- Doors and Seats
4 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
3.5i, 6 cyl.
- Engine Power
232kW, 380Nm
- Fuel
Petrol (95) 9.3L/100KM
- Manufacturer
RWD
- Transmission
8 Spd Auto
- Warranty
4 Yr, 100000 KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
All Family CarsBest Sedans under $100kAll Lexus
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While it might lack the full-blooded punch of the hard-core GS F we drive in Spain last year, the GS 350 F Sport feels reassuringly familiar from behind the wheel.
What we love
- Finally a Lexus sedan that looks the goods
- vastly improved ride and handling matches German rivals
- trusty 3.5-litre V6 is refined and gutsy
- superb comfort and build quality
- long list of standard features including all the active safety gear
What we don't
- Taller folks will find rear seat leg and headroom tight
- mouse-style infotainment controller is too fiddly
It’s hard to understand why Lexus has been so often overlooked by those in the market for a quality prestige drive, but with the launch of the latest Lexus GS 350 F Sport, the Japanese carmaker seems primed to put itself squarely back in the spotlight.
This is a car that surely deserves your undivided attention, with fresh styling, even more kit and vastly improved handling and ride performance.
Mind, steeping into the ring with the likes of Audi’s latest A6, BMW’s 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz’s E-Class and Jaguar’s XF was never going to be a walkover for the Japanese carmaker, even one in ‘pursuit of perfection’. To succeed against this formidable Euro onslaught, Lexus knew it had to punch well above its weight if it was to convince discerning buyers to make the switch.
Performance, styling, and most of all, cachet, have always belonged to the German and Brit marques – they’ve been honing those qualities for near on a century. Lexus, on the other hand, has been building cars for less than three decades.
Despite the relatively short run, Lexus has made remarkable progress and nowhere is this more evident than with the recently-refreshed GS model. It’s the culmination of 27 years of evolution in Lexus design and showcases the company’s bold new corporate face that looks to be every bit as striking, as it is polarising.
The centrepiece to this newfound identity is the latest rendition of Lexus’ so-called ‘spindle’ grille, which comes to life for the very first time on the new GS. It not only gives the car one of the most striking front-end designs in the brand’s current line-up, but in the entire luxury midsize segment.
That new face is further enhanced by swoosh-style DRLs (Daylight Running Lights), which not only provide the finishing touch, but also serve as a distinctive light signature amongst a set of exceptionally well-lit rivals.
Lexus seems to have found its mojo again, something it has struggled to rekindle ever since the company launched its groundbreaking LS 400 in 1989. There was a car that was universally praised for its quietness, refinement and superior build quality, although it was criticised by some for derivative styling.
There’s real character and desirability to this new look GS line, and if you’re anything like me it definitely grows on you, especially after a week behind the wheel. I truly believe Lexus is at a turning point with their design language, where it is able to mount a genuine challenge against the best Europe has to offer in the sports-sedan segment.
Adding even more flair to our GS 350 tester is the popular F-Sport package, which has already become the default trim choice across the entire Lexus model range.
Lexus claims over 60 per cent of all Lexus customers choose the performance-focused F Sport spec over the entry-level Luxury trim and top-shelf Sports Luxury versions, regardless of the model.
It’s an entirely understandable choice too, particularly with the GS, adding larger, more assertive 19-inch wheels (up from 18), unique exterior body kit including new front and rear bumpers, adaptive suspension, rear-wheel steering and variable ratio steering - all of which go hand-in-hand with the car’s deservedly sporty character.
Inside, Lexus has pulled off a similar coup. This is a genuinely exciting place to spend some time. Whether you’re carving up the corners, or just crawling along in traffic, there’s plenty to like.
Materials are mostly a cut above most of those in European luxury rivals. You’d be hard pressed to find more supple leather than that used to upholster the entire GS 350 F Sport cabin. The front buckets offer such extraordinary comfort as to rival your favourite TV armchair; such is the degree of padding and anatomical design invested in them.
Even the leather padding on the armrests of each door feels extra thick and comfy, while the floor mats resemble shag pile rather than the standard half-millimetre material used in other makes.
Like any Lexus, the GS 350 F-Sport is equipped with a huge array of electronic gadgetry, though highlights include a high-end 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, Head-Up Display (HUD) and a super-size 12.3-inch infotainment screen (now with full-screen navigation), which controls all of the car’s infotainment functions and Bluetooth telephony.
But the only way to move about the screen is via Lexus’ mouse-style Remote Touch Interface toggle, which despite various functional updates along the way, it remains an inherently fiddly device that’s far from ideal, especially if you’re on the move.
Although the 2016 GS will accommodate five, rear seat space is more suited to two adults of standard build and height. Taller folks will find rear leg and headroom less appealing. At around 520 litres capacity, boot space is on par with the segment, though the rear seats don’t fold forward in order to expand that space further.
Perhaps the biggest gains for the new GS, outside of the design and comfort aspects, have been made in the ride and handling department. It’s here where Lexus have finally produced a luxury sedan capable of putting a smile on your face, while matching its key competitors in the dynamic arena.
New to the 2016 Lexus GS range is the $75,000 entry-level GS 200t, which replaces V6-powered GS 250 and joins the updated GS 300h priced from $78,000, GS 350 from $94,000 and GS 450h priced from $106,000.
Whereas the new GS 200t uses the zesty new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine (from the NX, IS and RX) that produces 180kW and 350Nm of torque, the GS 350 F Sport sticks with Lexus’ decade-old, naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6, producing 232kW and 380Nm.
Despite its long service, it’s still a thoroughly modern engine with direct injection, quad cams and four valves per cylinder with variable valve timing. It’s also smooth, free revving and one of the most refined powertrains in the business, especially when mated to an intelligent eight-speed auto transmission.
Mind, peak torque doesn’t come on-song until 4800rpm, but it pulls well from around 3000rpm, though you’ll want to dial up Sport or Sport Plus modes for more potent engine response and quicker shift mapping.
Give it the beans from a standing start and it doesn’t hang about, claiming 6.0 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint. Top speed is 235km/h.
That said, drive it like a snail and you might achieve Lexus’ claim of 9.3L/100km for the GS 350 F-Sport, but drive it normally and you’re more likely to see 12.8L/100km, as I returned over a week.
Lexus has got the electric power steering just about right on the GS 350 F Sport. This is one EPAS system that doesn’t feel contrived. Combine this with adaptive suspension, active rear-wheel steering and superb weight balance and this is a car that rewards an enthusiastic driver with crisp, predictable handling.
The tightly damped body control means there’s no discernable body roll on turn-in, even when forcibly hurried. You can honestly feel that rear axle steering at work, as is dials in up to 2 per cent of opposing steering angle to the front wheels.
While it might lack the full-blooded punch of the hard-core V8-powered GS F we drove late last year in Spain, the GS 350 F-Sport feels reassuringly familiar.
This is a proper sports sedan capable of delivering the same level of dynamic reward as any of its euro rivals with only a small sacrifice in ride comfort.
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2016 Lexus GS350 F Sport Review
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Ratings Breakdown
2016 Lexus GS GS350 F Sport Sedan
8.0/ 10
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FAQs
The Lexus GS 350 has a reputation for being one of the most reliable cars in its class. It was beaten only by the Toyota Avalon, Chevy Impala, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry. All of these have an average mileage expectancy of 225,000 miles or more, according to iSeeCars.
Is the 2016 Lexus GS reliable? ›
The 2016 Lexus GS has a perfect reliability rating of five out of five from J.D. Power. Few cars on the road achieve this recognition.
When did Lexus stop making the GS350 F Sport? ›
| Lexus GS |
|---|
| Production | October 1991 – July 2005 (Toyota Aristo) February 1993 – August 2020 (Lexus GS) |
| Model years | 1994–2020 |
| Assembly | Japan: Tahara, Aichi (Tahara plant); Toyota City, Aichi (Motomachi plant) |
| Body and chassis |
9 more rowsGS 350 Performance
It goes from 0-60 MPG in 5.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 143 MPH.
What is the most common problem with Lexus GS 350? ›
Some of the more common problems with the Lexus GS 350 include:
- Discoloration of the rearview mirror, even if it's not exposed to sunlight.
- Rattling or knocking noises when starting the engine.
- Battery dying quickly, even after replacing it with alarming frequency.
On the whole, Lexus vehicles are some of the least expensive cars to maintain compared to other luxury brands. They can also be cheap compared to mass-market brands, too, because many Lexus models share parts with Toyota.
Is Lexus GS 350 expensive to maintain? ›
The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Lexus GS350 ranges from $95 to $2738, with an average of $346.
What years of Lexus are most reliable? ›
Buy: 2003-2005 Lexus ES
These three Lexus ES model years are undoubtedly some of the most reliable models of the company. The 2003-2005 Lexus ES has received the “CR Recommended” badge from Consumer Reports.
How many miles can a Lexus GS 350 last? ›
How many miles can a Lexus GS 350 go? A Lexus GS 350 has the potential to drive well over 200,000 miles. In fact, according to iSeeCars' lifespan study, the Lexus GS 350 has a potential lifespan of around 207,794 miles.
What is the difference between Lexus GS and GS F sport? ›
The F Sport is given a more athletic look. Along with its standard rear spoiler, it also has different standard wheels and a unique grille style. These things can be best seen in person with a visit to our dealership.
What's Unique about F SPORT? The exteriors are unique and distinguished by a rear spoiler, exclusive mesh spindle grille, badging and alloy wheels, and colors that are specific to the F SPORT models. On the inside, you get an instrumentation level that is customized to your package.
What does the GS in gs350 stand for? ›
GS= Grand Sedan. What does LS stand for? LS= Luxury Sedan.
How many GS 350 F Sports were made? ›
Reviews of the GS
Available for the GS350 F Sport model, there will be 200 units produced in total for the U.S.
What does F stand for in Lexus GS F? ›
The F is short for flagship and Fuji Speedway, the chief test site of Lexus performance vehicle development in Oyama, Suntō District, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.
Is the GS 350 fun to drive? ›
Fun Car to Drive
2019 Lexus GS350 FSport checks all the boxes. Fun to drive, reliable, comfortable (after tire change to Michelin Sport 4S), great Mark Levinson sound system. Beats the German competition in athleticism, reliability, and price.
What year Lexus is 350 to avoid? ›
One of the biggest problems with the 2007 Lexus ES 350, and one of the main reasons 2007 is one of the Lexus ES 2007 years to avoid, is that the plastic on the dash can actively melt in the sun. That's a problem for a few reasons. For one thing, a melted dashboard is a cosmetic problem.
What year Lexus is to stay away from? ›
As a rule of thumb, we do advise against the 2006, 2007, and 2008 model years of some Lexus cars for various reasons. The 2007 Lexus ES 350 is one such car. The biggest problem with this luxury sedan was its dashboard and interior which just melted over time, leading to an ugly mess.
Which Lexus GS model is most reliable? ›
Other revered Lexus GS 350 model years include 2013 to 2017. The 2016 GS 350 is a standout—boasting a perfect reliability score from J.D. Power. The 2016 model also included improved safety features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts.
Why is Lexus oil change so expensive? ›
Why is an oil change so expensive on Lexus? Lexus oil change costs are expensive due to specific oil and filters, the dealership experience, and skilled mechanics using leading equipment. Lexus cars feature superior quality parts and advanced technology requiring high maintenance.
How long do Lexus F Sport last? ›
Lexuses have a lifespan of 250,000–300,000 miles, with proper care. The typical car has an expected life of 200,000 miles, which means you can potentially drive a Lexus 50% longer than the average car on the road.
As a general rule, you should expect to bring your Lexus in for routine maintenance service every six months or every 5,000 miles (whichever comes first) for common activities like getting your oil changed or having your fluids checked and replaced as needed.
What is considered high mileage for a Lexus? ›
Lexuses can last anywhere between 250,000 and 300,000 miles!
That being said, Lexus reports that, with proper care and a regular maintenance schedule, any Lexus should be able to rack up more than 200,000 miles before the transmission gives out.
Is Lexus cheaper to maintain than BMW? ›
Cost of Lexus and BMW Auto Repair and Maintenance
The Lexus model will generally cost you less in terms of total cost of ownership, including Lexus auto repair and maintenance. BMW auto repair is one of the more expensive auto repairs of any luxury car on the road (not including high end luxury sports cars.)
Is Lexus more reliable than Chevy? ›
The most reliable vehicle in the survey was the Lexus GX SUV, which got a perfect score of 100. The Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon, which share virtually all of their parts, tied for last…with two points.
How many miles will a Lexus engine last? ›
With proper maintenance, a Lexus car last around 250,000-300,000 miles. So, it indicates that the car can easily last for around 17-20 years. The normal lifespan of a car is around 150,000-200,000 miles.
Can you put regular gas in a Lexus GS 350? ›
Premium gas must be used in the following Lexus models: GS 350. GS F. GX 460.
How long do struts last on Lexus GS 350? ›
Rough driving habits may shorten the life of these parts. Struts and shocks may need to be replaced anywhere between 50k and 100k miles. If at any time the struts or shocks are leaking, broken, or damaged, they should be replaced immediately.
Is Lexus GS 350 a luxury car? ›
In the Lexus GS 350, you can have the luxury and the traction needed to handle snow. Plus, with a sedan you save money on gas and have better mileage than an SUV. In fact, this mid-size luxury sedan estimates mileage of 20 city mpg and 28 highway mpg.
Is GS or LS better for Lexus? ›
New Lexus GS models have an available premium surround upgrade while LS models offer an even higher fidelity, 23-speaker, 2,400 watt QLI Reference surround sound system upgrade. Ultimately, this model comparison comes down to the individual shopper's preference.
Is the GS Lexus better than an ES? ›
If performance is your main selling point, the Lexus GS is a better option. The GS can produce 311 horsepower as compared to the ES's 302 horsepower, making the GS a sportier choice.
The prefix stood for Grand, which symbolised the model's middle position within the Lexus saloon model line-up during its production.
What does F Sport stand for? ›
The F in F Sport is associated with the Fuji speedway in Japan where Lexus puts its performance vehicles to the test. Lexus F vehicles offer the utmost level of performance, but if you're looking for a ride that bridges the gap between a standard Lexus vehicle and a true Lexus F vehicle, then F Sport is your calling.
What should I pay for a Lexus 350 F Sport? ›
What's the MSRP for the 2023 Lexus IS 350? The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2023 Lexus IS 350 starts at $44,060 for the F SPORT Design base-level trim with destination fee and popular options. Prices will increase as you add options or choose a trim with more features.
Is the Lexus GS350 comfortable? ›
Most reliable car I have ever owned
It is efficient, very comfortable, and it is not very expensive when you compare it with similar cars that have the same features. Rating breakdown (out of 5): Comfort 5.0. Interior design 5.0.
What is the Toyota equivalent of the gs350? ›
For engine performance, the Lexus GS 350's base engine makes 311 horsepower, and the Toyota Avalon base engine makes 301 horsepower. The GS 350 is rated to deliver an average of 21 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 452 miles.
Is GS a good car? ›
Yes, the 2020 GS is a good used car. It has a robust engine, especially in the high-performance GS F model. The ride is comfortable, and handling is playful. Inside, this sedan has an elegant cabin with ample passenger space, but operating the infotainment system can be frustrating.
Is the Lexus GS bigger than the is? ›
The Lexus GS boasts the same basic design language as the IS, but the GS' larger body is a better canvas for this aggressive look. This larger canvas allows the GS to better combine luxury and sportiness.
Is 350 F Sport top speed? ›
143 MPH Lexus IS top speed.
What is the difference between 350 and 350 F Sport? ›
When you compare the 2022 Lexus RX 350 F Sport vs. base models in terms of handling and performance, you'll notice right they offer the same engine with the same horsepower and torque figures. However, The Lexus RX 350 F Sport model provides F Sport-tuned suspension for better handling on the St.
How fast is 350 F Sport? ›
| Lexus GS |
|---|
| Production | October 1991 – July 2005 (Toyota Aristo) February 1993 – August 2020 (Lexus GS) |
| Model years | 1994–2020 |
| Assembly | Japan: Tahara, Aichi (Tahara plant); Toyota City, Aichi (Motomachi plant) |
| Body and chassis |
9 more rowsDepending on the model you choose, F SPORT features range from Rear Spoilers, 3-spoke Steering Wheels, and Leather Seats to performance-heightening Sport-Tuned Suspensions, Paddle Shifters, and Brembo Brake Calipers, Rotors and Pads. F SPORT Packages are available on these Lexus automobiles.
Is the GS 350 F Sport fast? ›
GS 350 Performance
It goes from 0-60 MPG in 5.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 143 MPH.
What is the best gas for Lexus GS350? ›
| Model Year | Model(s) | Recommended Minimum Octane Rating |
|---|
| 2021 | ES 250, ES 300h, ES 350, NX 300h, RX 350, UX 200, UX 250h | 87 |
| 2020 | GS 350, GS F, GX 460, IS 300, IS 350, LC 500, LC 500h, LS 500, LS 500h, LX 570, NX 300, RC 300, RC 350, RC F, RX 450h, RX 450hL | 91 |
| ES 300h, ES 350, NX 300h, RX 350, RX 350L, UX 200, UX 250h | 87 |
53 more rowsThe 2016 Lexus GS has a perfect reliability rating of five out of five from J.D. Power. Few cars on the road achieve this recognition.
Is Lexus GS350 expensive to maintain? ›
The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Lexus GS350 ranges from $95 to $2738, with an average of $346.
How many miles can a Lexus GS350 last? ›
How many miles can a Lexus GS 350 go? A Lexus GS 350 has the potential to drive well over 200,000 miles. In fact, according to iSeeCars' lifespan study, the Lexus GS 350 has a potential lifespan of around 207,794 miles.
Is a Lexus GS a good buy? ›
Yes, the 2020 GS is a good used car. It has a robust engine, especially in the high-performance GS F model. The ride is comfortable, and handling is playful. Inside, this sedan has an elegant cabin with ample passenger space, but operating the infotainment system can be frustrating.
Is Lexus cheaper to fix than BMW? ›
Cost of Lexus and BMW Auto Repair and Maintenance
The Lexus model will generally cost you less in terms of total cost of ownership, including Lexus auto repair and maintenance. BMW auto repair is one of the more expensive auto repairs of any luxury car on the road (not including high end luxury sports cars.)
Are Lexus more expensive to repair than Toyota? ›
It is a bit more expensive due to their parts- although some are shared parts between the Lexus ES and the Avalon which would make them the same. Lexus is really cheaper to maintain than a BMW or a Mercedes Benz but a tad more expensive to maintain than say… a Toyota due to its special parts.
Transmission. Lexus transmissions can last anywhere between 250,000 and 300,000 miles.
Can Lexus last 300000 miles? ›
How long do Lexus cars last? With proper maintenance, a Lexus car last around 250,000-300,000 miles. So, it indicates that the car can easily last for around 17-20 years. The normal lifespan of a car is around 150,000-200,000 miles.
Is Lexus GS350 fuel efficient? ›
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
According to EPA estimates, the 2020 Lexus GS achieves mileage of up to 20/28 mpg city/highway.
Is Lexus GS350 good on gas? ›
The GS 350 gets an EPA-estimated 19/26/21 mpg city/highway/combined with all-wheel drive. With rear-wheel drive, mileage is rated 19/29/23 mpg. This is an advantage over the six-cylinder Infiniti Q70's 18/24/20 with all-wheel drive and 18/26/21 with rear-wheel drive.
How many miles per gallon does a Lexus GS350 get? ›
Find and Compare Cars
| 2020 Lexus GS 350 |
|---|
| Personalize Find a car | 6 cyl, 3.5 L, Automatic (S8) Compare |
| Fuel Economy |
| EPA MPG | Premium Gasoline 23 combined city/highway MPG 20 city 28 highway 4.3 gals/100 miles |
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