Overview & Reviews

Hybrid engine technology that combines both fuel and electric power is typically used to improve a vehicle's fuel economy. However, the Lexus GS 450h proves that it doesn't have to be used exclusively for that purpose, as its hybrid powertrain is also utilized to provide enhanced performance.

As the first hybrid model introduced to the North American market that didn't have maximum fuel economy as a primary goal, the previous-generation GS 450h sport sedan delivered the power of a V8 with the fuel consumption of a V6. The current car carries on that tradition, but ups the ante with more engaging driving dynamics and substantially better fuel economy. We're still not sure how many people are really interested in such performance hybrids, but the GS 450h is at least a worthy choice for those who do.

Current Lexus GS 450h
The current-generation Lexus GS 450h debuted in the 2013 model year. Compared to the car it replaced, it is slightly wider and taller, much stiffer and has vastly improved steering feel, making for a midsize luxury sedan better able to compete against its German rivals. The design is a little more dynamic inside and out, while Lexus' latest electronics features have been fitted. Perhaps most importantly, fuel economy is substantially better, yet performance remains strong.

The GS 450h's gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain consists of a 3.5-liter V6 and a pair of electric motors. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Total output stands at 338 horsepower, which Lexus says is good enough to bring the GS 450h from zero to 60 in 5.6 seconds. That's roughly what you can expect from a V8-powered midsize luxury model, and none of them can boast 31 mpg combined. That obviously isn't Prius territory, but it's nevertheless excellent for this type of car -- especially one with this much power.

Standard features are generous, as the GS 450h offers the full gamut of luxury, convenience, entertainment and technology features typically available at this price point. Feature highlights include an adaptive suspension, leather upholstery, ventilated and heated front seats, a power-closing trunk, a superb Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system, navigation system, a Siri-based control system for iPhone users and a blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert system.

In reviews, we've found the latest GS 450h to be surprisingly rewarding to drive. It dispenses with the soft, undulating motions of past Lexus sedans and instead stays planted on the road and boasts an alert feeling. Nevertheless, the GS is still plenty comfortable for those who couldn't care less about the above.

It's a safe bet that everyone cares about the Lexus reputation for quality interiors and construction. The GS doesn't disappoint here either, even if this latest iteration is a visual departure from its predecessors. Space is what you'd expect from this class of luxury sedan, with abundant room for four passengers and just enough for five. Technology is also a strong point here, with many features controlled by the mouselike Remote Touch multimedia controller.

In total, the Lexus GS 450h is highly desirable for its ability to be swift one second and thrifty the next. Infiniti's M35h does a similar trick, however, and we recommend checking it out as well. Nevertheless, both of these come with a price premium that's hard to justify if you're only interested in fuel savings. The allure of performance should matter as well.

Used Lexus GS 450h Models
The current GS 450h represents the second-generation model that debuted in 2013. For that year, a night vision camera warning system was available as an option, but later discontinued. Improvements for the following year included an upgraded full-color head-up display, Siri Eyes Free iPhone control and a rear cross traffic alert system.

The previous, first-generation Lexus GS 450h was produced from 2007 through 2011. Changes were minimal in that time, though buyers should note that the trunk was smaller in the first two model years (8 cubic feet) compared to the later ones (11).

Like its successor, this GS 450h was powered by a gas-electric hybrid system, which combined a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a high-output electric motor. This supplemented the gas engine with low-end torque during starts and offered additional power under heavy acceleration. Together, the hybrid system put out a total of 340 hp while returning a somewhat unremarkable 23 mpg combined. The only transmission was an electronically controlled CVT.

In terms of equipment, the Lexus GS 450h was pretty much the top-of-the-line GS. Dual front knee airbags, rear seat side airbags, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, a sunroof and a 10-speaker audio system were just some of the sedan's extensive standard features. Starting in 2010, Lexus also upgraded the car's navigation system and added new features like an iPod interface and Bluetooth streaming audio.

Buyers will also want to note if a used GS 450h includes any of the myriad optional high-tech luxury features, including adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision safety system, a voice-activated navigation system and a 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

Not surprisingly, the GS 450h's cabin was decked out in high-quality wood and leather trim, while craftsmanship was quite strong. However, one surprise inside the cabin was the relatively limited amount of headroom. While it might have been fine for most of the population, tall drivers may find things a little cramped inside. And due to the bulk of the electric motor's battery pack, there was noticeably less trunk space in the GS 450h than in regular GS series sedans.

In road tests, our editors found this Lexus GS 450h to be remarkably fast and powerful. Zero to 60 mph took just 5.5 seconds. Given that performance, its fuel economy is impressive, but compared to other hybrids of the time it was decidedly unimpressive. It just depends on your expectations. This 450h also handled surprisingly well thanks to adaptive suspension dampers and an optional active stabilizer that added even more control to the sedan's already well-balanced handling characteristics.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 35.00

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  What an awesome car - 2007 Lexus GS 450h
  By supercooper - April 26 - 3:06 am

  I just drove my car home last night and still have to set up all the bells and whistles, but what a lot of fun just driving has been for 24 hrs. This car is smoking fast and the power is so smooth and linear - it just keeps pulling until you are well over 100.

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  One year and still in love - 2009 Lexus GS 450h
  By jimi - December 20 - 12:16 pm

  Awesome passing power, with or without the power setting. I prefer the sport suspension even in everyday driving because I live in an area with a lot of tight turns. Good braking system allows for quick, controlled stops. The interior is comfortable and full of amenities. The Mark Levinson sound system is worth the added cost. Everyone complains about the small trunk and so do I. But at the end of the day Im willing to sacrifice the trunk space for the performance. Its not cheap but relative to its competition, namely the BMW 550i and the MB E550, it is a bargin plus it has better reliability, overall performance numbers and mpg. New or used it is a great car to own.

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  Quiet, reliable, satisfying power - 2007 Lexus GS 450h
  By otis - October 3 - 4:46 am

  This car blew my mind. I have never accelerated so fast from 70mph and in such comfort and tactile excellence. 24 mpg is great with this level of performance. Navigation is intuitive and easy to talk to. The music system sounds like Im in a concert hall. I love this car.

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  I found the perfect car - 2007 Lexus GS 450h
  By Deej - September 11 - 4:56 pm

  My wife and I decided to go from 3 cars to 2, so we traded in a 2001 Accord EX V6 and a 2003 BMW M3 for the GS 450h. We ended up with a car that carries people better than the Accord, performs better than the M3 (really), and gets better gas mileage than either (we get between 26 and 27 mpg). If you drive it like a high-powered sports car, it will perform like same - right down to gas mileage in the teens. If you drive it like a sedan, it will give you all that plus another 5 mpg. Visibility is excellent. Controls are perfect. Everybody can find a comfortable seating position.

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  Lexus GS 450h - Nice but not great - 2007 Lexus GS 450h
  By Andy Kimball - May 14 - 10:16 am

  I received one of the first Lexus GS 450h hybrid sedans. I had been driving an LS model. The GS definitely feels like a step down in luxury. I have been getting a disappointing 20-21 miles per gallon. The interior feels cramped compared to the LS. However, the GS hybrid has plenty of power and is fun to drive. I would think twice before spending the extra money to get the hybrid model of this car.

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  Beware of MPG Claims on the GS450h - 2013 Lexus GS 450h
  By gilnarro - April 1 - 3:34 am

  In most respects, the GS450h is an excellent car. It inspires confidence and drives fine. But, there are two features that are unacceptable to this buyer: 1) Unless you purchase the Luxury pkg., you cant get the LED headlamps w/AFS. The regular bi-Xenon headlamps provide minimal illumination and are worse than any weve ever had on our Lexus autos; 2) Lexus claims that this car gets 34MPG average. While brand new, it only got 30.4 MPG. With less than 9K miles on it, this winter, weve gotten 29.2 MPG!. Im on top of air pressure and I dont gun the car. So, its not me; its the car and Lexuss misleading claims.

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  Certified GS450h - 2007 Lexus GS 450h
  By winks - August 4 - 9:03 am

  I recently purchased a certified GS450h. It is in excellent condition and having the 161 pt check done gives me peace of mind. I am blown away with how fast it is. A friend with a Porsche drove it and said it is much quicker off the line. The lines are great and I love the the design hasnt changed, so you cant tell that it isnt brand new. Got to love the Lexus Experience.

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  Great ride - 2007 Lexus GS 450h
  By Dan - May 26 - 7:53 pm

  Wonderful car overall. I had owned an Acura RL and BMW 5 series prior to purchasing the Hybrid GS450 only about 4 weeks ago. Downsides are small trunk space and less than predicted fuel economy (so far, only one tank and I got 22 MPG...the vehicle rating claims are 24-28 MPG). I find the car to be a great combination of comfort and performance.

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  Fast and Fun Car to Drive - 2008 Lexus GS 450h
  By Agata Zelman - May 19 - 5:56 am

  Excellent quality, comfort, great performance car as compared to a BMW, Audi or Volvo. This is my second GS, but first hybrid and I love it.

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  You can almost have it all - 2007 Lexus GS 450h
  By bhamer - May 15 - 11:50 pm

  What I wanted: reliability, green car, sporty handling and acceleration, ability to fit five passengers, ultimate comfort, 4 wheel drive. What I got: everything but 4 wheel drive. What an amazing car. Dont be fooled by the similar appearance to other GS versions. I test drove the standard gas version of this car and found it lackluster, noisy and boring. This car is totally different. It is the fastest and most powerful in the GS line up and has remarkable acceleration. It gets around 27 mpg in non performance mode too. Its an amazing blend of comfort and technology.