Lexus introduced its all-new next-generation GS 450h hybrid luxury sport sedan for the 2013 model-year. This sedan features 35% better fuel economy compared with the outgoing model, new styling inside and out, and new connectivity and comfort features.

To start, the Lexus Hybrid Drive features a next-generation D-4S direct and port injection system with an Atkinson cycle 3.5L V-6 engine. The V-6 is connected to a water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor that’s powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack.

Performance-wise, the vehicle’s powertrain can produce up to 388 hp. For fuel economy, the sedan gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined. The vehicle is certified as a Super-Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV).

The luxury vehicle features five driving modes, ECO mode, which is designed to optimize fuel economy; EV mode, which allows the vehicle to travel short distances in electric-only mode; SPORTS mode, which emphasizes performance; SPORT S+ mode, which boosts handling characteristics; and Normal mode, which is designed to provide a balance between fuel economy and performance.

Inside, Toyota stated that Lexus engineers improved the driver’s seating position for better comfort and visibility. A new auto climate control system (called “S-Flow”) is designed to save energy.

To control different vehicle systems, the sedan features a next-generation Remote Touch with one-push confirmation as a standard feature. Another feature is a standard rear-view camera. Lastly, the automaker reconfigured the stacked battery to increase luggage space so it has more than the previous generation GS 350.

Outside, the GS 450h rolls on standard 17-inch alloy wheels that are paired with 225/50R17 tires. Buyers can also choose 18-inch alloy wheels equipped with 235/45R18 tires as an option.

When it comes to safety, the GS features 10 standard air bags, including a knee airbag for the driver and front passenger seating areas, seat-mounted side airbags for the outboard rear seats, and side curtain airbags for all four outboard occupant seating positions. Ventilated disc brakes are standard.

The vehicle’s safety systems include standard Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), which anticipates the driver’s loss of vehicle control and manages all of the vehicle’s dynamic handling systems. Those systems include the Anti-lock Braking System, Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) with the electronic throttle control system.

The sedan’s front seats come with the automaker’s Whiplash Injury Lessening feature. Optional safety features include a Night Vision System that’s designed to enhance driver visibility at night; a Heads Up Display; a Blind Spot Monitor that’s designed to help detect vehicles in rear/side blind spots; and the automaker’s Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW).

Connectivity features on the new sedan include standard Bluetooth capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio, standard DVD audio and video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, 5.1 simulated surround-sound from normal two channel sources (such as MP3 files and CDs) and a high-resolution 8-inch central control display.

HD Radio with iTunes tagging and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio are also standard. The optional navigation system changes the display to a 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution version.

The Luxury Package options include Adaptive Variable Suspension; an Adaptive Front Lighting System; high-gloss espresso wood ornamentation; semi-aniline leather, 18-way power driver and front passenger seats with memory and articulated back, side bolster and thigh support controls; four-way lumbar; rear HVAC and audio controls; rear manual side sunshades; 18-inch alloy wheels; and wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel.

The vehicle warranty is a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles. The hybrid system components are covered by an eight-year/100,000 warranty. It covers the HV battery, the battery-control module, the hybrid control module and the inverter with converter.