2013 Lexus GS 350 Review and Test Drive

Hotel, Airline, Dining, Car and Tech Reviews

By Eva Leonard on 19 January 2012

ENGINE, FUEL ECONOMY, AND SAFETY FEATURES

With 306 hp @ 6,400 rpm, the V-6 GS 350 provides three more horsepower than the current generation, and has torque of 277 lb.-ft @ 4,800 rpm. Paddle shifters on all models make upshifting and downshifting faster, and high-tensile steel helps reduce body flex. The new Adaptive Variable Suspension system controls all four shocks simultaneously to manage heave and suspension.

The GS 450H’s fuel consumption is expected to be improved by 35%. Although the Hybrid is extremely quiet when in electric mode, when it switches to gas, it sounds (and feels) very powerful.

The GS 350’s safety options are significant. If you veer out of your lane, Lane Keep Assist (optional) will steer you back in, but you do have to keep your hands on the steering wheel in order for it to do so. A new tire pressure warning system as well as a blind spot monitoring system are also offered.

One of the most impressive developments, however, is the Night View Closed-Eye Detection system, which will map the driver’s eyelids, and warn if they start drooping. (It even works if the driver is wearing glasses, but cannot work if the driver’s hair is covering his or her eyes, à la Justin Bieber or Veronica Lake.)

Tech features include Bluetooth phone capability and a navigation system with a 12.3-inch screen that allows split-screen viewing of a map display plus other information. One key improvement: Now the navigation system stays on the screen when you get a phone call.

The optional navigation system will also have access to the Lexus Enform Application Suite, which is supported on Android, Blackberry and iPhone. Users can search using Bing or use voice-activated apps including OpenTable and MovieTickets.com. (The apps only work if your phone is with you.)

The Lexus GS 350 has clearly been designed for drivers who like to feel a sense of optimum control and connection when driving, while ensconced in a roomy, comfortable cabin. Mission accomplished.

(Photos: Daniel Souza)

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