New GS Series Makes Japan Debut with Two Models

In August 2011, Lexus unveiled the new "GS350" at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California, followed by the hybrid model "GS450h" at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and the "GS350 F Sport" at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas in October.
This Tokyo Motor Show will mark the Japan debut of the "GS450h" and "GS350 F Sport".

The next-generation GS series features a face that hints at Lexus's future design language, characterized by a spindle grille combining an inverted trapezoidal upper grille with a trapezoidal lower grille, further pursuing the "L-finesse" (elegant and sharp) philosophy advocated by Lexus.

While the body size is nearly the same as the previous model, the interior space is said to be more expansive. The cabin is equipped with a world-first 12.3-inch wide display, Lexus's first analog clock, and multi-function seats, emphasizing both functionality and luxury.

Thanks to the adoption of compact, two-tiered hybrid batteries and a newly developed rear suspension layout, the luggage space has been expanded to 465 liters, 1.5 times larger than the previous model, offering utility nearly equivalent to the gasoline model.

The "GS350 F Sport" is a sporty version with exclusive interior and exterior features. While typically equipped with 18-inch wheels, this model features staggered 19-inch aluminum wheels. It also boasts a dedicated brake system with 18-inch ventilated disc brakes. The exterior showcases a unique design for the grille, bumper, and rear spoiler, while the interior is appointed with exclusive seats, a leather steering wheel and shift knob, and genuine aluminum ornamentation panels. The interior color uses a special garnet red, visually emphasizing the "F Sport's" performance.

LFA, Record Holder at Nürburgring, Also on Display

Alongside the new GS series, Lexus will exhibit the "LFA Nürburgring Package," a circuit-focused variant of the LFA. This model is named in homage to the Nürburgring, the proving ground for LFA development.

The front spoiler and fixed rear wing utilize CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) to further enhance aerodynamic performance. It is also equipped with suspension and dedicated wheels optimized for circuit driving. The engine has undergone improvements, including an increased compression ratio, boosting output from the standard 560 ps (412 kW) to 571 ps (420 kW).

LFA Nürburgring Package

Incidentally, the LFA Nürburgring Package achieved a record-breaking time of 7 minutes 14.64 seconds on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. You can watch the footage in the video below. Orders for the LFA Nürburgring Package and LFA closed in January 2010.