2008 Lexus GS 450h Review
The GS is a luxury sedan that debuted in 1993 with the GS 300. The upper-level GS 400 followed in 1998. The second generation debuted in 2001, and the third came in 2006. A hybrid model, the 450h, debuted in 2005, and is designed to be the fastest of the lineup. The GS has won several awards, including J.D Power’s “Highest Ranked Mid Luxury Car,” for 2002-2004, and AAA’s “Best Car $35,000 – $40,000” in 2005.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Lexus GS 450h defies all stereotypes about hybrids with its powerful engine and large size. While the hybrid system incurs some drawbacks, such as decreased passenger and cargo space, it offers strong performance, excellent fit and finish, and superb gas mileage. The 450h is a top-shelf luxury car.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems with the last generation included oil sludge, failing CD players, and failing air conditioners. It was recalled in 1998 due to a defective stability control sensor. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Government crash test scores are not available. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” scores for the front and side, and “Marginal” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, tire pressure monitoring, full side airbags, front knee airbags, adaptive headlights, and stability and traction control. Run-flat tires, and Lexus’ pre-collision radar system are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful
+ Quiet
+ Superb fit and finish
Cons
– Hampered passenger space
– Small trunk
– Powerful engine minimizes hybrid’s effectiveness
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Acura RL includes AWD and navigation, but costs a couple thousand more. The BMW 5 Series 528i includes navigation, but lacks a CD changer, leather, and has 70 less hp. The Volvo S80 costs a couple thousand less and includes AWD, but has 20 less hp, and gets slightly worse gas mileage.
What Others Are Saying:
“The 2007 Lexus GS 450h has a long-winded name, but it is the first rear-drive hybrid gasoline/electric sedan. It’s packed with technology that might play major roles as Toyota and its upscale Lexus division expand hybrid model lines…The GS 450h has high-quality paint and precise body fits. It offers a good blend of power, performance, luxury and environmental efficiency.” – Chicago Sun-Times
“There are a few shortcomings that likely could not have been avoided. The hybrid battery pack reduces the trunk size to a mere eight cubic feet-about half of what you expect in a car this size. And the driveshaft tunnel inside the car, along with the seat design, virtually rules out any space or comfort for a fifth passenger in the middle of the rear seat.” – Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
“Lexus makes much of the performance of the GS450h, and the numbers are indeed impressive. But the car is too computerized to really speak to the enthusiast driver the way, say, the BMW 5-series does. Still, the GS450h is a technological tour de force. We just wonder if its hybrid heart is in the right place.” – Automobile Magazine
Read more about the 2008 Lexus GS 450h at the Lexus manufacturer web site.
