Lexus has just enhanced their GS sedan range with the new GS 460 model, slightly out-powering the GS 450h hybrid to claim top rank in the lineup. The 4.6-litre LS-derived V8 engine brings a notable power increase with it--generating 342 horsepower. That's an increase of 52 ponies over the optional 4.3-litre unit it replaces, which, interestingly, made less horsepower than the smaller 3.5-litre V6.
Electrifying elegance- 8 cylinders, 8 gears
The new engine is hooked up with an 8-speed automatic transmission, jammed into one of Japan's slickest sedans and sent out the door to do battle with the likes of the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-Class, Acura TL and Cadillac STS.
The powertrain is magnificent--deceptively quiet and baby-backside smooth with a hint of V8 burble entering the cabin when pushed. When called upon, it rockets the GS along fiercely with a free-breathing character and exciting surge of thrust as the revs climb. It's not as meaty sounding as some may wish, though the quiet power delivery is just as impressive.
The 8-speed gearbox poses no notable change in feel over a conventional unit with a few less cogs. More gear choices are available for any given driver action, meaning there's almost always an instant and satisfying reaction to throttle inputs. Shifts range from smooth and firm to purely imperceptible depending on the drivers mood, though quicker, more obedient responses to manual mode shift requests would have been appreciated.
The GS 460's near silence and velvety torque recalls its hybrid-powered brother-model to mind in certain situations. Total mileage averaged about 11L/100 km of premium fuel in heavy-footed city and highway driving--very reasonable given the available power. All GS 460 models drive the rear wheels.
Posh appointments
Lexus's GS is perhaps one of a few premium sedans with an interior that begs to be touched. An opulent selection of materials and textures intricately blend into one another, and stitched leather covers just about anything you may wind up touching. Everything inside is warm and inviting to the eyes and fingertips.
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| Assembly quality is sufficient to compete with the world's best. |
Electrifying elegance- 8 cylinders, 8 gears
The new engine is hooked up with an 8-speed automatic transmission, jammed into one of Japan's slickest sedans and sent out the door to do battle with the likes of the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-Class, Acura TL and Cadillac STS.
The powertrain is magnificent--deceptively quiet and baby-backside smooth with a hint of V8 burble entering the cabin when pushed. When called upon, it rockets the GS along fiercely with a free-breathing character and exciting surge of thrust as the revs climb. It's not as meaty sounding as some may wish, though the quiet power delivery is just as impressive.
The 8-speed gearbox poses no notable change in feel over a conventional unit with a few less cogs. More gear choices are available for any given driver action, meaning there's almost always an instant and satisfying reaction to throttle inputs. Shifts range from smooth and firm to purely imperceptible depending on the drivers mood, though quicker, more obedient responses to manual mode shift requests would have been appreciated.
The GS 460's near silence and velvety torque recalls its hybrid-powered brother-model to mind in certain situations. Total mileage averaged about 11L/100 km of premium fuel in heavy-footed city and highway driving--very reasonable given the available power. All GS 460 models drive the rear wheels.
Posh appointments
Lexus's GS is perhaps one of a few premium sedans with an interior that begs to be touched. An opulent selection of materials and textures intricately blend into one another, and stitched leather covers just about anything you may wind up touching. Everything inside is warm and inviting to the eyes and fingertips.
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| The new engine is hooked up with an 8-speed automatic transmission. |