New Lexus GS revealed

The new Lexus GS has been unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California. It's bolder than the current car, packed with high-tech kit and, Lexus says, more fun to drive.

Bolder looks
The GS introduces 'a new design philosophy,' Lexus says, with a bolder, more sculptural look than the current car. Pronounced bonnet creases, an angular grille and gaping air intakes give the front of the car a more aggressive look.

Tapered door sills, a rear diffuser and L-shaped LED lighting details help to add drama, while new paint technologies – including glass flakes incorporated into the coating – are designed to give a more radiant finish.

Lexus claims that there's almost 25% more boot space, while the door openings and bootlid have been designed to make access as easy as possible.

There's more high-tech kit than before, including the option of a 12.3-inch multimedia screen and an 835-watt Mark Levinson stereo system.

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Lexus GS gallery

More engaging
Lexus says that one of the main objectives with the new GS was to 'provide a more engaging driving experience'. To this end, there's a wider, more rigid body, more lightweight suspension parts and uprated rear suspension.

Petrol or hybrid power
The GS will be available in both hybrid and petrol form. The current GS is available with a hybrid petrol-electric powertrain only, after Lexus dropped the 3.0-litre V6 petrol model in 2009.

For the new model, Lexus will introduce an entry-level 2.5-litre V6 petrol version - called the GS250, which will provide a lower starting price for the range. Current GS450h prices start at £44,615, but the GS250 could drop below the £40,000 barrier.

The new GS450h is expected to use an updated version of the current model's powertrain, which combines a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 341bhp. The new GS450h is likely to have more power, but lower CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. There are currently no plans for a diesel model.

The GS goes on sale in early 2012.