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:

    Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
    The Lexus IS models provide a sporty driving experience while also offering a supple, quiet ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension use high-strength steel and al ...

    Moon roof
    Use the overhead switches to open, close, and tilt the moon roof up and down. Opening and closing Standard type 1. Open. The moon roof stops slightly before the fully opened position. Push th ...

    Luxury Options
    The customer can "layer" luxury in the Lexus ES 350 by adding the Ultra-Luxury Package, or by selecting from a number of standalone options which include heated and ventilated front seat ...