Lexus Rolls Out Performance GS F Sedan
The mid-large sedan is the newest effort to establish Lexus as a serious performance competitor to BMW’s M, Mercedes’ AMG.
January 13, 2015
DETROIT – Marking another addition to its performance-model lineup, Lexus unveils the GS F sedan here at the 2015 North American International Auto Show.
The ’16 GS F joins the IS F sedan and new RC F coupe in the brand’s nascent enthusiast sub brand.
Lexus says the model, due on sale in the U.S. this year, combines a luxury cruiser with the handling of a sports car.
The GS F gets the same 5.0L naturally-aspirated V-8 from the RC F, although rumors of 500 hp don’t come to fruition. Lexus says the GS F will achieve the same 467 hp and 389 lb.-ft. (527 Nm) of torque as the engine makes in the RC F.
The V-8 is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
Drivers can choose from four modes, Normal, Eco, Sport and Sport S+, to suit their preferred driving style.
Lexus engineers have rejiggered the GS F’s suspension for performance, adding wider forged wheels and larger front rotors and Lexus’ Torque Vectoring Differential with two electro-mechanical clutch packs. Three operating modes are available with the TVD, including Standard (balanced agility and firmness), Slalom (nimble steering response) and Track (control during high-speed driving).
Lexus says the GS F weighs 300 lbs. (136 kg) less than “key German sedan competitors.” The GS F is expected to go head-to-head with BMW’s M5.
The GS F gets the same front-fender air outlets as the IS F and RC F, and its spindle grille has the unique mesh pattern of all F models.
Other design cues include L-shaped daytime running lamps, forged 19-in. alloy wheels, a carbon-fiber rear spoiler and trapezoidal tailpipes with chrome exhaust tips, Lexus says.
The GS F’s interior gets an instrument cluster with four displays possible, matching each of the drive modes; custom front and rear seats with more lateral support; Alcantara trim on the instrument panel, doors and center console; and a large touchscreen.
Meanwhile, Lexus introduces a new Lexus Racing logo here at the show, meant to “enhance the appeal of the F brand.” Lexus has been participating in the Super GT racing series.
You May Also Like
