grayson73

Why does the GS450h (63k) cost 17k more than GS350 (50k)? The mpg is only 8 mpg better. What is better about the GS450h other than mpg?

er34

The GS350/GS450h isn't like the ES350/ES300h comparison. The hybrid isn't just for fuel economy, it also provides more combined power. The 450h also gets more standard tech, in particular the triple LED headlights.

grayson73

Ahh, didn't notice that. 13k still seems like quite a premium comparing GS450h 338hp to GS350 with 311hp.

MustangSal

Not having driven a 350 with a 6speed, the CvT is odd. Damn fast and the engine doesn't climb with the gears like a traditional setup. Just odd to get use to but I'm fine with it. The tech is amazing and that would apply to both 350 and 450 pending it's outfitting. Mileage is 32-34 and that is solely based on how I'm footed, heavy or light.

Im2bz2p345

Old topic, but it applies to your question: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hyb...the-350-a.html

1. The car is extremely rare & starting is 2016 is basically "built to order" straight from the factory in Japan.
2. You're paying for the latest in hybrid technology. If you read up on the 2nd generation Lexus synergy hybrid system - there have been amazing advancement that have been made.
3. One word: Torque. Who cares about HP? Get a Ford Mustang GT for less than $35K that puts out 435hp if you just want numbers.
4. The hybrid comes with options that are not available on the GS350 (2013-2014 models.. it came with bamboo interior, bamboo steering wheel, bi-LED's, etc).
5. For those who enjoy the smoothness in acceleration and power delivery, the CVT is the ultimate in transmissions. Of course you'll have a "drone" sound since it's just one large variable gear depending on driving conditions.

Both are amazing cars - the premium you pay for the hybrid may definitely not be "worth it" to all. I would honestly try to drive both and then make a decision. It also depends on how long you plan to keep the car.

~ Im2bz2p345

shurik74

iTrader: (5)

good write up, we have both vehicles in the family, completely different animals. CVT is not for me personally but good torque for sure. I believe that bamboo interior is not offered anymore starting 2015 models.

grayson73

If I plan to keep the car until it dies, which is the preference?

spoogenet

Quite simply, more technology = more maintenance and more things that can and will break.

shurik74

iTrader: (5)

Agree... more technology, more points of break but Lexus has a good reputation & history so far.

I would just think twice and do math for long term of ownership.

JDR76

I wouldn't worry about the reliability of a hybrid long term.

The brakes last much, much longer. The gas engine has had an easy life of being assisted by the electric motors, which themselves are very reliable. There is no starter or alternator to go out, no accessory drive belt, etc. The one variable is the battery, but more and more you can get good quality rebuilt ones at decent prices.

Im2bz2p345

If the 3GS hybrid is any indication for how the 4GS hybrid will last long term, the cars are built to go 200K miles easily without any "major" service except the hybrid battery replacement at 100K miles (the hybrids have a Lexus backed warranty up to 100K miles, but with the 3GSh, Lexus has been generous with owners goes over that limit & covering half or all of their replacement cost).

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hybrid-technology-215/

If you're going to be keeping for a long time, you'll be saving more at the pump too of course.

If you've never owned a hybrid vehicle, I would highly recommend you read up & test drive one before buying. Just my advice though.

~ Im2bz2p345

grayson73

So you're saying that for long term, the hybrid would be preferable. I drive a 2008 Prius currently and it has 140k miles. So far, no issues.

Im2bz2p345

The Prius is Toyota's best selling hybrid. It's actually one of the best selling alternate fuel cars period. According to wiki (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hybrid_Synergy_Drive), the 2008 Prius uses the 2nd generation of the Toyota/Lexus hybrid system.. the 2014 GS uses the 3rd generation of the Toyota/Lexus hybrid system. A lot of improvements have been made with each generation.

Similar to what JDR76 stated, I would guess the hybrid to have less wear & tear than the non-hybrid. It would be my preferred choice for long term ownership, but then again - I'm a hybrid owner, so I don't want to speak with a bias. Speaking generally - I believe hybrid owners drive a little less aggressive than non-hybrid owners (i.e. F-Sport cars might be tracked), so that helps out in the long run.

As I mentioned earlier, the only major cost you should have is the hybrid battery replacement cost.. and it's hard to predict when that will occur. I don't see the 4GS (hybrid or non-hybrid) having crazy high maintenance through it's life. These cars are pretty bulletproof.

Btw, this topic is about 5 years old and related to the CT200h, but it might be a good read for you: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ct-...d-vehicle.html

Hope this helps somewhat,

~ Im2bz2p345

MustangSal

Haha. I'd have to agree but when I get on it, it's on pretty good.