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Lexus Developing Entry-level GS 300h Hybrid: Report

Lexus is reportedly developing an entry-level hybrid version of its GS large sedan, as a rival to battle the most miserly models in the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6 lines.

According to the UK's AutoExpress, the so-called GS 300h would enter below t

Mike Stevens

02:0214 June 2012

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Lexus Developing Entry-level GS 300h Hybrid: Report

Lexus is reportedly developing an entry-level hybrid version of its GS large sedan, as a rival to battle the most miserly models in the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6 lines.

According to the UK's AutoExpress, the so-called GS 300h would enter below the existing 450h flagship, swapping its big six for a four-cylinder engine.

The magazine quotes Lexus GS deputy chief engineer Koji Sato, who said that a number of low-CO2 emissions solutions are being considered, "including a small hybrid".

If the report is accurate, the new model could utilise the same 2.5 litre four-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor combo that powers the Toyota Camry Hybrid.

The same arrangement already features in another Lexus: the overseas Avalon-based ES 300h, offering fuel consumption figures of 5.8 l/100km - down from 6.3 l/100km for the new GS 450h V6 hybrid.

Rivals for a new entry GS hybrid would include BMW's 520d (135kW diesel, 5.2 l/100km), Audi's A6 2.0 TDI (130kW diesel, 5.0 l/100km) and the Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI (125kW diesel, 5.2 l/100km).

Reports suggest that the new model, if it exists, could debut as early as at September's Paris Motor Show.