The all-new chassis and body and the 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 306 horsepower and sends it to the back via a six-speed sequential shift automatic managed to impress us.
That’s because the car is capable of a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds, which is decent of a luxury mobile of this size. Acceleration from 30 to 50 mph takes 3.0 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limed to 142 mph. However, that only for the US entry model. In Europe, Lexus will also offer a GS 250, according to the official press release, presumably making use of the IS’s 2.5-liter. There’s also a GS 450 hybrid on the way that will be offered on both sides of the pond.
The car is also impressive in terms of safety, as it offers a number of both passive and active systems. There are 10 airbags in total, including one for your knees and side airbags for rear passengers.
The GS can be equipped with all-wheel drive and a pre-collision system that uses the radar cruise control system to detect a probable accident and an infrared camera that monitors the driver’s eyes. If it senses you aren’t paying attention and a collision is imminent, it will sound an alarm, after which it will automatically activate the brakes, reducing the severity of the impact.
Lexus has also announced but not revealed an F-Sport package that will bring chassis tuning and better handling. Production starts in December and the first cars will hit showrooms in February. Let’s hope they have all the bolts fastened right.
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