Lexus GS 450h

The interior of the Lexus GS 450h is opulent and plush—from the stainless-steel scuff plates, to the buttery soft leather, to a barrage of techno-savvy amenities. This is a world-class luxury car.

Designed around the cockpit, the GS gives the driver every possible creature comfort. That starts with a highly-bolstered 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with heat, complimented by a wood-trimmed, thick-rimmed, electric tilt/telescoping steering wheel. The dash, laden in handsome wood trim, houses a sophisticated instrument panel. Buttons and controls are very ergonomic and offer soft-touch electronic actuation.

The face of the center console is a seven-inch electronic screen with touch-screen controls, which operates the audio system, climate control, and optional navigation system with backup camera. Unlike the frustrating i-Drive feature from BMW, this system makes navigating through the submenus simplistic and straight-forward. Furthermore, voice recognition makes the system a hands-free experience.

Passenger safety for the GS is unparalleled. There are a total of 10 airbags, including dual-front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and full-length head curtain airbags. Lexus's optional Pre-Collision System activates the seatbelt pretensioners, as well as taking other safety measures when an imminent collision is detected. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has issued a top "Good" rating for both frontal-offset and side-impact safety.

The rear seat offers room for three, but is a bit tight for the person in the middle position due to the elevated center cushion. It does, however, provide plenty of leg- and shoulder room for two passengers.

The only obvious shortcoming for the GS’ interior design is trunk space. The hybrid battery pack reduced the space to 7.5 cubic feet, which is much smaller than other sedans of similar size.