Adopting the New Generation Design Identity

The new GS is a four-door sedan priced over five million yen, positioned to fill the gap between the LS and IS within the Lexus brand. It directly competes with European luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW. The front fascia is the first to feature the new generation design identity known as the spindle grille. Ultimately, it has been refined into a model that delivers the joy of driving.

OPENERS has previously covered the Lexus GS, so we will only touch upon its overview here. The lineup is broadly divided into two types: gasoline and hybrid. The gasoline engine models include the GS350 series with a 3.5-liter V6 and the GS250 series, newly adopting a 2.5-liter V6. The hybrid is the GS450h, for which production begins in March, so a test car was not yet available.


As Lexus prominently touts the “second stage” for this GS, the significant improvements in handling are noteworthy. In addition to electronically controlled suspension, some models feature “LDH (Lexus Dynamic Handling System),” which steers the rear wheels during cornering. According to Lexus, “Rear-wheel steering systems have existed before, but LDH is groundbreaking in its integrated control of the front and rear wheels.”

An Even More Refined Interior

We test-drove the GS350 Version L (from 6.7 million yen) and the GS250 I Package. The GS350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 direct-injection unit producing a maximum output of 234kW (318ps) and a maximum torque of 380Nm/3800rpm, driving the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Version L is the core model in the GS lineup, focused on comfort.

While Chief Engineer Yoshihiko Kinjo, who led the development, stated that the body size was “trimmed down to the millimeter for usability on Japanese roads,” it remains generous at 1840mm wide for a 4850mm overall length. Meanwhile, the interior space is designed for “minimizing exterior size and maximizing interior space,” offering ample room even for four adults.


However, the leather seats are excessively thick, and while the use of wood aims to create a Japanese sense of lightness, it felt somewhat incongruous. Although the perforated leather shows fine craftsmanship upon close inspection, the overall impression lacks freshness. It would be challenging, but if Japanese values could be reflected here, it would shine with a different brilliance than its European rivals.

A Superb Flat Ride

Driving the GS350 Version L left a strong impression. The suspension setup played a significant role. It adeptly handled high-frequency bumps, or small undulations, while at corner entry, it maintained minimal roll and faithfully followed the driver's intended line.

Lexus engineers attribute this largely to the refined control of the "AVS" system, which electronically adjusts damper stiffness. The damping force, divided into nine levels, is instantaneously optimized according to road input, achieving a superb flat ride without being too stiff or too soft.


The angular velocity, or speed and angle of steering input, is also factored into the parameters, contributing to a sporty driving feel. The ride is comfortable yet sporty. It’s understandable why Lexus touts this as the “flagship model of its second stage, incorporating sportiness.”

Lexus's Answer to the Downsizing Trend

The GS is enjoyable not only due to its suspension. While the engine's torque is modest below 2000rpm, it delivers robust power all the way to the redline. The 6-speed automatic transmission's shift management also contributes to this enjoyable experience. By downshifting automatically in corners and effectively utilizing the torque band, it provides powerful acceleration seamlessly in all situations.

The GS250 I Package (5.5 million yen), with its 158kW maximum output, represents Lexus's response to the global trend of downsizing, particularly prominent among German manufacturers. However, the overall impression remains largely unchanged compared to the GS350. Drivers can enjoy truly pleasant handling and cornering with natural body roll.

The GS250 I Package is not equipped with the AVS system that automatically controls damper stiffness independently for each wheel. Consequently, road impacts may feel slightly more pronounced than in the GS350 Version L. Nevertheless, the tuning is more than adequate, achieving a satisfying ride quality.


The GS offers four driving modes selectable via a dial: “Eco,” “Normal,” “Sport S,” and “Sport S+.” “Eco” prioritizes fuel efficiency, including shift timing. In contrast, “Sport S” enhances engine response, allowing for enjoyable acceleration with ample torque across all rev ranges. “Sport S+” also alters the steering ratio.

Lexus Meister Who Shaped the New Model's Character

The new GS is indeed a model that successfully balances comfort and driving pleasure through the skillful use of electronic control technology. Of course, the direction of electronic control settings is paramount, as it defines the car's unique character, its "flavor."

Lexus emphasizes the significant role of Chief Expert Yoshiaki Ito, who holds the title of Lexus Meister, in the development of the GS. One engineer encountered at the test drive event shared, “Mr. Ito drove up to 500km a day on the test course to shape the new GS's character. The ride quality of this car is entirely the result of his efforts.”

Chief Expert Yoshiaki Ito stated, “As the name GS stands for Grand Touring Sedan, its character is not solely focused on sportiness.” While models emphasizing sportiness, such as the F SPORT, are available, the essence of the new model's character lies in the balance between comfort and sportiness.