As an alternative to executive saloons from German manufacturers, the Lexus GS is a refined package boasting all the convenience features that make it luxurious long-distance transport. As well as being impressively equipped, the third-generation Lexus GS is the company’s first product to benefit from L-finesse, which is a new direction in styling aimed at developing a more powerful and sleeker appearance. The model is also unique in its class in offering a hybrid power version, the 450h, which is one of the most environmentally-friendly cars on the market.
The third generation Lexus GS comes in four model grades and the entry version includes Smart Key entry and push-button start, a ten-speaker sound system with an in-dash CD player, speed-sensitive power steering, cruise control, dual-zone climate control and a rear view monitor as standard. SE models have larger alloy wheels, a multimedia pack with satellite navigation and Mark Levinson premium audio, steering-guided parking sensors and front seat heating and ventilation. Even plusher are the top models, which have premium leather upholstery and adaptive cruise control, variable-ratio steering and a wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel.
The Lexus GS range has a full complement of safety equipment including front, side, knee and curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes with brake-force distribution and brake assist, electronically-controlled braking, stability and traction control all fitted as standard. A warning system monitoring tyre pressures is also included, plus rain-sensitive windscreen wipers.
A choice of V6 and V8 engines ensure the Lexus GS has the power to satisfy discerning drivers. The smaller unit produces 245bhp and takes the car to 60mph in 7.2 seconds. Mated to an electronically-controlled, close-ratio six-speed automatic gearbox with a sequential shift mode, it reaches a top speed of 148mph, while a good balance between performance and economy is shown by an average figure of 29.4mpg. The latest 4.6-litre V8 engine generates 342bhp in the Lexus GS 460. Linked with a technically-advanced eight-speed automatic transmission it provides acceleration to 60mph in 5.8 seconds whilst the top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.
The entry version of the Lexus GS is the 300, costing £33,255. The 300 SE-L, which has a sunroof, adaptive cruise control and a pre-crash safety system, costs £43,345. The 450h starts at £40,025 and the 450h Sport is priced at £46,845. The flagship Lexus GS is the 450h SE-L at £48,045.

