Lexus GS (2005 – 2012) Review
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Lexus GS (2005 – 2012) At A Glance
Very refined and quiet. Effortless performance from all engines. Hybrid GS450h is superbly refined. Stuffed with technology and equipment. Excellent crash test rating.
Not the smoothest motorway cruiser. Some reports of below-par cabin assembly. Alloy wheels can oxidise. No diesel in the range.
The Lexus GS is the Japanese brands' luxury rival to established executive models like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. Majoring on quality and technology, it's an incredibly advanced car that's available with cutting edge systems to improve on-board comfort, safety and performance. Perhaps the biggest surprise is what there isn't - a diesel engine. While the smaller Lexus IS is available with a Toyota-sourced diesel, the larger GS only comes with petrol engines. But it does have an ace up its sleeve - the GS450h.
The 'h' stands for hybrid and it's a true motoring innovation - the world's first rear-wheel drive full-hybrid power car. Thanks to the combination of a petrol engine and an electric motor is provides incredibly strong yet effortless performance, especially from a standstill, while fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are impressively low for a car with so much power. The GS450 is so good in fact, that it's now the only model available - the petrol engined GS300 and GS460 were dropped from the range as their thirsty nature meant they weren't big sellers.
All GS models are superbly engineered with exceptional build quality, so it's little surprise the GS performs strongly in owner satisfaction surveys - as do all Lexus models. The dealers also have a great reputation for customer care and also regularly top the likes of the J.D Power survey both in the U.S and here. In 2010 it came top of the J.D. Power UK Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study with owners particularly happy in three of the four key measures: vehicle quality and reliability, vehicle appeal and service satisfaction.
Reviews for Lexus GS (2005 – 2012)'s top 3 rivals
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Lexus GS (2005 – 2012) handling and engines
- Engines range from 300 to 460
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 21–38 mpg
The GS is an upmarket executive car in the same mould as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class or BMW 5 Series so you'd expect it to excel when it comes to smooth motorway cruising, but while it's incredibly refined and quiet on board, the Lexus doesn't actually ride that well. It tends to fidget on bumpy roads and feels a lot busier than you'd expect of a large saloon from a Japanse brand. It's not uncomfortable, but other rivals feel more forgiving. Top models, including the GS450h, come with an Adaptive Variable Suspension system - this automatically adjusts damping force on all four wheels independently and monitors things like engine revs, wheel speed and steering, continuously adjusting each shock absorber. It's marginally better than the standard suspension on the GS300, but not by much and doesn't solve the problem of the 'busy' ride feel.
The sophisticated variable-ratio steering is well weighted but pretty lifeless and doesn't involve you in the driving experience. That said, all GS models are quick, but they none feels especially focussed in corners. In fact, it feels pretty bulky and there's considerable body roll in bends. There are also no diesel engines in the GS range - which continues to be a surprise when you consider than the other makes in this market, BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz - all sell more diesel executive saloons than petrols.
Initially there was a GS300 and a GS430, both decent performers although the GS300 seems tame after driving the V8-powered GS430 with 279bhp and a 0-62mph time of just 6.1 seconds. In 2008 the GS430 was replaced by the wonderfully smooth GS460 - and as the name suggest it's a 4.6-litre engine with 342bhp on tap. It really delivers amazingly effortless acceleration and is near silent most of the time, so is an ideal relaxed machine. The problem is economy - it averages just 25.7mpg - not bad for a 4.6-litre V8 but there are equally as fast diesel cars this size which are much more frugal.
The saving grace for the GS is the hybrid model in the shape of the GS450h which was launched in 2006 and is now the only model you can get - the standard petrols have been dropped from the line-up. When you first start the hybrid engine there is no noise and moving away in silence is an eerie sensation. Even when the 3.5-litre V6 petrol unit does cut in, it's almost impossible to detect and excellent insulation means engine noise is kept to a minimum.
The CVT gearbox in the Lexus is one if the best around too and gives it stunning performance. Its 0-62mph time of 5.9 seconds is enough to outdo most hot hatches while in-gear acceleration is outstanding, but it's the effortless manner in which it performs which impresses most. The hybrid system uses a standard 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine which develops 292bhp along with an electric motor generating 197bhp and 275Nm of torque from a standstill. The petrol engine and electric motor can power the rear wheels at the same time or, being a ‘full' hybrid, the GS can also operate in pure electric mode. And because battery levels are constantly managed via the engine-drive generator, there is no need to recharge the system from an external source.
The result is an amazingly refined engine which offers awesome pace in an effortless fashion. The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission is another highlight - the stepless system maintains linear acceleration all the way up to the 155mph limiter. There's no doubt that the technology works, and there are advantages besides an increase in fuel economy. For company car drivers, the GS450h is one of the most tax-efficient models in its class, while motorists in London will find the Lexus exempt from the congestion charge.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 450h | 36–37 mpg | 5.9 s | 179–180 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Lexus GS (2005 – 2012)
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
92%
Real MPG
21–38 mpg
MPGs submitted
106
Lexus GS (2005 – 2012) interior
- Boot space is 280–430 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4825–4850 mm |
| Width | 1820 mm |
| Height | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm |
While we can't fault the finish or the quality of the materials used the Lexus doesn't quite have that sense of occasion of some its German rivals. That said, the dash is well laid-out, if a little busy and the chrome backed dials give it a sporty feel. It's shame then to see Toyota switches and buttons - not what you want in a car at this level. Thankfully the controls are fairly intuitive to use and everything feels well built and impeccably finished. It's just not very 'special'.
Most models get sat nav comes as standard which is a good feature, but the system isn't the best around and quite fiddly to use. Annoyingly you have to be stationary in order to programme in a destination so it;s not as if you can change your mind on the move or even set it in traffic. The GS also comes with ‘steering-guided' parking sensors fitted but this is little misleading. It's not the same system in the larger LS which actually turns the steering wheel for you - instead it gives you guidelines superimposed onto the reversing camera, warns of obstacles and suggest which way the driver should steer.
Given that this is a large saloon, you'd expect the boot to be cavernous but while it's large in the petrol models, it's smaller in the GS450h as this is where the 240 nickel hydride batteries are located - directly above the rear axle to power the hybrid engine. They take up 150 litres and as a result space is reduced to just 280 litres - that's less than Volkswagen Golf. However, one neat feature is a special set of luggage, designed to make the most of the available space, although it's not cheap. The boot is tricky to load though because of the narrow shape of the bootlid, although there is a self-closing function, so you don't have to slam it shut. The batteries also seem to have affected rear legroom as it seems tighter than you'd expect given the long wheelbase.
Equipment from launch (April 2005):
GS300 gets Smart Key entry and push-button start-up system, a 10-speaker sound system with in-dash six-disc CD player, speed-sensitive electric power steering, cruise control, sequenced interior lighting with LED technology, leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, advanced automatic dual-zone air conditioning, eight-way electrically adjustable front seats, tyre pressure warning system, Adaptive Front-lighting System, 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth and an eight-inch touch-screen display.
GS300 SE models add the Lexus DVD-based satellite navigation system with rear view monitor and steering-guided parking sensors, leather upholstery and additional lumbar adjustment plus heating and ventilation functions for the front seats.
GS300 SE-L adopts an electric tilt/slide sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels and a Mark Levinson 14-speaker hi-fi system. Standard features on the GS430 include Adaptive Cruise Control with Pre-Crash Safety and a wood and leather trimmed steering wheel.
GS 430 models get Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and a Multimedia Pack that includes a 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, satellite navigation with dynamic route guidance, Bluetooth connectivity and a six-DVD autochanger.
GS 450h is equipped with a comprehensive range of technologically advanced equipment, designed both to simplify and enhance life on board. These include Smart Key access, sequenced interior lighting as driver or passengers enter or leave the vehicle, push-button engine start-up and steering-sensitive parking sensors. It also features the only fully electric climate control air conditioning system in its segment, reducing the impact on fuel economy and performance compared to conventional systems. In the cabin, the instrument panel remains clearly visible in all light conditions, thanks to the new Electronic Chromatic Device (ECD). This uses a light sensor in the high-mounted stop light to gauge the ambient light level and adjust the brightness of the Optitron instrument dials accordingly.
Lexus GS (2005 – 2012) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4825–4850 mm |
| Width | 1820 mm |
| Height | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1660–1930 kg |
| Boot Space | 280–430 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 10000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £34,355–£51,385 |
| Insurance Groups | 41 |
| Road Tax Bands | Alternative fuel, I |
| Official MPG | 25.7–36.7 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | 5 |
| Child | 4 |
| Pedestrian | 2 |
| Overall | - |
On sale until November 2012
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.5 V6 SE 4dr Auto | £44,615 | 36.7 mpg | 5.9 s |
| 3.5 V6 SE-L 4dr Auto | £49,015 | 36.7 mpg | 5.9 s |
On sale until July 2009
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.5 V6 Auto | £40,980 | 35.8 mpg | - |
| 3.5 V6 Sport Auto | £47,655 | 35.8 mpg | - |
On sale until April 2009
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 3.0 V6 Auto | £34,355 | - | - |
| 3.0 V6 SE Auto | £39,150 | - | - |
| 3.0 V6 SE-L Auto | £41,395 | - | - |
| 4.6 V8 Auto | £51,385 | - | - |
On sale until May 2007
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 4.3 V8 Auto | £48,005 | - | - |
Model History
- April 2005: Third generation Lexus GS launched in the UK
- May 2006: The hybrid GS 450h was launched
- July 2006
- January 2008
- May 2010
April 2005
Third generation Lexus GS launched in the UK
It is available with two engines. GS300 models are powered by an all-new 3.0-litre V6, a chain-drive DOHC unit that produces 245bhp at 6200rpm and 310Nm of torque at 3500rpm. That permits 0-62 acceleration in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 148mph.The flagship GS430 model is equipped with a 4.3-litre V8, delivering 279bhp and a maximum 417Nm of torque.
Acceleration from rest to 62mph can be despatched in 6.1 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 155mph. Performance is aided by VVT-i with an ETCS-i drive-by-wire electronic throttle control. Both engines are matched to a close ratio, electronically-controlled six-speed automatic gearbox with a sequential shift mode allowing the driver to make manual gear selection when desired.The all-new platform on which the GS is constructed offers greater rigidity and has a longer wheelbase and wider rear track than the previous generation model, factors which contribute much to the car's excellent poise and handling.
4,825mm (15' 10") long x 1,820mm (6') wide
Type A, models come on 17" wheels with 225/50R17 94w tyres;
Type B models come on 18" wheels with 245/40 R18 HP tyres.
The GS also adopts new speed-sensitive electric power steering, which on the GS430 model further benefits from a Variable Gear Ratio Steering system that provides assistance to suit the driving conditions, ensuring excellent feedback to the driver at high speed, while making slow speed manoeuvring effortless. On the GS430, Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) allows the driver to fine tune the damping system with settings for 'normal' or 'sport' performance. Selecting 'sport' also automatically adjusts the VGRS to provide quicker steering responses.
All models get a Smart Key system for simple door locking and engine start-up and makes use of an advanced new glass screen system to ensure the Optitron instrumentation read-out remains perfectly clear in all light conditions. A 10-speaker sound system with six-disc in-dash CD player is fitted as standard, but drivers of higher grade versions can enjoy the superior sound experience offered by a Mark Levinson designed hi-fi, unique to Lexus.
The Lexus DVD-based satellite navigation system is offered with a simple touch-screen operating system that also lets you operate the audio and air conditioning functions and, where compatible, Bluetooth control of your mobile telephone. For even greater ease of use, voice control functions are also available, capable of recognising a multitude of commands. The new GS is also available with the Lexus Parking Assist system, which uses a rear-view camera linked to the central display screen to provide ideal guidance for reverse manoeuvres. There is also less risk of unwelcome scrapes thanks to front and rear parking sensors that operate in line with the car's steering angle - another 'first' in Europe for Lexus.
All versions are equipped with ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Passive safety systems include 10 airbags, including knee airbags for driver and front seat passenger and front and rear curtain shield airbags. All models except the entry level GS300 also feature rear passenger side airbags. Both front and outer rear passenger seatbelts have pretensioners and force limiters and there are ISOFIX attachments for the secure location of compatible child seats.
The GS430 model is the first in Europe to deploy Lexus's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), which co-ordinates the functions of the ABS, EBD, TRC and VSC together with the Electric Power Steering and Variable Gear Ratio Steering to ensure they operate as smoothly and effectively as possible, as the car reaches the limit of its performance.
Adaptive Cruise Control (standard on the GS430, optional on the GS300 SE-L) uses radar technology to ensure you keep a safe distance from the car in front and is linked to Lexus's Pre-Crash Safety system. This uses the same network of sensors to determine when a collision becomes inevitable and prepares the seatbelts and the emergency braking system to deliver the optimum performance at the split second they are needed.
The GS is offered in four grades: GS300, GS300 SE, GS300 SE-L and GS430.The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has awarded the new GS300 and GS300SE insurance group 16E, the SE-L version is in group 17E and the GS430 is in group 18E. The Lexus GS requires servicing every 10,000 miles (Health & Safety Check) with major servicing required at 20,000 mile intervals. In line with all other Lexus models, the new GS will be sold with 3 years'/60,000 miles warranty with 3 year paint and 12 year anti-perforation warranties.
It was awarded a then best-in-class five star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests for adult occupant protection with 35 points. The GS received the (then) maximum score for side impact, and a top-in-class result for the frontal impact test with 15 out of 16 points. It also achieved a best-in-class result for pedestrian protection with a total of 18 points (two stars) and a rating of 41 points (four stars) for child protection.
May 2006
The hybrid GS 450h was launched
The first hybrid powered premium executive saloon market, designed to deliver exceptional performance to rival its conventional V8 competition, together with good fuel economy and low emissions. The GS 450h has a completely new, front engine, rear-wheel drive, series/parallel hybrid powertrain. It uses a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with a new D-4S twin injector system with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing ' intelligent), developing 292bhp and 368Nm of torque, mated to a compact, high-output, permanent magnet electric motor that generates 197bhp and 275Nm of torque right from standstill.
Another world-first is the GS 450h's Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission ' E-CVT ' with sequential shift mode. Each of the six sequential 'steps' gives sharper engine braking force, in the manner of a conventional automatic gearbox in sequential mode. The GS 450h can accelerate from nought to 62mph in 5.9 seconds and from 50 to 75mph in 4.9 seconds, maintaining linear acceleration all the way on to a top speed of 155mph, with none of the typical 'jumps' between gears experienced in a conventional drivetrain.
At the same time, the GS 450h returns 35.8mpg in combined cycle driving, fuel consumption that is on a par with C-segment petrol cars. Carbon dioxide emissions are 186g/km, which matches the performance of four-cylinder economy diesels in the premium segment, and combined emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC) are lower than for any other vehicle powered by a combustion engine at 0.01g/km.
The GS 450h can be identified as the high performance flagship of the GS range by its 'Hybrid' badging to the rear of the sills and bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels. SE and SE-L models are equipped with a discreet bootlid spoiler. Inside the cabin, the GS 450h benefits from the same attention to detail applied to the other models in the GS range, with the design and operation of controls and features with optimum ease and refinement.
The latest generation Lexus Navigation System delivers faster route calculation and clearer graphics, using enhanced display technology via a seven-inch Electro Multi Vision (EMV) touch-screen. Voice commands can be used to control navigation, audio, air conditioning and hands-free telephone functions.
July 2006
A special GS Limited Edition (LE) model was launched with just 250 available. Taking the current GS 300 SE as its starting point, it features a series of additional, distinctive exterior and interior style enhancements. On the outside, the LE is distinguished by body styling elements that emphasise the car's strong dynamic look. They include 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, an aerodynamic boot lip spoiler, extended side skirts and a front spoiler.
Luxury is the keynote for the interior, with soft grey perforated leather upholstery, dark wood inserts for the doors and centre console and custom-designed floor mats, exclusive to the LE grade. The GS 300 LE is available exclusively in Aleutian Grey metallic for the exterior, with the interior finished in toning light Grampian Grey.
January 2008
The Lexus GS range was revised for 2008, with the introduction of a 4.6-litre V8 engine in the new GS 460. Delivering a maximum 342bhp and matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission, it gives the GS stronger performance and more driving character than ever before.
The transmission is a version of the world's first eight-speed automatic, which made its debut on the LS 460 limousine. It is lighter and more compact than the six-speed transmission previously used on the GS 430, and is quieter and more fuel-efficient, too. Thanks to the new powertrain, the GS 460 becomes the performance flagship of the GS range, cutting the nought to 62mph acceleration benchmark to 5.8 seconds; top speed is limited to 155mph. The efficiency of the engine and transmission enables the GS 460 to return an official fuel consumption figure of 25.7mpg in combined cycle driving.
On the outside the new elements include a chrome surround for the front grille, new door mirrors with integrated indicators and new-look door handles. The front and rear bumpers have also been gently restyled, with new-shape air intakes.
The GS 450h adopts a number of styling cues shared with other Lexus Hybrid Drive models. These include blue shading to the headlamp covers and the Lexus badging front and rear, a blue Hybrid logo in the side moulding, blue illumination of the scuff plates and a blue logo on the engine cover. Inside the GS the audio and telephone control buttons on the steering wheel have been revised and the boot and fuel filler release have been relocated outside the drop-down switch module. The gearshift gate has also been adjusted , increasing the area of wood trim around the shift lever.
There are further premium quality touches with the adoption of superior semi-aniline leather upholstery for the GS 460 and SE-L grade models. A paler grey leather with light wood trim combination is newly available. Leather upholstery is now standard on all versions of the GS 450h. For 2008, Lexus extends the availability of technically advanced ride and handling systems across the GS range. Both Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) are provided as standard on all models. The GS 460 and 450h models retain Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS).
May 2010
Revised exterior design, bringing further emphasis to full hybrid GS 450h. Enhanced safety features. New audio and navigation systems and revised colour range. The 2010 GS model range features enhanced safety features, new exterior and interior colours while the GS 450h’s status as the model range flagship has now been further reinforced through several bespoke styling cues. GS450h remains the world’s only full hybrid model in the premium mid-size segment. The 2010 GS range also benefits from upgraded audio and navigation systems.
What to watch out for
UK winter road salt attacks and oxidises the alloys quite badly.
14-03-2011:One report of hybrid inverter failure of a 2005 car at 113k miles (out of drivetrain warranty). Cost of repair £3,700.
11-05-2011:
DO NOT JUMP START a GS450h. Hybrids should be trickled charged, not jump started (bulletin from Toyota how to do it correctly). If a recovery agent connects jump leads directly to either hybrid battery and than to his battery the sudden charge can damage circuits with in the hybrid system (not necessarily the ECU). It seems that not all recovery companies are familiar with the correct jump start process . Damage can be caused which will not be apparent at the time.
26-02-2014:Creaky dash reported on 20k mile 2009 GS450h. Attempts by Lexus to cure this using felt have failed. Apparently a common problem (has been complained of by readers before). No known solution.
29-08-2018:Report of 2010 Lexus GS450h with 116,000 miles breaking down. Owner heard a sound, car lost balance and experienced braking. Pulled over to check. There is noise like an old tractor from under the car. Still drives, but alot of clattering noise.Lexus quoted £20,000 for a new engine. Reads like failure of the VVTI valve gear of the 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine.
