Lexus GS 300h, presentation and test drive in Madrid

When Lexus sent over the first data on the GS 300h, I immediately thought it would be a watered-down entry-level engine compared with the powerful, sporty and high-performance GS 450h (see road test). But sometimes forecasts get it wrong, and after testing the new Lexus GS 300h I am convinced it is a very interesting model for those looking for an alternative to German saloons.

During its presentation in Madrid, we were able to drive it for several kilometres on secondary roads and the motorway towards Guadalajara. The response was very good, both in terms of performance and consumption. It also has another point in its favour: it is available from 45,900 euros with a comprehensive level of equipment.

Elegant exterior design, high-quality interior

We have already talked a lot about the Lexus GS on Highmotor, thanks to the road test we did of the GS 450h, where we looked in depth at its exterior and interior design (see road test). Outside, it is an elegant car; with the F Sport trim it can be made even sportier, and its lines are simple yet striking, with an image of its own within this segment.

Inside, the GS takes care of the driver down to the last detail, with finishes that are simply sublime (especially in the top-of-the-range version), and materials such as leather and wood that fill the cabin. Space is not an issue in the GS either, both at the front thanks to large, comfortable seats, and at the rear, where you travel like a head of state.

Efficient four-cylinder engine and 223 CV

The novelty at the presentation was the new engine in the GS range. Under the 300h designation lies a 2.5-litre petrol engine producing 181 CV. It works alongside an electric motor, and together they deliver a combined output of 223 CV.

During the test we found it is not as refined as the V6, but its operation is more than adequate. Even in terms of performance, it meets the expectations of an average user, and if we need power, pressing the pedal brings a quick response and the car gains speed rapidly.

It offers four driving modes (which modify steering, acceleration, gearbox and suspension): ECO, Normal, Sport and Sport+. In the last mode the suspension firms up and you forget you are driving a large saloon; as soon as the engine climbs through the revs, you can feel its 200 CV and the GS moves with agility.

Despite its dimensions, the GS weighs only 1,730 kg. I say only because it is a hybrid, and hybrids are usually heavier due to their batteries, yet it sits within the weight range of its segment.

During the test, with fully carefree driving focused more on the sporty side than on economy, the average was around 7.5 litres per 100 km. On the return leg, on main roads and the motorway but driving more calmly, consumption was around 6 litres per 100 km, very good figures. Being a hybrid, it has an advantage, since it is in town where its economical qualities really show.

Hybrid qualities, greater savings

The biggest advantage of this GS 300h is being a hybrid, because in addition to the resulting fuel savings it also brings other associated benefits. According to the brand, the savings on components and parts that wear less thanks to being a hybrid amount to 1,700 euros over five years.

Specifically, the car has no clutch, the brakes wear less, the car is very well balanced in its weight distribution, and so the tyres wear less as well. They estimate that the brake pads need changing every 90,000 km, and the tyres every 60,000 km according to their estimates.

Prices and equipment of the Lexus GS 300h

The range is structured into three equipment levels: Hybrid ECO, Hybrid and Hybrid Drive, as well as two equipment packs: F Sport and Hybrid Plus.

The price range starts at 45,900 euros for the Hybrid ECO. This base trim is like the Hybrid but without satellite navigation, with 17-inch wheels, and the screen is 8 inches. The remaining equipment levels:

GS 300h HYBRID ECO: 45,900 euros

GS 300h HYBRID: 52,100 euros

GS 300h HYBRID DRIVE: 58,500 euros

GS 300h HYBRID PLUS: 71,200 euros

GS 300h F SPORT: 67,000 euros

The GS range has also been improved with the new colour head-up display, which projects information onto the windscreen, and the option of LED front fog lights, as well as the rear parking radar, which now detects cross traffic.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira