The 2009 GS Series at Park Place Lexus Mission Viejo

The 2009 Lexus GS elevates the “sport” in the luxury sedan class with engineering and technology that create a sublime experience unmatched in the class. Only Lexus would see high performance potential in the hybrid concept. Only Lexus would equip its midsize offerings with flagship amenities.

The 2009 Lexus GS luxury sport sedan model line includes the V6-powered GS 350 (MSRP $44,850) and the GS 350 all-wheel drive (MSRP $46,800); the V8-powered GS 460 (MSRP $53,200); and the only gasoline/electric hybrid model in the segment, the GS 450h (MSRP $55,800). For the 2009 model year, Lexus GS models get acoustic glass for their windshields. Otherwise, the GS models simply refine features that already approached perfection.

The current generation GS sedans introduced the brand's L-finesse design language. A 112.2-inch wheelbase, long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck create a confident, powerful stance for the GS. A low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to maximize highway fuel efficiency and minimize wind noise.

The GS 350's available all-wheel drive system helps to enhance handling in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.

The Lexus GS 450h enters its third model year as still the only hybrid-powered luxury sport sedan in its segment. With its advanced technology, high performance and indulgent luxury, the rear-wheel drive 2009 GS 450h is the premium model in the GS series. Featuring the highly regarded Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, the GS 450h offers V8-like performance with greater fuel efficiency. In addition to boosting performance and fuel efficiency while lowering emissions, Lexus Hybrid Drive technology also further accentuates the brand's renowned smooth, quiet operation. A full hybrid, the GS 450h is capable of operating in gas-only or electric-only modes or a combination of the two. With its unique transmission, the GS 450h was the first hybrid vehicle to enable the electric drive motor to contribute to highway performance, not just slow-speed driving.

In all GS models, brake assist (BA), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and the antilock braking system (ABS) help form a powerful safety front. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel to help minimize body dive or sway during hard braking and cornering. Brake assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to activate the ABS, brake assist will apply maximum braking force until pedal pressure is released.

An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, standard on the GS 460 and available on the GS 350, provides four settings including "sport" for tighter, more precise control. AVS can automatically select appropriate suspension damping for driving conditions. The GS 460 also offers the advanced Active Power Stabilizer system that reduces body sway and enhances vehicle control during cornering. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by the front and rear actuators. The GS 350 models are equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control. The system can be disengaged with the "Trac Off" switch when the situation warrants doing so.

In the GS 460, the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system oversees and controls a host of handling technologies including VSC. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control. VDIM integration helps to provide precise management for the electronically controlled brakes (ECB), variable gear-ratio steering (VGRS), electric power steering (EPS), vehicle stability control (VSC), antilock braking system (ABS), brake assist (BA), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.

Ultra-premium wood, polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the GS interior with a lavish, yet high-precision feel. Touch points convey quality and controls that respond fluidly. The customer can choose from among three interior leather color combinations: light gray leather with dark gray bird's-eye maple wood trim, cashmere leather with golden bird's-eye maple wood trim, or black leather with red walnut wood trim. Each combination includes a matching wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shiftknob. Heated 10-way power front seats (perforated leather trim on GS 460) are comfortably contoured for support on long trips. Ventilated front seats are standard for the GS 460 and available for the GS 350. A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters the air, and a standard rear power sunshade adds to passenger comfort on warm days.

The standard Lexus audio system features an AM/FM/cassette stereo, a six-disc, in-dash CD changer and 10 speakers. The optional Mark Levinson premium sound system features 11 channels of amplification with a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers allowing the system to play both CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the seven-inch color touchscreen when the parking brake is engaged. The optional Lexus DVD Navigation System allows the driver to enter a destination by voice command.

You must see and drive one of the 2009 Lexus GS models to fully appreciate what fine cars they are. Come into Park Place Lexus MIssion Viejo to see the 2009 GS. Or visit our website at www.parkplacelexusmissionviejo.com.