2013 Lexus GS Review

New for 2013, the Lexus GS brings a bit of sportiness to the brand’s luxury lineup. So does the new Lexus GS really blend sportiness and luxury or is it a missed opportunity? Let’s take a look and find out.

Exterior Features

When you first look at the 2013 Lexus GS, you’re immediately drawn in by the aggressive lines and sharp angles. It’s also clear that there was some inspiration drawn from the IS-F and the legendary LFA. And once you get around to the rear of the car, things get even more interesting.

The taillights have a futuristic, slightly robotic look and definitely draw attention. But our favorite feature is the exhaust system. With 2 massive pipes, the setup is very eye catching. Thankfully though, the pipes are also nicely set into the body, giving the rear of the car a clean, complete look.

Interior Features

Over the years we’ve come to expect roomy, comfortable and well equipped interiors from Lexus vehicles and the 2013 Lexus GS definitely doesn’t disappoint. Some might think that since this is a luxury car, the only nice place to be is the back seat. However, you’d be wrong.

The new GS is actually one of the more driver focused cars in Lexus’ current lineup. With a sport steering wheel that fits comfortably in your hands and wheel mounted paddle shifters that let you manually control the 6-speed automatic transmission, you may be fighting your chauffer for the keys.

Driving Modes

The 2013 Lexus GS features selectable driving modes that dramatically change the dynamics of the car depending on which one you select. For example, if you’re driving around town, you can leave the car in “normal” mode for a quiet, comfortable ride. You can also put the car in “ECO” mode to save fuel on long journeys. But there’s one more mode that comes standard in the GS 350 and we think you’ll be using it a lot because it’s definitely the most fun, “Sport S”.

“Sport S” mode tightens up the suspension, increases throttle response and makes the car more capable across the board. And while the 2013 GS isn’t a sports car, it definitely adds a bit of fun to the midrange, luxury sedan market. If you want to make the car even sportier, you can choose to add the optional “Sport S+” Mode to your RWD or AWD GS 350. However, “Sport S+” comes standard in all RWD and AWD 2013 GS 350 F Sport models.

The top of the range model in the 2013 Lexus GS line is the GS 450h. The 450h has all of the driving modes that you get in the GS 350 and GS 350 F Sport. But it brings its own exclusive “hybrid” mode to the table as well which is known as “EV” mode.

Performance

Both the GS 350 and GS 350 F Sport put out 306 horsepower as standard. And while 306 horsepower isn’t a huge amount, it’s definitely enough to give this big luxury sedan a feeling of urgency when you put your food down. The GS 450h however, turns in 338 horsepower with the addition of its hybrid motor.

Verdict

Don’t be fooled into thinking that the 2013 Lexus GS is a sports car. But remember, it wasn’t designed to be one. It was designed to bring a bit of sporting feel to a very sophisticated and comfortable luxury car. So if you want to be able to ride in comfort and style but also want to be able to have a bit of fun on your favorite mountain road, the 2013 Lexus GS is a great choice.

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