Local News: Lexus Unveils New Beauties

Building on the excitement of the fourth-generation GS, Lexus introduces the GS Hybrid and GS 350 F Sport package to provide customers a new and exciting blend of performance and precision. The full GS lineup, including GS 350, GS Hybrid and F Sport will be available in Singapore from early 2012.

The GS Hybrid incorporates improvements to its full hybrid powertrain and is equipped with a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system, where engineers have aimed for significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, while providing an exhilarating performance.

With a total system power output of 338 hp, the GS 450h will accelerate effortlessly from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Conversely, fuel consumption is expected to be improved by more than 30 percent. The GS 450h is targeting certification as a Super-Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II (SULEV II). The new GS hybrid also features a Drive Mode selector. In addition to the Normal mode, the driver can customize the driving experience using Eco, Sport S, Sport S+ and EV modes.

Adapted specifically for the full hybrid powertrain and a first for premium performance sedans, the second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system adopts a 3.5-litre V6, DOHC engine that benefits from several technical improvements including the adoption of the Atkinson Cycle engine designed to optimize the fuel-efficient benefits of Lexus Hybrid Drive.

In addition, the battery layout has been redesigned to maximise luggage space, allowing the 2012 GS 450h to have much more cargo area than the previous generation GS 300 and GS Hybrid. This allows the luggage space to fit up to four golf bags.

For the GS 350 F Sport, it was designed to engage driving enthusiasts with the ability to take performance to an entirely new level. This will offer our customers a more agile drive and a sportier appearance for the new 2012 model.

As with the GS 350, the GS 350 with F Sport package is powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V6, with four cams, and four valves per cylinder and dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence. At 306 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful base engines in the segment, as well as the only one with both port and direct injection. It propels the car from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and at the same time, fuel economy has been improved.

The GS 350 with F Sport package will offer the newly developed Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) for those seeking more agility. This leading edge platform technology offers Lexus’ first integration of DRS; Electric Power Steering (EPS); and Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS). Monitoring vehicle speed, steering direction and driver inputs, the system calculates the optimum angle for all four wheels. LDH helps to optimize the vehicle slip angle. Using VGRS in the front and DRS in the rear, the system can independently manage both front and rear wheel steering angles to help improve turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle control and overall agility when cornering.

The latest generation of Lexus’ unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system coordinates Lexus Dynamic Handling; the Anti-lock Braking System; Traction Control; Vehicle Stability Control; and Adaptive Variable Suspension. Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) helps front and rear wheel control and provides agile, sharp and confident driving behaviour with a more direct response to the driver’s actions. The LDH system monitors vehicle speed and yaw rate, steering angle and speed, as well as lateral G to calculate the required rear wheel steering input, to a maximum DRS angle of 2.0 degrees. At most speeds below 50 mph the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions. In certain conditions at speeds over 50 mph, the front and rear wheels turn in the same direction.

Further coordinating DRS with VGRS and AVS, the Lexus Dynamic Handling system will automatically customize the adaptive suspension tuning and active safety systems to suit road conditions, vehicle speed and driving style, giving drivers the confidence to fully utilize the exceptional driving performance of the GS with the F Sport package.

Credits: wilswong