Lexus GS

Lexus GS
2012 Lexus GS 450h F Sport, Germany
Overview
Manufacturer	Lexus (Toyota)
Production	1991–2005 (Toyota Aristo) 1993–present (Lexus GS)
Assembly	Japan: Tahara, Aichi
Body and chassis
Class	Mid-size luxury car Executive car
Body style	4-door sedan

The Lexus GS is a mid-size luxury car sold by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota. The same car launched in 1991 as the Toyota Aristo in Japan, but the Lexus-badged model did not appear until 1993. Now in its fourth generation, the GS sold under the Aristo name in Japan only until the release of the third generation in 2005.

Designed as a performance sedan competing in the mid-luxury class, the GS slots between the entry-level/compact executive IS and full-size/flagship LS, and shares its chassis with one of Toyota's longest-running platforms: the S-series which has been used under multiple generations of the Toyota Crown premium sedans.

Four generations of the GS have been produced since 1993, each available with six-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive. V8 engines were offered in the second and third generations, and all-wheel drive and hybrid versions debuted in 2005. The first two generations had a Japanese domestic market equivalent, the Toyota Aristo ("Aristo" is Greek for "the best"), which was sold from 1991 until the Lexus marque's domestic debut in 2005. Though largely identical in exterior and interior design, the GS and the Aristo differed in their engine and transmission combinations as well as equipment packages. The GS name stands for Grand Sedan. However, some Lexus importers use the backronymic name, Grand Sport.

The first-generation Lexus GS began sales in the United States, Europe and selected markets in Asia in 1993, where it was introduced with an inline-6 engine and exterior bodywork designed by Italdesign Giugiaro. The second-generation model premiered in 1997, using a new platform, in-house styling, and adding a V8 version for the first time outside Japan. The third-generation GS, which premiered globally for the 2006 model year, was produced in V6, V8, and hybrid versions, the latter known as the GS 450h performance hybrid. The third-generation models were the first GS sedans to be sold domestically in Japan.

The fourth-generation Lexus GS premiered in August 2011 at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, where models introduced included the V6-powered GS 350, hybrid GS 450h, and performance-tuned F Sport variants. A lower-displacement V6 model, the GS 250, premiered at the Auto Guangzhou Exhibition in November 2011, targeted at Asian and European markets. In some markets such as North America, the GS shares the mid-size sedan category in the Lexus lineup with the front-wheel drive ES.

First generation (S140; 1991–1997)

First generation (S140)
Overview
Also called	Toyota Aristo (Japan)
Production	October 1991 – July 1997 (Toyota Aristo) February 1993 – July 1997 (Lexus GS)
Designer	Giorgetto Giugiaro (1989)
Body and chassis
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Platform	Toyota N platform
Related	Toyota Crown
Powertrain
Engine	3.0 L 2JZ-GE I6 (gasoline) 3.0 L 2JZ-GTE I6 (t/c gasoline) 4.0 L 1UZ-FE V8 (gasoline)
Transmission	4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,779 mm (109.4 in)
Length	4,950 mm (194.9 in)
Width	1,796 mm (70.7 in)
Height	1,400–1,420 mm (55.1–55.9 in)

Toyota Aristo 3.0 Q (JZS147 Japan)

Lexus GS 300 interior (JZS147)

1993–1997 GS 300 (JZS147; Europe)

Italdesign Giugiaro began the first design drawings of the GS 300 in 1988. The design firm aimed to produce a deluxe saloon which did without the numerous exterior features and detailing found on existing Japanese premium sedans, in favor of a more simplified, European-style appearance. The vehicle's exterior styling blended elements of the then-current Lexus LS flagship and SC performance coupe in a rounded, aerodynamic wedge-like shape which featured a high rear decklid and longer and wider proportions than rival vehicles. The exterior produced a drag coefficient of 0.31 C_d. The offered color schemes included single-tone bumper and body finishes, along with dual-tone schemes. Similarities with an Italdesign concept car which debuted in 1990, the Jaguar Kensington, led some observers to suggest that the GS 300 was derived from its design, but the firm has stated that the GS 300 was developed earlier. Equipped with an independent, double-wishbone suspension setup at both front and rear ends, Italdesign's saloon design first appeared in Toyota Aristo form in Japan in October 1991.

Built at Toyota's Tahara assembly plant in Japan, production of the Aristo involved more automation than previous vehicles built at the Tahara factory; robots performed 4,200 welds on each body, while only eight spot welds were performed by hand. Toyota of Japan offered two straight-six engine options for the Japanese market Aristo—the 3.0 Q and 3.0 V. The 3.0 Q (JZS147) featured the 2JZ-GE engine which produced 169 kW (227 hp), while the Aristo 3.0 V (JZS147) was equipped with a 24-valve twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE engine which produced 205 kW (275 hp). The Aristo was exclusive to the Toyota Vista Store as the top level luxury sedan at Vista dealerships, positioned above the Toyota Cresta and Chaser. In 1992, a third model, the V8-powered 4.0 Zi-Four (UZS143), joined the Aristo lineup. This model came with standard all-wheel drive and a 186 kW (249 hp) 1UZ-FE engine.

Production of the export Lexus GS 300 (JZS147) began on February 22, 1993. For Lexus, The GS was placed above the front-wheel drive ES luxury sedan with its superior drivetrain setup, power and available amenities. Lexus only offered the GS with the 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE straight-six, producing 169 kW (227 hp) and 285 N·m (210 lb·ft) of torque.

For the interior, the GS 300 featured walnut wood trim on the center console, leather seating, an automatic tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and the option of a Nakamichi premium stereo system. Driver and front passenger airbags were standard. A moonroof, remote 12-CD auto changer, and traction control (TRAC – left hand drive vehicles only) were options.

The GS was intended to take the price position of the original LS 400 flagship, which had moved upmarket since its 1989 launch. By the time of the GS 300's debut, the US$35,000 initial base price of the LS in the United States had climbed to US$47,000, while the GS 300 at debut carried base price of US$38,000. However, sales of the GS 300 were modest, with 1993 seeing the greatest sales at 19,164 sold that year. Sales dropped in later years as the Japanese yen rose in value against the dollar and made the vehicle more expensive than its rivals. Additionally, more powerful V8 sport sedans provided strong competition. By 1997, the price of the GS 300 had risen to US$46,000. Production of the first generation GS sedan ended in July 1997.

Second generation (S160; 1997–2004)

Second generation
Overview
Also called	Toyota Aristo
Production	August 1997 – December 2004 (Lexus GS) August 1997 – August 2005 (Toyota Aristo)
Model years	1998–2005
Designer	Akihiro Nagaya (1995)
Body and chassis
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Platform	Toyota N platform
Related	Toyota Crown
Powertrain
Engine	3.0 L 2JZ-GE I6 (gasoline) 3.0 L 2JZ-GTE I6 (t/c gasoline) 4.0 L 1UZ-FE V8 (gasoline) 4.3 L 3UZ-FE V8 (gasoline)
Transmission	4-speed A341E automatic (JZS161) 5-speed A650E automatic (JZS160, UZS160)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,799 mm (110.2 in)
Length	4,806 mm (189.2 in)
Width	1,801 mm (70.9 in)
Height	1,420–1,440 mm (55.9–56.7 in)

1997–2000

Toyota Aristo (Japan)

2000–2004 Lexus GS 300 (JZS160R; Australia)

2003–2004 GS 300 interior (JZS160)

In 1993, after sales commenced for the first generation S140 series, development began on the successor under the internally known codenamed JZS160. The design process began under chief engineer Yasushi Nakagawa in May 1994 and by November 1995 after 18 months of design work, the final production design by Akihiro Nagaya was approved by the executive board. In January 1997, Lexus debuted the "High Performance Sedan" (HPS) concept at the Detroit Auto Show, previewing the design direction for the redesigned GS. In August 1997, the second generation Toyota Aristo was launched in Japan, codenamed JZS160 (S300 version) for models with 2JZ-GE engines and JZS161 (V300 version) for those with 2JZ-GTE twin-turbocharged engines. VVT-i was now standard, resulting in an increase of torque. The twin-turbocharged version was available with electronic four-wheel steering, VSC electronic stability control and an automatic transmission with a manual sequential mode. Toyota discontinued the optional all-wheel drive system.

The second generation sedans used a new front-engine, rear-wheel drive midsize platform, also featured in the Japanese-market Toyota Crown. The new model's styling was produced in-house, and featured quadruple headlights in a fashion similar to the Lexus SC coupe. The drag coefficient was 0.30 C_d. Inside, electroluminescent Optitron gauges were offered for the first time, along with an upgraded stereo system. For export markets, the second generation GS began production in the JZS161 body style on August 4, 1997 and was officially launched in late 1997.

Lexus offered the GS 300 once again and featured a slightly revised version of the previous generation's 3.0-liter straight-six now producing 168 kW (225 hp) and 305 N·m (225 lb·ft) of torque. Answering customer requests for more power, the American market GS 400 (UZS160) was equipped with the 4.0-liter 1UZ-FE V8 that produced 224 kW (300 hp) and 420 N·m (310 ft·lb) of torque. Both models featured a five-speed automatic transmission with the GS 400 receiving steering wheel shift buttons. As with the S140 series, no turbocharged variants were offered outside Japan. The 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of the GS 400 prompted Lexus to claim that the GS was the world's fastest production sedan at its introduction in 1997. The 1998 BMW M5 sedan would list 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) times of between 4.8 and 5.2 seconds.

Lexus promoted the arrival of the second generation GS sedan with the tagline, "Something Wicked Comes This Way." Compared to its predecessor, the second generation GS sedan was a much bigger success, with sales reaching 30,622 vehicles in its first year, increasing in the second, and stabilizing at 28,079 vehicles by 2000. Lexus would keep the second generation vehicle in its lineup for eight years, a longer duration than the prior generation. The U.S. base price for the GS 300 and GS 430 averaged approximately US$38,000 and US$47,000 respectively.

The GS was Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1998. It also made Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1998 through 2000. In IIHS frontal crash testing the 1999 and newer GS was given a "Good" overall score.

2000–2004

2000–2004 Lexus GS 300 (JZS160R; Australia)

In 2000, a facelift (designed in mid-1999) was introduced for the 2001 model year, which was the only year with any major changes in the second generation GS. New clear tail lights with turn signal indicators were added to the trunk area, as well as a slightly revised grille and very subtly tinted headlights on the front end. Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights were now standard on the V8 and optional on the straight-six. Inside, more wood trim was added, and steering wheel shift buttons were now also featured on the GS 300. The V8 engine also received a 0.3-liter bump in displacement and the model was renamed GS 430 (UZS161). Peak power was unchanged, but torque increased to 441 N·m (325 lb·ft). The GS 430 took 5.7 seconds to do 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h). For the 2001 model year, Lexus also added a limited production GS 300 "SportDesign" edition for North America, featuring the sport suspension from the GS 430, wider wheels, and polished alloy wheels. The SportDesign interior added perforated leather upholstery along with brushed aluminum and dark stained walnut trim. For the third quarter of 2001, production of the GS 300 SportDesign was limited to a run of 3,300 units (vs. 25,000 annual GS sales annually). Production of the limited model occurred through 2004.

Third generation (S190; 2005–2011)

Third generation (S190)
Overview
Production	January 2005 – December 2011
Model years	2006–2011
Designer	Yasuhide Hosoda(2002)
Body and chassis
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Platform	Toyota N platform
Related	Toyota Crown
Powertrain
Engine	3.0 L 3GR-FE V6 (gasoline; Middle East) 3.0 L 3GR-FSE V6 (gasoline) 3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 (gasoline) 3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 (hybrid gasoline) 4.3 L 3UZ-FE V8 (gasoline) 4.6 L 1UR-FE V8 (gasoline)
Transmission	6-speed A761E automatic 8-speed AA80E automatic CVT automatic (hybrid)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,850 mm (112.2 in)
Length	4,826–4,844 mm (190.0–190.7 in)
Width	1,821 mm (71.7 in)
Height	1,425–1,435 mm (56.1–56.5 in)

Main article: Lexus GS (S190)

2005–2007

2005–2007 Lexus GS 350 (Japan)

In 1999, development commenced on a successor to the JZS160 under chief engineer, Shigetoshi Miyoshi. Styling for both the exterior and interior was done under lead designer Yasuhide Hosoda between 2000 and 2002, during which L-finesse came to fruition in 2001. By 2002, a design was finalized, to be introduced the following year. In October 2003, Lexus debuted the LF-S (Lexus Future Sedan), a concept car which previewed the design of the upcoming GS. The design patent was filed by Toyota on December 22, 2003 in domestic Japanese patent offices, preceding an imminent public unveiling. The third generation GS first appeared as a pre-production vehicle at the 2004 North American International Auto Show on January 5, with the production version shown at the same show in 2005.

Production of the third generation began on January 24, 2005, with an equivalent Toyota Aristo not released as Toyota had introduced the Lexus channel to Japan and sought to align all world markets using Lexus as their luxury brand worldwide. The third generation GS was the introductory Lexus model for the marque's new L-finesse design philosophy, indicating the future direction of the Lexus lineup; it featured a fastback profile, retained quad headlights, LED tailamps, and one-piece bumpers. This generation GS had a drag coefficient of Cd=0.27, and used a newly designed midsize platform later shared with the second generation IS.

2006–2007 Lexus GS 430 (UZS190; US)

In September 2005, the GS 350 (GRS191) and GS 430 (UZS190) went on sale in Japan; the GS 350 using a 3.5-liter 2GR-FSE engine with D4-S direct injection, while the GS 430 used the same 4.3-liter 3UZ-FE V8 engine used in the previous model. Sales in the US began in March 2006, with the initial lineup including the GS 300 (GRS190), featuring a ULEV certified 3.0-liter 3GR-FSE V6 engine, and the GS 430 featuring the 4.3-liter V8. All GS models at launch featured a new six-speed automatic sequential shift gearbox. An all-wheel drive system was made available in the GS 300.

2006–2009 Lexus GS 450h (GWS191; Australia)

Unveiled at the 2005 New York International Auto Show, the gasoline hybrid GS 450h (GWS191) joined the GS line in 2006 for the 2007 model year. GS Hybrid production started in February 2006. It was the first mass-production rear-wheel drive luxury hybrid car, featuring the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter 2GR-FSE V6 engine mated to an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This powertrain made use of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system of integrating electric and gasoline engine motors, giving the GS 450h a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) emissions rating, and total output of 253 kW (339 hp), allowing the GS to accelerate 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 5.2 seconds, according to manufacturer data.

New to the GS line was an electric power steering (EPS) system, and both the V8 and hybrid models featured a variable gear ratio steering (VGRS) system and Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) a type of brake-by-wire system. V8 and hybrid models also featured an adaptive suspension system that individually altered suspension damper firmness. Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) was standard on the GS 430, 460, and 450h models and coupled to VGRS, with which it could alter steering gear ratios.

Third generation GS interior (GWS191), with hybrid kilowatt meter instead of tachometer and G-Book navigation.

Standard safety features on the GS ranged from multiple airbags, including knee airbags and front row side torso airbags, to adaptive headlights, anti-lock braking, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist and electronic stability control. The radar-based pre-collision system with an autonomous cruise control system system was optional. The GS 450h was among the first vehicles to receive the infrared Driver Monitoring System for driver attentiveness. For the 2007 model year, the GS 350 replaced the GS 300 in the US and several other export markets.

The GS interior was available with leather bird's-eye maple or walnut trim. Major standard features ranged from a 10-way driver and front passenger power and heated seats with three-position Lexus Memory System, SmartAccess keyless system with push-button start, a driver-side hidden drop-down panel for infrequently used controls, standard 7 in (180 mm) touchscreen display, and LED lighting in the cabin. Unique to the Lexus GS series was a three-pod instrument cluster with machined aluminum facings and an electrochromic feature. Optional features ranged from a power moonroof to a discrete 5.1 surround sound 14-speaker 330-watt Mark Levinson premium sound system, XM-satellite radio and DVD-based navigation with backup camera and Bluetooth technology. Competitors to the Lexus GS included the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Volvo S80, Audi A6, Jaguar XF, Infiniti M, and Acura RL.

2007–2011

2010 model year Lexus GS 450h (GWS191; Canada)

The GS 460 (URS191) replaced the GS 430 in 2007 for the 2008 model year, featuring a new 4.6-liter 1UR-FSE V8 engine with eight-speed automatic transmission generating 255 kW (342 hp) and 460 N·m (339 ft·lb) of torque. Lexus reported a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of 5.4 seconds. Along with the hybrid GS 450h and previous GS 430 models, the V8-powered GS 460 offered the Active Stabilizer Suspension System for improved handling. The GS 450h retains its position as the most expensive in the GS lineup, and has faster acceleration than the GS 460, though the GS 460 is lighter and has a higher top speed. In 2010, the GS was outsold nearly two to one by the flagship LS.

Along with the introduction of the GS 460, the GS lineup received a mid-cycle styling refresh, including a revised front bumper, headlights and grille, turn signals added to the side mirrors, and new wheel options and exterior colors. The interior received a redesigned steering wheel, revised instrument cluster gauges, and different trim pieces.

Fourth generation (L10; 2011–present)

Fourth generation (L10)
Overview
Production	December 2011–present
Model years	2013–present
Assembly	Japan: Tahara, Aichi (Tahara plant); Toyota, Aichi (Motomachi plant)
Designer	Katsuhiko Inatomi (2009)
Body and chassis
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Platform	Toyota New N platform
Powertrain
Engine	2.0 L 8AR-FTS l4 (gasoline) 2.5 L 2AR-FSE l4 (hybrid gasoline) 2.5 L 4GR-FSE V6 (gasoline) 3.5 L 2GR-FSE V6 (gasoline) 3.5 L 2GR-FXE V6 (hybrid gasoline) 5.0 L 2UR-GSE V8 (gasoline) (GS F)
Transmission	6-speed automatic CVT automatic (hybrid) 8-speed AA81E automatic (2013–present)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,850 mm (112.2 in)
Length	4,848 mm (190.9 in)
Width	1,840 mm (72.4 in)
Height	1,455 mm (57.3 in)
Curb weight	1,721–1,805 kg (3,795–3,980 lb) 1,865 kg (4,112 lb) (hybrid)

See also: Lexus LF-Gh

2011–2015

In the third quarter of 2007, development began on the L10 series GS under Yoshihiko Kanamori, with the design process finalizing under new president and CEO Akio Toyoda's direction in 2009. Design patents were filed in Japan on October 6, 2010 for the production model and a conceptual variant on March 29, 2011. In April 2011, Lexus showed the LF-Gh concept (Lexus Future Grand-Touring Hybrid) at that year's New York International Auto Show, previewing the stylistic direction of future Lexus models. The LF-Gh featured a large, spindle-shaped front grille, and press information further indicated that it had a new interior design which included an analog clock. The LF-Gh concept vehicle was taken by automotive journalists as an indication of what the fourth generation Lexus GS would look like.

Pre-facelift Lexus GS 250 F Sport (Australia)

Pre-facelift Lexus GS 250 Luxury (Australia)

The fourth generation GS had its world premiere at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California in August 2011. The vehicle was shown to have a more subtle version of the LF-Gh's spindle grille, while overall exterior dimensions are almost identical to the previous generation. L-shaped LED front daytime running lamps and rear LED tube lamps are a new design feature. The new GS was the centerpiece of Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda's initiative to restore passion to the Lexus brand and better compete with German luxury automakers that had been gaining market share in the United States. It was reported that Toyoda initially opposed the styling choices made for the new model, but since thanked the design team that persuaded him to greenlight the project.

At its debut, the fourth generation model was shown in rear-wheel drive GS 350 (GRL10) form, powered by a V6 engine linked with a six-speed automatic transmission. Three driving modes are featured, ranging from fuel-conserving Eco to Sport S and Sport S+ which facilitate more sporty transmission shifting and engine throttle settings, as well as suspension damper and steering adjustments. The chassis has been redesigned, and overall curb weight is reduced. To reduce unsprung mass the new GS utilizes aluminum for all its suspension components. The GS 350 F Sport adds a rear-wheel steering system for improved handling on rear wheel drive models. New larger 14 inch brakes come standard as well as 19 inch F Sport wheels, a new front bumper, rear spoiler, F Sport steering wheel, F Sport seats and a new suspension system with AVS adjustable dampers.

Lexus GS 450h interior with bamboo accents (US)

The redesigned interior gains the Lexus Remote Touch mouse controller system in place of the previous touchscreen, linked to a split-view 12.3 in (310 mm) widescreen dashboard display.

Save energy + airflow control (S-FLOW): The world’s first system that sends air only to where vehicle occupants are seated in order to maintain and improve comfort while also improving fuel efficiency

Other interior features include Mark Levinson surround sound system. Front 18-way power seats are available; 10-way power seats are equipped standard. Optional features further include a pre-collision system, Heads-Up Display, blind spot monitor, lane keep assist, and Driver Monitoring System.

Gasoline variants such as the GS 350 and GS 250, as well as their F Sport variants, began sales in Japan in January 26, 2012, followed by the GS 450h and the GS 450h F Sport on March 19, 2012. Sales for the fourth generation in the US began in February 2012 for gasoline-only models including the GS 350 and GS 350 F Sport, with the hybrid version following several months after. A smaller-displacement model, the GS 250 (GRL11), was shown at the 2011 Auto Guangzhou, targeted for sales in China, Japan, Australia and the UK, but not the US.

The GS 450h (GWL10), rated at 252 kW (338 hp) and now using an Atkinson cycle design, has a 35 percent improvement in fuel economy over the previous generation GS 450h, and has a higher combined EPA fuel efficiency rating (31 mpg) than the 306 horsepower GS 350 (23 mpg). Trunk space is improved both for the hybrid and standard models. The GS 450h features standard full LED headlamps and a bamboo trimmed interior. The vehicle was unveiled in 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

For the 2014 model year, changes to GS 350 includes eight-speed automatic transmission with steering for rear-wheel drive (RWD) model, introduction of F SPORT package (optional Lexus Dynamic Handling system with dynamic rear steering (DRS), electric power steering, variable gear ratio steering (VGRS)), integrated Siri Eyes Free mode from Apple (compatible with iPhone 4S and newer), flush mounted sensors for available intuitive park assist, full color display added to the optional head-up display, available blind spot monitor adds rear cross traffic alert and power-folding mirrors, Luxury Package changes (LED foglamps, Superchrome finish for 18-inch wheels, and the rear armrest control panel display adds display option to view radio station and song title information), optional power trunk opener, Lexus Night View system discontinued.

The GS 300h hybrid model includes a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle gasoline inline-four engine with a D-4S direct injection technology, derived from the third-generation Lexus IS. The vehicle was unveiled in 2013 Shanghai Motor Show. The vehicle went on sale in China, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, but not in the US.

It is a version of Lexus GS 300h for European market, with 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine (181PS), two electric motors, a hard-drive navigation system with a 12.3-inch Monitor and Lexus Connected Services, a premium audio system, DVD player and rear-view camera with a monitor, among other features. The vehicle went on sale in 2014-01-11.

2015–present

The revised GS debuted at Monterey Car Week in August 2015. Changes include a GS 200t variant equipped with the 2.0-liter 8AR-FTS turbocharged gasoline engine to replace the GS 250, revised exterior elements (including front and rear trim, exterior lighting, wheels, and rocker panels), new active safety features, and a revised infotainment system.

Motorsport

GS 400 V8Star Series touring race car

The Lexus GS was used in Motorola Cup North American Street Stock Championship touring car series competition in 1998, beginning with two GS 400 race vehicles driven by Team Lexus in its inaugural season. For 1999, Team Lexus achieved its first victory with the GS 400 in its sixth race at Road Atlanta. The GS 400 was raced until 2001, when Team Lexus switched to the IS 300. In the mid-2000s, the GS 400 was entered in the V8Star Series touring car racing season, with Ronny Melkus competing in the V8 GS in 2003.

In 2006, Sigma Advanced Racing Development and Lexus entered a GS 450h performance hybrid sedan in the 24 Hours of Tokachi race in Hokkaido, Japan, the first time that a hybrid vehicle was introduced. In 2007, Lexus Canada also entered the GS 450h in the Targa Newfoundland event. In 2009, the GS 450h was used as a safety car at the Muscle Car Masters event held at Eastern Creek Raceway, Eastern Creek, New South Wales, Australia.

In 2008, Manabu "Max" Orido used a second generation JZS161 Aristo in Formula D competition. Orido has several second generation models with different equipment used for drifting events, some with prototype suspension, and fitted with parts from the export Lexus GS 300.

Sales and production

Sales data for Lexus GS generations are as follows. Sourced from manufacturer yearly data.

Generation (chassis code)	Model no(s).	Calendar year	Total sales, U.S., Japan	Total exports, production‡
JZS147
	GS 300	1993	19,164	18,450
		1994	13,939	12,905
		1995	6,263	7,797
		1996	2,044	2,500
		1997	7,718	175
JZS160/UZS160
	GS 300/400	1998	30,622	26,705
		1999	30,326	30,326
		2000	26,705	26,705
JZS160/UZS161
	GS 300/430	2001	24,461	29,715
		2002	17,246	17,710
		2003	13,306	14,479
		2004	8,262	9,681
		2005	33,457, 5,843	3,000
GRS190/GRS195/UZS190	GS 300/350/430	2006	27,390, 9,145	51,290‡
GRS191/GRS196/UZS190/GWS191	GS 350/430/450h	2007	23,381, 5,089	45,588‡
GRS191/GRS196/URS191/GWS191	GS 350/460/450h	2008	15,759, 5,384	32,828‡
		2009	7,430, 1,777	11,565‡
		2010	7,059
		2011	3,746
GRL10/GRL11/GWL10	GS 350/450h	2012	22,160
		2013	19,742
		2014	22,198

Technical specifications

Model configurations by region
Chassis code	Model no.	Model year(s)	Drivetrain	Transmission	Engine type	Engine code	Region(s)
GRS190	GS 300	2006–2012	RWD/AWD	6-speed AT	3.0 L petrol V6	3GR-FSE	Australia, China, Europe, Middle East
GRS191	GS 350	2007–2012			3.5 L petrol V6	2GR-FSE	Canada, Europe, Japan, United States
UZS190	GS 430	2006–2007	RWD		4.3 L petrol V8	3UZ-FE	Middle East
GWS191	GS 450h	2007–2012		CVT	3.5 L hybrid V6	2GR-FSE	Canada, China, Europe, Japan, United States
URS190	GS 460	2008–2012		8-speed AT	4.6 L petrol V8	1UR-FE	Australia, Canada, China, Europe, Japan, United States

Drivetrain specifications by generation
Model year(s)	Model no(s).	Chassis code(s)	Engine type	Engine code	Transmission(s)	Power	Torque
1993–1996	GS 300	JZS147	3.0 L inline-6	2JZ-GE	4-speed AT	168 kW (225 hp)	280 N·m (210 ft·lbf) @4800 rpm
1998–2004	GS 300	JZS161	3.0 L inline-6	2JZ-GE	4-speed AT	168 kW (225 hp)	300 N·m (220 ft·lbf) @4000 rpm
1998–2000	GS 400	UZS160	4.0 L V8	1UZ-FE	5-speed AT	224 kW (300 hp)	420 N·m (310 ft·lbf) @4000 rpm
2001–2005	GS 430	UZS161	4.3 L V8	3UZ-FE	5-speed AT	224 kW (300 hp)	441 N·m (325 ft·lbf) @4000 rpm
2006–2007	GS 300	GRS190	3.0 L V6	3GR-FSE	6-speed AT	188 kW (252 hp)	310 N·m (230 ft·lbf) @3600 rpm
2006–2007	GS 300 AWD	GRS195	3.0 L V6	3GR-FSE	6-speed AT	188 kW (252 hp)	310 N·m (230 ft·lbf) @3600 rpm
2006–2007	GS 430	UZS190	4.3 L V8	3UZ-FE	6-speed AT	224 kW (300 hp)	441 N·m (325 ft·lbf) @4000 rpm
2007–2012	GS 450h	GWS191	3.5 L V6 hybrid	2GR-FSE	CVT	253 kW (339 hp)	n/a
2008–2012	GS 350	GRS191	3.5 L V6	2GR-FSE	6-speed AT	226 kW (303 hp)	371 N·m (274 ft·lbf) @3600 rpm
2008–2012	GS 350 AWD	GRS196	3.5 L V6	2GR-FSE	6-speed AT	226 kW (303 hp)	371 N·m (274 ft·lbf) @3600 rpm
2008–2012	GS 460	URS190	4.6 L V8	1UR-FE	8-speed AT	255 kW (342 hp)	460 N·m (340 ft·lbf) @3900 rpm

Awards

• J.D. Power and Associates named the GS series the best midsize luxury car in initial quality for 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005.
• AAA named the third generation GS 300 the best car in its class for 2005.
• Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus GS as the highest ranked vehicle in predicted reliability in the luxury car class in 2005.
• The GS 450h's Lexus Hybrid Drive system was the recipient of the annual Paul Pietsch Prize for Advanced Technology in 2007, awarded by technical editors of Auto Motor Und Sport publications.
• The Lexus GS 450h was named the winner of the 2007 IF product design award from the International Forum Design group in Hannover, Germany.
• German automotive magazine Auto Bild selected the GS 450h for its "Auto 1" award for best sedan in 2007.
• Smart Money magazine named the Lexus GS the best luxury sedan for the 2003–2004 model year. In 2005, the magazine named the GS its Best New Car Value.
• The GS series was named most appealing midsize luxury car by J.D. Power and Associates in 2001.
• The first generation GS series was named to the Top Ten in Initial Quality list by J.D. Power and Associates in 1994.
• Kelley Blue Book gave the GS series its Best to Hold Value Award in 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001.
• The second generation GS was named Import Car of the Year by Motor Trend in 1998.
• Car and Driver named the second generation GS to its Ten Best list in 1998, 1999, and 2000.

External links

• Lexus GS international site
• Lexus GS at DMOZ – additional links