2019 Lexus GS

New Standard Features:

•No changes

New Optional Features:

•Lexus Enform Remote (smart watch and Amazon Alexa skill integration)

Color Changes:

•No changes

PLANO, TX – A midsize sport sedan with few compromises, the 2019 Lexus GS continues to offer a unique blend of pulse quickening performance, sumptuous luxury and world-class quality. Powered by either a turbocharged four-cylinder (GS 300) or a velvet smooth V6 (GS 350), the GS provides the performance feel of a rear-wheel drive sport sedan along with the everyday efficiency and comfort of a true luxury car. For cold-weather climates, the GS 350 is also available with the added confidence of all-wheel drive traction.

All GS models offer the peace of mind that comes with one of the industry's more comprehensive standard safety systems. The Lexus Safety System+ includes a Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beams (IHB) and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. A Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is also standard.

The Stance and Style of a True Sport Sedan

With classic proportions that are enhanced by its solid stance, the GS proudly wears the Lexus signature grille that gives it such an eye-catching look. Framed by satin chrome trim and flanked by distinctive standard Bi-LED headlights, the aggressive front fascia is unmistakably Lexus. Standard 17-inch, nine-spoke alloy wheels compliment the stylish silhouette of the GS while a choice of 12 exterior colors allows buyers to choose everything from subtle blacks and silvers to vivid colors like Matador Red Mica or Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0.

Two Powerful Engines and Optional All-Wheel Drive

The 2019 GS line offers two distinct powertrain choices, each with its own performance signature. The GS 300 pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends the power to the rear wheels. The turbocharged engine not only delivers 241 horsepower, it also capable of sustaining its 258 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,650 rpm all the way through 4,400 rpm. The result is a GS 300 that feels responsive during everyday driving, yet also returns 33-mpg on the highway in preliminary estimates.

A muscular, yet refined 3.5-liter V6 powers all GS 350 models. Developing 311 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque, the flexible engine sends it power through an eight-speed automatic transmission on rear wheel drive models. A combination of direct fuel injection and sequential port fuel injectors ensures that the V6 is capable of delivering ample power and crisp responsiveness.

For added grip in a variety of conditions, the Lexus GS 350 offers an available all-wheel drive (AWD) system that sends power to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission and an electronically controlled center differential. Under normal driving conditions, the center differential uses a 30:70 front-to-rear torque split to deliver optimal handling. The system is also capable of sending as much as 50 percent of the power to the front wheels to optimize traction.

The Added Appeal of F SPORT

For those who would prefer a GS with a little more edge, the F SPORT package can be added to any version of the GS. Upgrading to the F SPORT package combines track-tuned chassis enhancements with exclusive exterior and interior design features for a more distinctive look and feel.

Every F SPORT package includes a specially tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension, 19-inch split spoke alloy wheels, a Sport+ drive mode, LFA-inspired instrumentation and sport seats with a 16-way, power adjustable driver's seat. Rear-wheel drive models can also be equipped with Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and 14-inch, two-piece brake rotors with 4-piston, monoblock calipers. Optional equipment on rear-wheel drive F SPORT models includes a TORSEN® limited slip rear differential, the Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) and orange brake calipers.

Styling enhancements on all F SPORT models include a unique front bumper, revised grille and rear valence and a rear spoiler. On the inside, the F SPORT package adds aluminum trim, a black headliner and aluminum pedals.

Modern Luxury With Classic Style

A design that mixes both modern and classic luxury elements, the GS cabin provides a comfortable space that will satisfy drivers and passengers alike. That ambience is exemplified by interior trim selections in Matte Walnut, Naguri aluminum or Striated Black and an interior color palette that includes Chateau, Flaxen or Black. F SPORT models also offer an eye-catching Rioja Red option.

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, an 8-inch high-resolution central control screen, power tilt-and-telescoping steering column with automatic tilt-away, Siri® Eyes Free Mode and a 12-speaker, 5.1 surround sound system. All GS 350 models get standard leather seating trim and a navigation system with a 12.3-inch screen.

Comprehensive Safety Comes Standard

The 2018 Lexus GS remains a rolling testament to the brand's pursuit of cutting-edge safety technology. Its robust structure and 10 standard airbags are designed to lessen the chance of injury in a crash, while a wide array of driver-assist technologies helps the driver avoid hazards.

Every GS comes with the Lexus Safety System+ which includes a 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 is designed to 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 a pedestrian. The system can warn the driver of a possible collision and can initiate automatic braking 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 is deviating from the lane. Lane Departure Alert, with Steering Assist enabled, can help the vehicle stay in its lane by smoothly increasing steering torque and applying a small amount of assist to help maintain 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.

Lexus Enform for Safety and Convenience

Lexus Enform Safety Connect is 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 of ownership, the GS can send alerts for specific factory recommended maintenance, simultaneously alerting a preferred Lexus retailer. The Lexus Drivers mobile app or LexusDrivers.com website can be used to set push-reminders and alerts for maintenance and service issues.

With Lexus Enform Remote (one-year trial subscription included), the customer can remotely view and control certain aspects of the GS using a smartphone, smartwatch or Amazon Alexa-enabled devices at home. The available 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 Services (complimentary for one year) and subscription-free Lexus Enform App Suite 2.0.

Standard Exterior Features

•17-inch nine-spoke alloy wheels (GS 300), 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels (GS 350)

•LED Daytime Running Lamps

•Bi-LED headlamps

•LED turn signals and rear combination lamps

•Integrated dual exhaust outlets with lateral fins

•Heated electrochromic auto-dimming retractable side mirrors with reverse tilt-down function

•Side mirror puddle lamps with integrated turn signals

•One-touch open/close moonroof

•Exterior colors (12): Eminent White Pearl, Liquid Platinum, Smokey Granite Mica, Obsidian, Matador Red Mica, Deep Sea Mica, Fire Agate Pearl, Nightfall Mica, Atomic Silver, Caviar, and F SPORT exclusive Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 or Ultra White

Standard Interior Features •Contrast stitching on soft vinyl wrapped upper I/P, seats, door panels and shift boot

•Aluminum alloy 'Lexus' stamped scuff plates on all door sills

•LED ambient lighting integrated into door ornamentation and RTI surround area

•10-way power driver and front passenger seats

•8-inch high resolution central control screen

•Lexus Analog clock with GPS time zone functionality

•Optitron analog instrument cluster with color 4.2-inch TFT Multi-Information Display

•Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with enter and back buttons

•Steering wheel multimedia, cruise control and multi-information display controls

•Electrochromic rearview mirror with compass (without Navigation) and HomeLink® programmable garage door opener

•Lexus Memory System to control driver's seat (except lumbar), outside mirrors and steering wheel

•Power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel with automatic tilt-away

•Rear A/C vents on the back of center console

•Lexus Navigation System with 12.3-inch High Resolution Screen (GS 350)

Standard Audio System •12 speakers

•5.1 surround sound

•Advanced voice recognition

•AM/FM/DVD with HD radio and WMA/MP3 capability

•Aux and iPhone®/USB input plugs

•Bluetooth streaming

•Digital signal processing with Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL)

•Gracenote music management system

•Integrated SiriusXM® Satellite Radio receiver (90-day trial subscription)

Multimedia and Connected Services •Home screen divided into three sections (customizable for HVAC, audio, traffic, MID)

•Navigation equipped vehicles •3D buildings; key buildings/landmarks

•Speed limit display on road traveled

•Predictive traffic; provides view of traffic ahead based on Clear Channel Total Traffic Network

•Doppler weather and weather forecast

•MID data sharing; content from head unit displayed in MID (e.g. song information, NAV direction, call info.)

•Voice Command

•Cache Radio; ability to pause live AM/FM radio and HD Radio

•Lexus Enform Remote (one-year trial subscription included) mobile app lets you lock and unlock doors, start the engine and climate controls, check the fuel level, and more all through your smartphone, smartwatch or Amazon Alexa–enabled devices at home

Standard Safety and Security •Lexus Safety System+ •Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection

•All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

•Intelligent High Beam (IHB)

•Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist

•Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system integrates and manages ECB, ABS, BA, EBD, VSC and Electric Power Steering (EPS)

•Access-linked illuminated entry: puddle lamps, interior lights and engine start button ring illuminate when doors are unlocked (remains illuminated for 15 seconds or until door is opened)

•Entry system with lock, two-stage unlock, trunk open and 'panic' features, volume-adjustable confirmation tone and rolling code technology

•Headlight off delay feature: After locking vehicle, headlights remain illuminated for a certain period of time before automatically shutting off

•Complimentary for the first 10 years, Lexus Enform Safety Connect includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, and Stolen Vehicle Notification. The Lexus Enform response center operates 24/7/365

Factory Option Packages •Cold Weather Package (GS 350 AWD Only) •Heavy duty heater

•Headlamp washers

•Water repellant front door glass

•Wiper Deicer

•Premium Package (Standard on ES 350 RWD)

•Heated front seats (Standard on ES 350 AWD)

•Ventilated front seats

•Leather-trimmed interior (GS 350 AWD only)

•Power rear sunshade

•Rain-sensing wipers

•Navigation Package

•12.3-inch High Resolution Screen

•Full screen navigation

•Lexus Enform App Suite app which offers access to mobile applications such as iHeartRadio, Slacker and Yelp through the vehicle's center console display

•Lexus Enform Destination Assist (complimentary for one year) acts as an in-vehicle personal concierge, providing directions and destinations delivered by a live agent

•F SPORT Package

•16-way power adjustable driver's seat (includes power side bolsters, thigh support, four-way lumbar)

•19-inch staggered width split five-spoke wheels with machined finish; summer tires for RWD, single width with all-season tires for AWD

•F SPORT badging (side and rear)

•F SPORT tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with Sport S+ mode

•Larger front brakes with hi-friction pads (RWD only)

•Rear lip spoiler

•F SPORT interior including: striated aluminum trim, F SPORT aluminum pedals and door scuff plates, unique perforated leather trim (Rioja Red, Flaxen or Black) and black headliner

•F SPORT front bumper and rear lower valence; F SPORT mesh front grille inserts

•Naguri aluminum trim

•Variable Gear Ratio Steering (GS 350 RWD only)

•LFA-inspired instrumentation

Individual Factory Options

•Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system with 17 Green Edge speakers, Class D Digital amplifier with ultra-low crossover distortion, 835 watts of continuous power at less than 0.1 percent Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), 7.1-channel speaker architecture, DVD video capability, Clari-Fi technology

•Triple beam LED Headlamps with Auto High Beam

•19' split five-spoke alloy wheels; 18-inch five spoke wheel with machined finish (GS 300)

•TORSEN® limited slip differential (GS 350 F SPORT RWD)

•Full color Head Up Display

•Heated steering wheel

•Intuitive Park Assist

•Power open/close trunk

•Orange brake calipers (F SPORT RWD only); Lexus Dynamic Handling System with Dynamic Rear Steering (GS 350 RWD F SPORT Only)

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