The latest addition to the GS sedan family is the GS F, introduced for the 2016 model year. Clearly the most intense member of the quartet of GS models, it belongs to the “F” group of high-performance offshoots of regular production models, which began with the LFA supercar and continued with the new RC F. Lexus describes the V8-powered GS F as “aggressive-yet-elegant” in exterior design. Toyota’s luxury division also notes that handling qualities were developed on some of the most challenging race courses, including the legendary Nürburgring in Germany.
Lexus also offers a new GS 200t with a turbo four-cylinder engine, as well as the V6-powered GS 350 and hybrid GS 450h.
What's New for 2016
The GS F is a brand-new, super-performance version of the five-passenger GS sedan series. One of Lexus’s “F” brand models, equipped with a V8 engine, it features a bold front fascia with race-inspired air intakes, triple-beam headlights, Brembo brakes with large calipers, a carbon-fiber rear spoiler, and quad exhaust diffuser. Extended front and rear overhangs make the GS F a little longer and wider than other GS models, and it sits lower to the ground.
Choosing Your Lexus GS F
Stepping up considerably in power from the regular GS 350, with its 311-horsepower V6, the GS F packs a high-revving 5-liter V8 that whips up 467 horsepower, as well as 389 pound-feet of torque. The sole transmission is an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift unit, and the engine features a 7300-rpm redline. Active Sound Control synthesizes original sounds, creating a three-dimensional effect within the cabin.
As expected, gas mileage is not a high point, estimated at 16 mpg in city driving and 24 mpg on the highway (19 mpg combined). Lexus claims 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds.
The standard Lexus Safety System + includes a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features include Intuitive Parking Assist, a blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Standard equipment includes a rearview camera with dynamic grid lines, a 12-speaker 299-watt audio system, puddle lamps, leather upholstery, power front seats, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, power tilt/telescopic steering column, pushbutton start, S-Flow energy-saving air conditioning, satellite radio with shark-fin antenna, Siri Eyes Free, and 19-inch wheels. Electrochromic heated, automatic-dimming outside mirrors include a memory. LED daytime running, brake, and taillamps are standard. The multi-information displays includes such data as lap times, G-force, and rear wing position. Navigation includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
Options include Mark Levinson surround sound with 17 speakers and orange brake calipers.
Naturally, most GS sedan buyers will be happy with one of the “lesser” versions, with four-cylinder or V6 power. Enthusiasts, on the other hand, now have an authentic high-performance variant to consider, though the $84,440 price limits its appeal. Lexus might seem like an ordinary luxury-car maker to most folks, but some hardened performance fans have been taking an interest in the brand for years.
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