“The Lexus GS F is undeniably one of the most iconic vehicles of the brand’s history! Like a reserved bottle of wine, it ages well.” – 360 MAGAZINE
By Anthony Sovinsky × Vaughn Lowery
The ‘F’ marquee represents the high performance division of vehicles engineered by Lexus. The 2019 Lexus GS F has earned its right through rigorous testing to bear the weight of the ‘F’ stamp of approval. It’s graceful design and superior performance are on par with the BMW M Models and Mercedes-AMG line.
Design
The GS F is only in its third season, yet it’s overall traits are retro while still embodying Lexus’s luxurious appeal. The side profiles are simple – no excess vents or useless lines. At the front, there’s a gradual growth in aggressiveness which begins with fender cut-outs. The spindle grille is accompanied by two massive air ducts which lie beneath each Triple Beam LED headlamps. It has been masterfully carved to enhance aerodynamics with a 0.33 drag coefficient. The buttocks is the defining attribute on this sports sedan – clearly this car can deep squat. Reminiscent of its predecessors, however, this model has chrome quad exhaust pipes (diagonally stacked upon one another).
Our test model came well-equipped with the 10th Anniversary Package for an additional $5000 USD. It has several unique style upgrades inside and out. Only 100 units were produced in the United States. Exterior refinements include a matte Nebula Gray paint and 19” contrasting BBS 16-spoke wheels. Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires come standard along side of painted blue Brembo calipers and ‘F’ logo puddle lights.
Up front are a 16-way power adjustable driver and a 5-way adjustable passenger ‘F’ performance race-inspired seats. They encase passengers comfortably and firmly. An ‘F’ Sport steering wheel with racing ergonomics elegantly compliment the cabin. There’s electric blue carbon fiber along the door panels and dash coupled with alcantara door trim and armrest. Futhermore, there’s a F 10th Anniversary Limited medallion affixed just right above the blue shift knob.
Performance
Unlike its competition, commonly turbocharging and supercharging their vehicles to boast extra power, Lexus decided to implant a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 in the GS. It outputs 467 hp and 389 lb-ft of torque. Although it’s not outpowering it’s German counterparts, it offers a nostalgic feel with balanced performance and predictability. Its force is distributed through an 8-speed automatic transmission that is best experienced in SportS+ mode. One should take advantage of the paddle shifters and row the gears through their more spirited ranges, 4800 RPM and above.
This car exemplifies it’s athletic prowess on roads which test it’s balance. And, for those of us who don’t have access to a track, windy roads will serve. We drove through LA’s Mulholland Drive to PCH for a Sunday morning jaunt to Carr Winery in Santa Barbara for a tasting. Much to our surprise, the husky 4-door held its ground. The tires stuck around corners with great tenacity and body roll was almost absent. Moreover, the ventilated disc brakes with high friction pads were of great help in approaching turns. In gain, F Sport suspension with Ilachs-sourced shock absorbers kept the ride firm with little rebound in both Track and SLALOM modes.
Safety
Plenty of features are included to keep drivers as well as passengers safe and sound. Essential characteristics that came in handy are the following: smart stop technology, blind spot monitor with cross traffic alert, all-speed dynamic radar cruise control (for long drives), lane departure alert with steering wheel assist and lane keep assist (are great for driver fatigue). Lastly, Lexus Enform offers assistance if the vehicle is involved in accident or stolen. You can also communicate with an actual representative to send directions straight to the car while in motion. Finally, a car concierge for a sports sedan that confortably seats four.
Technology
As much as we enjoyed listening to the sweet serenade of the exhaust, the audio system is just as satisfying. Our version came with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system, with 835 watts of power ($1380 USD). It’s unquestionably one of the most powerful units its segment. In addition, there’s a 12.3-inch infotainment display that can be surfed with an armrest remote. To date, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are unavailable. However, music can be played from your phone while connected to Bluetooth and/or plugged into the USB port. And, for $900 you can opt for an in color heads-up display (HUD) that offers metrics such as the speed limit, current MPH/KMH and tachometer.
Conclusion
In short, the standard 2019 Lexus GS F is priced at $84,350 and the 10th Anniversary Edition retails around $93,250. For far less than its challengers, the GS F is an exotic with tons of intuitive amenities. A true head-turner and automotive beast.
For additional information on the LEXUS GS F go HERE.
