Lexus is an automotive brand which is synonymous with outstanding quality, and its GS F performance sedan is an impeccable example of this.
Lexus’ GS F is an impressive car inside and out and delivers on high driver and passenger expectations on many fronts. The normally-aspirated V8, for example, delivers smooth, seamless power from idle to redline, and the 5.0-litre V8 in the GS F is engineered for low weight and high strength with forged connecting rods and titanium valves that allow a 7,300-rpm redline. With 351kW of power and 530Nm of torque, the GS F accelerates from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds and delivers a broad band of power that’s always on tap.
Lexus engineers have also tricked up the exhaust system on the GS F, which emits a rumbling baritone note from its stacked exhaust pipes. There’s also an active sound control system that electronically “boosts” the sound in the cabin via the audio speakers – an optional experience that the driver can turn on or off.
The GS F comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission which partners well with the 5.0-litre V8 powerplant to deliver smooth shifts, excellent drivability and linear acceleration. There are also a number of modes available to the driver, with the default being normal – which provides the most balanced ride quality and drivetrain performance. SPORT S adjusts the transmission shift points to deliver a more responsive feel and improved acceleration. The most aggressive Sport S+ mode goes one step further by adjusting the damper settings, steering assist, steering gear ratio and other settings for maximum performance. A custom mode is also available to tailor each parameter individually.
“Lexus engineers have also tricked up the exhaust system on the GS F, which emits a rumbling baritone note from its stacked exhaust pipes”
The GS F has an understated yet appealing exterior design, which features its signature spindle grille, forged 19″ smoke finish alloy wheels (optional polished alloy wheels are also available), a range of appealing colours (which are applied using up to six coats of paint, baked at up to four times) as well more inspired performance touches including a rear lip spoiler and diagonally arranged chromed quad exhaust ports.
Attention to detail is also evident in the interior, which features high-back heated sports seats with integrated headrests, unique digital instrumentation, steering wheel with paddle shifters, black Alcantara trim or an optional choice of semi-aniline leather-accented trims in three sports colours. Ornamentation can be chosen in either Naguri-style Aluminium (inspired by traditional Japanese crafting) or in genuine carbon fibre as a selectable option.
The GS F is a technological wonder, and Lexus’ philosophy here revolves around anticipating human needs and then matching them with intuitive technology. For example, the high resolution 12.3-inch display screen is positioned in such a way that it minimises your need to change your line of sight. The colour Heads Up Display (HUD) also projects frequently used information onto the windscreen glass, such as vehicle speed, tachometer, navigation instructions, audio, cruise control and more, allowing the driver’s focus to remain on the road ahead.
“The GS F is a technological wonder, and Lexus’ philosophy here revolves around anticipating human needs and then matching them with intuitive technology”
The GS F is equipped with an advanced three-zone climate control air conditioning system that features an innovative system called Nanoe – which gathers moisture from the air and injects it into the air conditioning airflow. What other air conditioning system moisturises your skin? The The GS F also features a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, a brand globally synonymous with incredible audio quality. Despite its compact size, the system achieves an impressive 835W of crystal-clear power.
If you’re after something special, Lexus has also released a special 10th Anniversary Edition version of the GS F sedan, which comes with a performance package, a coat of matte finish Nebula Gray paint and contrasting 19-inch black polished BBS wheels. The standard tyres are Michelin Pilot Super Sports while the blue painted brake calipers are from Brembo.
Priced at about $167,000 driveaway, the GS F is significantly cheaper than traditional class competitors such as Mercedes-Benz’s E63 AMG or the BMW M5. And given Lexus’ outstanding reputation for quality and reliability, the GS F is hard to go past if you’re in the market for a performance sports sedan.
