You're aware that you're driving a hybrid, but you're not annoyed by it thanks to strong acceleration and natural brake feel.
We've covered the interior and exterior styling, amenities, and driving character of the new Lexus GS with a conventional powertrain already. Now we have the opportunity to see what the new GS, which we quite admire in standard form, is like with a hybrid powertrain. My takeaway impression is that you're aware that you're driving a hybrid, but you're not annoyed by it. By that I mean, the brake pedal and accelerator inputs are far more natural in feel and response than they've been in previous Toyota and Lexus hybrid models. The steering is a little artificial and could use more feel, but it's accurate. Body control is admirable. Best of all is the powerful off-the-line acceleration: the powertrain sounds throaty and strong and the power delivery is linear, not abrupt. Freeway merging is deeply satisfying. What's more, goose the throttle at 80 mph and you'll be at 100 mph before you can say, "I just bought a Lexus GS450h!"
Photo Gallery: 2013 Lexus GS450h - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine
Photo Gallery: 2013 Lexus GS450h - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine