It is so easy for car designs to blend together. If we are going to spend somewhere north of $50,000 we expect more in the way of style, features, and individuality. I find that more luxury cars are chasing the magical combination of blending elegance with sportiness. For 2013, Lexus mixes things up in its GS series with the introduction of the F Sport.
The Lexus GS is all new for 2013 with beautiful changes to its exterior and interior. The 2013 GS is the 4th generation of Lexus’ mid-size sport-luxury sedan. The changes are reflective of the bold, crafted, chiseled lines especially in the vehicle front. The new F Sport is fired up with an aggressive front end that cries for long straightaways where you can let the throttle run free.
The GS comes in two models: GS350 ($47,775) and the hybrid version – GS450h ($59,825). The GS is available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive ($50,325). The GS350 has three main packages: F Sport ($5,690), Luxury ($5,750), and Premium ($1,400).
The 2013 Lexus GS350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 that generates a 306 horsepower rating. Let me tell you there is no hesitation with this cool-running machine. The GS450h carries a 3.5-liter V6 (286 horses) and a 180hp electric motor that increases the horsepower up to 338. It delivers the power of a V8 while achieving 31 combined city/highway miles per gallon.
The focal point of the new styling lines is in the heavily chiseled front end. The front grill flares out to each side creating strong diagonal lines seeming as though it would pounce on anyone approaching in your direction. The fenders are slightly bulged and the hood gently slopes down to the trunk providing ample headroom. The rear tail lights are large with heavy diagonal lines.
The interior comes standard with an 8-inch screen; however, has an option for one of the largest, if not the largest information screens I have ever seen – 12.3-inch. The cabin is dressed to kill in beautiful leather and wood paneling on the doors. The F Sport adds chrome pedals and a driver’s foot rest. The seats – comfortable, and supportive, are equipped with a 3-person memory system. The steering column is power adjustable and leather wrapped. The large rear seats are just as comfortable as the front. The car is stated 5 passenger; however, the center passenger in the rear should be limited to a young person.
The 2013 GS drives and rides the way you would expect from Lexus. The GS delivers a smooth and confident ride with plenty of power and control. The steering was tight and the interior was quiet. My test vehicle was the F Sport which included the Luxury package. It produced a great experience while hugging the corners.
Room for improvement:
- It would be even more fun with a manual transmission
Cool Features:
- 12.3-inch screen is larger than an iPad
- LED Daytime Running Lamps
- Optional drive eye monitor
The standard safety equipment for the 2013 Lexus GS includes front, front side, front knee, side curtain, and rear side airbags, rearview camera, electronic stability control, daytime running lights, security system and Lexus Safety Connect with automatic collision notification, and stolen vehicle location. Optional safety items are night vision, lane keeping assist and departure warning, blind sport warning, adaptive cruise control with collision mitigation, driver eye monitor, and heads up display.
In Summary – The 2013 GS is loaded with technology features and the desire to cruise up the windy coastal highways. It elegantly combines luxury, technology, sport-car feel, and power. The interior is beautiful, comfortable, and well-equipped. It doesn’t come with a V8 and doesn’t need to.
Specifications
2013 Lexus GS350 AWD F Sport
Base price: $49,450 as driven: $60,924 (including destination and optional packages)
Engine: 3.5-Liter 6 cylinder
Horsepower: 306 @ 6,400
Torque: 277 foot pounds @ 4,800
Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Drive: All-Wheel Drive
Seating: 5-passenger
Turning circle: 34.8 feet
Cargo space: 14.3 cubic feet
Curb weight: 3,795 pounds
Fuel capacity: 17.4 gallons
EPA mileage: City 19 / Highway 26
Wheel Base: 4 years/50,000 miles bumper to bumper
Also consider: Audi A7, BMW 5 Series, Cadillac CTS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class
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