For over 30 years, the Lexus GS represented a refined blend of luxury, performance, and reliability in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. However, after four generations and a significant presence in the market, Lexus bid farewell to the GS in 2020. While it never quite reached the same level of mainstream success as its German counterparts, the GS built a loyal following among enthusiasts who appreciated its balance of comfort and driving dynamics.
The Legacy of the Lexus GS
The Lexus GS made its debut in 1993, based on the Toyota Aristo, a high-performance luxury sedan available in Japan. With its strong engineering roots, the GS quickly gained recognition as a formidable competitor to the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Each subsequent generation refined the formula, offering more powerful engines, improved technology, and a more luxurious interior.
First Generation (1993-1997): The Introduction
The first-generation Lexus GS 300 featured a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing a respectable 220 horsepower. While it didn’t boast overwhelming performance, it was praised for its smooth ride, high-quality interior, and reliability. The car set the foundation for what would become a revered model within the Lexus lineup.
Second Generation (1998-2005): The Enthusiast’s Choice
One of the most beloved GS generations, the second-generation (S160) model, was offered with both a naturally aspirated inline-six and a 4.3-liter V8. However, enthusiasts particularly admired the JDM counterpart, the Toyota Aristo, which came equipped with the legendary twin-turbocharged 2JZ-GTE engine—the same powerplant found in the Toyota Supra MK4. This generation cemented the GS as a desirable option for performance-minded drivers who valued luxury.
Third Generation (2006-2011): A Balance of Luxury and Sport
The third-gen GS received a complete design overhaul, featuring a more aerodynamic body, improved driving dynamics, and an even more refined interior. The GS 350 and GS 430 provided ample power, but the introduction of the GS 450h hybrid marked Lexus’ commitment to combining performance with fuel efficiency. A new all-wheel-drive system improved handling, making the GS a well-rounded competitor in the luxury sedan market.
Fourth Generation (2012-2020): The Last Hurrah
The final iteration of the GS pushed the model’s styling and performance to new heights. Featuring aggressive body lines, a modernized interior, and advanced technology, the GS sought to remain relevant in a changing automotive landscape. The high-performance GS F, launched in 2015, showcased Lexus’ most thrilling take on the GS yet.
Saying Goodbye to the Lexus GS F (Until We Can Afford One…)
The Lexus GS F was the ultimate sendoff for the GS nameplate. Powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter 2UR-GSE V8 engine producing 467 horsepower and 389 lb-ft of torque, the GS F delivered a pure, unfiltered driving experience rarely found in modern luxury sedans. Unlike many of its competitors, which had transitioned to turbocharged powertrains, Lexus remained committed to the naturally aspirated V8, giving the GS F a distinct character.
A True Performance Sedan
The GS F featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, and a torque-vectoring differential, allowing it to handle corners with impressive precision. It wasn’t just about straight-line speed—the GS F was engineered to deliver an engaging driving experience reminiscent of classic performance sedans.
Why Did Lexus Discontinue the GS?
Despite its rich history and enthusiastic fanbase, the GS struggled to maintain strong sales in its later years. By 2019, Lexus sold only 3,378 GS models compared to over 50,000 units of the more affordable, front-wheel-drive Lexus ES. With the shift in consumer preferences toward SUVs and crossovers, Lexus decided to discontinue the GS lineup in favor of focusing on higher-volume models.
A Future Classic?
As time passes, the Lexus GS F is poised to become a highly sought-after collector’s car. With naturally aspirated V8s becoming increasingly rare, the GS F represents a dying breed of performance sedans. For enthusiasts who appreciate a well-built, high-revving luxury sports sedan, the GS F will undoubtedly remain on many wish lists.
For now, we bid farewell to the Lexus GS and GS F—two remarkable sedans that blended refinement with performance in a way few others could. Perhaps one day, when depreciation works in our favor, we’ll finally get behind the wheel of a GS F and experience its exhilarating drive once again.