2011 Lexus GS 450h Performance

The GS 450h is a hybrid on steroids. The gasoline engine runs in concert with two electric motors which boost the total power to 340 horsepower. The 3.5 liter V6 engine delivers 292 horsepower, so clearly the emphasis is on performance more than fuel economy. The car has a 288-volt nickel metal hydride battery pack along with the gas engine. There is also a 12 volt auxiliary battery to power various systems, like the air conditioning system.

The GS 450h boosts performance while lowering emissions. And to its credit, it meets the California Super Ultra-low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standards for low exhaust emissions. The hybrid power train produces a combined horsepower of 340 , allowing the GS 450h to accelerate effortlessly from 0 - 60 miles per hour in a quick 5.2 seconds. The transmission is a continuously variable transmission that allows the engine to operate at peak efficiency.
To further enhance system efficiency, the GS 450h utilizes the power of regenerative braking to capture excess heat energy from braking and turn it into usable electricity to recharge the car’s batteries.

As is Lexus’ trademark, the cabin is quiet even at high acceleration. The ride is smooth, quiet and ultra-comfortable, as is synonymous with the Lexus brand. Driving the GS 450h gives the feel of powerful acceleration with responsive handling.