We tested the new 2013 Lexus GS350 4 Door Sedan on the track earlier in the year and we were very impressed. It was revealing to spend a week behind the wheel to really dig deeper into what Lexus accomplished with the total new GS series.
Exterior
The signature spindle grille with its trapezoidal contours fully integrates into the aggressive front bumper, allowing for efficient airflow and a look that is unmistakable on the road. Our test model looked sleek in riviera red paint and 17-inch, 9-spoke alloy wheels. The new look is aggressive with the deep-set, high-tech headlamps with a projector beam design. The L-shaped LED daytime running lamps further express the vehicle’s dynamic character and modern look. These cues fit well with the wide, strong stance of the 2013 Lexus GS350 4 Door Sedan. The fourth generation GS 350 is now one of the best looking luxury sedans on the road!
Interior
I’ve heard a few folks utter the word “wow” when entering the cabin of the redesigned 2013 Lexus GS350 4 Door Sedan, and I am one of them! Some of the highlights include an improved driver’s seating position for increased comfort, better forward visibility and overall command of the road by redesigning the seat frame and changing the steering column angle from 23 to 21 degrees. Standard equipment includes a new energy-saving auto-climate control system called S-Flow that uses the occupant-detection system to focus airflow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated, a first-in-class technology.
The driver and front passenger sport vibrant new high-resolution central control display. A new analog clock with LED indicators, carved from a single ingot of aluminum for a smooth consistent look, adds a unique touch, at once both modern and traditional. Our test model was also equipped with the optional navigation system with an industry-first 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display which is large enough to support simultaneous, split-screen viewing of a large map display, plus audio, climate or other vehicle information. The 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround sound audio system has 7.1 channel surround sound through 10 channels using a new class D Digital amplifier with a clean 835-watts from 20-20,000 hz at only 0.01 percent total harmonic distortion. Together, with all of the above, Lexus has built one of the most comfortable and technologically advanced sedans on the road today!
Performance
When you get behind the wheel of the 2013 Lexus GS350 4 Door Sedan and press the gas, get ready for some smooth power. Equipped with a 306 horsepower 3.5-liter V6, a new suspension, Drive Mode Select and available Variable Gear Ratio Steering, the fourth generation GS 350 feels at home on both the track and the street. The transmission incorporates faster shifts, earlier torque converter lockup and downshift throttle blips. The new GS features a redesigned chassis and a wide, strong stance that rewards driver participation with crisp and precise handling. Engineers developed a more spacious interior environment while leaving exterior dimensions virtually unchanged to ensure excellent maneuverability. The 2013 Lexus GS 350 is available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, and can be equipped with the available Premium, Luxury or F SPORT packages for greater personalization. Our test model came with active torque control all-wheel drive and although we didn’t need the AWD during our test week, it’s always good to know the option is there when conditions dictate it.
The GS 350 also features four driving modes that can be operated by toggling the new Lexus Drive Mode selector. In addition to the Normal mode, the following settings let the driver customize the driving experience. ECO mode revises throttle mapping, seat heating, and climate control systems for better fuel economy. In ECO mode, meter lighting changes to blue. SPORT S mode revises throttle mapping and transmission shifting priorities to fully exploit the capabilities of the powertrain. In SPORT S mode, meter lighting changes to red. SPORT S+ mode (available with F SPORT and Luxury packages) engages handling enhancements via a sport setting of the adaptive variable suspension, steering system, and Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM) together with the powertrain enhancements of SPORT S mode. We found ourselves owning the streets in S+ mode and found the GS to be as exciting as many sports cars that we tested.
Overview
Long the standard bearer for luxury, sophistication and quality, Lexus adds dynamic performance as a defining characteristic with the introduction of the all-new 2013 GS 350. Our media loaner came in with a sticker price of $59,759 and fuel economy of 19mpg in the city and 26mpg in highway driving. The improvements Lexus incorporated in the 2013 GS350 4 Door Sedan are stunning with the performance and aggressive styling really standing out for us. For those who want it all in a luxury sedan check out this superior machine from Lexus!
