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The '''Lexus GS''' is a series of [[mid-size]]/[[executive car]]s sold by [[Lexus]], the luxury [[division (business)|division]] of [[Toyota]]. Designed as a [[sports sedan|performance sedan]] competing in the [[Executive car|mid-luxury class]], the GS slots between the entry-level/compact executive [[Lexus IS|IS]] and full-size/flagship [[Lexus LS|LS]], and shares its chassis with one of Toyota's oldest platforms: the [[List of Toyota platforms#S|Toyota "S"]] which has been used under the [[Toyota Crown]] for many decades. Four generations of the GS have been produced since 1993, each available with six-cylinder engines and [[rear-wheel drive]]. [[V8 engine|V8]] engines were offered in the second and third generations, and [[all-wheel drive]] and [[hybrid car|hybrid]] versions debuted in 2005. The first two generations had a [[Japanese domestic market]] equivalent, the [[:ja:トヨタ・アリスト|Toyota Aristo]] ("Aristo" is [[Greek (language)|Greek]] for "the best"), which was sold from 1991 until the Lexus [[marque]]'s domestic debut in 2005. Though largely identical in exterior and interior design, the GS and the Aristo differed in their engine and transmission combinations as well as equipment packages.
The '''Lexus GS''' is a series of [[mid-size]]/[[executive car]]s sold by [[Lexus]], the luxury [[division (business)|division]] of [[Toyota]]. Designed as a [[sports sedan|performance sedan]] competing in the [[Executive car|mid-luxury class]], the GS slots between the entry-level/compact executive [[Lexus IS|IS]] and full-size/flagship [[Lexus LS|LS]], and shares its chassis with one of Toyota's oldest platforms: the [[List of Toyota platforms#S|Toyota "S"]] which has been used under the [[Toyota Crown]] for many decades. Four generations of the GS have been produced since 1993, each available with six-cylinder engines and [[rear-wheel drive]]. [[V8 engine|V8]] engines were offered in the second and third generations, and [[all-wheel drive]] and [[hybrid car|hybrid]] versions debuted in 2005. The first two generations had a [[Japanese domestic market]] equivalent, the [[:ja:トヨタ・アリスト|Toyota Aristo]] ("Aristo" is [[Greek (language)|Greek]] for "the best"), which was sold from 1991 until the Lexus [[marque]]'s domestic debut in 2005. Though largely identical in exterior and interior design, the GS and the Aristo differed in their engine and transmission combinations as well as equipment packages. The GS name stands for Grand Sedan.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.toyota-global.com/company/history_of_toyota/75years/vehicle_lineage/car/id60012617/index.html | title=Lexus GS (GS430/GS350) | accessdate=December 30, 2012 | author=Toyota Motor Corporation}}</ref>


The first-generation Lexus GS began sales in the United States, Europe and selected markets in Asia in 1993, where it was introduced with an [[inline-6]] engine and exterior bodywork designed by [[Italdesign Giugiaro]]. The [[#Second generation (1998-2005)|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 (2006-present)|third-generation]] GS, which premiered globally for the 2006 model year, was produced in [[V6]], [[V8 engine|V8]], and [[hybrid vehicle|hybrid]] versions, the latter known as the GS 450h performance hybrid. The third-generation models were the first GS sedans to be sold domestically in Japan.
The first-generation Lexus GS began sales in the United States, Europe and selected markets in Asia in 1993, where it was introduced with an [[inline-6]] engine and exterior bodywork designed by [[Italdesign Giugiaro]]. The [[#Second generation (1998-2005)|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 (2006-present)|third-generation]] GS, which premiered globally for the 2006 model year, was produced in [[V6]], [[V8 engine|V8]], and [[hybrid vehicle|hybrid]] versions, the latter known as the GS 450h performance hybrid. The third-generation models were the first GS sedans to be sold domestically in Japan.

Revision as of 13:48, 30 December 2012

Lexus GS
Overview
ManufacturerLexus (Toyota)
Production1991–present
AssemblyJapan: Tahara, Aichi
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size
Body style4-door sedan
PlatformToyota "S"

The Lexus GS is a series of mid-size/executive cars sold by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota. Designed as a performance sedan competing in the mid-luxury class, the GS slots between the entry-level/compact executive IS and full-size/flagship LS, and shares its chassis with one of Toyota's oldest platforms: the Toyota "S" which has been used under the Toyota Crown for many decades. Four generations of the GS have been produced since 1993, each 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 generations had a Japanese domestic market equivalent, the Toyota Aristo ("Aristo" is Greek for "the best"), which was sold from 1991 until the Lexus marque's domestic debut in 2005. Though largely identical in exterior and interior design, the GS and the Aristo differed in their engine and transmission combinations as well as equipment packages. The GS name stands for Grand Sedan.[1]

The first-generation Lexus GS began sales in the United States, Europe and selected markets in Asia in 1993, where it was introduced with an 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 models were the first GS sedans to be sold domestically in Japan.

The fourth-generation Lexus GS premiered in August 2011 at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, where models introduced included the V6-powered GS 350, hybrid GS 450h, and performance-tuned F Sport variants. A lower-displacement V6 model, the GS 250, premiered at the Auto Guangzhou Exhibition in November 2011, targeted at Asian and European markets.[2] In some markets such as North America, the GS shares the mid-size sedan category in the Lexus lineup with the front-wheel drive ES.[3]

First generation (S140)

First generation (S140)
Overview
Also calledToyota Aristo (Japan)
Production1991–1996
DesignerGiorgetto Giugiaro(1989)
Body and chassis
PlatformFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
RelatedToyota Crown
Powertrain
Engine3.0 L 2JZ-GE I6 (gasoline)
3.0 L 2JZ-GTE I6 (t/c gasoline)
4.0 L 1UZ-FE V8 (gasoline)
Transmission4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,779 mm (109.4 in)
Length4,950 mm (194.9 in)
Width1,796 mm (70.7 in)
Height1,400–1,420 mm (55.1–55.9 in)

1991–1996

Italdesign Giugiaro began the first design drawings of the GS 300 in 1988.[4] The design firm aimed to produce a deluxe saloon which eschewed the numerous exterior features and detailing found on existing Japanese premium sedans, in favor of a more simplified, European-style appearance.[4] The vehicle's exterior styling blended elements of the then-current Lexus LS flagship and SC performance coupe in a rounded, aerodynamic wedge-like shape which featured a high rear decklid and longer and wider proportions than rival vehicles.[5] The exterior produced a drag coefficient of 0.31 Cd. Offered color schemes included single-tone bumper and body finishes,[5] along with dual-tone schemes. Similarities with an Italdesign concept car which debuted in 1990, the Jaguar Kensington, led some observers to suggest that the GS 300 was derived from its design, but the firm has stated that the GS 300 was developed earlier.[4] Equipped with an independent, double-wishbone suspension setup at both front and rear ends, Italdesign's saloon design first appeared in Toyota Aristo form in Japan in October 1991.

Toyota Aristo 3.0 Q (JZS14; Japan)

Built at Toyota's Tahara assembly plant in Japan, production of the Aristo involved more automation than previous vehicles built at the Tahara factory; robots performed 4,200 welds on each body, while only eight spot welds were performed by hand.[6] Toyota of Japan offered two straight-six engine options for the Japanese market Aristo—the 3.0 Q and 3.0 V. The 3.0 Q (JZS147) featured the 2JZ-GE engine which produced 169 kW (227 hp), while the Aristo 3.0 V (JZS147) was equipped with a 24-valve twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE engine which produced 205 kW (275 hp). The Aristo was exclusive to the Toyota Vista Store as the top level luxury sedan at Vista dealerships, positioned above the Toyota Cresta and Chaser. In 1992, a third model, the V8-powered 4.0 Zi-Four (UZS143), joined the Aristo lineup. This model came with standard all-wheel drive and a 186 kW (249 hp) 1UZ-FE engine.

Lexus GS 300 interior (JZS147)

Production of the export Lexus GS 300 (JZS147) began on February 22, 1993.[6] For Lexus, The GS was placed above the front-wheel drive ES luxury sedan with its superior drivetrain setup, power and available amenities. Lexus only offered the GS with the 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE straight-six, producing 169 kW (227 hp) and 285 N⋅m (210 lb⋅ft) of torque.

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.[5] 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.[5][6] By the time of the GS 300's debut, the US$35,000 initial base price of the LS in the United States had climbed to US$47,000,[5] while the GS 300 at debut carried base price of US$38,000. 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.[6] Additionally, more powerful V8 sport sedans provided strong competition. By 1997, the price of the GS 300 had risen to US$46,000. Production of the first generation GS sedan ended in late 1996.

Second generation (S160)

Second generation
Overview
Also calledToyota Aristo
Production1997–2004
Model years1998–2005
Body and chassis
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive
RelatedToyota Crown
Powertrain
Engine3.0 L 2JZ-GE I6 (gasoline)
3.0 L 2JZ-GTE I6 (t/c gasoline)
4.0 L 1UZ-FE V8 (gasoline)
4.3 L 3UZ-FE V8 (gasoline)
Transmission4-speed A341E automatic (JZS161)
5-speed A650E automatic (JZS160, UZS160)
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,799 mm (110.2 in)
Length4,806 mm (189.2 in)
Width1,801 mm (70.9 in)
Height1,420–1,440 mm (55.9–56.7 in)

1997–2000

In 1993, after sales commenced for the first generation S140 series, development began on the successor under the internally known codename JZS160. The design process began under chief engineer Yasushi Nakagawa in May 1994 and by November 1995 after 18 months of design work, the final production design was approved by the executive board. In January 1997, Lexus debuted the "High Performance Sedan" (HPS) concept at the Detroit Auto Show, previewing the design direction for the redesigned GS.[7] In August 1997, the second generation Toyota Aristo was launched in Japan, codenamed JZS160 (S300 version) for models with 2JZ-GE engines and JZS161 (V300 version) for those with 2JZ-GTE twin-turbocharged engines. VVT-i was now standard, resulting in an increase of torque. The twin-turbocharged version was available with electronic four-wheel steering, electronic stability control and an automatic transmission with a manual sequential mode. Toyota discontinued the optional all-wheel drive system.

2000–2004 Lexus GS (JZS160R; Australia)

The second generation sedans used a new front-engine, rear-wheel drive midsize platform, also featured in the Japanese-market Toyota Crown.[8] 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 Cd. Inside, electroluminescent 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 late 1997.

2000–2004 Lexus GS (JZS160R; Australia)

Lexus offered the GS 300 once again and featured a slightly revised version of the last generation's 3.0-liter straight-six now producing 168 kW (225 hp) and 305 N⋅m (225 lb⋅ft) of torque. Answering customer requests for more power, the American market GS 400 (UZS160) was equipped with the 4.0-liter 1UZ-FE V8 that produced 224 kW (300 hp) and 420 N⋅m (310 ft⋅lb) of torque. Both models featured a five-speed automatic transmission with the GS 400 receiving steering wheel shift buttons. As with the S140 series, no turbocharged variants were offered outside Japan. The 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of the GS 400 prompted Lexus to claim that the GS was the world's fastest production sedan at its introduction in 1997.[6] The 1998 BMW M5 sedan would list 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) times of between 4.8 and 5.2 seconds.[9]

2003–2004 GS 300 interior (JZS160)

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.[6] Lexus would keep the second generation vehicle in its lineup for eight years, a longer duration than the prior generation. The U.S. base price for the GS 300 and GS 430 averaged approximately US$38,000 and US$47,000 respectively.

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.[10]

2000–2004

2000–2005 GS 430 (UZS161; Europe)

In 2000, a facelift (designed in mid-1999) was introduced for the 2001 model year, which 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 straight-six. 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 power was unchanged, but torque increased to 441 N⋅m (325 lb⋅ft). The GS 430 takes 5.3 seconds to do 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h). Also for the 2001 model year, Lexus also added a limited production GS 300 "SportDesign" edition for North America, featuring the sport suspension from the GS 430, wider wheels, and polished alloy wheels.[11] 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).[11] Production of the limited model occurred through 2004.

Third generation (S190)

Third generation (S190)
Overview
Production2005–2011
Model years2006–2011
DesignerYasuhide Hosoda[12](2002)
Body and chassis
PlatformFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
RelatedToyota Crown
Powertrain
Engine3.0 L 3GR-FE V6 (gasoline; Middle East)
3.0 L 3GR-FSE V6 (gasoline)
3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 (gasoline)
3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 (hybrid gasoline)
4.3 L 3UZ-FE V8 (gasoline)
4.6 L 1UR-FE V8 (gasoline)
Transmission6-speed automatic
8-speed AA80E automatic
CVT automatic (hybrid)
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,850 mm (112.2 in)
Length4,826–4,844 mm (190.0–190.7 in)
Width1,821 mm (71.7 in)
Height1,425–1,435 mm (56.1–56.5 in)
Main article: Lexus GS (S190)

2004–2007

In 1999, development commenced on a successor to the JZS160 under chief engineer, Shigetoshi Miyoshi. Styling for both the exterior and interior was done under lead designer Yasuhide Hosada between 2000 and 2002, during which L-finesse came to fruition in 2001.[13] By 2002, a final design was agreed upon utilizing the new corporate styling theme, which would later be publicly introduced the following year. In October 2003, Lexus premiered the LF-S (Lexus Future Sedan), a concept car which previewed the design of the upcoming GS.[14] The design patent was filed by Toyota on December 22, 2003 in domestic Japanese patent offices, preceding an imminent public unveiling. The third generation GS first appeared as a pre-production vehicle at the 2004 North American International Auto Show on January 5, with the production version shown at the same show in 2005.

Production of the third generation began on January 24, 2005, with an equivalent Toyota 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, retained quad headlights, LED tailamps, and one-piece bumpers. The drag coefficient on the third generation GS design reached 0.27 Cd, and the model used a newly designed midsize platform later shared with the second generation IS.[15]

2006–2007 Lexus GS 430 (UZS190; US)

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 engine used in the previous model. Sales in the US began in March 2006, with the initial 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 six-speed automatic sequential shift gearbox. An all-wheel drive system was made available in the GS 300.

2006–2009 Lexus GS 450h (GWS191; Australia)

Unveiled at the 2005 New York International Auto Show, the gasoline 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 the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter 2GR-FSE V6 engine mated to an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). 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,[16] and total output of 253 kW (339 hp),[17] allowing the GS to accelerate 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 5.2 seconds, according to manufacturer data.[17]

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 suspension system that individually altered suspension damper firmness. Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) was standard on the GS 430, 460, and 450h models and coupled to VGRS, with which it could alter steering gear ratios.[18]

Third generation GS interior (GWS191), with hybrid kilowatt meter instead of tachometer and G-Book navigation.

Standard safety features on the GS ranged from multiple airbags, including knee airbags and front row side torso airbags,[19] to adaptive headlights, anti-lock braking, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist and electronic stability control. The radar-based pre-collision system with an autonomous cruise control system 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 US and several 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,[20] XM-satellite radio and DVD-based navigation with backup camera and Bluetooth technology. Competitors to the Lexus GS included the BMW 5-Series,[11] Mercedes-Benz E-Class,[5] Volvo S80, Audi A6, Jaguar XF, Infiniti M, and Acura RL.

2007–2011

MY2010 Lexus GS 450h (GWS191; Canada)

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 with eight-speed automatic transmission generating 255 kW (342 hp) and 460 N⋅m (339 ft⋅lb) of torque. Lexus reported a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of 5.4 seconds.[21] 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.[22] In 2010, the GS was outsold nearly two to one by the flagship LS.[22]

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 (L10)

Fourth generation (L10)
Overview
ProductionDecember 2011–present[23]
Model years2013–present
DesignerKatsuhiko Inatomi[24] (2009)
Body and chassis
PlatformFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
RelatedToyota Crown
Powertrain
Engine2.5 L 4GR-FSE V6 (gasoline)
3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 (gasoline)
3.5 L 2GR-FXE V6 (hybrid gasoline)
Transmission6-speed automatic
CVT automatic (hybrid)
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,850 mm (112.2 in)
Length4,848 mm (190.9 in)
Width1,840 mm (72.4 in)
Height1,455 mm (57.3 in)
Curb weight1,721–1,805 kg (3,795–3,980 lb)
1,865 kg (4,112 lb) (hybrid)

2011–present

See also: Lexus LF-Gh

In the summer of 2007, development began on the L10 series GS under Yoshihiko Kanamori, with the design process finalizing under Akio Toyoda in 2009.[25] Design patents were filed in Japan on October 6, 2010 for the production model and a conceptual variant on March 29, 2011. 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.[26] The LF-Gh concept vehicle was taken by automotive journalists as an indication of what the fourth generation Lexus GS would look like.[27]

Lexus GS 450h and GS 350 (US)
Lexus GS 350 (US)

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 exterior dimensions are almost identical to the previous generation.[28] L-shaped LED front daytime running lamps and rear LED tube lamps are a new design feature.[28] The new GS was the centerpiece of Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda's initiative to restore passion to the Lexus brand and better compete with German luxury automakers that had been gaining market share in the United States. It was reported that Toyoda initially opposed the styling choices made for the new model, but since thanked the design team that persuaded him to greenlight the project.[29]

At its debut, the fourth generation model was shown in rear-wheel drive GS 350 (GRL10) form, powered by a V6 engine linked with a six-speed automatic transmission.[28] Three driving modes are featured, ranging from fuel-conserving Eco to Sport S and Sport S+ which facilitate more sporty transmission shifting and engine throttle settings, as well as suspension damper and steering adjustments.[28] The chassis has been redesigned, and overall curb weight is reduced.[28] To reduce unsprung mass the new GS utilizes aluminum for all its suspension components.[30] The GS 350 F Sport adds a rear-wheel steering system for improved handling.[31]

Lexus GS 450h interior (US)

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.[28] Other interior features include occupant-adaptive air conditioning and a Mark Levinson surround sound system.[28] Front 18-way power seats are available; 10-way power seats are equipped standard. Optional features further include a pre-collision system, heads-up display, blind spot monitor, lane keep assist, and Driver Monitoring System.[28]

The GS 450h (GWL10), rated at 252 kW (338 hp) and now using an Atkinson cycle design, has a 35 percent improvement in fuel economy 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).[32] Trunk space is improved both for the hybrid and standard models.[28] The GS 450h features standard full LED headlamps[33] and a bamboo trimmed interior.[34]

Gasoline variants such as the GS 350 and GS 250, as well as their F Sport variants, began sales in Japan in January 26, 2012, followed by the GS 450h and the GS 450h F Sport on March 19, 2012.[35] Sales for the fourth generation in the US began in February 2012 for gasoline-only models including the GS 350 and GS 350 F Sport, with the hybrid version following several months after.[31][32] A smaller-displacement model, the GS 250 (GRL11), was shown at the 2011 Auto Guangzhou, targeted for sales in China, Japan, Australia and the UK, but not the US.[2]

Motorsport

GS 400 V8Star Series touring race car

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.[36] 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.[37][38]

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.[39] In 2007, Lexus Canada also entered the GS 450h in the Targa Newfoundland event.[40] 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.[41]

In 2008, Manabu "Max" Orido used a second generation JZS161 Aristo in Formula D competition.[42][43] 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.[43]

Sales and production

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

Generation (chassis code) Model no(s). Calendar year Total sales, U.S., Japan Total exports, production‡
JZS147
GS 300 1993 19,164[6] 18,450[44]
1994 13,939[6] 12,905[44]
1995 6,263[45] 7,797[44]
1996 2,044[46] 2,500[44]
1997 7,718[6] 175[44]
JZS160/UZS160
GS 300/400 1998 30,622[6] 26,705[44]
1999 30,326[6] 30,326[44]
2000 26,705[47] 26,705[44]
JZS160/UZS161
GS 300/430 2001 24,461[48] 29,715[44]
2002 17,246[48] 17,710[44]
2003 13,306[49] 14,479[44]
2004 8,262[50] 9,681[44]
2005 33,457,[51] 5,843[52] 3,000[44]
GRS190/GRS195/UZS190 GS 300/350/430 2006 27,390,[51] 9,145[52] 51,290‡[52]
GRS191/GRS196/UZS190/GWS191 GS 350/430/450h 2007 23,381,[53] 5,089[54] 45,588‡[55]
GRS191/GRS196/URS191/GWS191 GS 350/460/450h 2008 15,759,[53] 5,384[56] 32,828‡[57]
2009 7,430,[58] 1,777[59] 11,565‡[60]

Technical specifications

Model configurations by region
Chassis code Model no. Model year(s) Drivetrain Transmission Engine type Engine code Region(s)
GRS190 GS 300 2006–2012 RWD/AWD 6-speed AT 3.0 L petrol V6 3GR-FSE Australia,[61] China,[62] Europe,[63] Middle East[64]
GRS191 GS 350 2007–2012 3.5 L petrol V6 2GR-FSE Canada,[65] Europe,[63] Japan,[66] United States[67]
UZS190 GS 430 2006–2007 RWD 4.3 L petrol V8 3UZ-FE Middle East[64]
GWS191 GS 450h 2007–2012 CVT 3.5 L hybrid V6 2GR-FSE Canada,[65] China,[62] Europe,[63] Japan,[66] United States[67]
URS190 GS 460 2008–2012 8-speed AT 4.6 L petrol V8 1UR-FE Australia,[61] Canada,[65] China,[62] Europe,[63] Japan,[66] United States[67]
Drivetrain specifications by generation[44]
Model year(s) Model no(s). Chassis code(s) Engine type Engine code Transmission(s) Power Torque
1993–1996 GS 300 JZS147 3.0 L inline-6 2JZ-GE 4-speed AT 168 kW (225 hp) 280 N⋅m (210 ft⋅lbf) @4800 rpm
1998–2004 GS 300 JZS161 3.0 L inline-6 2JZ-GE 4-speed AT 168 kW (225 hp) 300 N⋅m (220 ft⋅lbf) @4000 rpm
1998–2000 GS 400 UZS160 4.0 L V8 1UZ-FE 5-speed AT 224 kW (300 hp) 420 N⋅m (310 ft⋅lbf) @4000 rpm
2001–2005 GS 430 UZS161 4.3 L V8 3UZ-FE 5-speed AT 224 kW (300 hp) 441 N⋅m (325 ft⋅lbf) @4000 rpm
2006–2007 GS 300 GRS190 3.0 L V6 3GR-FSE 6-speed AT 188 kW (252 hp) 310 N⋅m (230 ft⋅lbf) @3600 rpm
2006–2007 GS 300 AWD GRS195 3.0 L V6 3GR-FSE 6-speed AT 188 kW (252 hp) 310 N⋅m (230 ft⋅lbf) @3600 rpm
2006–2007 GS 430 UZS190 4.3 L V8 3UZ-FE 6-speed AT 224 kW (300 hp) 441 N⋅m (325 ft⋅lbf) @4000 rpm
2007–2012 GS 450h GWS191 3.5 L V6 hybrid 2GR-FSE CVT 253 kW (339 hp) n/a
2008–2012 GS 350 GRS191 3.5 L V6 2GR-FSE 6-speed AT 226 kW (303 hp) 371 N⋅m (274 ft⋅lbf) @3600 rpm
2008–2012 GS 350 AWD GRS196 3.5 L V6 2GR-FSE 6-speed AT 226 kW (303 hp) 371 N⋅m (274 ft⋅lbf) @3600 rpm
2008–2012 GS 460 URS190 4.6 L V8 1UR-FE 8-speed AT 255 kW (342 hp) 460 N⋅m (340 ft⋅lbf) @3900 rpm

Awards

  • J.D. Power and Associates named the GS series the best midsize luxury car in initial quality for 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005.[68][69]
  • AAA named the third generation GS 300 the best car in its class for 2005.[70]
  • Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus GS as the highest ranked vehicle in predicted reliability in the luxury car class in 2005.[71]
  • 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.[72]
  • The Lexus GS 450h was named the winner of the 2007 IF product design award from the International Forum Design group in Hannover, Germany.[73]
  • German automotive magazine Auto Bild selected the GS 450h for its "Auto 1" award for best sedan in 2007.[74]
  • Smart Money magazine named the Lexus GS the best luxury sedan for the 2003–2004 model year.[75] 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.[76]
  • 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.[77]
  • 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.

References

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