Lexus GS F Reportedly Under Development

With the recent introduction of the Lexus IS F to the US market, consumers might expect the GS mid-size luxury sports sedan/executive car to receive a high-performance trim level, completing the company's "F" line.

In an effort to provide Americans with an alternative for the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, the Japanese luxury marque will reportedly introduce a sportier version of the GS that will be set apart from the rest of the range by a more aggressive appearance, as well as a 5.0-liter V8 identical to the one in the IS F, only with a higher power output of 465 horsepower. The power increase is necessary to propel the heavier body of the GS, which is severely trimmed to keep the weight down to about 3,700 lbs (1678 kg). This means the GS F should be capable of doing the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in under 4.5 seconds.

The GS F will probably come in 2012 and will have a price tag of around $90,000 to $100,000, although the company hasn't made an official statement about the car.

The same treatment might also be administered to the Lexus CT 200h, whose "F Sport" trim level won't include engine modifications as it is a hybrid, but will feature severe changes to the chassis and body. Stiffer springs will be added, to improve the handling of the vehicle, complete with shocks and upgraded brakes. Also getting the "F Sport" version could be the brand's flagship sedan, the LS which would only feature chassis and body modifications such as a reworked front end and huge 20 inch alloy wheels. Similar to the CT 200h, the LS will have little to no engine tweaks.