A new, more efficient variant in the lexus GS range has been unveiled at the Shanghai motor show.

The Lexus GS 300h uses the same four-cylinder 2.5-litre petrol engine combined with hybrid technology that will make its debut in the new IS saloon this summer.

Lexus is targeting CO2 emissions of less than 110g/km, although official confirmation is pending. That would equate to better than 60mpg on the combined cycle.

The current GS range was introduced last year with the high-performance hybrid GS 450h as well as a six-cylinder GS 250. The car rivals the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Jaguar XF and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

CO2 emissions of less than 110g/km would put it on equal terms with the Mercedes-Benz E300 Bluetec diesel-electric hybrid, and ahead of other petrol and diesel models in the sector.

It will become available in the UK late in 2013, and full prices and specifications will be announced closer to its introduction, although expect prices to start at around £40,000.

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