Lexus GS450h F SPORT: A Pure Bred, Efficient Runner

Lexus launched in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since that time, Lexus has expanded its line-up to meet the needs of global luxury customers. In every vehicle, Lexus incorporates innovative technologies, high-quality designs and luxury materials. With numerous models featuring Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader and is dedicated to developing vehicles that are kinder to the Earth.

Photography by A. Giron

“The hybrid drive system continues to be our core vehicle technology to help reduce CO2 emissions, while providing a pleasurable driving experience.  We have set ambitious environmental goals for 2050, and hybrid popularity worldwide is extremely important if we are to achieve those goals.  Today, Lexus manufactures ten hybrid models, with more on the way.  I’m pleased over 1 million customers worldwide have put their faith into our hybrid line-up,” said Tokuo Fukuichi, president of Lexus International.

Photography by A. Giron

This week at Carsfera.com, we felt like one of those million customers and we had the opportunity to test the 2016 Lexus GS450h F SPORT on the roads of Northern Virginia.

The exterior of our car was aggressive and sporty with a design language that includes its unique front bumper and rear lower valence, mesh front grille inserts and rear lip spoiler with distinctive lights, creating the signature look and feel for the luxury brand.

Photography by A. Giron

Our GS 450h F SPORT combined its hybrid identity with elegant subtlety. In the front, an available three-lamp design combines high and low beam LED lamps and turn signals in a single horizontal row. At the rear, our GS 450h F SPORT share the gas model’s L-shaped LED tail lamps and stabilizing fins in the bumper’s lower section but conceals the tailpipes. Understated blue hybrid badging and 19-inch split five-spoke alloy wheels with dark graphite finish complete the F SPORT’s unique styling.

Photography by A. Giron

The F SPORT tuned version of the standard Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with Sport S+ mode lets the driver sharpen agility by using the Lexus Drive Mode selector. The F SPORT also includes the four-wheel steering control of the Lexus Dynamic Handling System (Variable Gear Ratio Steering plus Dynamic Rear Steering). Appropriate for the car’s sporty mission, larger front brakes with hi-friction pads add extra assurance during performance driving for those who love curvy roads.

Photography by A. Giron

Under the hood, our Lexus was a pure bred horse, with a 3.5-liter 6-cylinder engine sending 338 hp to the rear wheels by way of a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Those numbers come with the help of the GS 450h’s 228-volt nickel-metal hydride battery, which, according to Lexus, not only helps improve fuel economy with EPA estimated 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined fuel economy ratings, but also gives the hybrid powertrain the approximate power of a 4.5-liter V8 engine.

Photography by A. Giron

The interior of our 2016 Lexus GS450 F SPORT delighted us with notes of luxury and an upscale atmosphere marked by its soft perforated leather trimmed seats, which are 10-way power-adjustable for the driver and front passenger, and surprise! — Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, power rear sunshade and a high-intensity interior heater. The rear seats provide also excellent support and generous legroom. A 12.3-inch color touchscreen with navigation, auto-dimming mirrors, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, push-button start/stop, Mark Levinson 15-speaker premium sound system and Lexus’ Enform infotainment system round out a long list of interior features and options.

Photography by A. Giron

Safety matters and our 2016 GS450h F SPORT is a winner: 10 airbags, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management with Vehicle Stability Control, ABS antilock brakes, Backup Camera, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Park Assist, Bi-LED Headlamps with Headlamp Washers, Tire Pressure Monitor and much more…

Photography by A. Giron

Conclusion: the Lexus GS450h F SPORT is an excellent choice for those buyers looking at the hybrid market in search of adventure and a good time behind the wheel.

A. Giron – Owner & CEO at Carsfera.com