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Lexus updates GS 450h hybrid saloon for 2010 model year

The 2010 Lexus GS 450h arrives with revised safety technology, a new navigation system, updated audio options and fresh styling details for buyers seeking a premium hybrid saloon.

By Editorial Desk Updated
2010 Lexus GS 450h Hybrid at the 2010 Washington Auto Show.
2010 Lexus GS 450h Hybrid at the 2010 Washington Auto Show. Mariordo Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz / CC BY-SA 3.0

Lexus has announced a series of updates for its GS 450h hybrid saloon for the 2010 model year, focusing on safety, in-car technology and styling. The changes were revealed at the Frankfurt motor show in September 2009, with UK specifications and pricing to follow.

Safety and technology upgrades

The GS 450h’s Pre-Crash Safety system now integrates pre-crash brake technology alongside its existing seatbelt and brake assist features. Both front seats gain new active headrests, triggered by electronic control in the event of a rear-end collision. The system uses an inflator to push the headrest forward and upward, aiming to reduce whiplash injuries. These changes bring the GS 450h in line with the latest Lexus safety developments, following similar enhancements in other models such as the LFA’s seat belt airbag system.

Inside, the 2010 GS 450h adopts a new hard disk drive (HDD) navigation system with a 40GB capacity, offering Europe-wide coverage and improved traffic data. The system also enables a “sound library” function, letting owners transfer and store up to 10GB of music files from CDs, equivalent to roughly 2,000 tracks. Both standard and Mark Levinson audio systems are now DAB-ready and support USB, audio jack, and Bluetooth streaming, reflecting the growing demand for digital and portable media integration in executive saloons.

Styling and trim changes

For 2010, the GS 450h receives a new front grille design with horizontal bars of varying thickness, and hybrid-blue rear lamp clusters with larger transparent lenses. The SE-L trim adds a new 18-inch alloy wheel design. Lexus has also introduced three new exterior colours, Vanilla Mist, Richmond Green and Atlantic Blue, expanding the palette to 11 shades.

The cabin features a hybrid-blue backlit stop/start button and a new Venaro Grey semi-aniline leather option with contrasting black stitching and grey bird’s eye maple wood trim. These updates are aimed at reinforcing the GS 450h’s premium positioning and hybrid identity within the Lexus range.

Market context and availability

Lexus has yet to confirm UK market specifications and pricing for the 2010 GS 450h. The model continues to compete with conventional petrol and diesel executive saloons from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, but stands out as the only full hybrid in its class at launch. For buyers prioritising low emissions and advanced technology in an executive saloon, the GS 450h’s updates strengthen its appeal.

The GS 450h’s revisions arrive as rivals also update their executive saloons for 2010. BMW, for example, has launched a refreshed 5 Series with new design and technology, while Lexus itself is preparing further changes to the GS range, including a diesel variant for Europe.

Further details on UK specifications and on-sale dates will be announced by Lexus in due course.

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