Lexus GS

The GS is a premium midsize sports sedan with room for up to five people. It’s the second largest sedan in the Lexus lineup, slotting between the compact IS and the full-size LS. The model, which originally appeared in 1994 and spans four generations, was discontinued after the 2020 model year without a replacement.

Over the last ten years, Lexus has equipped the GS with a wide range of available powertrains. At the lower end of the range is the GS 200t, which debuted in 2016 and was renamed the GS 300 in 2018. It employs a 241-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine that drives the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. One step up from that is the GS 350, which was produced from 2013-2020. It takes things up a notch with a 3.5-liter V6 making just over 300 hp and is the only version that can be equipped with optional all-wheel drive (rather than rear-wheel drive). At the upper end of the range is the luxurious yet fuel-sipping GS 450h (2013-2018), which utilizes a hybrid version of the GS 350’s V6 making a total of 338 hp and returning a combined 31 mpg, according to EPA estimates. From 2016 through 2020, Lexus also produced a high-performance variant, the GS F, which boasts a 467-hp 5.0-liter V8 under the hood.

All versions of the GS come well equipped with features, including keyless entry and ignition, power front seats, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a rearview camera. In 2017, Lexus made its formerly optional Safety System+ suite of driver aids (which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision mitigation) standard equipment across the GS lineup. Buyers wanting a more athletic look and feel should seek out F Sport versions, which offer larger wheels and brakes as well as a sport-tuned suspension. Other available upgrades include heated and ventilated front seats as well as a premium Mark Levinson audio system. Notably, neither Apple CarPlay nor Android Auto integration was ever offered.