4th Generation GS Reviews Thread
10-21-12, 04:15 AM
#421
I'll be totally honest and say that I haven't even accepted the 4GS as beautiful, but there are angles that appeal to me, the interior is killer and it is fun to drive. The key is to accept that Lexus is totally changing their look, for better or for worse. I loved the days of the rounded-off SC300/400 and would love to see them reinvented, but unfortunately they are not coming back and we will likely have the LF-LC or LF-CC instead. Even so, I'd rather settle for that than go the bloated BMW route.
And based on your post in this thread, it looks like it took you a while to warm up to the 3GS as well...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...-design-2.html
And based on your post in this thread, it looks like it took you a while to warm up to the 3GS as well...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...-design-2.html
I liked it so much I got one for myself.
I have left some room in my criticism of the 4GS to change my mind.
This time, only the front is unique. The rest looks like too many other cars. Its less sleek. The design doesn't flow as well but...there is still something about it that catches my attention.
I don't believe I'll totally get there this time. Mainly because I'm a coupe man at heart. The 3GS is kinda coupe-ish. The 4 is less so. Lexus appears to be coming out with coupes in the future and sedans will be the furthest thing from my mind.
Plus, I'm still loving my 3GS.
I am looking forward to seeing more modded 4GS cars though. We car guys change our minds like we change clothes.
10-21-12, 04:31 AM
#422
Pole Position
@PeteHarvey :
The answer to the 4GS' quantum leap in handling over the 3GS is simple : Lexus finally went with all aluminium suspension arms and subframes thus reducing unsprung weight. Also Lexus went with lighter viscosity oil in the shock absorbers. The combination of these 2 factors led to a lighter suspension that has vastly greater responsiveness to road irregularities.
When the suspension responds well to changes on the road surface, it allows the tyres to stay in contact with the road surface longer and hence grip and handling improves.
This explains why the 3GS may have similar grip and handling times as the 4GS when measured on an artificially flat surfaces that motor mags use to conduct their handling tests BUT why the 4GS absolutely KILLS the 3GS in terms of feel, steering feedback and driver confidence in real world environments where roads have bumps and potholes.
Don't get me wrong, the 3GS looked really impressive in magazine bench tests (it equaled the benchmark E60 5 series in several comparos in skidpad numbers and slalom times) but these were conducted under artificial circumstances. In the real world, the 3GS never felt as surefooted as the E60. If a 3GS owner stiffened his shocks and swaybars to improve handling, it would improve the magazine tested flat surface numbers but the resulting bumpiness and crashiness over rough roads actually made the suspension more unsettled, worsened handling and reduced driver confidence in real life. Not to mention reducing ride comfort significantly.
Which is why the decision by Lexus to go with aluminium control arms,less viscous shocks and AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension) is genius. In one fell swoop, they markedly improved suspension responsiveness and feedback thus improving real-world grip/handling and driver confidence while actually improving the RIDE of the 4GS significantly over the 3GS.
As to why the 4GS is remarkable. I would put the 4GS in the same league as the 2GS in importance to Lexus as to how they effected a sea-change in the public's perception of Lexus and in how they have made Lexus "sexy" again.
The reason being for the first time, a Lexus is noticeably better in nailing the magical ride-handling combination than the German competition, out-of-the-box, bone-stock factory, without modifications required. This has never happened in the whole of the existence of the GS line and in the whole of Lexus history ( except for the 1st gen IS300 ). In the German car forums, this is even grudgingly acknowledged by those forumers who actually bothered to test both cars back-to-back and who haven't been anaesthetized by the "German-is-best" Koolaid.
Now it is funny to see them try to claw back some semblance of parity by criticizing the GS' looks and saying that their Sporty German rides win "overall" due to their dignified looks and greater luxury and comfort ie they are saying their Ultimate Driver Cars win due to being more Lexus like then the GS. And of course they'll pull the "my car has the option of a V8!!!" argument, when fully 70-80% of the posters there drive an equivalent 6 cylinder . Or even worst, a 4 banger 528i/ 2.0T A6. I guess reflected glory from a M5/AMG is more real than the actual cars they drive lol.
The answer to the 4GS' quantum leap in handling over the 3GS is simple : Lexus finally went with all aluminium suspension arms and subframes thus reducing unsprung weight. Also Lexus went with lighter viscosity oil in the shock absorbers. The combination of these 2 factors led to a lighter suspension that has vastly greater responsiveness to road irregularities.
When the suspension responds well to changes on the road surface, it allows the tyres to stay in contact with the road surface longer and hence grip and handling improves.
This explains why the 3GS may have similar grip and handling times as the 4GS when measured on an artificially flat surfaces that motor mags use to conduct their handling tests BUT why the 4GS absolutely KILLS the 3GS in terms of feel, steering feedback and driver confidence in real world environments where roads have bumps and potholes.
Don't get me wrong, the 3GS looked really impressive in magazine bench tests (it equaled the benchmark E60 5 series in several comparos in skidpad numbers and slalom times) but these were conducted under artificial circumstances. In the real world, the 3GS never felt as surefooted as the E60. If a 3GS owner stiffened his shocks and swaybars to improve handling, it would improve the magazine tested flat surface numbers but the resulting bumpiness and crashiness over rough roads actually made the suspension more unsettled, worsened handling and reduced driver confidence in real life. Not to mention reducing ride comfort significantly.
Which is why the decision by Lexus to go with aluminium control arms,less viscous shocks and AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension) is genius. In one fell swoop, they markedly improved suspension responsiveness and feedback thus improving real-world grip/handling and driver confidence while actually improving the RIDE of the 4GS significantly over the 3GS.
As to why the 4GS is remarkable. I would put the 4GS in the same league as the 2GS in importance to Lexus as to how they effected a sea-change in the public's perception of Lexus and in how they have made Lexus "sexy" again.
The reason being for the first time, a Lexus is noticeably better in nailing the magical ride-handling combination than the German competition, out-of-the-box, bone-stock factory, without modifications required. This has never happened in the whole of the existence of the GS line and in the whole of Lexus history ( except for the 1st gen IS300 ). In the German car forums, this is even grudgingly acknowledged by those forumers who actually bothered to test both cars back-to-back and who haven't been anaesthetized by the "German-is-best" Koolaid.
Now it is funny to see them try to claw back some semblance of parity by criticizing the GS' looks and saying that their Sporty German rides win "overall" due to their dignified looks and greater luxury and comfort ie they are saying their Ultimate Driver Cars win due to being more Lexus like then the GS. And of course they'll pull the "my car has the option of a V8!!!" argument, when fully 70-80% of the posters there drive an equivalent 6 cylinder . Or even worst, a 4 banger 528i/ 2.0T A6. I guess reflected glory from a M5/AMG is more real than the actual cars they drive lol.
Last edited by natnut; 11-02-12 at 05:58 AM.
10-21-12, 08:17 PM
#423
Yes, I've admitted several times that I initially hated the 3GS. Things changed because my wife begged and pleaded for one. I told her absolutely not. I took her to look at the ES350 but she cried real tears and accused me of being a bully right in front of everyone. I gave in and got her the car. Washing the car every week made me see it differently. The lines of the car, the slope of the roofline, the muscular haunches and its sleekness all won me over. It was different than anything on the road at that time.
I liked it so much I got one for myself.
I have left some room in my criticism of the 4GS to change my mind.
This time, only the front is unique. The rest looks like too many other cars. Its less sleek. The design doesn't flow as well but...there is still something about it that catches my attention.
I don't believe I'll totally get there this time. Mainly because I'm a coupe man at heart. The 3GS is kinda coupe-ish. The 4 is less so. Lexus appears to be coming out with coupes in the future and sedans will be the furthest thing from my mind.
Plus, I'm still loving my 3GS.
I am looking forward to seeing more modded 4GS cars though. We car guys change our minds like we change clothes.
I liked it so much I got one for myself.
I have left some room in my criticism of the 4GS to change my mind.
This time, only the front is unique. The rest looks like too many other cars. Its less sleek. The design doesn't flow as well but...there is still something about it that catches my attention.
I don't believe I'll totally get there this time. Mainly because I'm a coupe man at heart. The 3GS is kinda coupe-ish. The 4 is less so. Lexus appears to be coming out with coupes in the future and sedans will be the furthest thing from my mind.
Plus, I'm still loving my 3GS.
I am looking forward to seeing more modded 4GS cars though. We car guys change our minds like we change clothes.
10-21-12, 09:35 PM
#424
Yes, I've admitted several times that I initially hated the 3GS. Things changed because my wife begged and pleaded for one. I told her absolutely not. I took her to look at the ES350 but she cried real tears and accused me of being a bully right in front of everyone. I gave in and got her the car. Washing the car every week made me see it differently. The lines of the car, the slope of the roofline, the muscular haunches and its sleekness all won me over. It was different than anything on the road at that time.
I liked it so much I got one for myself.
I have left some room in my criticism of the 4GS to change my mind.
This time, only the front is unique. The rest looks like too many other cars. Its less sleek. The design doesn't flow as well but...there is still something about it that catches my attention.
I don't believe I'll totally get there this time. Mainly because I'm a coupe man at heart. The 3GS is kinda coupe-ish. The 4 is less so. Lexus appears to be coming out with coupes in the future and sedans will be the furthest thing from my mind.
Plus, I'm still loving my 3GS.
I am looking forward to seeing more modded 4GS cars though. We car guys change our minds like we change clothes.
I liked it so much I got one for myself.
I have left some room in my criticism of the 4GS to change my mind.
This time, only the front is unique. The rest looks like too many other cars. Its less sleek. The design doesn't flow as well but...there is still something about it that catches my attention.
I don't believe I'll totally get there this time. Mainly because I'm a coupe man at heart. The 3GS is kinda coupe-ish. The 4 is less so. Lexus appears to be coming out with coupes in the future and sedans will be the furthest thing from my mind.
Plus, I'm still loving my 3GS.
I am looking forward to seeing more modded 4GS cars though. We car guys change our minds like we change clothes.
10-22-12, 02:12 AM
#425
Pole Position
2013 GS 350 : From also ran to top contender in just one generation
Full Review :
http://carjake.com/2013-lexus-gs-350-review
What they recognized was that Lexus hadnt formed a unique enough identity in styling, or provided an engaging enough driving experience. Welcome to what the rest of the world already knew. In styling, the transformation began with the 2013 GS and its spindle grille, which is now ubiquitous across the Lexus lineup. The GS is, to our eyes, the most stylish Lexus sedan ever, and the spindle grille serves its purpose in making the car stand out.
Whats more important than styling though is driving dynamics. Lexus has always been known for lifeless dynamics. When we heard from Lexus that the GS was going to be different, we had a well believe it when we see it mentality. Everyone can talk the talk, but can you walk the walk? Marketing speak and real results are two different things. Spending a few minutes behind the wheel of the GS erases those doubts. Hard core performance? No, but there isnt any standard model in this segment that is. But what it does is bring a smile to your face the first time we could ever say that about a Lexus mid size sedan.
Chassis movements are well controlled and the GS chassis actually communicates what the road is doing. The steering wheel also offers some feedback to the driver, in a velvet gloved manner. The GS clearly a drivers car, and we didnt even get the F Sport model.
If it sounds like weve fawned over the GS, thats because its good very, very good. The GS review wrote itself. Its rare that a car goes from also ran to top contender in just one generation. Because, make no bones about it, the previous generation GS wouldnt have placed anywhere near our consideration list. Weve been harsh critics, but have concluded that Lexus has gone along way toward defining an identity for itself. Perhaps its weakest link is exterior styling, but indications from concepts such as the LF LC show that Lexus will be sharpening that even further. The GS blows by cars like the 2013 Infiniti M and surpasses segment stalwarts like the 2013 Mercedes Benz E Class. Its right up there with the best of Bavaria the 2013 Audi A6 and 2013 BMW 5 Series. If youre in the mid size segment, you absolutely owe it to yourself to try out the GS with an open mind its that good.
http://carjake.com/2013-lexus-gs-350-review
10-22-12, 10:09 PM
#427
Pole Position
2013 Lexus GS350 F Sport: Ridelust Review
PRO’s: Great brakes, superb interior, handling and a media center that is one of the best in the business.
CON’s: High price, could use a bit more grunt.
FINAL THOUGHT: A fantastic automobile that proves Lexus is committed to building one of the best premium sports sedans money can buy.
Full Review : http://www.ridelust.com/2013-lexus-g...delust-review/
PRO’s: Great brakes, superb interior, handling and a media center that is one of the best in the business.
CON’s: High price, could use a bit more grunt.
FINAL THOUGHT: A fantastic automobile that proves Lexus is committed to building one of the best premium sports sedans money can buy.
Braking is another high point as the car features 14-inch, two-piece front rotors with four-piston calipers. Never once while pushing the car through repeated hard stops did I get any fade through the pedal. In fact the brakes on the F Sport are some of the best I’ve tested in quite some time
This car was equipped with the F Sport package with additional options that added $9,805.00 to the cars already stout $46,900.00 base price, bringing our total, with destination to just under $58,000.00. That’s a big nut no doubt, but in that nut you’re getting what is one of the nicest, most well-rounded sport sedans on the market.
This car was a pleasant surprise as I wasn’t expecting it to be this good. You see Lexus’s of the past were always somewhat stodgy. They were the grown-up car that was trying to stay cool by hanging out with the younger crowd and in turn, they never really fit in. This new car though, the F Sport in particular, not only fits in, but may in fact be setting the trends for cars in this segment moving forward.
Job well done Lexus.
Job well done Lexus.
10-22-12, 11:11 PM
#428
Lexus Test Driver
2013 Lexus GS350 F Sport: Ridelust Review
PRO’s: Great brakes, superb interior, handling and a media center that is one of the best in the business.
CON’s: High price, could use a bit more grunt.
FINAL THOUGHT: A fantastic automobile that proves Lexus is committed to building one of the best premium sports sedans money can buy.
Full Review : http://www.ridelust.com/2013-lexus-g...delust-review/
PRO’s: Great brakes, superb interior, handling and a media center that is one of the best in the business.
CON’s: High price, could use a bit more grunt.
FINAL THOUGHT: A fantastic automobile that proves Lexus is committed to building one of the best premium sports sedans money can buy.
Full Review : http://www.ridelust.com/2013-lexus-g...delust-review/
Kudos, natnut, for finding all these awesome reviews!
10-29-12, 10:55 AM
#429
Pole Position
Video Review of the GS450h by drivingsports.com :
http://www.mevio.com/episode/321523/...73&action=play
At the end of the review, the reviewer was asked to choose between the GS450h (non F-Sport version) and the 2012 Audi A7 3.0T which was several thousands cheaper and the GS450h won out.
FYI, the same reviewer really really loved the Audi A7 in a previous video review :
http://www.mevio.com/episode/310173/...oadtrip-review
http://www.mevio.com/episode/321523/...73&action=play
At the end of the review, the reviewer was asked to choose between the GS450h (non F-Sport version) and the 2012 Audi A7 3.0T which was several thousands cheaper and the GS450h won out.
FYI, the same reviewer really really loved the Audi A7 in a previous video review :
http://www.mevio.com/episode/310173/...oadtrip-review
11-02-12, 06:11 AM
#430
Pole Position
Lexus GS450h (2012 onwards) : MSN UK Review
Review of the GS450h from a European Perspective :
Lexus GS450h (2012 onwards)
New high performance hybrid offers pace and grace in equal measure
.
Full Article : http://cars.uk.msn.com/reviews/lexus...2012-onwards-1
Lexus GS450h (2012 onwards)
New high performance hybrid offers pace and grace in equal measure
If you enjoy driving, this is by far the best Lexus we've ever sampled - excepting the bonkers, BMW M3-rivalling IS-F - while for those of you who prefer simply sitting, the interior is really quite stunning as well. The new GS demands a serious look.
As Toyota's premium brand, Lexus has always emphasised luxury and refinement over handling and performance, but if you tend towards the former you can now get a much more satisfying experience of the latter with this new GS450h.
Long journeys pass with little effort - helped by the prodigious power available under you right foot. We went from this into an Audi RS4 and back again, and honestly didn't find the Lexus wanting for much. It's got substantial, urgent punch.
Trotting along in this Lexus, it probably wouldn't matter if no-one else noticed you, such is the quality of the cabin - which manages to feel special without being over the top, and comes with almost every bell and whistle you could possibly ask for. There's plenty of space front and rear, too.
But as it happens, people do notice it, and it seems the designers have done a great job of creating a car that exudes class without appearing overly flashy. It's clearly different - in a good way. It commands respect, rather than envy.
But as it happens, people do notice it, and it seems the designers have done a great job of creating a car that exudes class without appearing overly flashy. It's clearly different - in a good way. It commands respect, rather than envy.
There's an awful lot to like about this new Lexus GS450h. The interior is absolutely spot on as an alternative to the Germans while still offering a great depth of quality and some brilliant details. The driving experience is cultured, refined, yet far from remote. It has presence, and grace.
As a cutting edge substitute to the humdrum legion of diesel rivals, and by far the most convincing hybrid solution in its class we've tested so far, the GS450h is good enough to make you wonder if petrol isn't a sensible solution after all
As a cutting edge substitute to the humdrum legion of diesel rivals, and by far the most convincing hybrid solution in its class we've tested so far, the GS450h is good enough to make you wonder if petrol isn't a sensible solution after all
Full Article : http://cars.uk.msn.com/reviews/lexus...2012-onwards-1
11-10-12, 05:48 AM
#431
Lead Lap
Thread Starter
LapTopMag
4 out of 5 *s
Pros: Massive 12.3-inch display; App Suite brings full smartphone functionality to you car; Gorgeous exterior and interior; Good gas mileage for V6; Intuitive Park Assist feature; Exhilarating yet quiet ride
Cons: Finicky Enform controller; Blind Spot Monitor can be distracting in heavy traffic; Enform App Suite requires monthly subscription
The Verdict: Lexus' 2013 GS 450h packs an enormous 12.3-inch display and the company's Lexus App Suite into a hybrid that will leave your friends green with envy.
Luxury cars are generally the best place to turn when you're looking to get your hands on the latest in in-car technology. Case in point: Lexus' $58,950 ($68,007 as tested) GS450h. This hybrid luxury sedan features a ginormous 12.5-inch display, multiple drive modes and smartphone connectivity, complete with its own app suite. We haven't seen a car packed with this much technology since the last Transformers movie. So is the GS the best teched-out luxury sedan money can buy? Check it out.Pros: Massive 12.3-inch display; App Suite brings full smartphone functionality to you car; Gorgeous exterior and interior; Good gas mileage for V6; Intuitive Park Assist feature; Exhilarating yet quiet ride
Cons: Finicky Enform controller; Blind Spot Monitor can be distracting in heavy traffic; Enform App Suite requires monthly subscription
The Verdict: Lexus' 2013 GS 450h packs an enormous 12.3-inch display and the company's Lexus App Suite into a hybrid that will leave your friends green with envy.
Design
Lexus GS 450h (2013)Click to EnlargeFrom its pinched chrome grill and Nike swoosh-style LED daytime running lights to its wide fender flares and swept back greenhouse, the Lexus GS450h is a gorgeous example of what a teched-out luxury car should look like. Outside, it exudes power and aggression. Inside, it offers a refined beauty from the analog clock in its dash to its over-the-top backseat media center controller that folds out of the middle armrest.
The GS's hood rises on the sides and dips in the center, giving it the look of coiled viper ready to strike. Its body panels are a little bland for a car that's so beautiful up front, but Lexus more than makes up for it around back with large tail light covers that shrink as they draw closer to the GS's centerpoint.
Our GS's plush seats were swaddled in a cream-colored leather that nicely matched the bamboo wood trim around the steering wheel and lining the dash. If you're disappointed when you slip behind the driver's seat of this car, you better check your pulse.
Infotainment
Lexus GS 450h (2013)Click to EnlargeDuring our week with the GS450h we had several different people hop into the car's passenger seat, and, invariably, the first thing to grab our guests' attention was the seemingly endless expanse of the Lexus' massive 12.3-inch 1280 x 480-pixel display. Part of the GS450h's Enform system, the sceen is the second-largest factory-installed in-dash panel on the market. The only thing larger than the Lexus' screen is the 17-inch display found in the Tesla Model S, and that screen takes up the entirety of the Tesla's center.
In addition to its massive screen, the GS 450h also sports a smaller display mounted in the center of the instrument panel that provided us with crucial vehicle information, like tire pressure, average miles per gallon, miles per hour and even when the gas or electric engines were powering the wheel stack.
It's not just the 12.3-inch display size that draws your attention, though. It's the way Lexus uses it that impressed us. Lexus devised a split-screen system that breaks the display into 2 sections, with the majority of the screen dedicated to your main information panel, and the remaining 1/3 used as an auxiliary control area that gives you quick access to Enform's media and climate controls and general system information.
To navigate the system, drivers use a mouse-like controller situated to the right of the gear selector in the GS450h's center console. To make using the controller feel more ergonomically sound, Lexus places a leather-coated (of course) forearm rest that you can lean on while manipulating the controller.
Although we appreciated the haptic feedback the controller offered as we glided the onscreen pointer through different menus and settings, we found it to be overly sensitive. On multiple occasions, we found ourselves repeatedly passing over our intended target. We also noted that the controller didn't return to its centerpoint automatically, which meant we had to move it back to the center and to the right again if we wanted to move to the far right side of the screen.
Maps and Navigation
AboEnform controller, located within reach of your fingers, are a dedicated Menu button and a Map/Voice button. The Map/Voice button was especially useful while using the navigation system, as it would automatically center the map on our vehicle's location and provide us with audible route directions. The Menu button takes you to the Enform home screen, where you can choose from the system's various options. including Destination, Info/ Apps, Setup, Radio, Media, Climate and Phone.
From the Destination menu, you can enter an address, search previous destinations, locate points of interest and use Lexus' Destination Assistance service to help you locate specific businesses. Once an address is entered, you have the option of choosing from several different map layouts, including a turn-by-turn list and intersection list. With the turns list, the display is divided into 3 sections, 1 with the map view, 1 with the turns list and the last with the Enform auxiliary control panel. Looking at all of this information at once can be overwhelming at first, but we quickly became acclimated to it.
Satellite and Audio
From the Info/Apps menu, you can also access the GS450h's XM Traffic, XM Sports, XM NavWeather, XM Stocks, XM Fuel Prices, Traffic Incidents and Fuel Consumption options. XM Sports provides you with the ability to add your favorite sports teams to a scrollable list that highlights a team's name when it is playing a game. Select the team name and you'll be provided with the XM station broadcasting the game. Unfortunately, when we selected the game, there was no way to immediately take us to the designated station. Instead, we had to remember the name of the station and enter it into the radio.
XM NavWeather provides the 3-day forecast for your area as well as a doppler radar image of the United States. The radar image, however, isn't very sharp and displayed storm systems as green blobs.
Enform's Radio and Media menus both take users to the GS450h's audio setup, where you can listen to terrestrial and XM Sirius satellite radio, stream music via Bluetooth and USB, access the auxiliary port, or just listen to a CD. We preferred streaming music via our Droid's Bluetooth connection since we could connect up to 5 separate devices.
Pairing our phone with the Lexus was rather straightforward. We activated our handset's Bluetooth connection, set the Enform system to discover, and paired the devices. From the phone menu you can quickly access your connected smartphone to see your contacts and recent calls.
Voice control options, accessible via a steering wheel mounted control, let us dictate any number of orders to the GS, including addresses, specific bands we wanted to listen to and more.
Enform Apps
While the Enform system and its gargantuan display are impressive, it's the Enform App Suite that is unequivocally the star of the Lexus GS450h's tech showcase. To use the system you must download the accompanying Android or iOS Lexus Enform app and sign up for a $7 monthly subscription service. This service allows you access apps such as Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTablet, Pandora, Yelp and Facebook Place. Lexus conveniently includes all of the available apps in the Enform suite, so you won't have to download them separately.
To use the Enform App Suite, sync your phone with the GS450h via Bluetooth and open the Enform app on your phone. The Lexus Enform logo will then cover your phone's screen, preventing you from accessing your handset while driving. Each of the apps function as they would on your smartphone, although some to a greater degree than others.
Bing, for example, allows you to perform local searches for up to 16 million points of interest. Once you find a location, you can either place a call directly from the Bing app via your connected smartphone, or send directions to the Enform's navigation feature. The Facebook Places app, meanwhile, allows users to check into locations like stores, restaurants or other public venues. iHeartRadio, Movietickets.com, Pandora, OpenTable and Yelp are nearly unchanged from their standard smartphone versions.
Before using Enform App Suite, users should check to see if their smartphones can support the system, via Lexus' convenient compatibility feature at Lexus.com. It's also advisable to use a phone with a 4G data connection to power the suite rather than a slower 3G connection. With our Droid X, which is only capable of using 3G connectivity, we noticed a significant amount of lag when trying to access different features within various apps. With a 4G connection, lag wasn't an issue.
Safety
The Lexus GS450h offers several active and passive safety features. Like many new cars hitting the roads today, the GS450h comes equipped with a back-up camera that streams real-time video to the GS's 12.3-inch display to help prevent drivers from backing into or over objects. Unlike the backup camera used in vehicles by the likes of Ford, however, the guide gate that shows you how far you are from an object doesn't move with your steering inputs. Instead, it's stationary.
Our Lexus also came equipped with Intuitive Park Assist, which uses sensors located around the front and rear bumpers to detect objects within a certain distance from the car. Get too close and the Intuitive Park Assist sensor will begin beeping loudly. It's a great feature that is sure to help drivers who are less than experienced with parallel parking. When left on while driving, however, the feature can become bothersome, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Thankfully, Lexus had the presence of mind to include a dedicated button located in the center console for activating and deactivating this feature.
Like many of today's new vehicles, the Lexus GS450h also includes a Blind Spot Monitor that is capable of detecting vehicles and objects in your blind spot. When an object or car is detected, an amber icon will light up in the side view mirror closest to the obstruction. If you flip your turn signal on in the direction of the vehicle or object, the Blind Spot Monitor icon will begin rapidly flashing.
We found the system to be extremely useful while driving on highways and through heavily trafficked city streets, but like Intuitive Park Assist, the monitor can become overwhelming when stuck in stop-and-go traffic. Switching the feature off was as easy as pressing the dedicated Blind Spot Monitor Button located to the left of the steering wheel.
The Drive
The GS450h is the top dog of Lexus' GS line. It has the most horsepower (338 hp), and a good amount of torque (254 lb-ft), not to mention the highest price in the lineup, starting at $58,950. When packed with the Lexus Enform App Suite and various safety options, that price balloons to $68,007. So what puts the 450h at the top of the GS class? That would be its hybrid engine. Lexus outfitted the GS450h with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine and combined it with a 1.9-kWh nickel-metal hybrid battery and electric motor. The 2 powerhouses combine to give you a vehicle that, when pushed, will have you questioning how green it really is.
There are 4 drive modes available in the GS450h, each of which either help increase your miles per gallon or lower the time it takes to go from 0-60 MPH, 5.6 seconds according to Lexus. Changing modes is as simple as twisting the Drive Mode Select **** situated in the center console behind the gear selector. Turn the selector to the left and you'll put the GS into Eco mode, reducing throttle response and power output and cycling the HVAC system between recirculating air and drawing in fresh air.
When Eco mode is active, a backlight in the GS's instrument cluster will turn a cool Frost Blue and a Hybrid System Indicator will provide you with constant information on how much battery power you are using versus engine power and when the battery pack is charging.
Push down on the Drive Mode Select **** and the GS will enter Normal mode. The Hybrid System Indicator will stay in the instrument cluster, but the blue backlighting will slowly turn on and off based on how efficiently you're driving. We tended to use this mode for general driving.
The real fun starts when you twist the Drive Mode Select to the right and set the GS to Sport and Sport+ modes. In both modes, the soothing blue backlighting of the instrument panel and Hybrid System Indicator give way to testosterone-laden panel, complete with fiery red backlighting and a bright red-and-white tachometer. Engine mapping also changes to provide you with a more spirited drive, while Sport+ mode adds to that by tightening the GS450h's suspension. How often did we take advantage of Sport and Sport+ mode? We'd rather not say.
Of course, if you're more interested in saving gas, you can press the EV Mode button next to the Drive Mode Select. In this mode, the GS will run exclusively on battery power until either its reserves are drained or you reach a specific speed, at which point the gas engine will take over. While in EV Mode, we were able to cruise our quiet New Jersey neighborhood without making a sound.
Verdict
Lexus GS 450h (2013)Click to EnlargeFrom it's gorgeous design and beautiful interior to its 12.3-inch display and Enform Apps Suite, the Lexus GS450h is the kind of high-tech luxury ride most drivers dream of. Some of the safety features are a little oversensitive, but they will help keep you out of harm's way as you tear down the highway rocking out to Pandora. Step into this hybrid and you may never want to leave.
11-20-12, 03:50 AM
#432
Driver School Candidate
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: PA
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I really like my GS 350. It is one of the best driver's cars (sedan) I have ever owned. And it had the best seats of any car I have owned (18-way w/semi-aniline). But there quite a few things that irritate me. Things that make it seem like Lexus doesn't sweat the details anymore. Many of these things would add very little to no cost or weight. Here are my criticisms:
1. The moonroof sunshade has to be one of the cheapest I have ever seen in a car. It feels flimsy, and it doesn't even completely match the headliner. Lexus needs to make it more fitting to the class. Audi, MB, and Volkswagen all have air vents in theirs so that when the roof is tilted you don't have to open the sunshade to vent. BMWs will automatically open a bit when you tilt the roof. It is even power opening in the new 5-series. All of theirs look and feel MUCH higher quality.
2. The trunk lid hinge system is really cheap. When open, a good breeze is enough to close it on your head. There are no gas struts to soften when it pops up to fully open and to help hold it in place (the VW Jetta rental car I just had even had these). In all actuality, this car at nearly $60k should have a power trunk lid (the previous GS had a much better hinge system and it even had power close assist). Also, why isn’t the trunk unlocked when the rest of the car is unlocked (frustrating)?
3. Retained music (audio system) on until driver’s door is opened. I think most other cars have this.
4. Auto volume when vehicle turned on. If the last driver left the radio at full blast I don't want to get into the car and have a heart attack. All other cars I have owned in this class have a setting so that when you turn the car on the music is at a pre-set volume (customizable in some cars).
5. No center sun visor above the mirror. And it looks unfinished in that area. With the mirror base just glued on to the windshield and all those exposed sensors and wires. It just looks cheap. I use a piece of foam I wedge in there until I can find a more finished solution.
6. I do not like this cheap generic rearview mirror with the homelink buttons in it (exact same mirror as in a Kia!). My mirror already vibrates. The buttons are flat and not distinguishable. If pushed too hard it moves your mirror. The wire is even exposed! They look like the same mirrors as in non-premium brands. What was wrong with 3 well defined buttons on the overhead console that Lexus used to have; it's not because of the sunglass holder! This brings me to number 6…
7. Sunglass holder! Lexus’ used to have these.
8. The door armrests are too shallow and at a slope. Arm can't comfortably rest there.
9. No water bottle holder in door pockets and the door pockets don’t flip open. The IS 250 has these features. The cup holders in the console don’t hold water bottles securely.
10. No power fold-in mirrors. The Kia Optima has these.
11. The Mark Levinson won't even play DTS encoded DVDs or CDAs, which I have a lot of. My friend’s LS 460 will play these.
12. The navigation guidance volume should increase with radio volume (like my other cars). Or, the music volume could dim a bit whenever a voice command is given.
13. Why did Lexus get rid of the voice commands for the voice guidance volume (ie. “LOUDER” “SOFTER”)? You can no longer stop or pause guidance with voice commands. WAY too many confirmations required in this system!
14. I wish there was a back button for the remote touch controller (the one on the steering wheel doesn't work on a lot of screens).
15. I wish the F-sport had 16-way adjustable passenger seat (main reason I got the Luxury package).
16. I wish you could firm up the suspension without changing the throttle and transmission.
17. There is no real button for the pollen and dust filter (like there used to be). It’s not even available on the smaller split screen; you have to go into the main climate screen.
18. The cruise control does not work with the transmission in manual mode. This makes no sense to me. It’s almost like Lexus saying that if they made a manual transmission car they wouldn't give you cruise control.
19. Why can’t you scroll through all of your Pandora radio stations while driving??? I have to use my phone again when driving which totally defeats any safety benefit the app suite is supposed to provide.
20. I would like one 12v charging port to be hot while the car is off so I can charge an electronic device when I’m not in the car. All of my German cars have this, and not once have I come out to a dead battery because of it.
1. The moonroof sunshade has to be one of the cheapest I have ever seen in a car. It feels flimsy, and it doesn't even completely match the headliner. Lexus needs to make it more fitting to the class. Audi, MB, and Volkswagen all have air vents in theirs so that when the roof is tilted you don't have to open the sunshade to vent. BMWs will automatically open a bit when you tilt the roof. It is even power opening in the new 5-series. All of theirs look and feel MUCH higher quality.
2. The trunk lid hinge system is really cheap. When open, a good breeze is enough to close it on your head. There are no gas struts to soften when it pops up to fully open and to help hold it in place (the VW Jetta rental car I just had even had these). In all actuality, this car at nearly $60k should have a power trunk lid (the previous GS had a much better hinge system and it even had power close assist). Also, why isn’t the trunk unlocked when the rest of the car is unlocked (frustrating)?
3. Retained music (audio system) on until driver’s door is opened. I think most other cars have this.
4. Auto volume when vehicle turned on. If the last driver left the radio at full blast I don't want to get into the car and have a heart attack. All other cars I have owned in this class have a setting so that when you turn the car on the music is at a pre-set volume (customizable in some cars).
5. No center sun visor above the mirror. And it looks unfinished in that area. With the mirror base just glued on to the windshield and all those exposed sensors and wires. It just looks cheap. I use a piece of foam I wedge in there until I can find a more finished solution.
6. I do not like this cheap generic rearview mirror with the homelink buttons in it (exact same mirror as in a Kia!). My mirror already vibrates. The buttons are flat and not distinguishable. If pushed too hard it moves your mirror. The wire is even exposed! They look like the same mirrors as in non-premium brands. What was wrong with 3 well defined buttons on the overhead console that Lexus used to have; it's not because of the sunglass holder! This brings me to number 6…
7. Sunglass holder! Lexus’ used to have these.
8. The door armrests are too shallow and at a slope. Arm can't comfortably rest there.
9. No water bottle holder in door pockets and the door pockets don’t flip open. The IS 250 has these features. The cup holders in the console don’t hold water bottles securely.
10. No power fold-in mirrors. The Kia Optima has these.
11. The Mark Levinson won't even play DTS encoded DVDs or CDAs, which I have a lot of. My friend’s LS 460 will play these.
12. The navigation guidance volume should increase with radio volume (like my other cars). Or, the music volume could dim a bit whenever a voice command is given.
13. Why did Lexus get rid of the voice commands for the voice guidance volume (ie. “LOUDER” “SOFTER”)? You can no longer stop or pause guidance with voice commands. WAY too many confirmations required in this system!
14. I wish there was a back button for the remote touch controller (the one on the steering wheel doesn't work on a lot of screens).
15. I wish the F-sport had 16-way adjustable passenger seat (main reason I got the Luxury package).
16. I wish you could firm up the suspension without changing the throttle and transmission.
17. There is no real button for the pollen and dust filter (like there used to be). It’s not even available on the smaller split screen; you have to go into the main climate screen.
18. The cruise control does not work with the transmission in manual mode. This makes no sense to me. It’s almost like Lexus saying that if they made a manual transmission car they wouldn't give you cruise control.
19. Why can’t you scroll through all of your Pandora radio stations while driving??? I have to use my phone again when driving which totally defeats any safety benefit the app suite is supposed to provide.
20. I would like one 12v charging port to be hot while the car is off so I can charge an electronic device when I’m not in the car. All of my German cars have this, and not once have I come out to a dead battery because of it.
1. The buttons in the overhead console are not illuminated. After 3 years I still fumble in the dark to open or tilt the power moonroof. All while trying to keep my eyes on the road.
2. Why doesn't my Lexus tell me when I leave my fuel door open after filling up? I have driven away 3 times with the fuel door open only to have to pull over and shut it after noticing it sticking out in the driver's side mirror.
3. there are icons on the dash that tell me when my headlights are on but not when just my parking lights are on? Doesn't seem right.
4. When I pop the trunk, it never really opens and this has caused numerous scratches right below the trunk lid as I grab it to lift.
5. Would love to have power fold mirrors at least as an option? They stick out far being they are door and not post mounted.
6. I could not afford the NAV package so I am left with just the standard digital readouts for the climate and radio. They wash out completely with sunglasses on. The Optitron gauges on the other hand are absolutely gorgeous.
Other than those I love the car. I wanted to trade up for a GS but after the post from the gentleman about the issues he has I may second guess this. Thank you.
Last edited by imperial1; 11-20-12 at 03:54 AM. Reason: Typos
11-20-12, 08:58 PM
#433
My observations on your issues follow.
You can find nits to pick with any car. I bought my GS because of the way it looks, the interior, the way it drives and the way the ML sound system makes me feel when I crank it up. It is as close to perfect as cars come.
I am a new member and owna 2010 Lexus IS250 I purchased new in 2010. I am glad to say that I have one of a few rear wheel drive models here in the Western Pa with the 18" inch wheel and tire package. I love the car however I have gripes.
1. The buttons in the overhead console are not illuminated. After 3 years I still fumble in the dark to open or tilt the power moonroof. All while trying to keep my eyes on the road. The overhead buttons on the GS4 are illuminated, even the sunroof buttons.
2. Why doesn't my Lexus tell me when I leave my fuel door open after filling up? I have driven away 3 times with the fuel door open only to have to pull over and shut it after noticing it sticking out in the driver's side mirror. Sorry, I've only left the fuel door open with rental cars, rarely my own.
3. there are icons on the dash that tell me when my headlights are on but not when just my parking lights are on? Doesn't seem right. It's called the position of the stalk.
4. When I pop the trunk, it never really opens and this has caused numerous scratches right below the trunk lid as I grab it to lift. My trunk lid lifts all the way up and I have the F Sport spoiler.
5. Would love to have power fold mirrors at least as an option? They stick out far being they are door and not post mounted. I agree with you on the power folding mirrors, but it is what it is.
6. I could not afford the NAV package so I am left with just the standard digital readouts for the climate and radio. They wash out completely with sunglasses on. The Optitron gauges on the other hand are absolutely gorgeous. The HVAC screen on the GS4 is positioned so it can be easily seen in any light, and with polarized lenses.
Other than those I love the car. I wanted to trade up for a GS but after the post from the gentleman about the issues he has I may second guess this. Thank you.
1. The buttons in the overhead console are not illuminated. After 3 years I still fumble in the dark to open or tilt the power moonroof. All while trying to keep my eyes on the road. The overhead buttons on the GS4 are illuminated, even the sunroof buttons.
2. Why doesn't my Lexus tell me when I leave my fuel door open after filling up? I have driven away 3 times with the fuel door open only to have to pull over and shut it after noticing it sticking out in the driver's side mirror. Sorry, I've only left the fuel door open with rental cars, rarely my own.
3. there are icons on the dash that tell me when my headlights are on but not when just my parking lights are on? Doesn't seem right. It's called the position of the stalk.
4. When I pop the trunk, it never really opens and this has caused numerous scratches right below the trunk lid as I grab it to lift. My trunk lid lifts all the way up and I have the F Sport spoiler.
5. Would love to have power fold mirrors at least as an option? They stick out far being they are door and not post mounted. I agree with you on the power folding mirrors, but it is what it is.
6. I could not afford the NAV package so I am left with just the standard digital readouts for the climate and radio. They wash out completely with sunglasses on. The Optitron gauges on the other hand are absolutely gorgeous. The HVAC screen on the GS4 is positioned so it can be easily seen in any light, and with polarized lenses.
Other than those I love the car. I wanted to trade up for a GS but after the post from the gentleman about the issues he has I may second guess this. Thank you.
11-26-12, 04:20 AM
#434
Driver School Candidate
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: PA
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The headlight position on the stalk is blocked from view on the steering wheel on the IS. That is why there should be icons showing when your park/driving lights are on. The parts-bin cruise control lever that is the same for all Toyotas is too low to use and should be relocated to the steering wheel like all other manufacturers. Hopefully the 2014 IS will improve on what is already a good car.
11-26-12, 11:30 AM
#435
2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport: Quickly Closing In On The Benchmark
AutoBlog reviews the 2013 GS 350 F Sport
Full review:
http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/26/2...-sport-review/
AutoBlog reviews the 2013 GS 350 F Sport
The Lexus GS has been chasing the BMW 5 Series for more than two decades. This year, it may have finally leapfrogged its benchmark prey.
Lexus has done a fine job with its GS passenger cabin as it is roomy for up to five passengers and very comfortable. Gone is any hint of wrap-around styling, but the 90-degree panel angles are fresh, stylish and well... youthful. The primary instrument cluster, with its two large Optitron analog dials (tachometer and speedometer) and a TFT multi-function display, remains familiar. Not so for the truly massive 12-inch split-screen infotainment display on the center console. It is positively eye-opening, and in a very good manner.
A fine sport sedan is comfortable in the daily commute and luxurious on the open highway all while remaining competent in the canyons. We happily report that the 2013 Lexus GS 350 earns high marks in all three of those categories.
Our favorite drive mode, without question, was Sport S. Even though Normal mode felt plenty sporty (almost 'un-Lexus-like', truth be told), the Sport S setting provided much quicker steering response, better throttle feel and firm (but not abusive) shock damping. The ride was good, even in this aggressive setting, with cornering grip levels that were very high (the sticky tires wear a treadwear rating of just 140).
The GS 350 is considerably lighter than the BMW 535i (the German tips the scales at 4,090 pounds), and that pays dividends in the handling department. The BMW drives with a comparatively heavy feel while the Lexus comes across with a much more agile demeanor. Road feedback though the wheel isn't perfect, but effort and initial turn-in is spot-on. We'll go so far to say that the steering on the Lexus (in Sport S or Sport S+ mode) feels damn near go-kart quick. There was plenty to enjoy with the F Sport sedan, especially when zipping merrily through our favorite mountain roads.
The engine provided plenty of punch, and its throaty soundtrack just may be the best in its competitive segment (credit a new Helmholtz resonator and a retuned muffler). We never tired of hearing its full-throttle wail.
After a week in the driver's seat, the 2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport left us very impressed – so much so that we're now wondering if this particular enthusiast-tuned GS is a better sport sedan than the benchmark BMW 535i. Those are strong considerations, but the third-generation Japanese contender delivers quicker acceleration, more grip and a much more engaging driving experience. The BMW 5 Series is a fine automobile, but it appears that Lexus has finally managed to raise the all-important sport sedan bar just a bit higher.
Full review:
http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/26/2...-sport-review/