Lexus GS

Infobox Automobile
name=Lexus GS


manufacturer=Lexus
parent_company=Toyota Motor Corporation
production=1991–present
class=Mid-size luxury sports sedan/ Executive car
body_style=4-door sedan
platform=S-Series
assembly=Tahara, Aichi, Japan
related=Lexus IS

The Lexus GS is a series of mid-size luxury sports sedans / executive cars sold by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota. The first GS, based on the platform and running gear of the Toyota Crown, was introduced in 1993 in the United States, Europe and selected markets in Asia. The second generation model premiered in 1998, using a new platform and adding a V8 version for the first time outside Japan. The current third generation GS, which premiered globally for the 2006 model year, comes in both V6, V8, and hybrid versions (GS 450h performance hybrid).

The GS was designed to fill the gap between the ES and LS and to provide Lexus with a sports sedan which could compete with the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. In Japan, the GS was sold as the equivalent Toyota Aristo, which debuted in 1991 and was sold until the introduction of the Lexus marque there in 2005. Following the debut of the third generation GS, the Toyota Aristo was discontinued. Though essentially identical, GS and the Aristo differed in their engine and transmission combinations as well as equipment packages. __TOC__

First generation (1991-1997)

Infobox Automobile generation
name=First generation


production=1991–1997
engine="2JZ-GE" I6 (3.0Q)
"2JZ-GTE" twin-turbo I6 (R6 3.0)
"1UZ-FE" V8 (4.0Zi-Four)
wheelbase=auto in|109.4|0
length=auto in|194.9|0
width=auto in|70.7|0
layout=FR layout
aka=Toyota Aristo
height=1993-94: auto in|55.1|0
1995-97: auto in|55.9|0
transmission=4-speed automatic
fuel_capacity=Convert|21.1|usgal|L impgal|0|abbr=on
designer = Giorgetto GiugiaroWith a body styled by the famous Italdesign Giugiaro firm, the Aristo was launched in October 1991, offering two inline-6 powered versions for the Japanese market: the 3.0Q and 3.0V. The 3.0Q Aristo featured a "2JZ-GE" engine which produced 226 hp (169 kW). The 3.0V Aristo was equipped with a 24-valve twin-turbo "2JZ-GTE" engine which produced 276 hp (205 kW). This twin-turbo engine was the same as could be found in the Toyota Supra Mk IV (JZA80). In 1992, a third model, the V8-powered 4.0Zi-Four (codename UZS143), joined the Aristo lineup. This model came with standard four-wheel drive and a 250 hp (186 kW) "1UZ-FE" engine. This V8 had also been used in the first generation Lexus LS and the Toyota Crown Majesta. The Aristo/GS models were equipped with an independent, double-wishbone suspension setup. [ [http://www.toyotaimportsforum.co.uk/aristo/index.htm Toyota Aristo - Lexus GS 300 - Import Cars] ] The only engine available for the export markets was the "2JZ-GE" inline-6.

Production of the Lexus GS 300 (JZS147) began on February 22, 1993 at the Tahara, Japan assembly plant. At the time, the GS represented the latest advancement of Tahara production technology, with only eight spot welds performed by hand. The rest, some 4,200 welds, were performed by robots.Dawson, Chester. "Lexus: The Relentless Pursuit." 2004: Jon Wiley & Sons, NJ.] Italdesign Giugiaro's exterior styling blended elements of the original LS flagship and SC performance coupe in a rounded, aerodynamic shape, complementing the rest of the Lexus lineup. For the interior, the GS 300 featured walnut wood trim on the center console, leather seating, and the option of a Nakamichi premium stereo system. A moonroof, remote 12-CD auto changer, and traction control (TRAC) were options. In 1996, the four-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a five-speed automatic.

The GS was intended to take the price position of the original LS 400 flagship, which had moved upmarket since its 1989 launch. As Lexus' first rear-wheel drive sports sedan, the GS exceeded the front-wheel drive ES luxury sedan in power and available amenities. However, sales of the GS 300 were modest, with 1993 seeing the greatest sales at 19,164 sold that year. Sales dropped in later years as the Japanese yen rose in value against the dollar and made the vehicle more expensive than its rivals. Additionally, more powerful V8 sport sedans provided stiff competition. The GS 300 carried an initial manufacturer's suggested U.S. base price of $37,930 at its debut; by 1997, the price had risen to $46,195.

econd generation (1998-2005)

Infobox Automobile generation
name=Second generation


production=1997–2005
engine=3.0 L "2JZ-GE" I6 (JZS160)
3.0 L "2JZ-GTE" twin-turbo I6 (JZS161)
4.3 L "3UZ-FE " V8 (UZS161)
transmission=5-speed automatic (JZS160/A650E)
4-speed automatic (JZS161/A341E)
fuel_capacity=Convert|75|L|usgal impgal|0|abbr=on
wheelbase=auto in|110.2|0
layout=FR layout
aka=Toyota Aristo
length=auto in|189.2|0
width=auto in|70.9|0
height=1998-2001: auto in|56.7|0
2002-05: auto in|55.9|0

In 1998, the second generation Aristo was launched in Japan, codenamed JZS160 for models with the "2JZ-GE" engines and JZS161 for those with the "2JZ-GTE" twin-turbo engines. VVT-i was now standard, resulting in a bump in torque. The twin-turbo version was available with electronic four-wheel steering, VDC and an automatic gearbox with a manual sequential mode. No four-wheel drive models were offered. The new model's styling was produced in-house, and featured quadruple headlights in a fashion similar to the Lexus SC coupe. Inside, electroluminiscent Lexus Optitron gauges were offered for the first time, along with an upgraded stereo system.

The GS began production in the JZS161 body style on August 4, 1997 and was officially launched in 1998. Answering customer requests for more power, the American market GS 400 was equipped with a "UZ"-series V8 that produced 300 hp (224 kW) and convert|310|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on of torque. Edmunds.com reported a 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds for the 3693-pound sedan. The GS 300 was also offered once again and featured a slightly revised version of the last generation's 3.0 L inline-6 now producing 228 hp (168 kW) and 225 ft·lbf(305 N·m) of torque. The GS 300 was quoted with a 7.6 second 0-60 time by Edmonds. Both models featured a 5-speed automatic with the GS 400 receiving steering wheel shift buttons. Again, no turbo models were offered outside Japan. The 0-60 time of the GS 400 prompted Lexus to claim that the GS was the world's fastest production sedan.

Lexus promoted the arrival of the second generation GS sedan with the tagline, "Something Wicked This Way Comes." Compared to its predecessor, the second generation GS sedan was a much bigger success, with sales reaching 30,622 vehicles in its first year, increasing in the second, and stabilizing at 28,079 vehicles by 2000. The U.S. base price for the GS 300 and GS 430 averaged approximately $38,000 and $47,000 respectively. The success of the GS sedan prompted Lexus to keep the vehicle in its lineup for over eight years.

headlights were now standard on the V8 and optional on the I6. Inside, more wood trim was added, and steering wheel shift buttons were now also featured on the GS 300. In 2001, the V8 engine received a 0.3 liter bump in displacement and the model was renamed GS 430. Peak horsepower was unchanged, but torque increased to convert|325|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on.

The GS was "Motor Trend"'s Import Car of the Year for 1998. It also made "Car and Driver" magazine's Ten Best list for 1998 through 2000.

Third generation (2006-present)

Infobox Automobile generation
name=Third generation


production=2006–present
engine=3.0 L "3GR-FSE" V6 (GRS190)
3.5 L "2GR-FSE" V6 (GRS191)
4.3 L "3UZ-FE" V8 (UZS190)
4.6 L "1UR-FE" V8 (URS191)
transmission=6-speed automatic 8-speed automatic (URS191)
fuel_capacity=Convert|68|L|usgal impgal|0|abbr=on
wheelbase=auto in|112.2|0
layout=Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
length=auto in|190.0|0
width=auto in|71.7|0
height=RWD: auto in|56.1|0
AWD: auto in|56.5|0The third generation GS was first introduced as a 2006 model at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. The initial model lineup included the GS 300 (GRS190), with a 3.0 L V6 "3GR-FSE" engine, and the GS 430 (UZS190), with the same 4.3 L V8 used in the previous model. The GS 300 featured a direct-injection engine for all markets except for Continental Asia, excluding Singapore. The 3.0 L engine was also found in the Toyota Mark X as well as the "Zero" Toyota Crown. An all-wheel drive option was made available in the GS 300, thus becoming the first Lexus sedan to offer an all-wheel drive configuration. Production of the third generation began on January 24, 2005. The equivalent Aristo was not released as Toyota sought to align all world markets, including Japan, using Lexus as their luxury brand worldwide.

The third generation GS is the introductory Lexus model for the marque's new L-finesse design philosophy. Characterized by swooping lines, a fastback profile, and more muscular styling, the GS indicates the future direction of the Lexus lineup. The slingshot cabin on the GS was first previewed on the earlier Lexus LF-S concept. The GS sedans also were the first to feature the latest generation of Lexus' SmartAccess keyless system–-adding a push-button start for the first time. Other unique features include a driver-side hidden panel for infrequently used controls, a standard touchscreen display in the center console, LED lighting in the cabin, and Bluetooth technology. A Mark Levinson premium sound system is optional. Unique to the Lexus GS series, each vehicle features an electrochromic instrument cluster which adjusts for the amount of reflected sunlight.

The GS 350 (GRS191), using the 3.5 L "2GR-FSE" engine, replaced the GS 300 for the 2007 model year. Due to a change in SAE testing procedures, the 2007 GS convert|430|hp rating was changed to 290 (with convert|319|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on. of torque), while the V6-powered GS 350 was rated at 303 hp (with convert|274|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on. of torque). Lexus reports 0-60 times of 5.7 seconds for both vehicles. [ [http://www.lexus.com/models/gs/430_specifications.html Lexus.com GS specifications] ] A 4.6 L GS 460 (URS191) replaced the GS 430 for the 2008 model year. Equipped with a new 4.6 L "1UR-FE" engine generating 342 hp (with convert|339|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on. of torque), the GS 460 also added an 8-speed automatic transmission. Lexus reports a 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds for the GS 460. [ [http://pressroom.toyota.com/presstxt/2008lexuskit/2008GS460.350_sf.pdf Lexus Official 2008 GS 460 & GS 350 Specifications and Features] ]

Coinciding with the introduction of the GS 460, the GS lineup received an exterior refresh, including a revised front bumper, headlights and grille, turn signals added to the side mirrors, and new wheel options and exterior colors. Inside the vehicle, the GS received a redesigned steering wheel, revised instrument cluster gauges, and different trim pieces. Along with the hybrid GS 450h and previous GS 430 models, the V8-powered GS 460 offers the Active Stabilizer Suspension System for improved handling. Also, for 2008, the V6-powered GS350 now offers VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management), which was previously offered only on V8 and hybrid models. AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension) is now an option on the V6 model as well.

In 2007, "Consumer Reports" dropped Lexus from 1st to 5th in their predicted reliability survey. The magazine blamed the 2006 first-year GS in the all-wheel-drive form, which had problems in integrity, body hardware and sound system, as the sole reason for the slip. [http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2007-02-28-cr-reliability_x.htm?csp=34] Despite the reliability issues among 2006 GS models, the vehicle earned a "Recommended" rating from "Consumer Reports" for vehicle features and overall value for that year. However, the problems have apparently been solved, and the GS AWD is now "average".

In the U.S., the GS 350 begins at $44,150, while the GS 460 retails at $52,620.

GS 450h

steering wheel mounted camera which monitors driver attentiveness, sounding an alarm if danger ahead is detected and the driver is not paying attention.

-rated highway fuel economy is 25 mpg (8.4 l/100 km), while the city fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg, which is slightly unusual for hybrid vehicles of this type (as they normally have higher city fuel economy ratings) This does, however, make sense because the regular GS suffers from particularly poor city fuel economy.

75 "Neiman Marcus Edition" GS 450h sedans were offered as the annual holiday catalog car at a price of $65,000. All were sold in less than three hours on October 19, 2005 and were delivered around April 2006. The GS 450h went on sale in Japan on March 16, 2006.

Motoring journalist Jeremy Clarkson, a famous critic of hybrid vehicles and the Toyota Prius especially, admitted he loved the GS 450h. After claiming that you spent most of the time on the Prius "chewing a lot of fuel" and "making a green statement," he described "with the Lexus I drove up and down Piccadilly all day. It was great." He also felt that the GS 450h was "balanced nicely by the styling, the quality and the sense that you really are in something a little bit different." Clarkson also positively referred to the benefit of a hybrid car being exempt from the London congestion charge (for a £10 one off administration fee to register it). [ [http://driving.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/driving/jeremy_clarkson/article694159.ece Jeremy Clarkson Lexus GS 450h SE-L review] ]

The Lexus is now being used by the Wiltshire Police Constablary in England as an unmarked police car.

GS-F

Lexus is working on a high performance Lexus GS-F, the second model in its current F-marque line-up, joining its younger sibling, the Lexus IS-F in the 2012 model year, along with the redesigned Lexus GS. The car, if approved, will potentially be powered by the high performance V-10 to be slotted into the Lexus LF-A (GT-F) supercar, producing over convert|500|hp. [http://paultan.org/archives/2007/04/03/lexus-gs-f-artists-impression/] [http://motortrend.com]

Awards

* J.D. Power and Associates named the GS series the best midsize luxury car in initial quality for 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005. [ [http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2003028 J.D. Power and Associates 2003 Initial Quality Study] ] [ [http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2005069 Toyota, GM Garner Most Awards in 2005 Initial Quality Study] ]
* AAA named the third generation GS 300 the best car in its class for 2005. [ [http://www.aaanewsroom.net/main/Default.asp?CategoryID=4&ArticleID=362 AAA Picks 13 Top Cars for 2005] ]
* "Consumer Reports" awarded the Lexus GS as the highest ranked vehicle in predicted reliability in the luxury car class in 2005. [ [http://www.cnn.com/2005/AUTOS/10/26/cr_most_reliable/index.html?section=cnn_topstories Consumer Reports: Most reliable cars '06] ]
* The GS 450h's "Lexus Hybrid Drive" system was the recipient of the annual Paul Pietsch Prize for Advanced Technology in 2007, awarded by technical editors of "Auto Motor Und Sport" publications. [ [http://www.lexus-europe.com/about_lexus/news_and_events/cont_global_success.asp Continued global awards success for Lexus] ]
*The Lexus GS 450h was named the winner of the 2007 IF product design award from the International Forum Design group in Hannover, Germany. [ [http://webserver.ifdesign.de/gewinner_liste.php?sprache=1&award_id=121&kategorie_id=2750&offset=20&result_count=31 iF Design List of winners for the iF product design award 2007] ]
* German automotive magazine "Auto Bild" selected the GS 450h for its "Auto 1" award for best sedan in 2007. [ [http://www.prnewswire.co.uk/cgi/news/release?id=192479 "Auto 1" Awards, Auto Bild Group] ]
* "Smart Money" magazine named the Lexus GS the best luxury sedan for the 2003-2004 model year. [ [http://www.smartmoney.com/mag/index.cfm?story=oct03-autos 2003-2004 Car Buyers Guide: Best Cars for Your Buck] ] In 2005, the magazine named the GS its Best New Car Value.
* The GS series was named most appealing midsize luxury car by J.D. Power and Associates in 2001. [ [http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=173 J.D. Power and Associates 2001 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study] ]
* The first generation GS series was named to the Top Ten in Initial Quality list by J.D. Power and Associates in 1994.
* Kelley Blue Book gave the GS series its Best to Hold Value Award in 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001. [ [http://www.carfax.com/DP_Rpt_Links/KBB_Award_Winners.cfm#1998 CARFAX - Kelley Blue Book-Models to Best Hold Its Value] ]
* The second generation GS was named Import Car of the Year by "Motor Trend" in 1998.
* "Car and Driver" named the second generation GS to its Ten Best list in 1998, 1999, and 2000.

References

ee also

* Lexus Hybrid Drive
* List of hybrid vehicles

External links

* [http://www.clubaristo.net/ Club Aristo] The Toyota Aristo Owners Club
* [http://www.soarerworld.com/aristo/ Toyota Aristo] Information about the Aristo/Lexus GS
* [http://www.lexus.com/models/GS/ Lexus GS] official U.S. site
* [http://www.lexus.com/models/GSh/ Lexus GS 450h] U.S. hybrid site
* [http://www.lexus-europe.com/range/index.aspx#GS Lexus GS] official Europe site
* [http://www.lexus.co.uk/lexus_cars/gs/gs450h/showcase/index.asp Lexus GS 450h Showcase] GB hybrid site
* [http://lexus.jp/models/gs/index.html Lexus.jp/models/gs] official Japan site
* [http://www.lexus.com.au/model/gs/ Lexus GS 300/430/450h] official Australia site
* [http://gs430.lexusuae.com/ Lexus GS 300/430] official UAE site
* [http://www.edmunds.com/apps/vdpcontainers/do/vdp/articleId=109609/pageNumber=1 Edmunds review of 2007 GS 450h hybrid]
* [http://paultan.org/archives/2007/04/03/lexus-gs-f-artists-impression/ Lexus GS-F Artist's Impression]
* - additional links