2007 Lexus GS 350

For 2007, the Lexus GS line-up has some major changes: while the 430 remains the same, the 300 gains a new 3.5-litre V6 and becomes the 350, while a new model debuts, the 450h hybrid version.

The GS 350 is available in rear- or all-wheel drive, while the 430 and 450h are rear-wheel drive. The GS 350 uses a 3.5-litre V6, the 430 a 4.3-litre V8, both with six-speed automatic transmission; the 450h uses the 3.5-litre V6 with Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) high-torque electric motor, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Lexus says it is the first luxury hybrid sedan, and the world’s first full hybrid with front engine and rear-wheel drive.

Features on the GS 350 include 17-inch alloy wheels, electric power steering, power tilt and telescopic wheel with memory, heated leather seats with memory, satellite-ready CD/cassette with ten speakers, Smart Key system with pushbutton start, Bluetooth hands-free telephone capability, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated power-folding auto-dimming mirrors, walnut wood trim, premium illuminated entry system, water-repellent door glass, auto-levelling high intensity discharge headlamps with washers, fog lamps, and driver and passenger knee airbags.

The GS 430 adds 18-inch alloy wheels, variable gear ration electric steering, larger-diameter front brake rotors, heated seats with ventilation fan, wood and leather steering wheel, power sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, and power rear sunshade.

Features on the GS 450h include 18-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires, automatic temperature control with automatic recirculation control, power tilt and telescopic wood steering wheel with memory, Mark Levinson CD/DVD/cassette/MP3 stereo with 14 speakers, Bluetooth hands-free telephone compatibility, ten-way power heated leather seats with ventilation fan, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, auto-levelling high intensity discharge headlamps with washers, fog lamps, power rear sunshade, and DVD-based navigation system with backup camera.

The GS combines sports sedan performance with luxury amenities: it’s a pleasure to drive, whether in V6 or V8 configuration, and the six-speed transmission is well-matched to both engines. The new hybrid model offers the acceleration and performance of a V8, but with fuel economy better than that of most V6 models, and with a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) emissions rating.