New Lexus GS Shows Off Modern Styling

The Lexus GS started as a midsize sedan penned by famed Italian car designer Giorgetto Guigiaro who fashioned cars like the BMW M1, Lotus Esprit and VW Golf. Now moving into its fourth generation, the 2013 GS is getting a major facelift. For the last two generations, the GS has used split headlights, reminiscent of the Mercedes E-class, it now has integrated headlights with an LED strip running along the bottom. 

The biggest news for the 2013 GS 350 is the change in styling. First, it uses what Lexus says will be its new corporate styling. Subtly inspired by the LF-A, the front end is aggressive with the front grill coming to a point at its top and flaring out into a waterfall-style opening. Styling in general is much more angular with sharper lines and a generally more focused appearance. The rear of the car also gets a major upgrade with trapezoidal taillights and integrated, dual exhausts. 

The chassis has been stiffened and gets an entirely new rear suspension. The car's track has been widened to 72.4in, an increase of almost an inch, but the wheelbase and overall length remain basically the same. This should lower the car's center of gravity and improve handling. The car gets an entirely new rear sub-frame to accommodate the new multi-link rear suspension.

The interior of the new GS gets a much more modern treatment. The central speedometer with smaller tachometer is gone in favor of a more driver-focused equal size setup. Most of the interior controls are displayed on a high-mounted, horizontal information screen, which is controlled by a system Lexus called Remote Touch. The centrally mounted control allows drivers to use all of these functions without taking their eyes off the road. For convenience the door opening have been altered to make it easier to enter and exit the vehicle, and the trunk has been enlarged by 25%. The GS will also be available with an optional navigation system with a high-definition 12.3in screen. 

To improve economy, Lexus is also using a system called S-Flow that detects where passengers in the vehicle are sitting and directs the climate control only toward them. 

The 2013 GS 350 retains the same engine and transmission as the previous model with minor upgrades. It is powered by a 3.5 liter, V6 with 306hp and 277lb-ft of torque, an improvement of 3hp and 3lb-ft over the previous generation. The 0-60mph time remains at 5.7 seconds. Lexus claims that fuel efficiency has been improved but did not publish specific numbers. It also keeps the same six-speed automatic transmission but adds selectable driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sport S and Sport S+. Sport S+ will only be available as an option and alters the dampening, steering and stability control to make the ride even more sporty. 

The optional all-wheel drive system also remains the same and is capable of shifting power from a 50-50 split to as much as a 30-70 rear-biased split. 

Vehicle weight has been kept in check for the new generation. The new GS weighs in at 3,715lbs compared to 3,704lbs for last year's model. 

The 2013 GS 350 will launch in early 2012 with hybrid and F Sport versions. Lexus did not go into any specifics about these models.