GERMAN manufacturers have dominated the premium saloon car market, but Lexus hopes its new offering will put the cat among the pigeons.

The fifth generation Lexus GS has a relaxed vibe combined with the right kind of looks to cause a stir.

The question is whether or not it has the substance to back up its elegant looks.

Buyers can choose from two hybrid drivetrains — a 2.5-litre petrol twinned with an electric motor with 220bhp branded 300h, and a 3.5-litre engine plus electric motor providing 341bhp, which is badged 450h.

The less powerful car, tested here, is considerably cheaper and is expected to be the more appealing of the two variants, accounting for a predicted 95 per cent of sales.

Once behind the wheel, the refinement on offer is typified by the near-seamless transition between electric-only driving and the moment at which the petrol motor fires into action.

In many situations, I found the GS to be as quiet and calm as saloon cars come.

The luxurious feel of driving this vehicle is further enhanced by the absence of any notable external noise when driving with light throttle and on smooth roads.

However, the drone of the engine isn’t too easy on the ear during heavier acceleration, perhaps not helped by the linear power delivery of the CVT automatic gearbox.

At lower speeds the 300h is quiet and rides smoothly, while at higher speeds there’s perhaps a little more road noise than you’d get from a German equivalent, though nothing unbearable.

It’s hard not to be impressed with the car’s green credentials.

In 300h form, the GS will deliver an impressive 64mpg.

But the area in which it really has the upper hand on its rivals is its emissions, which are way lower than even the best diesels can offer.

For some potential buyers, that may be sufficient to sway towards the Japanese luxury brand.

The new Executive Edition, tested here, was first introduced this year and is comprehensively specified, superbly built and offers an air of refinement that make diesel alternatives seem noisy.

The Lexus Safety System+ comes as standard on all models, while Lexus states that increased bodily rigidity, along with retuned steering and brakes, are among the improvements.

Once inside the cabin, the ambience is very classy.

The comfortable seats, combined with leather upholstery, are of a very high quality and are especially helpful on longer journeys.

There’s a decent amount of space in the boot, while you’ll also find loads of room in the back.

Motorway journeys are also made much less stressful by the user-friendly cruise control system, which can be adjusted by 1mph at a time. Indeed, for long-distance drives, few of its rivals can beat it.

Other notable features include the heated front seats and a 12.3-inch central console display, which is standard on all models.

If you happen to have a long driveway, then you’ll get some use out of the so-called ‘follow-me-home headlamps’.

These can be adjusted so they remain on for 30 seconds when the car is switched off and can prevent you stumbling in the dark on your way to the front door.

To operate this function, all you have to do is pull the headlight control switch towards you after turning off the car.

In conclusion, it would be wrong to claim that the GS can offer as much driver engagement and thrills behind the wheel as some of its German rivals.

However, the overall package on offer from this car, including great refinement, excellent economy figures, elegant looks and a wealth of equipment, make it an appealing prospect.

There’s no doubt that anyone planning their next executive purchase should give some serious thought to the GS 300h.