Lexus GS (2012 – 2018) Review
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Lexus GS (2012 – 2018) At A Glance
High quality and superbly built, strong performance and relatively low CO2 from 450h, impressively refined
Steering feels too remote, firm ride on F Sport models, no PHEV version.
Where Lexus' key rivals make much of their diesel-powered models for company car sales, the Lexus is only available in petrol- and hybrid-powered forms. There’s also no estate model of the GS, limiting its scope in that crucial company car sector, yet the saloon is a handsome beasty and offers different charms, such as its superb reputation for reliability and owner satisfaction. Even so, these factors are not quite enough to shift the Lexus GS from the margins of a class dominated by rivals from Audi, BMW and Mercedes.
The Lexus GS carved out its own niche within the executive sector as an upmarket and somewhat leftfield alternative to large saloons like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. For those who value quality and refinement, the Lexus ticks a lot of boxes.
It's helped by Lexus dealers, who are widely recognised as the best in the business for customer service and this is backed up by top marks in the various customer satisfaction surveys like JD Power. It's no surprise the brand has one of the highest rates of repeat buyers.
The GS launched in 2012 built on the same qualities of the old model but Lexus worked hard to add a dash of style and driver enjoyment to the mix. It didn’t quite hit the mark, which has been the case with the GS throughout its life. What we got instead was a very comfortable, competent cruiser that much prefers to make unruffled progress than be hustled down a country road in the way you can with a BMW 5 Series.
In terms of looks, it's a lot more angular at the front and it's a similar story at the back where the stretched lights make it appear wider. Overall, it has a lot more road presence than its bland predecessors.
The improvements over the generations than went before are most noticeable inside with a far better interior in terms of design and quality. There are less obvious Toyota elements and a far more stylish feel with features like the solid metal controls for the stereo and the analogue clock between the air vents.
There's more space than earlier GS models too and it feels much more like a premium car than the older GS generations did. There is also plenty of space for those in the front and Lexus piled in the technology, which is thankfully easier to comprehend and use than some of its later offerings.
As before, Lexus didn’t fit a diesel engine to the GS range, something which will mean many buyers immediately rule it out. Instead, it sticks with standard petrols and a hybrid version. The GS450h is the impressive hybrid and it combines swift performance with low carbon dioxide emissions and decent fuel economy considering its power.
There's also a GS250 powered by a 2.5-litre V6 petrol with more than 200bhp which is significantly cheaper than the hybrid model.
Starting prices are fairly high, but all models come highly equipped as standard although entry-level versions don't get sat nav. You could also GS F that came with a 471PS 5.0-litre V8 petrol motor to give Lexus a rival to the BMW M5. It’s a rare beast, but it can deliver 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds and sounds amazing.
However, most buyers will be looking to either the 2.5-litre petrol or hybrid models and they make an intriguing alternative to the main German contenders in this class. Lexus was ahead of the curve with its hybrid offering, so used buyers can take advantage of this now.
Reviews for Lexus GS (2012 – 2018)'s top 3 rivals
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Lexus GS (2012 – 2018) handling and engines
- Engines range from 300h to 5.0 F
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 23–55 mpg
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018): Handling and ride quality
The Lexus GS F Sport and Premier have AVS (adaptive variable suspension) which lets you tune the ride with Normal for everyday driving and Sport Plus for improved body control. The system automatically adjusts suspension in response to the way the car is being driven, vehicle body motion and road surface conditions.
The F Sport handles well and is very agile for a large saloon. Although the steering feels quite artificial, it still gives you plenty of confidence with good grip from the front tyres. One thing that lets it down is the ride. The F Sport models with their large alloys, low profile tyres and stiffer suspension mean it's not as smooth as you'd expect of a Lexus.
They have a much plusher ride, but it’s still not in the same league as a Mercedes E-Class, Jaguar XF or BMW 5 Series. Small indentations in the road can be felt too often and too much.
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018): Engines
There's no diesel in the Lexus GS range. The 2.5-litre V6 petrol delivers 209PS to offer smooth and okay performance, but it's unlikely to be very popular with official fuel economy of just 31.7mpg. Lexus offered the GS300h using this engine but added hybrid power. It resulted in 220PS and lively acceleration, though its CVT (continuously variable transmission) gearbox can be a little jerky at town speeds.
The GS450h uses a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine alongside an electric motor. Combined they have 341bhp and 0-62mph takes just 5.9 seconds. Choose the GS F and you get a 471PS 5.0-litre V8 and 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds.
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018): Safety
Every GS comes with no less than 10 airbags as standard, surrounding its occupants with twin front, side, front and rear curtain, and front knee airbags. This is complemented by autonomous emergency braking, post-collision braking to, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Lexus also fitted a Driver Monitor Camera that can spot if the driver is becoming tired or fatigued. It will alert the driver and recommend you stop for a break.
There are five three-point seat belts in the GS and Isofix child seat mounts on the two outer rear chairs to securely fit a kiddy seat in place.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250 | 32 mpg | 7.2–8.6 s | 207 g/km |
| 300h | 57–64 mpg | 9.2 s | 109–115 g/km |
| 450h | 46–46 mpg | 5.9 s | 141–145 g/km |
| 5.0 F | 46 mpg | - | 260 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Lexus GS (2012 – 2018)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
80%
Real MPG
23–55 mpg
MPGs submitted
157
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018) interior
- Boot space is 451–552 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4850–4915 mm |
| Width | 1840–2100 mm |
| Height | 1440–1455 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2850–2855 mm |
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018): Practicality
The front door of the Lexus GS opens wide to allow unhindered access and the thickly padded seat has more give and cushioning than you find in some of the GS’s German rivals. Choose the F Sport and its more heavily bolstered seats give better support during cornering but are less cosseting on longer trips.
Lexus has put so much effort into the front of the cabin that it seems to have forgotten normal-sized humans might want to sit in the back.
A small drop from the sill to the boot floor is not an issue, but the overall size of the boot is a problem. It’s not tiny, but the hybrid power for the GS means the space for batteries under the rear seats eats into load volume. As a result, the GS’s boot comes in at 420-litres compared to 510-litres for the BMW 5 Series.
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018): Quality and finish
The interior of the Lexus GS improved dramatically compared to the previous model. While there was never a question mark over quality, the GS gained the premium design and upmarket feel that was previously missing. Given the price tag when new, this is the sort of cabin you'd expect. Gone are the shared Toyota components. While it's no secret Lexus is part of Toyota, you don't expect to see buttons from an Avensis in a luxury saloon.
Luxury certainly describes it well. The fit and finish are superb, while the design is different enough from the likes of the Audi A6 to be distinctive.
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018): Infotainment
The Lexus GS comes with a 12.3-inch colour screen that is neatly incorporated into the dash top. Rather than a dial system like BMW's iDrive or the Audi MMI, the Lexus has a mouse-like control which lets you move a pointer around the screen. The problem is that it's not that easy to use on the move and is too sensitive to the smallest of inputs.
The system itself is straightforward. It's not the slickest and the graphics have dated alongside similar ones from Audi or BMW. That aside, the GS’s infotainment is up to modern needs and comes with Bluetooth for easy pairing with your phone for hands-free calls.
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018) value for money
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018): Prices
The GS300h was launched a year after this generation of GS arrived. Although cheaper than the 450h when new, you will pay about the same for a similar mileages 300h as for a 450h as the lower running costs of the 300h make it more popular, which keeps used prices higher.
A late 300h with 20,000 miles will cost around £25,000, while a 450h of the same age and mileage will be a similar sort of price.
A GS450h from early in this Lexus’ lifespan will cost you from £11,500, but that will be for a car with a very high mileage. Look for one with around 80,000 miles on the clock and it will be around the £15,000 mark for whichever trim you decide is right for you.
As for the GS250, £11,500 will get you into a 2013 model with 70,000 miles on the clock. Look for this model closer to the end of the GS model’s production life and your biggest problem will be finding one for sale as new car sales of this model dwindled to almost none as buyers preferred the hybrid offerings.
As a result, if you do stumble upon one, you can reckon on it being cheaper than a GS300h and £20,000 should be sufficient to bag one with just 20,000 miles on the clock.
Lexus GS (2012 – 2018): Running Costs
The most efficient Lexus GS model is the 300h with an official best combined economy of 64.2mpg. Real MPG shows you’re more likely to see 45.7mpg. The GS250 manages a claimed 31.7mpg with a Real MPG result of 30.2mpg, while the GS450h claims 46.3mpg but delivers a real-world 38.7mpg.
More likely you will choose the GS300h Luxury which resides in group 27 or the Premier trims that sits in group 28.
The GS450h is in group 30 for the Premier model and group 42 for the Luxury version. If you go to the F Sport model, this GS450h is in group 40. As for the 5.0-litre V8-powered GS F performance saloon, it’s in group 48.
The Lexus GS300 is the cheapest for Vehicle Excise Duty. You will pay £20 per annum thanks to its 113g/km carbon dioxide emissions and qualifying as an alternative fuel vehicle with its hybrid power.
Surprisingly, the GS450h is the next cheapest for road tax at £155 per year for this version. The GS250 with its petrol-only power and 207g/km CO2 emissions needs you to pay £330 per year, while the mighty GS F with its 5.0-litre V8 engine demands a £580 yearly sum for its road tax
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The Lexus GS range kicked off with the SE that came with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights and rain-sensing wipers.
It also had LED daytime running lights, and a rear-view camera. There’s climate control and leather upholstery inside, along with electrically adjusted front seats and steering column, 12.3-inch infotainment screen and 12 speakers for the stereo.
The Luxury model gains 18-inch alloys, parking sensors front and rear, blind spot detection system, and satellite navigation with the Remote Touch Interface controller. Premier versions upped this with bi-xenon headlights and the same adaptive suspension set-up as the F Sport.
Choose the F Sport and you get 19-inch alloy wheels, sports body kit, mesh front grille, and Adaptive Front Lighting with automatic high beam dimming. The interior boasts front sports seats with extra adjustment and lumbar support. On the driving front, the F Sport improves with the Dynamic Handling Kit, Dynamic Rear Steering, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, and Variable Gear Steering.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4850–4915 mm |
| Width | 1840–2100 mm |
| Height | 1440–1455 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2850–2855 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1640–1920 kg |
| Boot Space | 451–552 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 10000–12500 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £32,995–£73,375 |
| Insurance Groups | 26–48 |
| Road Tax Bands | Alternative fuel, B–M |
| Official MPG | 31.7–64.2 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
On sale until July 2019
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 300h 2.5 Executive Edition E-Cvt 4dr | £36,125 | 64.2 mpg | 9.2 s |
| 300h 2.5 F-Sport E-Cvt 4dr | £43,395 | 56.5 mpg | 9.2 s |
| 300h 2.5 Luxury E-Cvt 4dr | £38,645 | 57.6 mpg | 9.2 s |
| 300h 2.5 Premier E-Cvt 4dr | £45,645 | 57.6 mpg | 9.2 s |
| 450h 3.5 F-Sport E-Cvt 4dr | £53,050 | 45.6 mpg | 5.9 s |
| 450h 3.5 Premier E-Cvt 4dr | £54,050 | 46.3 mpg | 5.9 s |
| Saloon 5.0 471hp Auto 4dr | £73,375 | 45.6 mpg | - |
On sale until July 2017
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 250 2.5 F-Sport Auto 4dr | £40,025 | 31.7 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 250 2.5 Luxury Auto 4dr | £36,025 | 31.7 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 250 2.5 SE Auto 4dr | £33,025 | 31.7 mpg | 7.2 s |
On sale until October 2015
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 450h Luxury 345 CVT Auto 4dr | £45,495 | 46.3 mpg | 5.9 s |
On sale until April 2014
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 250 F Sport 4dr Auto | £39,995 | 31.7 mpg | 8.6 s |
| 250 Luxury 4dr Auto | £35,995 | 31.7 mpg | 8.6 s |
| 250 SE 4dr Auto | £32,995 | 31.7 mpg | 8.6 s |
Model History
- August 2011: Lexus unveiled the new GS
- November 2011: GS250 launched
- February 2012
- April 2013
- January 2015: Lexus GS F saloon announced
- August 2015: Lexus GS refreshed for 2016
- October 2016
- December 2016
August 2011
Lexus unveiled the new GS
The new GS brings a more engaging driving experience, bolder design and a more spacious, contemporary interior, heralding a new chapter in the history of Lexus.
Starting with the bold spindle grille - set to be a signature feature of future Lexus models - the new GS conveys an air of confidence. This is supported by a redesigned chassis with a wide, strong stance that clearly signals the new GS is designed to inspire and reward driver participation with crisp and precise handling.
Lexus engineers challenged themselves to develop a more spacious interior environment for the new GS. Leaving exterior dimensions virtually unchanged, they increased cabin and boot space to create a richly appointed interior that will transport passengers and their luggage in comfort, regardless of distance.
The revised platform is more rigid compared to the current model thanks to an increased number of spot welds and adding laser welds in very specific locations. The track, wider by 40mm at the front and 50mm at the rear, works in combination with a revised suspension design to give a more assured stance and superior cornering performance.
The new suspension system is designed to guide the GS through corners with precision. In the front, aluminium upper and lower control arms employ larger bushings. The rear subframe has been completely redesigned to accommodate an all-new multi-link rear suspension, the improved geometry enhancing rear-end control. With the stiffer platform and lighter components, the shock absorbers can use lighter-viscosity oil, responding faster to small inputs.
The use of aluminium reduces unsprung weight and results in significantly improved agility, ride comfort, body control and steering precision. Ventilated disc brakes featuring four-piston aluminum front calipers are equipped with the latest electronic enhancements to provide braking balance and control.
The precisely sculpted exterior of new GS fuses distinctive style with engineering functionality, expressing a new generation of Lexus’ design philosophy which will be applied to future models. This is evident in details such as the fins incorporated into the side of the tail lamps and the design of the boot area, each helping to direct air over and past the car.
The signature spindle grille with its trapezoidal contours integrates into the aggressive front bumper to allow for efficient airflow. This distinctive Lexus design feature, combined with the deep-set, high-tech headlamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lamps, express the vehicle’s confident and dynamic character. The headlamps use a projector beam design, adding a strong, chiseled appearance and excellent illumination.
From the side, the GS projects the image of a spacious performance saloon with a road-hugging stance. The tapered lower door sills and the short front overhang give the vehicle a sense of motion while width-enhancing wheel arches add an athletic stance, suggesting the vehicle’s dynamic abilities.
The rear bumper features a diffuser and centered aero fins to help control underbody airflow. Combined with the L-shaped LED tail lamps, a Lexus design cue, these rear bumper features lend a high-performance appearance.
The interior includes a number of embedded premium features as standard equipment. A new energy-saving auto climate control system called S-Flow uses the occupant-detection system to focus airflow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated, a first-in-class technology. A next-generation Remote Touch with one-push confirmation is standard on all models and enables smooth, intuitive operation of climate, audio and phone controls as well as use of the navigation system and more. A standard reversing camera helps add security and convenience.
The finely crafted cabin detail is complemented by ambient lighting that unobtrusively welcomes and guides the user into the vehicle, providing a carefully designed experience. New white LED lights are sequentially lit to illuminate the areas around the doors, centre console and footwells. A new analogue clock, carved from an ingot, adds an unexpected touch.
Cabin materials include three types of wood and meticulously detailed contrast stitching is used as a visual accent around the interior to create a rich, tailored interior space. In addition to enhanced braking systems and an impact-absorbing body structure, the new GS offers significant advances in both passive and active safety systems as standard equipment.
Among the class-leading 10 airbags in the new GS, there are knee airbags for both driver and front passenger. Rear seat occupants have seat-mounted side airbags, and all four outboard occupants are equipped with side curtain airbags.
New Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats increase the likelihood that occupants will be in the optimum position at the moment of impact, enhancing the protective effect of the seatbelt system. Standard seatbelts with pretensioners with force limiters used for front and outboard rear seats add to occupant protection.
Options include a pre-collision system, which uses the dynamic radar cruise control system to provide early warning of upcoming objects that might result in a collision. The system also uses a first-in-class infrared camera to monitor the driver’s eyes. If the driver is not looking forward when a collision appears imminent, the system will sound a warning sooner than otherwise. If the driver still does not respond and make the appropriate manoeuvre, the system will initiate braking up to two seconds prior to impact, helping to lessen the severity of the collision.
Other available safety systems include a Night Vision System that enhances driver visibility in the dark; Head-Up Display (HUD); a Blind Spot Monitor that helps detect vehicles in rear/side blind spots; and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). GS is the first in its segment to offer LKA with active steering torque to provide a small assistance in maintaining course, while the LDW feature alerts drivers if they begin to drift out of their lane.
November 2011
GS250 launched
Lexus has revealed a further extension of its all-new GS luxury saloon range with the unveiling of the GS 250. The GS 250 is powered by a 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine with D-4S direct port injection and Dual VVT-i intelligent valve timing. Maximum output is 206bhp at 6,400rpm and peak torque of 253Nm is delivered at 4,800rpm, giving the car nought to 62mph acceleration in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 142mph. Combined cycle fuel consumption is 31.7mpg and CO2 emissions are 207g/km.
The engine is matched to Lexus’s Super ECT-i close-ratio intelligent six-speed automatic transmission, with a sequential manual shift function. The system has been engineered to deliver faster shift speeds, earlier torque converter lock-up and downshift throttle blips, complimenting a range of different drive modes available through the GS 250’s Drive Mode Select System.
| ENGINE | |
| Engine type | V6, 24-valve |
| Capacity (cc) | 2,500 |
| Max. power (bhp/kW @ rpm) | 206/154 @ 6,400rpm |
| Max. torque (Nm @ rpm) | 253 @ 4,800rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | |
| Type | Six-speed sequential-shift, intelligent Electronically Controlled (ECT-i) automaticTransmission |
| BRAKES | |
| Type | Discs (front and rear) |
| Additional features | ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management |
| DIMENSIONS | |
| Overall length (mm) | 4,850 |
| Overall width (mm) | 1,840 |
| Overall height (mm) | 1,455 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,850 |
| Luggage capacity (l) | 566 (with tyre repair kit) |
| PERFORMANCE | |
| Acceleration 0-62mph (sec) | 8.6 |
| Max. speed (mph) | 142 |
| Fuel consumption – combined (mpg) | 31.7mpg |
| CO 2 emissions (g/km) | 207 |
February 2012
As order books open for the all-new GS range, Lexus can announce the sports saloon will be available from £32,995. That is the on-the-road price for the GS 250 SE; the full hybrid GS 450h starts from £44,995 for the Luxury model.
The specification includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlamps and windscreen wipers, LED daytime running lights and a rear-view camera with parking guide monitor. Cabin comfort is assured with leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control and electrically adjustable front seats (10-way, with memory setting for the driver’s seat) with heating and ventilation functions. The steering wheel is electrically adjustable, too, and incorporates paddle shifts. On-board entertainment is provided by a 12-speaker audio system with CD player, DAB tuner, Bluetooth and USB/Aux ports for connecting personal music players.
Both the GS 250 and full hybrid GS 450h are offered in Luxury and F Sport grade. The former builds on the SE specification with the introduction of 18-inch alloys, front and rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and an HDD satellite navigation system with Remote Touch controller. Luxury grade also provides a new blind spot detection system integrated into the folding/auto-dimming door mirrors.
F Sport versions of GS make a bolder style statement thanks to 19-inch rims, a boot-lip spoiler and sports-styled bumpers and front grille. In addition to the Luxury specification, the F Sport has bi-xenon headlights with an automatic high beam function, as well Lexus’s Adaptive Front-lighting System, which adjusts the beam direction as the car approaches bends and turns at junctions.
The F Sport look carries through to the cabin with sports pedals and perforated leather-trimmed sports steering wheel and gear knob. The front sports seats gain further adjustment functions – 16-way for the driver, plus four-way lumbar support.
The F Sport benefits from Adaptive Variable Suspension and selectable drive modes plus, on the 450h model, the Lexus Dynamic Handling System, which brings together a comprehensive array of steering and handling features, including Dynamic Rear Steering, electric power steering, Variable Gear Ratio Steering and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management.
At the top of the range, the GS 450h Premier is fitted with 18-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels and the same bi-xenon headlamp system as the F Sport models. The F Sport’s adaptive suspension and selectable drive modes are also part of the Premier’s specification.
The Premier specification can be taken to another level with the addition of LED headlamps and a preventive safety package featuring Adaptive Cruise Control and Pre-Crash Safety.
Metallic or mica paint is an option across the board, while full-map navigation is available for the GS 250 SE.Nine exterior colours are available for SE, Luxury and Premier versions of the new GS: Arctic Pearl, Sonic Silver, Velvet Black, Mercury Grey, Meteor Blue, Crimson Red, Atlantic Blue, Celestial Black and, for GS 450h only, Obsidian Black.
The F Sport models have a different range of colours: Arctic Pearl, Sonic Silver, Velvet Black, Mercury Grey and Crimson Red. In the cabin SE and Luxury models have gloss black dash inserts, with aluminium used for the F Sport; Walnut, Ebony or Bamboo wood trims are used in the GS450h Premier, according to the choice of leather upholstery shade. There are six leather colours, with a Garnet red exclusive to the F Sport.
April 2013
GS300h emitting under 110g/km CO2 shown. The Lexus 300h competes at the heart of the premium executive market, with a focus on fleet and business customers. Its rear-wheel drive powertrain features a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with D-4S direct injection technology, and a compact, powerful electric motor. Lexus’s target of CO2 emissions below 110g/km makes the GS 300h one of the most efficient models in its class. The GS 300h joined Lexus’s UK model range late 2013.
January 2015
Lexus GS F saloon announced
GS F shares same platform as the Lexus GS, but benefits from extensive enhancements throughout, including the powertrain. This features a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine that produces 467HP (348kW) at 7,100rpm and peak torque of 527Nm between 4,800 and 5,600rpm in the US market version. The engine can operate in both the Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles to optimise power or efficiency according to driving conditions. It will be matched to an eight-speed automatic gearbox with a manual shift function.
Lexus’s Torque Vectoring Differential, which debuted in the RC F is part of the GS F’s standard specification, helping define its handling quality. It will operate in three different modes: -
- Standard (default), for a balance of agility and firmness
- Slalom, emphasising nimble steering response and agility
- Track, delivering stability in high-speed circuit driving
The GS F’s monocoque chassis features structural reinforcements and an exclusive suspension package designed to optimise the car’s handling capabilities and ride quality. Drivers can anticipate stable, smooth performance on the open road and rewarding handling when tackling challenging routes or circuit driving.
With a 1,830kg kerb weight, the GS F is set to be the lightest model in its class.
Preliminary specifications (US market)
| Overall length (mm) |
4,915 |
| Overall width (mm) |
1,845 |
| Overall height (mm) |
1,440 |
| Wheelbase (mm) |
2,850 |
| Track – front (mm) |
1,555 |
| Track – rear (mm) |
1,560 |
| Kerb weight (kg) |
1,830 |
| Wheels |
Front 19in x 9J Rear 19in x 10J |
| Tyres |
Front 255/35R19 Rear 275/35R19 |
August 2015
Lexus GS refreshed for 2016
Gets new look and higher equipment specifications from autumn 2015, including Lexus Safety System+ advanced package of driver assistance and safety systems.
Lexus spindle grille flanked by new LED headlights. New front bumper and valence. New machined-finish wheel designs have been produced, together with new interior trim options and exterior colour choices.
Standard Lexus Safety System+ combines a Pre-Crash Safety system with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive High Beam System, Traffic Sign Recognition and All-Speed Active Cruise Control that tracks the speed of the vehicle travelling in front and adjusts the GS's speed setting accordingly to help maintain a preset distance. It’s sophisticated enough to adjust acceleration and deceleration smoothly when a vehicle enters or exits the lane or road ahead.
Using a combination of millimetre-wave radar and a front-facing camera, the Pre-Crash Safety system can help detect vehicles – and in some circumstances, pedestrians. It can warn the driver of a possible collision and can initiate automatic braking with Brake Assist if necessary.
Lane Keep Assist uses a camera to scan lane markings on the road surface and triggers audio-visual alerts and vibrates the steering wheel if it determines that the car has unintentionally deviated from its lane. It also generates steering assist to help the driver return the car to its correct course.
Traffic Sign Recognition monitors the road ahead and recognises principal warning or command signs, such as temporary speed limits on motorways, and projects the information on the head up display in front of the driver.
October 2016
Adaptive Variable Suspension made standard feature on the GS F performance models. To accommodate the new technology, a number of changes have been made to vehicle systems including the Torque Vectoring Differential (where fitted) and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). If Lexus’s Pre-Crash Safety system is fitted, AVS control is used to adjust the damping force of the shock absorbers, improving the vehicle’s responsiveness if a high collision risk is detected.
New colour of Cadoxton Slate introduced to the GS F.
December 2016
5.0-litre V8-powered GS F saloon now equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension as standard.
Driver-selectable, electronic AVS monitors and controls the damping force at each wheel, adjusting instantaneously to ensure handling stability and ride comfort according to road conditions and the driver’s preferences. The system uses sensors that constantly monitor parameters such as G-forces, yaw rate and vehicle speed. Based on this, the AVS can adjust the level of damping force through 30 levels, ensuring optimum control on all road surfaces. This marks a significant refinement in operation compared to Lexus’s previous system, which spanned nine operating levels.
When cornering, the AVS applies increased damping force in response to steering input, yaw rate and vehicle attitude to provide pinpoint handling and suppress body roll through the turn. On rough surfaces, damping force is reduced to help absorb vibrations and keep the ride smooth and comfortable. In all, the system has seven damping force control strategies that include anti-dive and anti-squat. It also works to keep the car composed under heavy braking and acceleration.
The AVS has been linked to the cars’ Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) and Drive Mode Select control. The instrument display has been revised to show when the driver has selected Sports AVS.
