Government ministers facing the dilemma of choosing between a diesel Jaguar XJ and a Toyota Prius may be glad to hear that Lexus have launched the world's first hybrid luxury saloon, the Lexus GS 450h, which is faster and cleaner than the oil-burning Jag.

On sale in the UK now, the Lexus GS 450h will allow ministers to drive a much cleaner, more fuel-efficient luxury car that still offers premium performance.

The GS 450h features a 286bhp 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine that works with a 190bhp electric motor to deliver a combined system output of 340bhp, with remarkably refined and responsive performance equivalent to conventional 4.5-litre V8-engined models.

Aided by an electronic continuously variable transmission, the car moves from rest to 62mph in less than six seconds, with rear-wheel drive and a 50:50 front-to-rear weight balance for truly sporty handling.

Fuel consumption, meanwhile, is on a par with that of a four-cylinder 2.0-litre-engined vehicle. Proving to be substantially more frugal than comparable sports saloons, the GS 450h is returning 35.8mpg in the combined cycle. Moreover, the new Lexus returns CO emissions of just 186g/km, markedly less than rival, premium sector saloons with similar engine power.

As well as being environmentally responsible, the car's low carbon dioxide emissions will save drivers thousands of pounds compared to the bills incurred by rival models--the GS 450h SE incurs a benefit-in-kind rate for company car tax of 21 per cent. With a list price of £43,920, that produces an annual tax bill of £3,672.

Completing the Lexus GS range, the world's first high performance hybrid boasts sleek good looks in addition to its efficiency. Subtle exterior enhancements include the exclusive 18-inch wheels and rear spoiler, while discreet hybrid badges hint at the differences underneath.

From your first glance to the moment you step inside, you'll notice an abiding sense of purpose with the car. Its design aims to engage you visually and physically, with dramatic, swept-back headlamps, a steeply-raked windscreen and deep front air dam. The result is a vehicle of dynamic power balanced with a sense of composure thanks, in part, to a host of subtle design details.

The GS 450h range is now on sale with prices starting at £38,015. Lexus Worcester invites you to visit and experience it for yourself. Contact the team to arrange an appointment--you're assured of a warm welcome.

Lexus Worcester,

Hallow Road,

Hallow,

Worcester.

Tel: 01905 640512

www.lexus.co.uk/worcester