2009 Lexus GS 350

NEW FOR 2009:

- New GS 460 Premium Package with Navigation

- New wallet-sized Smart Key

Having undergone a makeover in 2008, the Lexus GS line-up is unchanged for 2009, save for a new Premium Package with navigation system on the GS 460, and a wallet-sized Smart Key on models so equipped.

The GS is available as the GS 350, with 3.5-litre V6, six-speed automatic transmission, and in rear- or all-wheel drive; as the GS 460, with 4.6-litre V8, eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive; and as the 450h hybrid, which uses a 3.5-litre V6 and the company's Hybrid Synergy Drive with CVT. Lexus says it is the world's first full hybrid with a front engine and rear-wheel drive.

Features on the GS 350 include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, CD stereo with auxiliary input and wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth connectivity, heated ten-way power leather seats with memory, keyless entry, pushbutton start, auto-dimming rearview mirror, auto up/down on all windows, leather-wrapped steering wheel with power tilt and telescopic adjustment, wood trim, footwell lamps, cruise control, driver and passenger knee airbags, first-aid kit, heated auto-dimming mirrors with integrated turn signals, water-repellent door glass, power sunroof, variable intermittent wipers, windshield de-icer, auto-levelling automatic Xenon headlamps and fog lamps.

The GS 350 AWD adds rain-sensing wipers, adaptive front lighting and headlamp washers.

The GS 460 adds 18-inch alloy wheels, premium leather heated and ventilated seats, wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Smart Key.

The GS 450h is equipped similarly to the GS 460, and adds power rear sunshade.

Combining sports sedan performance with typical Lexus luxury, all of the GS models are a pleasure to drive, especially the 460's larger engine and creamy-smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. The 450h hybrid provides the acceleration and performance of a V8, but with fuel economy that undercuts that of most V6 models, and with an SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) rating.