The 2008 Lexus GS makes its mark with sense as well as speed, restraint as well as luxury. Although it's easy to think of it as an alternative to an Audi, BMW or Mercedes-Benz, the Lexus GS embraces an entirely different set of values.
Lexus itself has promoted the phrase "L-finesse" to define its way of crafting an automobile, an example of market-speak that gets right to the heart of the 2008 Lexus GS. This sport sedan is meant to be dynamic, yet free of gimmicks. It is meant to combine precision with lavish, luxurious appointments. It is meant to deliver a high standard of automotive performance, yet be easily intuitive to drive. Amazing examples of automotive technology are included as standard equipment, yet the driver is never aware of them. The Lexus GS does everything you ask, and yet it always feels effortless.
The third-generation Lexus GS came to market for 2006, a showcase of Toyota's most advanced technology. It arrived with more computing power than some third-world countries and a standard of luxury usually enjoyed only in the best zip codes. The GS was further improved for 2007. For 2008, it gets a new, much-improved V8 engine.
The 2008 GS 460 replaces the previous GS 430. The new V8 is a 4.6-liter that makes 342 horsepower, 52 more than last year's 4.3-liter V8. It is also now mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces a six-speed. For added performance, the transmission includes a sport mode that enables you to manually make sequential shifts with the console-mounted gear lever.
There's also a hybrid: The GS 450h combines the 3.5-liter V6 with an electric motor for improved power and fuel economy.
The 2008 GS 350 features a 303-hp, 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic with manual shift gate. All-wheel drive is available.
Other 2008 changes include a revised front fascia, a new chrome grille surround, the addition of side-mirror turn signals, and new wheels designs. On the inside, all GS models get a revised instrument panel, a brushed aluminum shift plate surround, and wood trim door switch plates.
Rear-wheel drive is what makes the GS a driver's car. Front-wheel drive is never as sporting. All-wheel drive is also available and is beneficial in foul weather. The all-wheel-drive models feature a fast-acting, clutch-type center differential that sends 70 percent of the power to the rear wheels under normal circumstances to help foster the dynamics of a rear-wheel-drive car. When wheel sensors detect slippery road conditions, as much as 50 percent of engine power is diverted to the front wheels to increase the car's overall traction on the road.
Any version of the GS is a luxurious car with a strong engine and surprisingly capable handling. Also surprising is the fact that ride quality suffers with the available 18-inch wheels; Lexuses are usually pillow soft. Tall drivers might want to avoid the GS and so will those who need to haul cargo on a regular basis. But, if you're in the market for a midsize luxury/sport sedan, the GS is a fine choice and the hybrid model offers unique combination of performance and fuel economy.
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