Lexus GS

Overview

It is a mid -size luxury sedan designed and developed by the luxury division of Toyota i.e. Lexus. Initially, this mid-size sedan was promoted with the nameplate as Toyota Aristo in Japan until Lexus introduced its third generation. In Malaysia it is available in six variants namely GS 250, GS 250 Luxury, GS 250 F Sport, GS 350 F Sport, GS 350 Luxury and the hybrid version dubbed as GS 300h.

All the GS 250 variants are powered by a 2.5-litre DOHC 6-cylinder engine with dual VVT-i which deliver a maximum power of 206 hp at 6400 rpm along with a peak torque of 253 Nm at 4800 rpm. The GS 350 variants are integrated with a 3.5-litre DOHC 6-cylinder engine with dual VVT-i which churns out a maximum power of 312 hp at 6400 rpm along side a commanding torque of 378 Nm at 4800 rpm. Lastly, 300h is powered by a 2.5-litre DOHC 6-cylinder engine that produces 178 hp at 6000 rpm and 221 Nm of torque at 4200-5400 rpm.

Its elegantly linear body exudes more than just beauty. The aero-stabilizing fins overcomes air resistance for a smooth and aerodynamic drive. The signature spindle grille flows gracefully into sleek lines and adds to a commanding silhouette. Headlamps are further complemented by the newly developed LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which form the L-finesse arrowhead motif, further reinforcing the unique visual signature of the new GS.

The ergonomically designed cockpit features a dual-zone layout with an upper display zone that has got a large 12.3-inch, LCD multi-display screen located at an ideal distance for at-a-glance viewing and a lower operation zone which allows you to easily access the system controls through its Remote Touch Interface (RTI). Its leather wrapped seats include multiple adjustable functions for butterfly headrest, shoulder support, side support and 4-way lumbar support for an optimum seating posture.

This car is blessed with a 10 SRS airbag mechanism around the cabin which protects you from various types of frontal and side collisions. To ensure the safety of you and your passengers, the car body of the GS 250 is reinforced to absorb collision impact and resist cabin intrusion. Further its braking mechanism is further assisted with anti-lock braking system (ABS) which prevents the wheel from locking in the case of emergency braking along with brake assist (BA) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD).

Mileage and Fuel economy

The variants GS 250, GS 250 Luxury and GS 250 F Sport are powered by a 2.5-litre engine and their fuel economy comes to 9.3 litre/100 km. On the other hand GS 350 F Sport and GS 350 Luxury are powered by a 3.5-litre engine which churns out a fuel economy of 10.2 litre/100 km. Finally the GS 300h consumes 4.8 litre/100 km.

Power

All the GS 250 variants deliver a maximum power of 206 hp at 6400 rpm along with a peak torque of 253 Nm at 4800 rpm. Moving upwards, the GS 350 variants churn out a maximum power of 312 hp at 6400 rpm along side a commanding torque of 378 Nm at 4800 rpm. Lastly, the hybrid version dubbed as GS 300h produces 178 hp at 6000 rpm and 221 Nm of torque at 4200-5400 rpm.

Acceleration & Pickup

Talking about the GS 250 variants, they are able to complete the century sprint in 8.6 seconds along with a top speed of 225 kmph. Moving further, GS 350 variants accelerate from 0-100 kmph in just 6.0 seconds and clocks a top speed of 235 kmph. Finally, the hybrid version 300h is a bit slower as it takes 9.2 seconds to complete the century sprint and clocks a maximum speed of 190 kmph.

Exterior

The new generation Lexus GS will redefine your expectations of luxury sedans. This car features a combined upper and lower grille that creates a prominent spindle shape and brings to life a fiercely individualistic front with an unequivocal exterior. Further the signature spindle grille flows gracefully into sleek lines and adds to a commanding silhouette. Headlamps are further complemented by the newly developed LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), which form the L-finesse arrowhead motif, further reinforcing the unique visual signature of the new GS. The headlamps fitted in all the variants are Bi-Xenon along with auto-leveling and washer. The heated side mirrors are auto adjustable and retractable with memory. Rear end of this car is adorned by LED tail lights and rear spoiler. Its elegantly linear body exudes more than just beauty. The aero-stabilizing fins overcomes air resistance for a smooth and aerodynamic drive. Further, it is made available in nine colour options namely White Pearl CS, White Nova GF, Mercury Grey MC, Sonic Silver, Black, Starlight Black GF, Crimson Crystal Shine GF, Fire Agate Mica Metallic and Meteor Blue Mica Metallic.

Exterior Measurements

Being a sedan, Lexus GS offers great space all thanks to its overall dimensions. It measures 4850 mm long, 1840 mm wide and 1455 mm tall along with a wheelbase of 2855 mm.

Interior

As soon as you glide into the car, it doesn't fail to mesmerise you with its beautiful and spacious interiors. The ergonomically designed cockpit features a dual-zone layout with an upper display zone and lower operation zone. The upper display zone has got a large 12.3-inch, LCD multi-display screen located at an ideal distance for at-a-glance viewing while the lower operation zone allows you to easily access the system controls through its Remote Touch Interface (RTI). It has got an ergonomic seat that offers you the chiropractic relief you need even for the most high-performance drive. These leather wrapped seats include multiple adjustable functions for butterfly headrest, shoulder support, side support and 4-way lumbar support for an optimum seating posture. The rear passengers have got an additional rear space along with a 3-zone independent temperature and air control register. Further a beautifully crafted steering wheel and gorgeous interior trimming adds to a dose of luxury.

Interior Comfort

Comfort is one department you will not find yourself lagging in a Lexus GS. Special attention has been paid to create the ideal seating position to reduce driving stress and fatigue. The optional pelvic support is the world’s first mechanism of its kind in a car seat that pushes your lower back forward for a natural and comfortable posture. Steering wheel column is placed at an angle that facilitates a relaxed grip and smooth steering inputs. Among other things, the soft padded, tactile finish to the centre console arm rest and knee pads also boost comfort. The automaker has also provided many storage options in this car. Besides multiple cabin storage boxes, the spacious trunk can easily accommodate four golf bags.

Interior Measurements

Lexus GS comes packed with a boot space of 520 litres which is enough to carry your luggage and other essentials. This boot space can be further extended by folding down the rear seats. Moreover, this car provides an ample of headroom and legroom to the front and rear passengers as well.

Engine and Performance

All the GS 250 variants are powered by a 2.5-litre DOHC 6-cylinder engine with dual VVT-i. This engine deliver a maximum power of 206 hp at 6400 rpm along with a peak torque of 253 Nm at 4800 rpm. The GS 350 variants are integrated with a 3.5-litre DOHC 6-cylinder engine with dual VVT-i which churns out a maximum power of 312 hp at 6400 rpm along side a commanding torque of 378 Nm at 4800 rpm. Lastly, 300h is powered by a 2.5-litre DOHC 6-cylinder engine that produces 178 hp at 6000 rpm and 221 Nm of torque at 4200-5400 rpm. The hybrid version is mated to an Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) while all other variants are paired with a six-speedm automatic transmission.

Sterio and Accessories

The automaker has provided an array of infotainment features in this car which never let you have a dull moment. The GS 250 variant is integrated with a Lexus Premium 12-speaker audio system with AM/FM Tuner, In-dash Single CD/DVD, MP3,WMA, AAC, MP4, M4V, WMV, AVI & JPEG compatible. While all other variants have got a 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround sound system with AM/FM Tuner, In-dash Single CD/DVD, MP3,WMA, AAC, MP4, M4V, WMV, AVI & JPEG compatible. Further, 2 USB ports, AUX and SD card slot is also provided to connect your compatible devices.

Wheels

The GS 250 variant is anchored with 17-inch alloy wheels surrounded by tires measuring 225/50 R17. While all other variants are fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels which are surrounded by 235/45 R18 tires.

Braking and Handling

All the variants are employed with front and rear ventilated disc brakes. The braking mechanism is further assisted with anti-lock braking system (ABS) which prevents the wheel from locking in the case of emergency braking. Moreover, the braking efficiency is also increased by brake assist (BA) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). Further, it has got double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.

Safety and Security

To ensure the safety of you and your passengers, the car body of the GS 250 is reinforced to absorb collision impact and resist cabin intrusion. In case of a collision, the headrest moves with the passenger's body which as a result reduces excessive head movement and minimize the severity of whiplash-type injuries. Further, this car is blessed with a 10 SRS airbag mechanism around the cabin which protects you from various types of frontal and side collisions. Additional safety features include vehicle dynamics integrated management (VDIM), vehicle stability control (VSC), traction control (TC), hill-start assist (HSA), parking clearance sonar guide, reverse parking assist monitor, side door impact beam, tire pressure warning system (TPWS), whiplash injury lessening (WIL), seat-belts, ISOFIX attachments and impact absorbing structure for pedestrians.

Pros

High quality interior
Capable handling with refined ride comfort
cutting-edge safety features

Cons

Stiff ride
Tight rear knee room
Complicated infotainment system