Today we consider the Lexus GS model, which has been around for an impressive fifteen years in the automotive world. However, this isn’t a eulogy for the popular sedan or an ode to eagerly anticipate the GS update. Instead, this is a story about the all-wheel-drive Lexus GS 350 AWD.
Lexus GS 350 Visually
Despite gaining new qualities, it remains visually unchanged. The car’s exterior doesn’t aim for youthfulness or excitement. Instead, it gracefully bears the wisdom of experience. This car remembers all the lessons from its wise mentors and maintains excellent form (more on that later). However, the recklessness of youth is gone, and it’s for the best; one can’t rely solely on youthfulness. Its high status and rich heritage are evident at a glance.Moreover, this car has become an example for many relatives aspiring to follow its path. The new era of Lexus design began with the GS.
Inside, one can see how it has grown weary of its disciplined past. Having reached a certain status in the automotive world, it has surrounded itself with maximum comfort. The interior embodies a sense of “classic” luxury, featuring an impressive Mark Levinson audio system, navigation, and comfortable leather seats. Tasteful wood inserts throughout exude luxury and style. The instrument panel is beautifully designed and highly informative with easy-to-read gauges.
Specifications for Lexus GS 350
The all-wheel-drive version differs from the regular one, but the distinctions aren’t immediately apparent. The thickening of the central tunnel on the driver’s side signifies the presence of an all-wheel-drive transmission.
Under the hood, our car boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 307 hp and a maximum torque of 372 Nm at 4800 rpm.
One of the main advantages of this engine is its fuel efficiency, achieved with two fuel injectors in each cylinder: one for the intake manifold and the other for the combustion chambers. Despite its power, the fuel consumption is quite reasonable, around 14-15 liters of Ai-95 per 100 km in city traffic and even better on the highway at around 9 liters when cruising at 100 km/h. Pushing the speed to 140-150 km/h increases fuel consumption to around 10-11 liters.
The GS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, a commendable result. However, its maximum speed is limited to 190 km/h, as Japanese engineers prioritized transmission protection from critical stress over top speed.
Regarding the all-wheel drive, 60% of torque is directed to the rear axle, making the car well-behaved with no skidding or slipping tendencies, as the electronics promptly prevent any possible loss of control.
For those seeking excellent dynamic characteristics and a sporty element in the suspension mode switch (Sport or Comfort), the GS is the ideal choice. It offers smooth rides on rough roads without discomfort, regardless of the engine’s RPM. While not flashy or adrenaline-pumping, we find the GS to be a good, reliable, and comfortable car—a road warrior that has undoubtedly grown wiser and more experienced.