Lexus premiered today at the 2011 Frankfurt auto show the new generation 2012 GS 450h, which will be sold in the United states as a 2013 model. The 2012 Lexus GS 450h is powered by a hybrid system consisting of an Atkinson cycle 3.5-liter V6 engine and an water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor. The 2012 GS 450h has a total output of 338 hp, which are sent to the rear wheels via a Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT). Lexus says that the new 2012 GS 450h is able to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.6 seconds and that it has an electronically limited top speed of 131 mph.
The exterior design of the 2012 GS 450h is influenced by the L-finesse philosophy, premiered
by Lexus some time ago. The new GS hybrid comes with a three-lamp design, with LED headlights for both the low and high beams, a signature spindle grille, and a new rear which reduces wind resistance. The 2012 Lexus GS 450h now comes with a choice between three new exterior colors: Riviera Red, Meteor Blue Mica and Liquid Platinum.
As the interior, the 2012 Lexus GS 450h features the next generation Remote Touch system, an analog clock with LED indicators, the S-Flow auto climate control and a new steering wheel.
Apart from these obvious changes, Lexus also made other modifications, which are not so visible. For instance, the bodyshell has been re-engineered for the 2012 GS 450h, and the sedan comes with a new suspension, and more powerful brakes. The 2012 GS 450h also features the Active Variable Suspension (AVS) and Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) developed by Lexus.
The 2012 Lexus GS 450h comes as an option with the car manufacturer's Dynamic Handling System, which integrates the AVS, DRS, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and Step 5 of the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management.
All these systems work together for improving the handling characteristics of the car and of course, its safety.
Also for safety purposes, the 2012 Lexus GS 450h can be equipped with Lane-Keep Assist (LKA), a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), the Night View system and a Head-Up Display (HUD).
The 2012 Lexus GS 450h price list will be announced at a later date.
2012 Lexus GS 450h video:
