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Third-Generation GS Luxury Sport Sedans Bring New Lexus Design to Market Raise Bar on Performance, Comfort, Luxury and Safety
Lexus elevated the bar once again, wîth the launch of the next-generation 2006 GS 300 and GS 430 performance sedans in February 2005. The all-new GS delivers the latest in advanced design and technology to raise performance, comfort, safety and luxury to new levels. The new GS is also the first in a new wave of Lexus products to reflect a new, more passionate direction in styling.'We think the new GS' engaging and emotional design, along wîth its enhancements in handling and luxury appointments, will create a strong desire for the car,'said Bob Carter, Lexus group vice president and general manager. 'And the unexpected levels of performance, luxury and comfort will surprise and delight anyone who drives it.'
The GS family combines available all-wheel drive (GS 300 only) for the first time in a Lexus passenger car, wîth a powerful new 3.0-liter V6 engine, new dynamic and safety technology and a long list of comfort and luxury features in the right-sized package. A new 6-speed automatic transmission is used wîth both the new V6 and the proven 4.3 liter V8 which accelerates from zero-to-60 mph in only 5.7 seconds.
New Lexus Design Direction
From an architectural standpoint, the GS marks a move towards a more sculptural direction … that is artistic, dynamic, simple … yet intriguing. A two-inch longer wheelbase and a one-inch wider rear track create a wide, powerful stance. A long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck recall classic sports car proportions while the vertical grille surrounded by four independent headlamps connects the new GS wîth the outgoing model, but wîth a futuristic look. The front also features an aggressive lower valance wîth integrated foglamps. Dynamic 18-inch aluminum wheels wîth wide, low-profile tires on the GS 430 help tie the muscular yet elegant look together (new 17-inch aluminum wheels are standard on GS 300).
The creation of a unique spatial feeling in the passenger compartment is central to the new Lexus design direction.
The interior of the new GS has a feel of precision and luxury wîth its ultra-premium wood, polished metal and leather accents. Everything inside the GS is designed and styled to create an environment of unparalleled comfort and harmonious interaction, wîth touch points that convey quality and controls that respond wîth confidence.
Intuitive Interior
Going beyond design and color, the interior of the new GS also aims to make drivers and passengers feel at one wîth the car by providing an intuitive and naturally comfortable environment. It begins wîth the SmartAccess keyless entry and new push-to-start ignition system that allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. A comprehensive interior lighting system provides just the right amount of light where driver and passengers need it.
A secure and distraction-free setting allows the driver to get the most from the enhanced performance of the car. A new gauge cluster was developed that features machined aluminum facings. In order to minimize reflections from the face of the gauges, a unique lighting system uses variable transparency glass to help optimize visibility in all lighting conditions—from bright sun to dark of night. The gauges also feature a quick-response tachometer that moves more directly in concert wîth changes in engine rpm.
Hidden away but easily accessed, the dash panel on the left side of the §teering wheel reveals buttons and switches that are not frequently needed when driving in order to simplify the driver's view. Multi-adjustable front seats feature standard heating and optional fan ventilation, while an electronic tilt/telescoping §teering wheel helps ensure a comfortable fit. The standard Regency leather-trimmed seats are supportive and comfortably contoured for long trip support.
First All-Wheel Drive Lexus Passenger Car
The new GS 300 features available full-time all-wheel drive, the first such application in any Lexus passenger car. The new AWD system uses a wet-type multi-disc clutch and planetary gearset in the transfer case. The system employs an electronic control strategy that takes inputs from driver activity, such as §teering and throttle angle, combined wîth vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
Hydraulic controls are also employed to vary the front/rear torque split ratio from 30/70 to 50/50. This arrangement allows the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive vehicle to remain wîth the confidence of all-wheel traction when needed.
Últra-Advanced Dynamics
A completely new suspension system draws on the highest engineering principles to bring new levels of performance, comfort and sophistication to the GS driving experience. Both front and rear suspensions employ optimized geometry to virtually eliminate unwanted wheel angle changes during suspension movement. The result is a natural, confident feel that's also spirited.
An Adaptive Variable Suspension in the GS 430 automatically selects appropriate suspension damping for driving conditions while allowing the driver to select a sport mode for a tighter, more precise feel.
The new GS 430 offers the performance enhancements and advanced vehicle control of the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. VDIM is an all-new system that integrates and manages a new Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), ABS, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.
Monitoring a variety of sensors, the system is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation wîth a combination of braking, throttle and §teering control in a way that's essentially transparent to the driver. Data is gathered from more sources and processed earlier and faster than previous designs, helping to make VDIM less obtrusive yet highly effective.
Intelligent and Powerful Brakes
A powerful new braking system combines several leading-edge technologies that by themselves provide superior braking performance. When combined wîth new dynamics technology such as EPS and VGRS and managed by VDIM in the GS 430, braking performance is enhanced.
It starts wîth new mechanical components that significantly increase brake friction and improve stopping power, while effectively eliminating brake fade. Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) help make the best use of the newfound power. The new Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system in the GS 430 translates the driver's effort precisely into effective stopping power. VDIM's ability to provide overall management of all these systems maximizes brake performance and vehicle stability in virtually any driving situation.
V6 and V8 Performance Redefined
The GS 430 is powered by a 4.3 liter double overhead cam V8 engine that produces 300 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and 325 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,400 rpm. Continuously Variable Valve Timing wîth intelligence (VVT-i) ensures excellent low- and mid-range power for easy highway merging.
Joining the GS 430's potent and refined 4.3-liter V8, is an all-new 3.0-liter, 245-horsepower V6 engine replacing the inline six in the GS 300. The new V6 uses a new direct fuel injection system that offers much finer fuel mixture control to improve both power and fuel economy. 'Dual'variable valve timing technology that acts on both intake and exhaust valves further enhances performance through a wide rpm range. The result is a wide, flat torque curve that provides crisp throttle response and quick acceleration at virtually any engine speed.
Components to reduce internal friction, such as the chain drive for the camshafts and roller rockers to operate the valves, contribute to the GS 300's superior fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Both vehicles also achieved an EPA-certified Últra Low Emission Vehicle (ÚLEV) emissions rating.
New Six-Speed Automatic
Both the powerful V6 and V8 engines benefit from an intelligent all-new, close-ratio, six-speed automatic transmission wîth a sequential manual-shifting mode. The combination provides faster and substantially smoother acceleration for even better performance and improved fuel economy. And like the latest LS 430, the new automatic also uses a special transmission fluid that never needs to be checked or replaced.
New Intelligent Luxury Sport Sedan
In addition to a new look and feel, the new GS also improves upon the increasingly complex nature of automotive technology. The GS offers numerous standard features such as Bluetooth® wireless telephone capability and a Tire Pressure Monitor System that can detect and notify the driver via an indicator warning light of a severe loss in pressure in one or more tires. The GS also features the Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), which helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it.
A rear back-up camera is also added for 2006, helping to provide an extra margin of confidence when placing the the vehicle in reverse. Available in conjunction wîth the optional navigation system, it automatically projects an image of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in the reverse gear.
The GS will also be available wîth Intuitive Park Assist which uses ultrasonic sensors to detect the presence of objects close by and alert the driver of their proximity. Although first available in the Lexus LS 430 and LX 470, the GS takes the idea a step further by adding a §teering input sensor to help the system better judge the changes in distance to objects.
'With the new GS we took all the best technological features and found ways to make it more intuitive, more intelligent and more relevant to the needs of the driver,'said Carter.
Advanced Safety Features
The GS also offers an optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) that can help reduce the possibility of a collision or to reduce the severity of an imminent impact. The system uses a millimeter-wave radar sensor to help detect obstacles in front of the car and a pre-collision system computer wîth vehicle speed, §teering angle and yaw rate inputs that help to determine in advance whether a collision is unavoidable. It then switches the AVS to 'Sport'mode, preemptively retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking is applied the instant the brake pedal is depressed.
In addition, the new GS gains new knee airbags for the driver and front passenger as well as front and rear side-curtain airbags as standard equipment. The Supplemental Restraint System in the new GS also includes variable-force front airbags for both driver and front passenger. Sensors determine the severity of the accident and in turn the force wîth which to deploy the front airbags, helping to provide the appropriate level of occupant restraint.
'Nearly every feature on the GS makes this sport sedan more manageable and more engaging to drive,'said Carter.
Mind-Expanding Audio Systems
A refined standard premium audio system brings more power and three new speakers to the 2006 GS and uses an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) to maintain consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.
Music aficionados will appreciate the newest generation of the optional Mark Levinson® audio system in the new GS. Úsing a 7.1 channel speaker architecture, this leading-edge design uses 11 channels of amplification wîth a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers to bring a major new dimension to automotive audio systems.
The Mark Levinson® audio also takes advantage of DVD audio and video technology, allowing users to play both conventional CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color 7-inch touch screen when the vehicle is parked.
Emphasis on Luxury
Newly optional ventilated front seats and a power rear sunshade work in concert wîth the standard dual-zone climate control that filters and deodorizes the air to keep occupants comfortable.
An upgraded navigation system offers more than six million points of interest (POI). The multi-information display makes key information readily available and easy to see.
Rich new exterior colors and interior wood and leather selections combined wîth Lexus' boldest design to date make choosing the right GS luxury sport sedan more intriguing than ever before.Source - Lexus
Designed to fill the gap between the ES and LS, the Lexus GS was introduced by Toyota's luxury department, Lexus, in October of 1991. Also called the Toyota Aristo, the GS was a series of mid-size luxury sports sedans that were styled by the famous Italdesigns Giurgiaro firm. Based on the platform and running gear of the Toyota Crown, the original GS was first introduced in Japan in 1991, and two years later in the U.S., Europe and varied markets in Asia.
Made available with two inline-6 powered version for the Japanese market, the Aristo was introduced with the 3.0Q and the 3.0V. While the 3.0Q Aristo had a 2JZ-GE engine capable of producing 226 hp, the 3.0V was equipped with a 24-valve twinturbo 2JZ-GTe engine that produced 276 hp.
On February 22, 1993, production of the Lexus GS 300 was begun at the Tahara, Japan assembly plant. A great example for the time of the latest advancement of Tahara production technology, only 8 spot welds were performed by hand, while the other nearly 4,200 welds were performed by robots.
Wanting to produce a vehicle capable of competing with the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus introduced the GS as the new marketing sports sedan. To further complement the rest of the Lexus lineup, the exterior was styled by Italdesign Giugiaro in a way that blended the elements of both the original LS and the SC in a rounder, aerodynamic shape.
The inside of the Lexus GS 300 featured leather seating, walnut wood trim on the center console, and the availability of a Nakamichi premium stereo system. Other available options included (TRAC) traction control, a moonroof, and a remote 12-CD auto changer. The four-speed automatic transmission was replaced in 1996 with a five-speed automatic.
The main purpose of the GS had been to take the price position of the original LS 400 flagship which had steadily moved upmarket since its introduction in 1989. In comparison to power and available amenities, the first rear-wheel drive sports sedan by Lexus, the GS, exceeded the LS by a far range. However, GS 300 sales were only considered modest, with 1993 being the most productive year at 19,164 units sold. As the Japanese yen rose in value against the dollar in later years, sales dropped as it made the GS more expensive than its rivals. Stiff competition was brought on by more powerful V8 sport sedans as well which further dropped sales. Initially the GS 300 carried the U.S. base price of $37,930, and by 1997 had risen to $46,195.
In 1998 the second generation of Lexus GS was introduced for the first time outside of
Japan, and utilized a new platform that added a V8 version. 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' was the tagline Lexus used for the arrival for this second generation. This new GS was codenamed JZS160 for models that carried the 2JZ-GE engine, and JZS161 for models with the 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo engines. A bump in torque was also made possible by VVT-I now becoming standard. While no four-wheel drive models were offered, the new GS's styling was produced in-house and now featured quadruple headlights similar to the Lexus SC coupe. For the first time an upgraded stereo system along with elecroluminiscent Lexus Opitron gauges were offered as well. Once again offered, the GS 300 now featured a slightly revised version of the previous generation's 3.0 L inline-6 which now produced 225 hp and 225 ft·lbf of torque.
The second generation GS sedan was much more of a success in comparison to the generation prior. Sales mounted to a total of 30,622 vehicles sold in the first year alone. By 2000 sales remained quite steady at around 28000 vehicles. Encouraged by its success, Lexus kept the GS sedan in its vehicle lineup for over eight years. The GS 300 was kept at a U.S. base price of approximately $38,000 and $47,000 for the GS 400.
2001 was the only year with any significant changes for the second generation Lexus GS. The grill was revised slightly, and new subtly tinted headlights were added to the front end. The trunk area also received new clear tail lights with turn signal indicators. While optional on the I6, Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights were made standard on the V8. The GS 300 featured more gleaming wood trim as well as steering wheel shift buttons. Renamed the GS 430 in 2001, the V8 engine received a 0.3 liter bump in displacement. The torque was also increased to 325 ft·lbf, though peak horsepower remained unchanged.
Named Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1998, the GS also made Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list from 1998 through 2000.
Using the same twin-turbo engine as found on the Toyota Supra Mk IV, the GS introduced a new, third model in 2002. The V8-powered 4.0Zi-Four joined the Aristo lineup in this year. This newest model came with a 250 hp engine, along with standard four-wheel drive. This was the same V8 that was used in both the first generation Lexus LS and the Toyota Crown Majesta. Both the GS and Aristo models were equipped with an independent, double-wishbone suspension setup.
.
First introduced as a 2006 model at the 2005 North American International Auto Show, production began on the third generation GS on January 24, 2005. The GS model lineup included the GS 300 which had a 3.0 L V6 3 GR-FSE engine, and the GS 430 with the same 4.3 L V8 that was used in the previous model. Excluding Singapore, the GS 300 featured a direct-injection engine for all markets except Continental Asia.
The first Lexus sedan to offer an all-wheel drive configuration, the GS 300 featured an all-wheel drive option. The Toyota Mark X and the Zero Toyota Crown also featured the 3.0 L engine. In 2006 the current third version of the GS came in V6, V8 and hybrid variations.
The GS was sold as the Toyota Aristo in Japan until 2005 when the Lexus marque was introduced. Seeking to align all world markets, including Japan, using Lexus as their luxury brand worldwide, Toyota chose not to release the equivalent Aristo. The Toyota Aristo was discontinued following the introduction of the third generation of the Lexus GS. The Aristo and the GS essentially differed in both their transmission and engine combinations and equipment packages, though other than that they were virtually identical.
Showcased as Lexus's new L-finesse design philosophy, the third generation GS featured more muscular styling, new swooping lines and a fastback profile. This third generation GS indicated the future direction of the Lexus lineup. First previewed on the earlier Lexus LF-S concept, the slingshot cabin was featured on the GS. Also revolutionary, the GS sedans were the first to feature the most updated generation of Lexus' SmartAccess keyless system. This added a push-button start for the first time.
A driver-side hidden panel for more infrequently used controls, other unique features included a standard touchscreen display in the center console, Bluetooth technology, and LED lighting in the cabin. Optional features include a Mark Levinson premium sound system. Each model had an electrochromic instrument cluster which adjusts for the amount of reflected sunlight, a unique feature for the Lexus GS series only.
For the 2007 model year, the GS 350, using the 3.5 L 2GR-FSE engine replaced the GS 300. The 2007 GS 430 horsepower rating was changed to 290 (with 319 ft·lbf. of torque), due to a change in SAE testing procedures. The V6-powered GS 350 was rated at 303 hp (with 274 ft·lbf. of torque). Both vehicles were reported at 0-60 times of 5.7 seconds by Lexus. For the 2008 model year, a 4.6 L GS 460 (URS191) replaced the GS 430. The 460 was equipped with a brand new 4.6 L 1UR-FE engine that generated 342 hp (with 339 ft·lbf. of torque). An 8-speed automatic transmission was also added to the GS 460. The 460 had a reported time of 0-60 seconds in 5.4 seconds according to lexus.
At the same time as the introduction of the GS 460, the GS lineup received an exterior overhaul that included a new and improved forward bumper and headlights, new wheel options and exterior colors, and turn signals now added to the side mirrors. The GS also received revised instrument cluster gauges and different trim pieces on the inside of the vehicle. For improved handling, the V8-powered GS 460 offers the Active Stablizer Suspension System, along with the hybrid GS 450h and previous GS 430 models.
The GS 350 costs approximately $44,150 while the GS 460 retails at $52,620.
Introduced at the 2005 New York International Auto Show, the hybrid Lexus GS 450h joined the Gs line for the 2007 model year. Producing over 330 hp, the 450h became the first mass-production rear-wheel drive luxury hybrid vehicle. With a naturally-aspirated 3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 engine mated to an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission, the 450h's powertrain makes use of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system of integrating electric and gasoline engine motors.
With an MSRP (that includes delivery) of $55,595, the GS 450h comes with a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle emissions rating. Raising the price by several thousands of dollars, several markets only allow the 450h to be purchased with at least one option package.
The battery is rear mounted, which consumes a significant amount of trunk space. Receiving the Driver Monitoring System in certain markets, the GS 450h is among the first of Lexus vehicles to achieve this. Featuring an infrared steering wheel mounted camera, this safety system monitors driver attentiveness and sounds an alarm if danger ahead is detected and the driver is not paying attention.
Weighing 4134 lbs, the GS 450h is capable of producing 339 hp due to the combined hybrid powertrain, which allows the GS to accelerate to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, compared the GS 460's rated 5.4 seconds.
At a price of $65,000, a total of 75 ‘Neiman Marcus Edition' GS 450h sedans were featured as the annual holiday catalog vehicle. On October 19 2005, all 75 vehicles were sold in less than three hours and were delivered in April of 2006. In Japan, the GS 450h went on sale on March 16 2006.
For 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005, J.D. Power and Associates named the GS series the best midsize luxury vehicle in initial quality. For 2005, AAA named the third generation GS 300 the best car in its class. In 2005, Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus GS as the highest ranked vehicle in predicted reliability in the luxury car class.By Jessica Donaldson
For more information and related vehicles, click hereMade available with two inline-6 powered version for the Japanese market, the Aristo was introduced with the 3.0Q and the 3.0V. While the 3.0Q Aristo had a 2JZ-GE engine capable of producing 226 hp, the 3.0V was equipped with a 24-valve twinturbo 2JZ-GTe engine that produced 276 hp.
On February 22, 1993, production of the Lexus GS 300 was begun at the Tahara, Japan assembly plant. A great example for the time of the latest advancement of Tahara production technology, only 8 spot welds were performed by hand, while the other nearly 4,200 welds were performed by robots.
Wanting to produce a vehicle capable of competing with the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus introduced the GS as the new marketing sports sedan. To further complement the rest of the Lexus lineup, the exterior was styled by Italdesign Giugiaro in a way that blended the elements of both the original LS and the SC in a rounder, aerodynamic shape.
The inside of the Lexus GS 300 featured leather seating, walnut wood trim on the center console, and the availability of a Nakamichi premium stereo system. Other available options included (TRAC) traction control, a moonroof, and a remote 12-CD auto changer. The four-speed automatic transmission was replaced in 1996 with a five-speed automatic.
The main purpose of the GS had been to take the price position of the original LS 400 flagship which had steadily moved upmarket since its introduction in 1989. In comparison to power and available amenities, the first rear-wheel drive sports sedan by Lexus, the GS, exceeded the LS by a far range. However, GS 300 sales were only considered modest, with 1993 being the most productive year at 19,164 units sold. As the Japanese yen rose in value against the dollar in later years, sales dropped as it made the GS more expensive than its rivals. Stiff competition was brought on by more powerful V8 sport sedans as well which further dropped sales. Initially the GS 300 carried the U.S. base price of $37,930, and by 1997 had risen to $46,195.
In 1998 the second generation of Lexus GS was introduced for the first time outside of
Japan, and utilized a new platform that added a V8 version. 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' was the tagline Lexus used for the arrival for this second generation. This new GS was codenamed JZS160 for models that carried the 2JZ-GE engine, and JZS161 for models with the 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo engines. A bump in torque was also made possible by VVT-I now becoming standard. While no four-wheel drive models were offered, the new GS's styling was produced in-house and now featured quadruple headlights similar to the Lexus SC coupe. For the first time an upgraded stereo system along with elecroluminiscent Lexus Opitron gauges were offered as well. Once again offered, the GS 300 now featured a slightly revised version of the previous generation's 3.0 L inline-6 which now produced 225 hp and 225 ft·lbf of torque.
The second generation GS sedan was much more of a success in comparison to the generation prior. Sales mounted to a total of 30,622 vehicles sold in the first year alone. By 2000 sales remained quite steady at around 28000 vehicles. Encouraged by its success, Lexus kept the GS sedan in its vehicle lineup for over eight years. The GS 300 was kept at a U.S. base price of approximately $38,000 and $47,000 for the GS 400.
2001 was the only year with any significant changes for the second generation Lexus GS. The grill was revised slightly, and new subtly tinted headlights were added to the front end. The trunk area also received new clear tail lights with turn signal indicators. While optional on the I6, Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights were made standard on the V8. The GS 300 featured more gleaming wood trim as well as steering wheel shift buttons. Renamed the GS 430 in 2001, the V8 engine received a 0.3 liter bump in displacement. The torque was also increased to 325 ft·lbf, though peak horsepower remained unchanged.
Named Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1998, the GS also made Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list from 1998 through 2000.
Using the same twin-turbo engine as found on the Toyota Supra Mk IV, the GS introduced a new, third model in 2002. The V8-powered 4.0Zi-Four joined the Aristo lineup in this year. This newest model came with a 250 hp engine, along with standard four-wheel drive. This was the same V8 that was used in both the first generation Lexus LS and the Toyota Crown Majesta. Both the GS and Aristo models were equipped with an independent, double-wishbone suspension setup.
.
First introduced as a 2006 model at the 2005 North American International Auto Show, production began on the third generation GS on January 24, 2005. The GS model lineup included the GS 300 which had a 3.0 L V6 3 GR-FSE engine, and the GS 430 with the same 4.3 L V8 that was used in the previous model. Excluding Singapore, the GS 300 featured a direct-injection engine for all markets except Continental Asia.
The first Lexus sedan to offer an all-wheel drive configuration, the GS 300 featured an all-wheel drive option. The Toyota Mark X and the Zero Toyota Crown also featured the 3.0 L engine. In 2006 the current third version of the GS came in V6, V8 and hybrid variations.
The GS was sold as the Toyota Aristo in Japan until 2005 when the Lexus marque was introduced. Seeking to align all world markets, including Japan, using Lexus as their luxury brand worldwide, Toyota chose not to release the equivalent Aristo. The Toyota Aristo was discontinued following the introduction of the third generation of the Lexus GS. The Aristo and the GS essentially differed in both their transmission and engine combinations and equipment packages, though other than that they were virtually identical.
Showcased as Lexus's new L-finesse design philosophy, the third generation GS featured more muscular styling, new swooping lines and a fastback profile. This third generation GS indicated the future direction of the Lexus lineup. First previewed on the earlier Lexus LF-S concept, the slingshot cabin was featured on the GS. Also revolutionary, the GS sedans were the first to feature the most updated generation of Lexus' SmartAccess keyless system. This added a push-button start for the first time.
A driver-side hidden panel for more infrequently used controls, other unique features included a standard touchscreen display in the center console, Bluetooth technology, and LED lighting in the cabin. Optional features include a Mark Levinson premium sound system. Each model had an electrochromic instrument cluster which adjusts for the amount of reflected sunlight, a unique feature for the Lexus GS series only.
For the 2007 model year, the GS 350, using the 3.5 L 2GR-FSE engine replaced the GS 300. The 2007 GS 430 horsepower rating was changed to 290 (with 319 ft·lbf. of torque), due to a change in SAE testing procedures. The V6-powered GS 350 was rated at 303 hp (with 274 ft·lbf. of torque). Both vehicles were reported at 0-60 times of 5.7 seconds by Lexus. For the 2008 model year, a 4.6 L GS 460 (URS191) replaced the GS 430. The 460 was equipped with a brand new 4.6 L 1UR-FE engine that generated 342 hp (with 339 ft·lbf. of torque). An 8-speed automatic transmission was also added to the GS 460. The 460 had a reported time of 0-60 seconds in 5.4 seconds according to lexus.
At the same time as the introduction of the GS 460, the GS lineup received an exterior overhaul that included a new and improved forward bumper and headlights, new wheel options and exterior colors, and turn signals now added to the side mirrors. The GS also received revised instrument cluster gauges and different trim pieces on the inside of the vehicle. For improved handling, the V8-powered GS 460 offers the Active Stablizer Suspension System, along with the hybrid GS 450h and previous GS 430 models.
The GS 350 costs approximately $44,150 while the GS 460 retails at $52,620.
Introduced at the 2005 New York International Auto Show, the hybrid Lexus GS 450h joined the Gs line for the 2007 model year. Producing over 330 hp, the 450h became the first mass-production rear-wheel drive luxury hybrid vehicle. With a naturally-aspirated 3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 engine mated to an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission, the 450h's powertrain makes use of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system of integrating electric and gasoline engine motors.
With an MSRP (that includes delivery) of $55,595, the GS 450h comes with a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle emissions rating. Raising the price by several thousands of dollars, several markets only allow the 450h to be purchased with at least one option package.
The battery is rear mounted, which consumes a significant amount of trunk space. Receiving the Driver Monitoring System in certain markets, the GS 450h is among the first of Lexus vehicles to achieve this. Featuring an infrared steering wheel mounted camera, this safety system monitors driver attentiveness and sounds an alarm if danger ahead is detected and the driver is not paying attention.
Weighing 4134 lbs, the GS 450h is capable of producing 339 hp due to the combined hybrid powertrain, which allows the GS to accelerate to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, compared the GS 460's rated 5.4 seconds.
At a price of $65,000, a total of 75 ‘Neiman Marcus Edition' GS 450h sedans were featured as the annual holiday catalog vehicle. On October 19 2005, all 75 vehicles were sold in less than three hours and were delivered in April of 2006. In Japan, the GS 450h went on sale on March 16 2006.
For 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005, J.D. Power and Associates named the GS series the best midsize luxury vehicle in initial quality. For 2005, AAA named the third generation GS 300 the best car in its class. In 2005, Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus GS as the highest ranked vehicle in predicted reliability in the luxury car class.By Jessica Donaldson
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 | •European premiere of the new Jeep® Grand Cherokee 2014: the most awarded Large SUV ever has been renewed in terms of internal and external design, technological contents and performance thanks to the new eight-speed automatic transmission •European debut for the new Jeep Compass 2014: revised interior and exterior design, new PowerTech six-speed automatic transmission and all-new safety features •European preview of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition: the new special-edition...[Read more...] |
 2006
Lexus
models |
| Lexus ES |
| Lexus GX |
| Lexus IS |
| Lexus LS |
| Lexus LX |
| Lexus RX |
| Lexus RX 400h |
| Lexus RX 400h Paul McCartney Signature Edition |
| Lexus SC | 2006 Lexus Concepts |
| Lexus LF-SH Concept |
| Similar Automakers | |
| Audi | BMW |
| Infiniti | Jaguar |
| Land Rover | Mercedes-Benz |
| Similarly Sized Vehicles from 2006 |
| Acura TL |
| Alfa Romeo 159 |
| Alfa Romeo 2.4 JTDm |
| Alfa Romeo Brera |
| Alfa Romeo Spider |
| Audi Shooting Brake Concept |
| BMW 325 Xi Sports Wagon |
| BMW 330xi |
| BMW 650i |
| BMW M6 |
| Lexus: 2001-2010 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Lexus History |
| Other models by Lexus |
| Manufacturer Website |
| Vehicle Recall Information |
| Related Articles and Event Coverage |
| 2006 New York City, NY |
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| CT 200h ES | GS GX | HS IS | LFA LS | LX RX | SC |
| 2007 GS 350 |
