What is it?

Now nearing the end of its third generation, the GS slots in above the sporty IS and below the luxury-laden LS. It’s sized about like the tremendously popular ES 350, but the GS offers rear-wheel-drive and a much higher price tag – not to mention the optional V8 seen in our tester.

Its basic style is derivative of the original Giugiaro-penned 1991 GS300 (a rebadged Toyota Aristo), but the latest car was introduced for 2006. Smoother and suaver than the second-generation GS – notable for its Shakespearean “Something wicked this way comes” ad campaign – the S190-platform car retains the two-engine configuration of its predecessor.

As enthusiasts, we jumped at the range-topping GS 460 with its 342-horsepower 4.6-liter V8. A hybrid – dubbed GS 450h – was briefly on offer before sluggish sales forced its removal from the North American market.

    See also:

    Lexus IS: The Details
    For 2011, the Lexus IS gets a minor facelift that updates the car’s exterior, interior, adds a new F Sport package and brings a first for the IS lineup: an all-wheel drive IS 350. With AWD competi ...

    Overhead console
    Overhead console The overhead console is useful for temporarily storing sunglasses and similar small items. CAUTION: Items that should not be left in the overhead console Do not leave glasses ...

    Vehicle Details
    Interior Supple leather, brushed aluminum and beautiful polished woods decorate the 2011 Lexus GS's well-organized and luxuriously comfortable cabin. In a realm where typical Lexus levels of fit ...