THE NEW LEXUS GS 450h HIGH-PERFORMANCE LUXURY HYBRID

The GS 450h, which makes its European debut at Frankfurt, is the world's first hybrid luxury sedan and the first hybrid car with a front engine and rear-wheel drive for the optimum in driving dynamics. On sale in spring 2006, it represents an important step forward for technology and driving pleasure – at Lexus the two always go hand in hand.

Until now the perception has been that if a car delivers high performance, it can't provide great fuel economy and low emissions – but Lexus has changed the rules.

Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine married to a sophisticated high-voltage  electric motor with its own generator, the GS 450h has a combined output in excess of 340bhp. As a result, it offers the performance and responsiveness usually associated with a V8, accelerating seamlessly from 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in less than six seconds, while benefiting from the fuel consumption and emissions expected of an average family sedan. The intelligent partnership of petrol and electricity also contributes to new standards of in-gear acceleration. In short, the GS 450h is always there with quiet and calmly delivered high power whenever you need it, whatever the circumstances.

The secret is the hybrid technology's ability to operate consistently at an optimum, either running just the electric motor or the petrol engine, or the most effective combination of the two. It's a system that, combined with the car's uniquely engaging design, luxury and sophisticated technology creates an unprecedented automotive experience.