2013 Lexus GS

Lexus has built an excellent reputation for itself as a manufacturer of large luxury cars,and the 2013 Lexus GS continues the line of high quality models from the Japanese manufacturer.

The most significant changes to have been made since the previous model appeared on the market in 2011 are cosmetic,but small tweaks and enhancements have been made elsewhere as well.

Specifications

Engine &Performance

A big change for the 2013 model year is that the GS is no longer available with a V8 engine under the hood. Instead,there is only one powerplant available,a 3.5-liter V6 unit that provides 306 horsepower. Although that figure is only marginally up on the previous GS model,testers have reported that the level of power on offer is sufficient for most drivers' needs.

However,a few reviewers have reported that the six-speed gearbox does not match up to the newer eight-speed transmissions fitted into some of this car's competitors.

Exterior

The Lexus looks quite different from its 2012 predecessor,with an exterior that has been heavily redesigned for the new model year. This is generally seen as a successful move,with few testers lamenting the loss of the old styling cues.

The new car has been given quite a sporty and aggressive overall appearance,but this has been achieved without losing the classy feel for which Lexus has become known. The GS would suit a driver who wants a good-looking car,but who doesn't mind if it stays a little way out of the limelight compared with a BMW or a Mercedes-Benz.

Interior

The cabin of the GS is a very comfortable and attractive place to be,both for the driver and the passengers. Lexus has created an interior which comes close to Mercedes-Benz levels of quality and luxury,and which can certainly hold its own in comparison with the likes of Audi and Infiniti.

Compared with the 2012 model,the car is roomier inside as well as having a larger trunk. However,although general build quality is very high,some of the fine detail is not quite up to BMW standards. Another reported concern is that the multimedia controller is not as easy to use as it should be.

Safety

The 2013 Lexus GS has not yet undergone government crash testing,so it is not possible to give a detailed picture of how well the car would stand up to an impact. That said,the company has worked hard on improving safety features,and the car now boasts an impressive complement of 10 airbags.

There is also a variety of cameras,night-vision systems and heads-up display units to help improve visibility. Although some of these are listed as options,they are likely to be popular choices,as rear visibility is not perfect.

Reliability

Lexus has a good record in terms of looking after its customers,and it is expected that the 2013 GS will continue the previous model's practice of offering unlimited-mileage breakdown cover for a period of four years from purchase.

The car's warranty is also likely to be similar to the earlier models,with basic cover lasting for four years or 50,000 miles,and a slightly extended period of six years or 72,000 miles for the engine and transmission.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2013 Lexus GS lineup is immediately notable for what's been taken out (the V-8 option) and for what's not been added (more gears,more transmissions even).”Car Connection

“GS is nimble with minimal cornering lean and good grip. Steering is quick and accurate. Some testers complain that the steering is a bit too quick with the suspension set in its Sport or Sport+ setting. ”Consumer Guide

“The GS is Lexus’ performance-oriented midsize sedan which is redesigned for 2013 with new Lexus design language and the Lexus spindle grille.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The new look and more sharply honed character finally makes the 2013 GS the kind of first-rate luxury-sport sedan that it could – and should – have been from day one.”KBB

“Sharper handling,new features and added interior room make the redesigned 2013 Lexus GS 350 a top contender among midsize luxury sport sedans.”Edmunds