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Drives, Lexus — September 20, 2012 at 3:21 pm

2013 Lexus GS 350 F SPORT: First Look

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Here’s a first look at the latest ride of the week, a 2013 Lexus GS 350 F SPORT.

Redesigned for the 2013 model year, the latest GS is the first model representing what Lexus calls a new design philosophy. In terms of engineering, the GS 350 also represents a departure as the luxury automaker aims to build more passion and driving excitement into its vehicles. And this fourth-generation GS is certainly more exciting than some of its predecessors, even though the outgoing sedan was available with a robust V8. A more responsive automatic transmission makes the most of the 306-horsepower V6, and crisper handling means a more engaging driving experience. The luxury quotient remains high, with top-notch cabin finishes and plenty of amenities.

The base price of the 2013 GS, including an $875 destination charge, is $47,775, but the test car is equipped with a host of options that bring it’s sticker price to more than $58,000. Lane Keep Assist, Lexus’ active lane departure warning system that will make corrections for you, adds $500. Another $500 goes to parking sensors. A package of driver assistance features including adaptive cruise control, collision warning and a driver attention monitor is priced at $2,000, and the navigation package costs $1,735. Finally, the F SPORT package, a group of mostly performance-related options, runs $5,690.

The F SPORT package gives the GS a meaner look than the standard GS, thanks mostly to revised front and rear fascias. Up front, wide grilles, with the Lexus signature spindle grille design in the upper portion, feature zig-zag mesh inserts. At the rear, a lower diffuser and trunk lip spoiler play up the performance look. Graphite-finished, staggered-width 19-inch wheels with summer tires improve grip and accentuate the look. Sport-tuned adaptive suspension, beefier front brakes and variable ratio steering further provide the GS 350 F SPORT with higher performance than the base model. The package adds some convenience equipment, too; a rear sunshade, heated and ventilated front seats with power bolsters for the driver and rain-sensing wipers are among them.

Quick Specs: 2013 Lexus GS 350 F SPORT

body type5-door, 5-passenger sedan
as-tested price$58,369
engine size/configuration3.5-liter V6
horsepower/torque (hp/lb-ft)306/277
transmission6-speed automatic
fuelpremium unleaded
EPA city fuel economy rating (mpg)19
EPA highway fuel economy rating (mpg)28
optionsF SPORT package; lane departure; navigation package; parking sensors; pre-collision and adaptive cruise