Luxury and Handling with a Sharper Edge: The 2018 Lexus GS

•GS 200t becomes GS 300

•Enform Safety and Service Connect both complimentary for the First 10 Years of Ownership

•New Optional 19-inch Split Five-spoke Alloy Wheels

•GS 350 RWD and AWD Models with 311-hp V6

•GS 450h Hybrid Offers 31 MPG EPA-Estimated Combined Fuel Economy

August 16, 2017 A sedan that offers both luxury and sporty handling, the Lexus GS has three distinct renditions—the GS 300 (formerly the GS 200t), GS 350 and GS 450h.

The GS offers select safety features and conveniences as standard, such as the Lexus Safety System+ that includes Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam (IHB) and Full Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The 2018 GS models also include as standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which helps detect vehicles in side blind spots and alert the driver to rear cross traffic when backing out of a parking space.

Striking Signature Style

The Lexus GS features a variation of the Lexus signature spindle grille, framed by satin chrome trim and flanked by distinctive standard Bi-LED headlights. The nighttime glow is unmistakably the look of Lexus.

The bold exterior design is available in a variety of colors. All of the Mica color options, including Matador Red Mica, Nightfall Mica and Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0, use an extraordinarily complex multi-layered, twice-baked process commonly used only for concept vehicles or custom cars.

Power, Efficiency – Lots of Both

The 2018 GS line offers three distinct powertrain choices, each with its own performance signature. The rear-wheel drive GS 300 pairs a smooth-running 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine delivers 241 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque, the latter sustained from 1,650 rpm through 4,400 rpm. As a result, the GS 300 feels responsive at everyday speeds. It's also equipped with a highly efficient powertrain, with 33-mpg EPA-estimated highway fuel economy.

In the GS 350, a muscular 3.5-liter V6 produces 311 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque and is paired with an eight-speed automatic for RWD, while the AWD variant features a six-speed. The V6's combination of direct fuel injection and sequential port fuel injectors ensures ample power and crisp responsiveness.

Hybrid Leadership, Exemplified

The GS 450h is both the performance and efficiency leader in the GS line, with the ability to go from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg city / 34 highway / 31 combined.

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system in the GS 450h combines output from an Atkinson cycle 3.5-liter V6 engine and a water-cooled permanent-magnet electric motor for 338 total system horsepower, channeled through an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). Putting an exclamation point on its performance persona, the GS 450h is also available with the F SPORT package.

All-Weather Compatible

For added grip in a variety of conditions, the Lexus GS 350 offers an available all-weather drive (AWD) system featuring an electronically controlled center differential which provides a normal 30:70 torque split, with the rear-wheel bias favoring handling agility. The system reacts instantaneously to alter the split to as much as 50:50, depending on driving conditions, to help optimize traction.

For added grins when driving, the F SPORT package available for all three GS models combines track-tuned chassis enhancements with exclusive exterior and interior design features. The

GS 350 F SPORT can be combined with all-weather drive. With rear-wheel drive, the F SPORT offers a limited-slip differential and opens the door to higher handling performance with the available Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS).

Modern Luxury, Rendered Classically

A design that mixes both modern and classic luxury elements, the GS cabin provides a comfortable feel to satisfy a multitude of drivers and passengers. The classic ambience is exemplified by interior trim selections that include laser cut wood, Matte Walnut, or Striated Black and Naguri aluminum. Interior and leather colors include Chateau and Flaxen and Black, while the F SPORT offers Black, Rioja Red and Flaxen.

The analog clock located in the center of the dash is housed in a single ingot of aluminum, features LED indicators and uses GPS for adjusting the time zone.

The interior design sets the stage for pure Lexus luxury, with a long list of standard amenities. Inside the GS you'll find 10-way power front seats, 8-inch high-resolution central control screen, power tilt-and-telescoping steering column with automatic tilt-away, Siri® Eyes Free Mode and a Lexus 12-speaker, 5.1 surround sound system. The GS 350 and GS 450h models make leather seating and navigation with 12.3-inch screen standard. The GS 300 also receives a complimentary navigation system.

Lexus Safety System+

The 2018 Lexus GS remains a rolling testament to the brand's pursuit of cutting-edge safety technology. Its structure and 10 standard airbags help provide occupant protection, while a wide array of driver-assist technologies helps the driver avoid hazards.

Lexus Safety System+ remains standard for 2018, combining Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam (IHB) and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control tracks the speed of the vehicle traveling ahead and can adjust the speed setting accordingly to help maintain a preset distance. Using a combination of millimeter-wave radar and a front-facing camera, PCS can help detect vehicles – and in some circumstances, pedestrians. The system can warn the driver of a possible collision and can initiate automatic braking with Brake Assist if necessary.

Using a camera to detect visible lane markings, Lane Departure Alert is designed to convey audio-visual alerts and vibrate the steering wheel if the system determines that the driver unintentionally deviated from the lane. Lane Departure Alert, with Steering Assist enabled, can help the vehicle stay in the center of its lane by smoothly increasing steering torque a small amount to assist in maintaining course.

Intelligent High Beam combines technology, safety and driving courtesy. It automatically adjusts high- and low-beam illumination by sensing not only oncoming traffic, but also the taillights of the vehicle traveling in front.

Modern Multimedia

The Lexus GS embodies the brand's mastery of multimedia that's both powerful and user-friendly. The available 12.3-inch screen offers full-screen map capability – which is standard on GS 350 and GS 450h models. Buyers of the GS 300 are offered added value with complimentary navigation system.

Side 'enter' buttons on the Remote Touch Interface controller and a shortcut menu on the side of the screen make it even easier to operate climate control, audio, phone, navigation and more. Apple iPhone® users have yet another control option, Siri® Eyes Free Mode. Make calls, select songs from iTunes®, get turn-by-turn navigation through Apple Maps and much more – all by asking Siri.

Lexus Enform for Safety, Convenience and Fun

Lexus Enform Safety Connect's one-year trial period is now complimentary for the first 10 years of ownership with access to Lexus Enform response centers 24/7/365. With Lexus Enform Service Connect also complimentary for the first 10 years, the vehicle can send alerts for specific factory recommended maintenance, simultaneously alerting a preferred Lexus dealer. Use the Lexus Drivers mobile app (for iOS devices) or LexusDrivers.com website to set push-reminders and alerts for maintenance and service issues.

With Lexus Enform Remote complimentary for the first year, the customer can remotely view and control certain aspects of the GS using a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Functions include remote door lock/unlock; remote start/stop for the engine and climate control; vehicle finder, guest driver monitor and more.

Navigation is accompanied by the Lexus Enform Destination Assist (complimentary for one year) and subscription-free Lexus Enform App Suite. Use voice-enabled apps to locate points of interest using Destination Search, listen to Internet radio (including Pandora®, iHeartRadio and Slacker), and search business reviews on Yelp®.

What's New for 2018 •GS 200t becomes GS 300

•Lexus Enform Safety and Service Connect complimentary for the first ten years of ownership

•Newly optional 19-inch split five-spoke alloy wheels

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

•GS 300: 241-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i).

•GS 350: 311 horsepower, 3.5-liter DOHC V6 with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i).

•GS 450h: Lexus Hybrid Drive system combining output from an Atkinson cycle 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine and a water-cooled permanent-magnet electric motor for 338 total system horsepower.

•GS 300 and GS 350 (RWD): eight-speed sequential shift automatic transmission with paddle shifters and sport driving logic

•GS 350 (AWD): six-speed sequential-shift Automatic with paddle shifters

•GS 450h: Lexus Hybrid Drive with V6 gas engine and electric drive motors; planetary-type electronically controlled continuously variable transmission with two-speed reduction (for 'kickdown' functionality), Snow mode and paddle shifters.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

•Front and rear aluminum control arms help reduce unsprung weight and endow the GS with exemplary agility, sway damping, ride comfort, body control and steering precision.

•Ventilated disc brakes feature four-piston aluminum front calipers and are equipped with the latest electronic enhancements to help provide braking balance and control.

•Standard 17-inch nine-spoke alloy wheels with 235/50R17 tires for GS 300, and standard 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45R18 tires for GS 350.

•Available GS F SPORT is exclusively equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels paired with 235/40R19 front and 265/35R19 rear summer compound tires for RWD models, while AWD models have 235/40R19 all-season tires in the front and rear.

•The GS F SPORT RWD offers an optional Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS). This technology integrates DRS, Electric Power Steering, and for GS 350 only, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS). Monitoring vehicle speed, steering direction and driver inputs, the system calculates the optimum angle for all four wheels. The system can independently manage front and rear wheel steering angles to help enhance turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle control and agility.

•Standard Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) anticipates loss of vehicle control and governs all of the vehicle's dynamic handling systems—Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC)—with the electronic throttle control system. VDIM employs these systems collectively and seamlessly to help make corrections while allowing higher dynamic capability. The system also provides a limited-slip differential effect.

Safety/Security Features •10 airbags, including a knee airbag for both driver and front passenger, seat-mounted side airbags for outboard rear seats, and side curtain airbags.

•Lexus Safety System+ includes Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam (IHB) and Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

•Whiplash Injury Lessening front seats reduce the space between the occupant's head and headrest to help limit excessive head movement, and help decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries, in certain types of rear end collisions.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

•Standard entertainment and connectivity technology includes enhanced Bluetooth® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.

•Standard DVD video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, 5.1 simulated surround sound from normal two channel sources such as MP3 files and CDs.

•HD Radio with iTunes® Tagging and a three-month all-access trial subscription to SiriusXM® Satellite Radio are standard.

•With the available heated and ventilated front seats, the GS features the Climate Concierge. This system automatically monitors the temperature of three separate climate zones and adjusts not only the fans, but also the temperature of the seats and steering wheel individually. Each zone will achieve its pre-set level of comfort as quickly as possible.

Luxury Options (highlights) •Premium Package adds heated/ventilated front seats, power rear sunshade and rain-sensing wipers.

•The available 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround sound audio system has 7.1 channel surround-sound through 10 channels using a class D Digital amplifier with a clean 835-watts from 20-20,000hz at 0.01 percent total harmonic distortion. Clari-Fi technology analyzes compression in the signal of digital tracks (CD, iPod, etc.) and determines how much amplification is needed, and where, to correct it.

Warranty

•48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles.

•72 months/70,000 miles powertrain and restraint system coverage.

•72 months corrosion perforation protection coverage, regardless of mileage.

•Eight years/100,000 miles hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery-control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter.

by 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 versions 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 twin-turbo 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 eight 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 the 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 lists 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 that 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 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 Jessican Donaldson