Lexus Unveils All-New GS at Pebble Beach
Lexus has taken the wraps off the all-new GS in California, introducing a new platform, wider stance and a choice of V6 and hybrid powertrains.
Lexus has revealed the all-new GS saloon at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California, marking a fresh start for the model with a new, more rigid platform and a wider track. The new GS is 44mm wider at the front and 50mm at the rear compared to its predecessor, with Lexus promising improved agility, steering precision and ride comfort.
The 2012 GS will be offered initially with a 2.5-litre V6 in the GS 250, while the GS 450h hybrid combines a larger 3.5-litre V6 with an electric motor. Lexus has not yet detailed final power or performance figures, but the hybrid is expected to offer a blend of performance and efficiency that will appeal to buyers in the segment.
Design and interior upgrades
Lexus is pitching the new GS as the start of a more aggressive design direction. The exterior features sharper lines and a bolder front end, previewing the styling language that will influence future models. Inside, the GS gets ambient lighting and an updated cabin layout, while boot space has grown by a quarter compared to the outgoing car. Lexus is aiming to compete more directly with established German rivals such as the Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series and Audi A6.
Platform and driving dynamics
The new chassis is built with lightweight materials to improve both rigidity and weight distribution. Lexus claims these changes enhance handling without sacrificing the comfort expected of an executive saloon. Wider tracks front and rear should contribute to more stable cornering and a planted feel on the road.
