Overview
The Lexus GS represents the brand’s midsize sport-luxury sedan offering, positioned as a more dynamic alternative to the comfort-oriented ES while providing greater everyday usability than the performance-focused IS. Throughout its production run, the GS served as a technological showcase for the Lexus brand, introducing innovative features and distinctive styling elements that would later influence other models in the lineup. The GS established itself as a compelling option for drivers seeking a balance of luxury appointments and engaging dynamics in a refined package.
The GS features bold, athletic styling characterized by the prominent Lexus spindle grille, aggressive headlamp design, and muscular proportions that communicate its sporting intentions. The distinctive L-shaped LED lighting signatures, flared wheel arches, and fastback-inspired silhouette create a visually striking presence that distinguishes it from more conservative competitors. These design elements reflect Lexus’s determination to challenge European rivals not only in terms of quality and reliability but also through distinctive, confident aesthetics that project a more assertive brand identity.
In the competitive landscape of midsize luxury sport sedans, the GS competed directly with established benchmarks such as the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi A6. What separated the GS in this segment was its compelling combination of engaging driving dynamics, exceptional build quality, advanced technology, and value proposition. While some European rivals might offer more aggressive performance or more elaborate features, the GS delivered a holistic ownership experience distinguished by thoughtful engineering, meticulous attention to detail, and long-term reliability that resonated with discerning buyers.
Driving
The driving experience of the Lexus GS varies significantly across its range of available powertrains, from the efficiency-focused GS 300h hybrid to the high-performance GS F. The standard GS 350 features a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, delivering smooth, linear acceleration with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.7 seconds. This refined powertrain operates through an eight-speed automatic transmission in rear-wheel-drive models or a six-speed automatic in all-wheel-drive variants, providing responsive gear changes and appropriate ratios for both relaxed cruising and spirited driving.
For performance enthusiasts, the GS F represents the pinnacle of the lineup with its naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine generating 467 horsepower and 389 lb-ft of torque. This high-revving powerplant delivers exhilarating acceleration with a distinctive exhaust note, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds. The GS F’s eight-speed automatic transmission offers multiple shift programs and manual control via paddle shifters, supporting its performance-oriented character while maintaining refinement during everyday driving.
The GS chassis demonstrates impressive balance, with a double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear arrangement that delivers poised handling without compromising ride quality. The available Adaptive Variable Suspension continuously adjusts damping rates according to road conditions and driving inputs, providing exceptional versatility across diverse driving scenarios. The standard Drive Mode Select system allows drivers to tailor vehicle responses to their preferences, with Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+ modes adjusting throttle response, transmission shift patterns, and suspension settings accordingly.
Steering precision is commendable, with good weighting and progressive responses that inspire confidence during both casual and enthusiastic driving. The rear-wheel-drive platform provides natural handling characteristics with appropriate feedback, while all-wheel-drive variants offer enhanced all-weather capability with minimal compromise to the driving experience. The GS F further elevates the driving experience with its torque-vectoring differential, which actively distributes power between the rear wheels to enhance cornering agility and stability.
Braking performance matches the powertrain capabilities across the model range, with the GS F featuring substantial Brembo components for exceptional stopping power and resistance to fade during aggressive driving. Regardless of specification, the brake pedal provides progressive resistance and good modulation that facilitates smooth deceleration in everyday scenarios while delivering confidence during more enthusiastic driving sessions.
Fuel efficiency varies substantially by powertrain, with the hybrid GS 300h achieving impressive economy of approximately 31 mpg combined, the standard GS 350 delivering reasonable efficiency for its performance level at approximately 23 mpg combined, and the high-performance GS F requiring greater fuel consumption as a trade-off for its exhilarating performance at approximately 19 mpg combined.
Interior
The interior of the Lexus GS exemplifies the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship while incorporating distinctive sporting elements appropriate to its position in the lineup. The dashboard presents a driver-focused orientation with intelligently positioned controls and displays that support an engaging driving experience without compromising passenger comfort. Materials include genuine leather upholstery, precisely fitted aluminum or wood trim options, and soft-touch surfaces throughout high-contact areas that create a sophisticated, premium atmosphere.
The infotainment system centers around a large central display (up to 12.3 inches depending on configuration) controlled through the Lexus Remote Touch Interface—a mouse-like controller that operates a cursor on the screen. While this system offers comprehensive functionality including navigation, climate control, and media management, its operation requires more attention than some touch-based or rotary controller alternatives. The available 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system delivers exceptional sound quality that satisfies discerning audiophiles, benefiting from the cabin’s excellent acoustic properties.
Seating comfort merits particular attention, with the standard sport seats providing excellent support during cornering while remaining comfortable for extended journeys. The available F Sport and GS F seats offer enhanced lateral support appropriate to their performance orientation without compromising long-distance comfort. The driver’s position benefits from excellent ergonomics, with primary controls positioned intuitively and comprehensive adjustment options for the steering column and seat that accommodate diverse physiques.
Rear seat accommodations offer good comfort for adult passengers, with adequate head and legroom that compares favorably within the segment. While not as spacious as the front-wheel-drive ES model due to the GS’s rear-wheel-drive architecture, the rear cabin provides appropriate comfort for the vehicle’s sporting intentions and market positioning.
Practical considerations include a reasonably spacious trunk offering approximately 14.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity, though hybrid variants sacrifice some space to accommodate battery components. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats in most configurations enhance versatility for transporting larger items. Interior storage is well-considered, with appropriately sized door pockets, center console compartments, and thoughtfully positioned smaller bins for personal items.
Climate control operates with exceptional efficiency and quietness, maintaining consistent cabin temperatures through multi-zone systems that allow individual adjustment for different occupants. The available climate concierge system integrates seat heating and ventilation with cabin temperature control for optimized comfort in all weather conditions.
Acoustic comfort is impressive, with extensive sound insulation and active noise cancellation in some variants creating a refined environment even at highway speeds. This hushed atmosphere enhances both conversation comfort and audio system appreciation while reinforcing the premium experience expected in this segment.
Buying
Purchasing a Lexus GS represented a significant investment within the luxury sport sedan segment, with a starting price of approximately $47,000 for base models and extending beyond $85,000 for the high-performance GS F before options. This pricing positioned the GS as offering substantial value relative to European competitors that typically commanded higher prices for comparable equipment levels.
The GS was available in multiple trim configurations, including base, F Sport, and the performance-oriented GS F, with various powertrain options including conventional gasoline engines and hybrid technology. The base model came well-equipped with leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. The F Sport package added visual distinctions, more supportive seats, larger brakes, and performance-oriented suspension tuning for buyers seeking a more dynamic character without the full commitment to the GS F’s performance focus.
The Lexus Safety System+ came standard across recent model years, incorporating adaptive cruise control, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and automatic high beams. This impressive array of standard safety features represented exceptional value at this price point and reflected Lexus’s commitment to safety across its model range.
Lexus provided a warranty package that included 4-year/50,000-mile basic coverage and 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain protection. Hybrid components in applicable variants carried an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, providing valuable assurance regarding the sophisticated hybrid system. Lexus’s legendary reliability further enhanced ownership confidence, with the GS consistently ranking among the most dependable vehicles in industry studies.
Maintenance costs tended to be lower than those of European competitors, contributing to favorable total cost of ownership calculations. Complimentary maintenance was included for the first two years or 20,000 miles, covering scheduled service at recommended intervals. Lexus dealership experience was frequently rated among the best in the luxury segment, with exceptional attention to customer satisfaction throughout the ownership process.
Resale value stood as another GS strength, with depreciation rates generally lower than many competitors. This resilient value retention positively impacted leasing rates and contributed to attractive overall ownership costs, partially offsetting the initial price premium relative to mainstream midsize sedans.
It should be noted that Lexus discontinued the GS in 2020 in most markets, with the model being replaced by other offerings in the lineup. However, this discontinuation has created an interesting opportunity in the pre-owned market, where the GS represents compelling value with its combination of luxury, performance, and proven reliability.
Specs & Prices
Technical Specifications
- GS 350 Engine: 3.5-liter V6
- GS 350 Power: 311 horsepower at 6,400 rpm
- GS 350 Torque: 280 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm
- GS 350 Transmission: Eight-speed automatic (RWD), Six-speed automatic (AWD)
- GS F Engine: 5.0-liter V8
- GS F Power: 467 horsepower at 7,100 rpm
- GS F Torque: 389 lb-ft at 4,800-5,600 rpm
- GS F Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
- GS 300h Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder with hybrid system
- GS 300h Total System Power: 223 horsepower
- GS 300h Transmission: Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT)
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive (GS 350)
- GS 350 0-60 mph: 5.7 seconds
- GS F 0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds
- GS 350 Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
- GS F Fuel Economy: 16 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 19 mpg combined
- GS 300h Fuel Economy: 29 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 31 mpg combined
- Fuel Tank: 17.4 gallons
Dimensions
- Length: 192.1 inches (GS 350/300h), 193.5 inches (GS F)
- Width: 72.4 inches (without mirrors)
- Height: 57.3 inches
- Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
- Curb Weight: 3,726 pounds (GS 350 RWD), 3,891 pounds (GS 350 AWD), 4,034 pounds (GS F)
- Ground Clearance: 5.1 inches
- Cargo Volume: 14.3 cubic feet (GS 350), 13.2 cubic feet (GS 300h)
Price Information (Final Model Year)
- GS 350: $51,065
- GS 350 F Sport: $54,505
- GS F: $85,010
- Destination Charge: $1,025
Key Packages and Options
- Navigation Package: $1,735
- 12.3-inch high-resolution split-screen multimedia display
- Navigation system with voice command
- Lexus Enform destination assist
- F Sport Package: $3,440
- F Sport exterior styling
- 19-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels
- F Sport-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension
- Variable Gear Ratio Steering
- Sport seats with enhanced bolsters
- 16-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support
- F Sport instrument cluster
- Mark Levinson Premium Audio Package: $1,380
- 17-speaker, 835-watt surround sound audio system
- Quantum Logic Surround technology
- Premium Package: $1,400
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Power rear sunshade
- Cold Weather Package: $340
- Headlamp washers
- Water-repellent front door glass
- Windshield wiper de-icer
- High-intensity interior heater
- Heads-Up Display: $900
- Intuitive Park Assist: $500
- Power Trunk: $400
Conclusion
The Lexus GS presented a compelling proposition for buyers seeking a sophisticated luxury sport sedan that balanced dynamic capabilities with practical comfort and long-term reliability. While not as aggressively tuned as some European rivals, its thoughtfully engineered chassis delivered engaging handling without compromising the refinement expected from a Lexus. The diverse powertrain options provided choices ranging from efficient hybrid technology to exhilarating V8 performance, accommodating a wide spectrum of driver preferences.
The GS’s exceptional build quality, comprehensive feature set, impressive warranty coverage, and Lexus’s reputation for customer service created an ownership proposition that resonated with discerning buyers seeking substance beyond badge prestige. Though the model has been discontinued, its legacy continues through the values it established within the Lexus lineup and the compelling opportunity it presents in the pre-owned market for those seeking a refined, reliable luxury sport sedan with distinctive character.
References: This review is based on industry knowledge and compiled from multiple automotive publications. Sources include Lexus official specifications, automotive industry reviews, and consumer reports.
