The GS350, a Lexus mid-size luxury sedan improved in 2007 when the third generation GS 300 became the GS 350; the 350 indicating a 3.5 liter V-6 and 303 horsepower. More horsepower added to a decidedly luxuriant interior enhanced with an almost overdose of technology. The GS 350 is a great road trip car if your trip doesn’t include the adrenalin rush you get from a sport sedan.
The 2010 GS 350 will set you back $45,600 to $47,550 and comes with a 60º V-6 aluminum block and heads, 4 cams; 4 values per cylinder with dual variable value timing with intelligence (VVT-i).
Moving onto the freeway is no problem with a six-speed sequential-shift automatic electronically controlled transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) and 0 to 60 in 5.8 seconds. All wheel drive and rear wheel drive versions are available. Of course braking is also a necessary event and the 350 comes equipped with four-wheel power-assisted discs, with four-sensor, four-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and brake assist.
Coming standard on the GS 350 are 17 inch wheels, a moonroof, dual-climate control, xenon HID headlamps, leather upholstery, 10-speaker CD system, and Bluetooth. Also standard are memory settings for the comfort of driver and passenger. GS 350 options offered are: DVD navigation, a rearview camera, a Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system, the Pre-Collision accident preparedness system, adaptive cruise control and various wheel/tire upgrades.
The 2010 GS 350 is equipped with ten airbags throughout the cabin. The airbags used in tandem with seatbelts, i.e., The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) are placed in strategic locations to cushion victims of frontal or side collisions. The Lexus GS 350 includes: a dual-stage frontal airbag
system (SRS), driver and front passenger’s knee airbags (SRS), front- and rear-seat side curtain airbags (SRS) and front- and rear-seat mounted side airbags (SRS).
More From Lexus on the GS350:
Recently, I had the opportunity to spend some time behind the wheel of the 2010 GS350 and compare it to its primary rivals, the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes E-Class. Though mature in its production life-cycle, the GS is still able to hold its ground against these two formidable competitors. A sleeper within the Lexus fleet, in motion, the GS is more than what meets the eye on comparison spec sheets and gadgetry options lists! To make the GS even more attractive than what its sheet metal would suggest, the Western Area launched earlier this month, a series of support programs to increase affordability like never before! NOW is a great time to take advantage of this rare GS350 opportunity. The following are key points applicable to the GS350, 5-Series, and E-Class:
Lexus GS350:
• Boasts 303hp and 274lb-ft of smooth torque. A blend of performance and refinement is delivered with a relentless power rush and sophisticated exhilaration!
• A toy for the “kid-at-heart!” The GS’ acceleration is breathtaking and pins it occupants to their seats!
• Its design is sleek and sultry… The GS’ lines are guaranteed to make onlookers take notice! Envy isn’t always green!
• Guests can easily dress up their GS with accessories (F-Sport) for a more custom look.
• The GS’ interior is hauntingly silent as if an oasis. In comparison, both BMW and Mercedes feature obscene levels of wind and road noise.
• The ergonomics are practical with a modern and minimalist layout… There’s nothing in your way. Guests are only surrounded with driving necessities.
• The seats are exceptionally comfortable yet sporty.
• The GS is an excellent long range touring machine! Open roads will never be the same!
• BMW 5-Series has a base MSRP of $51,250. Mercedes E-Class bases at $48,600. Each vehicle comes less equipped than the GS. Many of their “options” are “standard” on GS!
GS Build & Special Programs:
• LB – GS350 Sedan: $48,240 – FW LS NV RF VS.
• LB – GS350 Sedan: $51,255 – FW LS MV RF RS SS VS WO.
• PTL – GS350 Sedan: $50,345 – LS NV RF RS VS WO.
• PTL – GS350 Sedan: $50,965 – CS LS NV RF RS VS WO.
• Special 24 month Lease: Tier 1+ .001 RCF.
• Special APR: 2.9% up to 60 months.
• One Pmt Credit on ‘10 models.
BMW 5-Series:
• The 5-Series’ engine requires twin turbo charging to develop power. A dated technique that also lends to potential turbo failure/burnout. It’s potentially an added long term cost to buyers.
• The 5-Series’ engine is also smaller at a mere 3.0 liters. As a result, the BMW must work harder and run at higher rpms to maintain speed. This increases fuel usage. Thus impacting the environment and fuel expenses.
• The 5-Series’ twin turbo-charged engine allows it to barely touch the GS350 with a 5.7 second “sprint” from 0-60mph.
• The navigation system is cumbersome and offers sub-par graphics. Its functionality is also less intuitive and fails in comparison to the GS’ [Gen 6] system.
Mercedes E-Class:
• The E-Class features an engine that is the same size as the GS350 (3.5L). However, due to antiquated technology, it only pumps out 268hp! The E-Class is also slower from 0-60mph than GS by an astonishing .7 seconds! In addition, the GS achieves explosive power and 18/25 city/hwy fuel economy compared to Mercedes’ 18/26 city/hwy economy with far less power and performance!
• Fit and finish on the E-Class is less refined. Its “to the touch” sensations lack the GS’ finesse. In addition, our test vehicle experienced a sliding wood trim-piece became detached. The GS’ interior is snug like a glove yet is still a testament to superior quality of materials and workmanship!
• Though rear folding seats are available on the E-Class, they lend themselves to squeaks and rattles over the course of the vehicle’s life.
• A coupe is available, however, its based on the less luxurious C-Class sedan. Driving the “E” sedan and coupe back-to-back quickly revealed “cut corners…” NOTE: Though GS isn’t offered as a coupe, its sibling, the “IS” is! It exemplifies extraordinary craftsmanship, comfort, and performance compared to the 2010 E-Class Coupe.
