Lexus New GS (GRL10/GRL11/GRL15) and New GS Hybrid (GWL10)

The all new Lexus GS begins the chapter of the evolution of L-Finesse thanks to the all new corporate look called "Spindle Grille". Although it may look similar from last year's CT 200h, the new GS achieves a much sportier design it deserves. This is Japan's BMW 5-Series, reloaded.

2013 Lexus GS

2013 Lexus GS Hybrid

Three variants available for the new GS; the new entry-level GS250, the GS350, and the GS450h (to be on sale this March). Gone is the V8 variant which just like what happened to the Nissan Fuga three years ago. This is a whole new twist because they want to make the new GS in the same level as the Fuga. The New GS is truly inspired from the LF-Gh Concept car, making this a concept car into reality, and this is the first to carry the new corporate look that marks a new chapter in Lexus' L-Finesse philosophy. This is known as the Spindle Grille and what based on Katsuhiko Inatomi, chief designer of the New GS, said that this new look is closely related to the "Time in Design" concept, which is part of the L-Finesse philosophy. That hourglass-shaped grille really made it a timeless masterpiece.

2013 Lexus GS interior

The interior of the New GS is now heavily refined, recharged, and reloaded. Gone is the touch screen and it was replaced by the Lexus Remote Touch first applied on the Lexus RX (scheduled for facelift this year). The new 12.3-inch wide display features a split-screen that allows the driver to check maps while listening to music, watch TV while adjusting the aircon, and various multi-tasking features at the touch of the Remote Touch. To complete the New GS interior experience, the available Mark Levinsion Premium Surround Sound System brings out the best sound quality you won't hear it anywhere else.

2013 Lexus GS F-Sport

Time now for the performance side. On the entry-level GS250, it is powered by a 4GR-FSE engine, producing 215PS of power and 260Nm of torque. With a 6-speed paddle-shift transmission, the GS250 gets a fuel economy of 10.8km/L based on Japan's JC08 mode test cycle. On the GS350, it is equipped with a 2GR-FSE engine that produces 318PS of power and 380Nm of torque. For RWD variants, the GS350 will get about 9.9km/L while 4WD variants get about 9.4km/L, all based on Japan's JC08 mode test cycle. Now, on the GS450h, the 2GR-FXE engine produces 295PS of power and 356Nm of torque. When set to EV Mode, the 1KM electric motor kicks in, producing 200PS of power and 275Nm of torque. Bear that in mind that the GS450h still uses the traditional Nickel Metal Hydride Battery that recharges when stationary or via Regenerative Braking. With the CVT equipped, the GS450h promises about 18.2km/L of fuel economy, based on Japan's JC08 Mode test cycle. A new Drive Mode Selector is added to take advantage of its economy, balance, and agility within four modes; ECO, Normal, Sport S and Sport S+.

There's an available F-Sport for the first time on the new GS. The F-Sport variant features Lexus Dynamic Handling System with Dynamic Rear Steering for better cornering while taking advantage of Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management and Variable Gear Ratio Steering. 

The New GS comes with numerous safety systems such as Pre-Crash Safety System, Night View, Intelligent AFS, Automatic High Beam and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management. 

Available in 11 colors; White Pearl Crystal Shine, Mercury Grey Mica, Sonic Silver, Black, Black Opal Mica, Starlight Black Glass Flake, Crimson Crystal Shine Glass Flake, Sleek Ecru Metallic, Fire Agate Mica Metallic, Lapis Lazuli Mica, and Meteor Blue Metallic. 

My comment: The all new Lexus GS marks the beginning of the new design direction of Lexus' L-Finesse philosophy. Although it may look similar to the Lexus CT, the new GS is made be more sportier, more classier, more glamorous, and in the real world, attractive. There's no word from Lexus Manila when will the new Lexus GS be available in the Philippines yet but we do know is that the new GS will come, very very soon.

Welcome to the new direction of Lexus. 

 Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation