer one-touch up-and-down operation designed to stop closing during auto-close operation if they sense an object blocking their path. Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down to aid in parking when reverse gear is selected. A power trunk closer provides an added convenience on this extremely well-equipped car. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.

The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, iPod/USB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone and music streaming, and integrated XM Radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription). The system plays through 10 premium speakers while an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds. When connected to the USB port, the iPod can be controlled through the audio system or steering wheel controls, while information such as names for the artist, track and album is displayed.

EXTERIOR
Ultra-premium wood, polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the GS interior with a lavish yet high-precision feel. Touch points convey quality and controls that respond fluidly. The customer can choose from among three interior leather color combinations: Light Gray leather with Dark Gray Bird's-eye maple wood trim, Parchment leather with Golden Bird's-eye Maple wood trim, or Black leather with Red Walnut wood trim. Each combination includes a matching wood and leather-trim steering wheel and shift knob that is standard on GS 460 and optional on GS 350.

ENGINE
 The Lexus GS460 shares the same platform and body as its less spirited GS350 sister car, but features an all-aluminum 4.6-liter V8 that makes it a much more spirited vehicle to drive.

The defining factor of the GS 460, the 4.6-liter V8 after which it is aptly named, utilizes the Lexus interpretation of variable valve timing with intelligence and electronic intake valve timing (or VVT-iE in short, as per Lexus) and is good for 342 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, an increase of 52 over the 4.3, and 339 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm, a bump of just 20.

This beefy new V8 propels the GS460 sedan from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, compared to 5.7 seconds for the V6 powered GS350 FWD counterpart.

The new all-aluminum V8 engine qualifies the GS460 as an EPA approved Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle, ULEV II standard.

As for fuel economy, the EPA rates the GS460 at 17 mpg in the city cycle, along with 24 mpg on the highway. A class-exclusive and leading eight-speed automatic is the only available transmission, driving the rear wheels.

SAFETY
The Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), standard on the GS 460 and optional for the GS 350, helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. A tire pressure monitor system can detect a critical loss in pressure in one or more tires and alert the driver. The available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers and alerts the driver accordingly. A steering-input sensor helps to better judge changes in distance to objects.

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the GS sedans includes variable-force front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. The GS features standard seat-mounted side airbags for the front seats, knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front and rear side-curtain airbags. In addition, the GS has active front headrests to help enhance driver and front passenger safety.

The rear back-up camera, included with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse gear.

The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) in the GS models can help mitigate the effects of an accident. A millimeter-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. On models equipped with AVS, PCS switches the suspension setting 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.
reference:www.edmunds.com/,www.leftlanenews.com,www.autospectator.com

2011 Lexus GS 450H

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Lexus GS450H
2011 Lexus GS450H – Since its initial release back in 2006, the GS450h has recently received several updates including exclusive grille, clear tail lamp covers, and 18-inch wheels to differentiate it from its tight gas-powered GS-mate. The Lexus GS 450h has a short history, but proud because it holds the title of the first mass-production rear-wheel hybrid luxury car. Fuel economy rated at 22 mpg in the city cycle, with a hybrid return 25 mpg on the highway, as predicted by the EPA. The, conventional gas re-GS350 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, respectively, so that the GS450h hybrids suffer from the additional weight of the hybrid drive system on the open road.

Combining hybrid technology and fuel efficiency with supreme power output and high-end luxury is a rare feat.  That being said, it has been done and done extremely well with the 2011 Lexus GS 450h luxury hybrid sedan.

INTERIOR

Sitting on 18-inch wheels and featuring a moonroof, high-intensity-discharge headlights and rain-sensing windshield wipers, the GS 450h is identical to the GS 460.  Interior amenities for the 2011 Lexus GS 450h include perforated leather-trimmed power front seats featuring heat and ventilation.  Dazzling wood trim, polished metal and leather are draped around every corner to create a delightful visual experience.  Once you are comfortably situated, reach for the Lexus Premium Audio System with its ten speakers, six-CD changer and USB media device connectivity.  An available 330-watt Mark Levinson Premium Sound System comes with 14 finely calibrated speakers and the seven-inch display screen can display DVD movies when the vehicle is parked.  The Lexus navigation system features casual language voice commands, so you can speak normally and get directions easily.

EXTERIOR
The GS 450h is equipped with 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 with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver.

Apart from the hybrid mechanicals and extra computers, the hybrid GS gets more standard features compared to the GS 350, which is expected considering the hybrid commands a $10,000 premium. Buyers do get standard 18-inch wheels and tires instead of a 17-inch wheel and tire package, active suspension is standard fare also, and not at all available on the 350, a power rear sunshade is standard as are ventilated front seats, and bigger front brakes.

Hybrid buyers also get standard adaptive headlights, high-pressure headlight washers, a back-up camera, parking assist and a rolling code remote as opposed to a rolling code key.

ENGINE
Gas engine by itself rated at 292 hp at 6400 rpm and in 134 kW electric motor. This power flows through Continues Variable Transmission The electronically controlled to the rear wheels. GS 450h is also slightly faster to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, compared with 5.4 seconds of a V8-powered GS 460. Power comes from a combination of sources, including 3.5-liter V6 used in other places in the Lexus range. In this application, powered by an electric motor. Lexus Hybrid powertrain was dubbed Drive and rated 340 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 267 combined lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm.

The 2011 Lexus GS 450h hybrid powertrain delivers 22 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, while achieving the Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II rating from the EPA.  The GS 450h receives comparable fuel economy to the gas-only GS 350 sedan but more exhilarating performance, thanks to its hybrid powertrain.  Drivers can choose between Power, Normal and Snow modes to focus on acceleration, everyday smoothness, or relaxed throttle response for low-traction driving.  The hybrid system can also run in gas-only, electric-only and dual-drive modes.  The Adaptive Variable Suspension system offers Normal and Sports settings for cruise or spirited ride tuning of the shocks.

SAFETY
When it comes to safety, the 2011 Lexus GS 450h hybrid boasts Lexus’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system, which incorporates variable gear ratio steering, antilock brakes, brake-force distribution, brake assist and Vehicle Stability Control helping the GS 450h maintain grip and avoid accidents.  A useful Lexus Enform™ system with Safety Connect™ includes stolen vehicle location and crash notification functions.  The available adaptive cruise control senses possible collisions and alerts the driver.
reference:hybridcarspecs.com,www.newcars.com,www.leftlanenews.com