Lexus GS Death Rumors: Fact or Fiction?
Will the Lexus GS become a victim of the ES’ success?
For months now, we’ve heard a slew of rumors predicting the imminent demise of the Lexus GS. Most speculate that the sedan is doomed as early as next year, when the all-new ES is set to arrive. This is really a case of connecting the dots, as the ES has grown in size to the point where the GS looks a little redundant.
The reasoning behind such a move does make it seem feasible. The ES has long been a sales success, while GS sales have slipped in recent years. The front drive architecture of the ES is cheaper to manufacture than the rear wheel drive GS. Add in the fact that sedan sales in general are declining in favor of crossovers, and it makes sense for Lexus to consolidate their lineup.
Diving a little deeper into the facts makes the GS look even more destined for the graveyard. The ES 350 produces more power than the GS 200t, making it nearly a full second quicker to 60 mph. And it’s cheaper. Heck, the GS 350 costs a full $12,000 more. As much as we all love rear wheel drive cars, can anyone really justify those numbers?
The ES simply used to be a smaller and much different car than the GS. But today, it’s actually longer yet slightly narrower than the GS. The two are extremely close in almost every measure. And customers have taken notice. Lexus sold nearly four times as many ES sedans last year as GS models.
So while we may love the styling and the rear wheel drive layout of the GS, we also have to reluctantly admit that its days are likely numbered. And if Lexus really does kill it off, it’s really hard to blame them.
