Lexus GS

The Lexus GS is a series of mid-size luxury sports sedans and executive cars sold by Lexus since 1993. Slotted between the compact IS and full-size LS, and designed to provide Lexus with a performance sedan to compete in the mid-luxury class, four generations of the GS have been produced to date. Each iteration has been available with six-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive; V8 engines were offered in the second and third generations, and all-wheel drive and hybrid versions debuted in 2005. The first two GS generations had a domestic-market equivalent, the Toyota Aristo ("Aristo" is Greek for "the best"), which was sold in Japan from 1991 until the introduction of the Lexus marque and the third generation GS in 2005. Though largely identical in exterior and interior design, and the Aristo differed in their engine and transmission combinations as well as equipment packages.

The first generation Lexus GS began sales in the United States, Europe and selected markets in Asia in 1993, where it was introduced with a inline-6 engine and exterior bodywork designed by Italdesign Giugiaro. The second generation model premiered in 1998, using a new platform, in-house styling, and adding a V8 version for the first time outside Japan. The third generation GS, which premiered globally for the 2006 model year, was produced in V6, V8, and hybrid versions, the latter known as the GS 450h performance hybrid. The third generation GS was also the first model to feature Lexus' own L-finesse styling upon its introduction, and was the first GS to be sold domestically in Japan.

The fourth generation Lexus GS, which premiered in August 2011 at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, includes the V6-powered GS 350, hybrid GS 450h, and performance-tuned GS 350 F-Sport. A lower-displacement V6 model, the GS 250, premiered at the Auto Guangzhou Exhibition in November 2011, and is destined for Asian and European markets.^[1] In some markets such as North America, the GS occupies the mid-size sedan category within the Lexus lineup alongside the front-wheel drive ES.^[2]

First generation (S140)

1991–1996

Styled by the famous Italdesign Giugiaro firm, and equipped with an independent, double-wishbone suspension setup, the Toyota Aristo was launched in October 1991, offering two inline-6 powered versions for the Japanese market: the 3.0Q and 3.0V. The Aristo 3.0Q (codename JZS147) featured a 2JZ-GE engine which produced 226 hp (169 kW), while the Aristo 3.0V (JZS147) was equipped with a 24-valve twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE engine which produced 276 hp (205 kW). This twin-turbo engine was the same as could be found in the Toyota Supra RZ (JZA80). In 1992, a third model, the V8-powered 4.0Zi-Four (codename UZS143), joined the Aristo lineup. This model came with standard four-wheel drive and a 250 hp (186 kW) 1UZ-FE engine. This V8 had also been used in the first generation Lexus LS and the Toyota Crown Majesta. However, the only engine available for export markets was the 2JZ-GE inline-6.

Production of the Lexus GS 300 (JZS147) began on February 22, 1993 at the Tahara, Japan assembly plant. At the time, the GS represented the latest advancement of Tahara production technology, with only eight spot welds performed by hand. The rest, some 4,200 welds, were performed by robots.^[3] Italdesign Giugiaro's exterior styling blended elements of the original LS flagship and SC performance coupe in a rounded, aerodynamic shape, complementing the rest of the Lexus lineup. The vehicle adopted a wedge-like shape with high rear decklid, and longer and wider proportions than competing vehicles.^[4] The exterior shape of the original GS produced a drag coefficient of 0.31 C_d. Offered color schemes included single-tone bumper and body finishes,^[4] along with dual-tone schemes.

As Lexus' first rear-wheel drive sports sedan, the GS was placed above the front-wheel drive ES luxury sedan with its superior drivetrain setup, power and available amenities. The 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE inline-6 producing up to 226 hp (169 kW) and 210 lb·ft (285 N·m) of torque served as the powerplant. According to reviewer testing, 0–60 acceleration times for the GS 300 were clocked at slightly over nine seconds.^[4]

For the interior, the GS 300 featured walnut wood trim on the center console, leather seating, an automatic tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and the option of a Nakamichi premium stereo system. Driver and front passenger airbags were standard.^[4] A moonroof, remote 12-CD auto changer, and traction control (TRAC - left hand drive vehicles only) were options.

The GS was intended to take the price position of the original LS 400 flagship, which had moved upmarket since its 1989 launch.^[3][4] By the time of the GS 300's debut, the $35,000 initial base price of the LS had climbed to $47,000.^[4] The GS 300 carried an initial manufacturer's suggested U.S. base price of $37,930 at its debut. However, sales of the GS 300 were modest, with 1993 seeing the greatest sales at 19,164 sold that year. Sales dropped in later years as the Japanese yen rose in value against the dollar and made the vehicle more expensive than its rivals.^[3] Additionally, more powerful V8 sport sedans provided stiff competition. By 1997, the price of the GS 300 had risen to $46,195. Production of the first generation GS sedan ended in 1996.

Second generation (S160)

1997–2000

In February 1997, Lexus debuted the "High Performance Sedan" (HPS) concept at the Chicago Auto Show, previewing the design direction for the redesigned GS.^[5] In August 1997, the second generation Aristo was launched in Japan, codenamed JZS160 (S300 version) for models with the 2JZ-GE engines and JZS161 (V300 version) for those with the 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo engines. VVT-i was now standard, resulting in a bump in torque. The twin-turbo version was available with electronic four-wheel steering, stability control and an automatic gearbox with a manual sequential mode. No four-wheel drive models were offered.

The second generation sedans used a new front-engine, rear-wheel drive midsize platform, also featured in the Japanese-market Toyota Crown.^[6] The new model's styling was produced in-house, and featured quadruple headlights in a fashion similar to the Lexus SC coupe. The drag coefficient was 0.30 C_d. Inside, electroluminescent Lexus Optitron gauges were offered for the first time, along with an upgraded stereo system. For export markets, the second generation GS began production in the JZS161 body style on August 4, 1997 and was officially launched in 1998.

The GS 300 was offered once again and featured a slightly revised version of the last generation's 3.0 L inline-6 now producing 228 hp (168 kW) and 225 ft·lbf (305 N·m) of torque. The GS 300 was quoted with a 7.6 second 0–60 mph time by Edmunds. Answering customer requests for more power, the American market GS 400 (UZS160) was equipped with a UZ-series V8 that produced 300 hp (224 kW) and 310 ft·lbf (420 N·m) of torque. Edmunds.com reported a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 5.4 seconds for the 3693 pound (1675 kg) sedan. Both models featured a 5-speed automatic with the GS 400 receiving steering wheel shift buttons, however the GS300 did not receive the steering wheel shift buttons until 2001. Again, no turbo models were offered outside Japan. The 0–60 mph time of the GS 400 prompted Lexus to claim that the GS was the world's fastest production sedan.^[3]

Lexus promoted the arrival of the second generation GS sedan with the tagline, "Something Wicked This Way Comes." Compared to its predecessor, the second generation GS sedan was a much bigger success, with sales reaching 30,622 vehicles in its first year, increasing in the second, and stabilizing at 28,079 vehicles by 2000.^[3] The U.S. base price for the GS 300 and GS 430 averaged approximately $38,000 and $47,000 respectively. The success of the GS sedan prompted Lexus to keep the vehicle in its lineup for eight years.

The GS was Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1998. It also made Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1998 through 2000. In IIHS frontal crash testing the 1999 and newer GS was given a "Good" overall score.^[7]

2000–2005

The 2000 model facelift, first sold in the 2001 model year in North America, was the only year with any major changes in the second generation GS. New clear tail lights with turn signal indicators were added to the trunk area, as well as a slightly revised grille and very subtly tinted headlights on the front end. Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights were now standard on the V8 and optional on the I6. Inside, more wood trim was added, and steering wheel shift buttons were now also featured on the GS 300. The V8 engine also received a 0.3-liter bump in displacement and the model was renamed GS 430 (UZS161). Peak horsepower was unchanged, but torque increased to 325 lb·ft (441 N·m).

In 2001, Lexus also added a limited production GS 300 "SportDesign" edition, featuring the sport suspension from the GS 430, wider 225/55VR-16 Michelin Pilot HX tires, and polished alloy wheels.^[8] The SportDesign interior added perforated leather upholstery along with brushed aluminum and dark stained walnut trim. For summer 2001, production of the GS 300 SportDesign was limited to a run of 3,300 units (vs. 25,000 annual GS sales annually).^[8] Production of the limited model occurred through 2004.

Third generation (S190)

2005–2007

In October 2003, Lexus premiered the LF-S (Lexus Future Sedan), a concept car which previewed the design of the upcoming GS.^[9] The third generation GS first appeared as a pre-production vehicle at the 2004 Geneva Auto Show, with the production version shown at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Production of the third generation began on January 24, 2005, with the equivalent Aristo not released as Toyota had introduced the Lexus channel to Japan and sought to align all world markets using Lexus as their luxury brand worldwide. The third generation GS was the introductory Lexus model for the marque's new L-finesse design philosophy, indicating the future direction of the Lexus lineup; it featured a fastback profile, more muscular styling, retained quad headlights, LED tailamps, and one-piece bumpers. The drag coefficient on the third generation GS design reached 0.27 C_d, and the model used a newly designed midsize platform later shared with the second generation IS.^[10]

In September 2005, the GS 350 (GRS191) and GS 430 (UZS190) went on sale in Japan; the GS 350 using a 3.5-liter 2GR-FSE engine with D4-S direct injection, while the GS 430 used the same 4.3-liter 3UZ-FE V8 used in the previous model. U.S. sales began in March 2006, with the initial U.S. model lineup including the GS 300 (GRS190), featuring a ULEV certified 3.0-liter 3GR-FSE V6 engine, and the GS 430. All GS models at launch featured a new 6-speed automatic sequential shift gearbox. An all-wheel drive system was made available in the GS 300. Also new to the GS line was an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, and both the V8 and hybrid models featured a Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) system and Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) a type of brake-by-wire system. V8 and hybrid models also featured an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system that individually altered suspension damper firmness. Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) was standard on the GS 430/460/450h models and coupled to VGRS, with which it could alter steering gear ratios.^[11]

Unveiled at the 2005 New York International Auto Show, the hybrid GS 450h (GWS191) joined the GS line in 2006 for the 2007 model year. It was the first mass-production rear-wheel drive luxury hybrid car, featuring a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter 2GR-FSE V6 engine mated to an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission. This powertrain made use of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system of integrating electric and gasoline engine motors, giving the GS 450h a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) emissions rating,^[12] and total output of 253 kilowatts (339 hp),^[13] allowing the GS to accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.2 seconds, according to manufacturer data.^[13]

Standard safety features on the GS ranged from multiple airbags, including knee airbags and front row side torso airbags,^[14] to adaptive headlights, anti-lock braking, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist and Vehicle Stability Control. The radar-based Pre-Collision System (PCS) with a Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system was optional. The GS 450h was among the first vehicles to receive the infrared Driver Monitoring System for driver attentiveness. For the 2007 model year, the GS 350 replaced the GS 300 in the U.S. and other export markets.

The GS interior was available with leather bird's-eye maple or walnut trim. Major standard features ranged from a 10-way driver and front passenger power and heated seats with three-position Lexus Memory System, SmartAccess keyless system with push-button start, a driver-side hidden drop-down panel for infrequently used controls, standard 7 in (180 mm) touchscreen display, and LED lighting in the cabin. Unique to the Lexus GS series was a three-pod instrument cluster with machined aluminum facings and an electrochromic feature. Optional features ranged from a power moonroof to a discrete 5.1 surround sound 14-speaker 330 watt Mark Levinson premium sound system,^[15] XM-satellite radio and DVD-based navigation with backup camera and Bluetooth technology. Competitors to the Lexus GS included the BMW 5-Series,^[8] Mercedes-Benz E-Class,^[4] Volvo S80, Audi A6, Jaguar XF, Infiniti M, and Acura RL.

2007–present

The GS 460 (URS191) replaced the GS 430 in 2007 for the 2008 model year, featuring a new 4.6 liter 1UR-FSE V8 engine generating 342 hp (with 339 ft·lbf (460 N·m). of torque) and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Lexus reported a 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds for the GS 460.^[16] Along with the hybrid GS 450h and previous GS 430 models, the V8-powered GS 460 offered the Active Stabilizer Suspension System for improved handling. The GS 450h retains its position as the most expensive in the GS lineup, and has faster acceleration than the GS 460, though the GS 460 is lighter and has a higher top speed.^[17]

Along with the introduction of the GS 460, the GS lineup received a mid-cycle styling refresh, including a revised front bumper, headlights and grille, turn signals added to the side mirrors, and new wheel options and exterior colors. The interior received a redesigned steering wheel, revised instrument cluster gauges, and different trim pieces.

Fourth generation

In April 2011, Lexus showed the LF-Gh concept (Lexus Future Grand-Touring Hybrid) at that year's New York International Auto Show, previewing the stylistic direction of future Lexus models. The LF-Gh featured a large, spindle-shaped front grille, and press information further indicated that it had a new interior design which included an analog clock.^[18] The LF-Gh concept vehicle was taken by automotive journalists as an indication of what the fourth generation Lexus GS would look like.^[19]

The fourth generation GS had its world premiere at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California in August 2011. The vehicle was shown to have a more subtle version of the LF-Gh's spindle grille, while overall dimensions are almost identical to the previous generation.^[20] L-shaped LED front and rear lamps are a new design feature.^[20] The chassis has been redesigned, and overall curb weight is reduced.^[20] At its debut, the fourth generation model was shown in GS 350 form, powered by a V6 engine linked with a six-speed automatic transmission.^[20] Three driving modes are featured, ranging from fuel-conserving ECO to Sport S and Sport S+ which facilitate more sporty shifting and throttle settings, as well as suspension and steering adjustments.^[20] The GS 350 F-Sport adds a rear-wheel steering system for improved handling.^[21]

The redesigned interior gains the Lexus Remote Touch mouse controller system in place of the previous touchscreen, linked to a split-view 12.3 in (310 mm) widescreen dashboard display.^[20] Other interior features include occupant-adaptive air conditioning and a Mark Levinson surround sound system.^[20] Optional features further include a pre-collision system, heads-up display, blind spot monitor, lane keep assist, and Driver Monitoring System.^[20]

The GS 450h, rated at 338 horsepower and now using an Atkinson cycle design, has a 35% improvement in gas mileage over the previous generation GS 450h, and has a higher combined EPA fuel efficiency rating (31 mpg) than the 306 horsepower GS 350 (23 mpg).^[22] Trunk space is improved both for the hybrid and standard models.^[20] Sales for the fourth generation in the U.S. were set for February 2012 for gasoline-only models including the GS 350 and GS 350 F-Sport, and several months later for the hybrid version.^[21][22] It is expected to enter the UK market in 2012.^[1][23] A smaller-displacement model, the GS 250, was shown at the 2011 Auto Guangzhou, with plans to sell in China and the UK, but not the U.S.^[1]

Motorsport

The Lexus GS was used in Motorola Cup North American Street Stock Championship touring car series competition in 1998, beginning with two GS 400 race vehicles driven by Team Lexus in its inaugural season. For 1999, Team Lexus achieved its first victory with the GS 400 in its sixth race at Road Atlanta.^[24] The GS 400 was raced until 2001, when Team Lexus switched to the IS 300. In the mid 2000s, the GS 400 was entered in the V8Star Series touring car racing season, with Ronny Melkus competing in the V8 GS in 2003.^[25][26]

In 2006, Sigma Advanced Racing Development and Lexus entered a GS 450h performance hybrid sedan in the 24 Hours of Tokachi race in Hokkaido, Japan, the first time that a hybrid vehicle was introduced.^[27] In 2007, Lexus Canada also entered the GS 450h in the Targa Newfoundland event.^[28] In 2009, the GS 450h was used as a safety car at the Muscle Car Masters event held at Eastern Creek Raceway, Eastern Creek, New South Wales, Australia.^[29]

In 2008, Manabu "Max" Orido used a second generation JZS161 Aristo in Formula D competition.^[30][31] Orido has several second generation models with different equipment used for drifting events, some with prototype suspension, and fitted with parts from the export Lexus GS 300.^[31]

Sales and production

Sales data for Lexus GS generations are as follows. Sourced from manufacturer yearly data.

As of 2010, the GS has been outsold nearly two to one by the flagship LS.^[17]

Technical specifications

Awards

• J.D. Power and Associates named the GS series the best midsize luxury car in initial quality for 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005.^[56][57]
• AAA named the third generation GS 300 the best car in its class for 2005.^[58]
• Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus GS as the highest ranked vehicle in predicted reliability in the luxury car class in 2005.^[59]
• The GS 450h's Lexus Hybrid Drive system was the recipient of the annual Paul Pietsch Prize for Advanced Technology in 2007, awarded by technical editors of Auto Motor Und Sport publications.^[60]
• The Lexus GS 450h was named the winner of the 2007 IF product design award from the International Forum Design group in Hannover, Germany.^[61]
• German automotive magazine Auto Bild selected the GS 450h for its "Auto 1" award for best sedan in 2007.^[62]
• Smart Money magazine named the Lexus GS the best luxury sedan for the 2003–2004 model year.^[63] In 2005, the magazine named the GS its Best New Car Value.
• The GS series was named most appealing midsize luxury car by J.D. Power and Associates in 2001.^[64]
• The first generation GS series was named to the Top Ten in Initial Quality list by J.D. Power and Associates in 1994.
• Kelley Blue Book gave the GS series its Best to Hold Value Award in 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001.^[65]
• The second generation GS was named Import Car of the Year by Motor Trend in 1998.
• Car and Driver named the second generation GS to its Ten Best list in 1998, 1999, and 2000.

See also

• List of hybrid vehicles

References

External links

• Lexus GS official sites for Australia, Europe, Japan, UAE, UK, US
• Lexus GS Hybrid official sites for Australia, Canada, US
• Lexus GS at the Open Directory Project – additional links