The Lexus GS 450h combines...
The Lexus GS 450h combines a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with a mighty 197bhp electric motor, and enables the luxury saloon to power to 62mph in 5.9 seconds, and onto to 155mph at the top end. If it wasn"t for a combined economy figures of 35.8mpg, and emissions of 186g/km you"d think that Lexus had completely missed the point of hybrids all together.
And as you can see...
And as you can see, the roadgoing model is virtually identical to the Prototipo which wowed crowds at March"s Geneva event. Thankfully, its designers have maintained the hatchback"s neat proportions and flowing curves, sacrificing few of the show car"s sharp edges and neat creases. The only things that are missing are the Prototipo"s centrally mounted exhaust and the deep bumpers with swanky honeycomb mesh.
But to emphasise its sporty nature, the production Leon has Alfa Romeo-style rear handles incorporated in the C-pillar. These give the practical five-door a racy three-door appearance. Sharing its underpinnings with VW"s Golf, the Leon is likely to offer entertaining handling. The suspension will be set up for keen drivers, as befits SEAT"s sporty brand image.
Four engines will be available from launch: a 1.6-litre petrol, 1.9 and 2.0 TDI units and a 150bhp 2.0 FSI. Traction control, ABS and the latest generation of ESP are among the active safety systems. Inside the cabin six airbags will come as standard, with rear side bags an option. The Leon will arrive here before the end of the year, starting from í‚á£11,000.