Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Buick launched its mid-size Regal sedan in late 2010 as a 2011 model, with the Turbo, high-performance GS and eAssist models following suit over the past year. Now, General Motors' tri-shield arm has announced a couple of powertrain updates that will go into effect for the 2013 model year, namely the discontinuation of the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-four in the base Regal.

For 2013, the Regal's standard engine is the 2.4-liter eAssit powerplant - a mill that, according to the EPA, is good for up to 36 miles per gallon on the highway. Buick pulled a similar stunt with its larger LaCrosse, killing off the base 2.4 in favor of the eAssist powertrain with a V6 available as a no-cost option. That said, Buick has not announced pricing for the updated 2013 Regal line, but we'll be interested to see if the 220-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-four of the Regal Turbo will be available at no additional cost.

The 270-hp Regal GS carries over largely unchanged, though as initially promised, a six-speed automatic transmission will now be optional. Buick states that the self-shifting unit will not hinder performance (well, except for that whole shift-on-your-own-terms thing), citing that the automatic-equipped Regal GS will sprint to 60 miles per hour in 6.7 seconds, just like manual-equipped cars.

Buick will release full pricing and availability for the 2013 Regal line later this year. In the meantime, read the full details for yourself in the press release below the fold.

Continue reading 2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS

2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick regal2013 buick regal gsbuickeassistgsregalregal gsTue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165854/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/20165854/article-detail.xml 20165854 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/03-2011-buick-regal-cxl-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/03-2011-buick-regal-cxl-review.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS unleashed in Super Bowl ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/2013-lexus-gs-unleashed-in-super-bowl-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/2013-lexus-gs-unleashed-in-super-bowl-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/2013-lexus-gs-unleashed-in-super-bowl-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lexus Super Bowl commercial

Lexus has a redesigned GS that it truly believes can compete with the likes of the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. So it's going where the eyeballs are with its marketing, ponying up for the brand's first-ever Super Bowl ad. Lexus' commercial is just a 30-second spot, joining the likes of Acura, Audi, Cadillac and other brands buying time during the big game.

Lexus is calling its ad, "The Beast," which calls to mind both President Obama's limo and the 2009 documentary by Eric Bana. The actual spot, however, has a rather hackneyed sci-fi theme: A GS350 is locked up in a shipping container sized cage in a lab, and uses its new "Lexus spindle grille" to break free in a destructive orgy of CGI.

Click past the jump to watch the whole ad.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS unleashed in Super Bowl ad

2013 Lexus GS unleashed in Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus gs 350gsgs 350gs350lexuslexus super bowllexus super bowl commercialsuper bowlsuper bowl commercialsuper bowl commercialsvideoTue, 31 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161054/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/2013-lexus-gs-unleashed-in-super-bowl-ad/20161054/article-detail.xml 20161054 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexus-beast-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lexus-beast-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS 450h [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2013-lexus-gs-450h-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2013-lexus-gs-450h-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2013-lexus-gs-450h-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lexus' Best Compromise Yet



Ever since the Prius unexpectedly became the Xerox of hybrids and a greenie icon, Toyota has been trying to figure out how to apply the technology to its other models. Its results have been decidedly mixed, nowhere more so than with its luxury lineup. But with the 2013 Lexus GS 450h, Toyota thinks it has finally figured out what a hybrid luxury car should be.

From a sales perspective, the first-generation GS 450h was a disappointment. While we liked it quite a bit when we test-drove it a couple years ago, Lexus just hasn't been able to move the metal. Introduced to much fanfare in 2006 as a 2007 model, the GS was Lexus' second hybrid and the first rear-wheel-drive hybrid on the market. Lexus touted it as a performance sedan, even as Toyota was heavily marketing its hybrids as fuel sippers. Whether consumers were confused or not, they never took to the hybrid GS. Sales peaked at just below 1,800 in that first year and have gone down in each successive year. In 2010, Lexus sold barely 300 GS hybrids, roughly four percent of total GS sales, which were about 7,000.

The cognitive dissonance presented by Lexus hybrids has been an issue since the brand launched its first, the 2006 RX 400h SUV. Only marginally more powerful than the standard RX, its improvement in fuel economy was similarly slight at launch. The LS 600hL - the brand's halo car before the LFA sports car came along - is a six-figure, 20-mile-per-gallon hybrid marketed as having V12 performance with V8 fuel economy, the rough equivalent of ordering a Diet Coke with your Super Size Big Mac Extra Value Meal. The "Lexus Prius" HS 250h, with neither particularly good fuel economy (35 mpg combined) nor any sporting aspirations, has been a critical and sales disaster and is rumored to be on the chopping block. While Toyota's simple, "better mileage" definition of its hybrids is clear, Lexus has combined green machine and muscle car in varying doses, such that you never quite know what you'll be getting with a gas-electric Lexus.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS 450h [w/video]

2013 Lexus GS 450h [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus gs 450hfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivegsgs 450hgs hybridgs450hhybridlexuslexus gstoyotaFri, 30 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20137444/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/30/2013-lexus-gs-450h-w-video/20137444/article-detail.xml 20137444 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/03-2013-lexus-gs-45h-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/03-2013-lexus-gs-45h-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus holds steady on price for redesigned GS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/lexus-holds-steady-on-price-for-redesigned-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/lexus-holds-steady-on-price-for-redesigned-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/lexus-holds-steady-on-price-for-redesigned-gs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Lexus GS

More proof that Lexus is a motivated seller when it comes to its 2013 GS 350: the base price of the rear-wheel drive model won't change from 2011. That means $46,900 (plus $875 handling) will put you into the comprehensively and vastly improved sedan - or, for any of you who might actually prefer the 2011, it means you can start licking your chops for a screaming deal. The all-wheel drive model, however, has gone up by a modest $600 to $49,450.

Underneath the redesigned styling of the 2013 GS 350 is a likewise redesigned chassis, suspension and interior that provide a much sportier ride and more room and luxury while enjoying it. Two packages called Premium and Luxury, as well as the F-Sport package, will fill it with further enhancements.

The price of the GS 450h will be revealed at a later date. For now, there's a press release with all the relevant info on the GS 350 after the jump.

Continue reading Lexus holds steady on price for redesigned GS

Lexus holds steady on price for redesigned GS originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 gs2013 lexus gs2013 lexus gs 350 f sport2013 lexus gs350gsgs 350gs 350 f sportgs350lexus gslexus gs 350Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20133314/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/22/lexus-holds-steady-on-price-for-redesigned-gs/20133314/article-detail.xml 20133314 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2013lexusgspricing_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2013lexusgspricing.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS 350]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/2013-lexus-gs-350-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/2013-lexus-gs-350-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/2013-lexus-gs-350-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If This Is The New Lexus, We Can Stop With The Pejoratives

2013 Lexus GS 350

So Lexus wants to be taken seriously now. Certainly the brand is a heavyweight - and has been since the moment it launched 22 years ago, changing the luxury market almost overnight. It's just had trouble garnering the respect of the cognoscenti, the car enthusiast types, the sorts of people who can see a pair of taillights flash by and identify year, make and model.

Lexus representatives are not shy about the issue, in part because it's hard to ignore years of critics calling your cars bland and soulless, while smirking, self-avowed "car guys" trade their BMW sedans in on new BMW sedans, even as they grumble about electronic nannies, iDrive and Chris Bangle.

That's why Lexus built the LFA supercar, say the company's flacks, who seem unnaturally willing to admit that previous models were lacking a certain something, having settled upon the word "emotion" as the politically correct way to describe what was wrong with this last generation of Lexus products. But the real reason behind such refreshing, if specious hindsight, is that the Lexus braintrust thinks it has the solution to winning over its detractors in the 2013 Lexus GS 350.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS 350

2013 Lexus GS 350 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus gs2013 lexus gs350featuredfirst driveFirstDrivegsgs350lexuslexus gs reviewWed, 23 Nov 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20112848/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/23/2013-lexus-gs-350-first-drive-review/20112848/article-detail.xml 20112848 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-lexus-gs-350-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-lexus-gs-350-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Smaller hybrid drivetrain coming to Lexus GS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/smaller-hybrid-drivetrain-coming-to-lexus-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/smaller-hybrid-drivetrain-coming-to-lexus-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/smaller-hybrid-drivetrain-coming-to-lexus-gs/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The flavors of Lexus GS on offer in Europe will differ slightly from those here: we will both get the GS 450h, but we'll only step down to the GS 350 for an entry-level model, while the Europeans will make do with a GS 250 housing a 2.5-liter V6. That smaller-capacity sedan is meant to challenge the BMW 520i and Mercedes E250, but Lexus is reportedly planning an even more frugal drivetrain for the UK to challenge even more popular competitors: diesel executive sedans.

The BMW 520d SE automatic gets 60.1 imperial miles per gallon combined, and the Audi A6 2.0T Multitronic gets 56.5 imperial mpg. According to Autocar, the estimated fuel economy for the 2.5-liter V6 in the 2012 GS 250 is just 35 imperial mpg. Giving up 20 mpg, even of those smaller English gallons, is a huge disadvantage.

But Lexus doesn't do diesels, so it's developing what is thought to be a four-cylinder lump hooked up to an electric motor, putting out 180 horsepower combined. That would put it right in between the BMW and Audi outputs, but fellow UK publication Auto Express suggests a 50 mpg rating, perhaps due to an almost-certain weight penalty. The exact details on the hybrid setup should come "imminently."

Smaller hybrid drivetrain coming to Lexus GS originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gsgs hybridlexuslexus gs 250lexus gs hybridWed, 23 Nov 2011 09:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20111008/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/23/smaller-hybrid-drivetrain-coming-to-lexus-gs/20111008/article-detail.xml 20111008 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013lexusgs350022_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013lexusgs350022.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus unveils GS 250 in Guangzhou]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/lexus-unveils-gs-250-in-guangzhou/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/lexus-unveils-gs-250-in-guangzhou/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/22/lexus-unveils-gs-250-in-guangzhou/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Lexus will launch the 2013 GS in 350 and 450h variants here in the United States, but elsewhere, buyers will be able to opt for an entry-level GS 250 - a vehicle that just made its debut at the Guangzhou Motor Show in China.

Much like the other 250-badged vehicles, the GS will be powered by a 2.5-liter V6 with direct-injection, producing 207 horsepower and 187 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Those aren't exactly breathtaking power figures by any means, but it allows the GS 250 to compete with the base four-cylinder BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class models offered in Europe. Running to 60 miles per hour will take 8.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 142 mph.

A Lexus spokesperson confirmed to Autoblog that the automaker currently has no plans to offer the GS 250 here in the United States. The car will go on sale in other markets in June of next year, right when the GS 450h launches. Follow the jump for the official press release.

Continue reading Lexus unveils GS 250 in Guangzhou

Lexus unveils GS 250 in Guangzhou originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus gs2013 lexus gs 250gsgs 250lexusTue, 22 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20112650/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/22/lexus-unveils-gs-250-in-guangzhou/20112650/article-detail.xml 20112650 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2012-lexus-gs-250628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-2012-lexus-gs-250628.jpg <![CDATA[The LFA-powered Lexus GS rumor that won't die]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/the-lfa-powered-lexus-gs-rumor-that-wont-die/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/the-lfa-powered-lexus-gs-rumor-that-wont-die/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/the-lfa-powered-lexus-gs-rumor-that-wont-die/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lexus GS F Sport

When society finally crumbles and the human race vanishes from the face of the Earth, the cockroaches will still be passing around certain automotive rumors. Their antennae will twitch with whispers of an independent-rear-suspension Mustang and a mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette. Now it appears that they'll have a new story to chew on. The rumor of the V10-powered Lexus GS simply refuses to die off. Autocar reports that Lexus has its eye on crafting a BMW M5 fighter, and that the vehicle will boast none other than aversion of the snarling V10 found at the heart of the Lexus LFA.

Don't get us wrong. The mere thought sends our saliva glands into overdrive, even if hopped-up GS would come packing 4.6 liters instead of 4.8 as Autocar suggests. The report claims that the reduced displacement would yield around 450 horsepower. Don't get too excited, though. All of this rumor-stoking appears to be based on the sole fact that shadowy figures inside Lexus have said that the company "would love" to build a high-performance V8. That's far from being carved in stone.

The LFA-powered Lexus GS rumor that won't die originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gslexuslexus gslexus lfalfav10v10 lexus gsMon, 21 Nov 2011 18:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20111628/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/21/the-lfa-powered-lexus-gs-rumor-that-wont-die/20111628/article-detail.xml 20111628 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/lexus-gs-f-sport-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/lexus-gs-f-sport-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 GS 350 F Sport brings a little edge to Lexus' midsizer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/2013-gs-350-f-sport-sema-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/2013-gs-350-f-sport-sema-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/2013-gs-350-f-sport-sema-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 GS 350 F Sport

Lexus pulled the sheets off of its 2013 GS 350 F Sport at SEMA 2011. The performance package helps give the luxury sedan some much-needed attitude with the addition of a more menacing front fascia. The changes aren't merely aesthetic, however. Lexus also substitute larger anti-roll bars for improved handling, as well as new bushings and bigger brakes up front. Toyota's luxury outpost has also equipped the 2013 GS 350 F Sport with variable steering on rear-wheel drive models. Stylish 19-inch staggered-width wheels help wrap up the package.

Don't expect to see any additional power from the GS 350 F Sport, however. The 3.5-liter V6 remains unchanged, which means buyers can expect to sink their teeth into 306 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Those aren't exactly numbers to write home about, but the base GS 350 is hardly a slouch in the 0-60 dash - Lexus says the F Sport can do the deed in 5.7 seconds. Prices have yet to be announced, but you can see more in our gallery and revisit the official press release after the jump.

Continue reading 2013 GS 350 F Sport brings a little edge to Lexus' midsizer

2013 GS 350 F Sport brings a little edge to Lexus' midsizer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus gs 350 f sportf sportgsgs 350gs 350 f sportlexuslexus gslexus gs 350 f sportsemasema 2011Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20096813/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/02/2013-gs-350-f-sport-sema-2011/20096813/article-detail.xml 20096813 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/lexus-gs-350-f-sport-sema_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/lexus-gs-350-f-sport-sema.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus unveils 2013 GS 350 F Sport ahead of SEMA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/lexus-unveils-2013-gs-350-f-sport-ahead-of-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/lexus-unveils-2013-gs-350-f-sport-ahead-of-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/lexus-unveils-2013-gs-350-f-sport-ahead-of-sema/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Lexus GS 350 F Sport

Over at Lexus, F stands for performance. Think F as in LFA. Think F as in IS-F. And think F as in F Sport, the series of kits that ever so subtly change a Toyota luxury vehicle's attitude from sedate to sporty. So if you thought the new Lexus GS sedan could use a shot of adrenaline, we've got good news for you, as Lexus has just revealed a new F Sport package for the GS 350 that will make its debut next week at SEMA.

The package encompasses a new set of 19-inch wheels, sport-tuned adaptive suspension, thicker anti-roll bars, new bushing, and bigger brakes up front. Variable steering is also included for rear-drive models, while the interior gets a new driver's seat, unique trim and available red leather.

Cap that off with a more aggressive aero kit and the GS is transformed, if not into an outright performance sedan - the 3.5-liter V6 remains unchanged, after all, at 306 horsepower - then into something a little more aggressive than what you'd expect to see in the local diner parking lot at five p.m. Check it out in the press release after the jump and the high-res images in the gallery for a closer look.

Continue reading Lexus unveils 2013 GS 350 F Sport ahead of SEMA

Lexus unveils 2013 GS 350 F Sport ahead of SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 lexus gs 3502012 lexus gs 350 f sportf sportgsgs 350 f sportgs fgs f sportlexuslexus flexus gs 350 f sportlexus gs fTue, 25 Oct 2011 13:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20090096/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/lexus-unveils-2013-gs-350-f-sport-ahead-of-sema/20090096/article-detail.xml 20090096 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/weblexus-gs-fsport3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/weblexus-gs-fsport3.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS 450h does the electric slide]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/2013-lexus-gs-450h-gs450h-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/2013-lexus-gs-450h-gs450h-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/2013-lexus-gs-450h-gs450h-frankfurt-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



What might the 2013 Lexus GS 450h add to the additional performance goodness delivered in the 2012 Lexus GS 350? More power and more fuel efficiency, for starters. The second-gen hybrid system boots out 338 total horsepower for a 5.6-second sprint to 60 mph. That's 32 hp more than the GS 350 and a 0.1-second improvement on the stoplight run.

Fuel economy gets an "expected" 30 percent improvement - the quotes meaning the sedan's fuel use hasn't been officially certified, but anything in that ballpark will be a tremendous gain. If it's a GS 350 with instant torque, that would be enough for us, but we'll look forward to driving it soon and finding out ourselves. A press release lays out the particulars and our gallery of high-res photos shows them off.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS 450h does the electric slide

2013 Lexus GS 450h does the electric slide originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2013 gs 450h2013 lexus2013 lexus gs 450hfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showgsgs 450hgs hybridgs450hlexus gslexus gs 450hWed, 14 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20042378/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/14/2013-lexus-gs-450h-gs450h-frankfurt-2011/20042378/article-detail.xml 20042378 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/01-2013-lexus-gs-450h628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/01-2013-lexus-gs-450h628.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus vows bolder design, won't "always stay in the middle of mainstream"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/lexus-vows-bolder-design-wont-always-stay-in-the-middle-of-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/lexus-vows-bolder-design-wont-always-stay-in-the-middle-of-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/lexus-vows-bolder-design-wont-always-stay-in-the-middle-of-ma/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 lexus gs

Lexus design has never been very flashy, and many might say (including us) the automaker's entire current lineup is a bit bland-looking (LFA supercar excepted, natch). But that visual conservatism may be about to change: Automotive News is reporting that the Japanese juggernaut plans to change that by taking more risks and striving for more character.

Toyota Design Chief Tokuo Fukuichi tells AN that the brand will build on the design language first introduced in the HS 250h and refined in the GS, but with more emphasis on the fighter jet-inspired grille. Lexus says the eye-catching grille draws from the hourglass shape of a spindle, but it's more than just an expressive face. Fukuichi adds "The spindle grille is not just a design matter; it also has to have a good functional performance in bringing in air."

In short, Lexus is looking to push itself to create more dynamic new models, even if some models don't exactly come off as focus-group friendly. We're all for a sexier Lexus with a personality implant, but a new grille won't be all that's needed. Only time will tell if Toyota's premium marque can shed its conservative tendencies and come up with something more dynamic that still sells.

Lexus vows bolder design, won't "always stay in the middle of mainstream" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotive designgshs 250hhs250hlexuslexus designlexus gslexus stylingtukuo fukuichiTue, 13 Sep 2011 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20040977/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/13/lexus-vows-bolder-design-wont-always-stay-in-the-middle-of-ma/20040977/article-detail.xml 20040977 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/lexus-gs-2013_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/lexus-gs-2013.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS 450h to debut in Frankfurt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/2013-lexus-gs-450h-to-debut-in-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/2013-lexus-gs-450h-to-debut-in-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/2013-lexus-gs-450h-to-debut-in-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Perhaps Lexus was none too happy with the open-handed slap Infiniti dealt it in the luxury-hybrid-sports sedan war. Sure, those two are the only ones playing that game, but if you're in the fight you want to win it, right? Lexus is certainly not going quietly in this battle, and the Japanese automaker plans to bring a new weapon to the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The German auto show will be the stage upon which the 2013 Lexus GS 450h makes its world debut. No details on the sporty electric-and-gas-swilling sedan have been released, but we assume the four door will utilize the current 450h's 3.5-liter V6 in combination with an electric motor. Once we land in Frankfurt and get up close with the 2013 GS 450h, we'll be sure to bring you all the juicy stats.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS 450h to debut in Frankfurt

2013 Lexus GS 450h to debut in Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2013 gs2013 lexus gs2013 lexus gs 450hfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showgsgs 450hlexuslexus gs 450hThu, 01 Sep 2011 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20032630/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/01/2013-lexus-gs-450h-to-debut-in-frankfurt/20032630/article-detail.xml 20032630 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2013-lexus-gs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2013-lexus-gs.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus teases GS F-Sport and GS 450h]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/26/lexus-teases-gs-f-sport-and-gs-450h/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/26/lexus-teases-gs-f-sport-and-gs-450h/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/26/lexus-teases-gs-f-sport-and-gs-450h/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lexus GS F Sport teaser

Lexus may have debuted the 2012 GS 350 as part of last week's Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance festivities in California, but the automaker isn't quite done with the rollout of its new rear-wheel-drive sedan. Seen here, Lexus has just released two teasers of two more models in the GS range: the sportier looking F Sport and hybrid-enhanced GS 450h.

Like the rest of Lexus' F-Sport treatments, we don't expect the GS F-Sport to be much more than a trim-and-tape job, though some suspension tuning may be in store for this model. It's been long rumored that Lexus is preparing an honest-to-goodness GS F performance model, so the F Sport trim ought to be similar to what the automaker offers on its smaller IS sedan.

The GS 450h will likely use the same 3.5-liter V6 and electric motor setup that's found in the current car, though some small massaging should hopefully improve fuel economy ever so slightly. We'll have the full details on both cars later this year.

Lexus teases GS F-Sport and GS 450h originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 lexus gsgsgs 450hgs f sportgs350gs450lexuslexus gsteaserFri, 26 Aug 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20028003/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/26/lexus-teases-gs-f-sport-and-gs-450h/20028003/article-detail.xml 20028003 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/lexusteaser630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/lexusteaser630.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lexus GS 350 fully revealed at Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/2013-lexus-gs350/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/2013-lexus-gs350/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/2013-lexus-gs350/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Lexus GS350

We've endured the teasers, seen the leaks and even driven a prototype, and now the wraps officially come off. This is the 2013 Lexus GS 350, the automaker's latest bid to create a driver-focused mid-sizer aimed at the hearts, minds and wallets of would-be 5 Series and E-Class buyers. It might be a tough sell, but it's a compelling case on paper, even if the styling leaves us wanting.

Continue reading 2013 Lexus GS 350 fully revealed at Pebble Beach

2013 Lexus GS 350 fully revealed at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 gs2013 gs3502013 lexus gs2013 lexus gs350gslexuslexus gsmontereypebbleThu, 18 Aug 2011 19:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20020351/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/18/2013-lexus-gs350/20020351/article-detail.xml 20020351 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2013-lexus-gs-debut_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2013-lexus-gs-debut.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Lexus GS leaks out ahead of Pebble Beach debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-lexus-gs-leaks-out-ahead-of-pebble-beach-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-lexus-gs-leaks-out-ahead-of-pebble-beach-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-lexus-gs-leaks-out-ahead-of-pebble-beach-debut/#commentsFiled under: ,



It's weird for us to report on leaked photos of a car that we've already driven, but we still haven't seen the completely finished 2012 Lexus GS. The sedan will make its public debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance this coming weekend, but it appears that photos of the unwrapped prototype has already leaked onto the web.

Seen here in all-wheel-drive GS 350 guise, we must admit that the finished design is decidedly more sedate than what Lexus' teaser image led us to believe. Keep in mind, this car is the spawn of the attractive LF-Gh concept from the 2011 New York Auto Show, and while all cars lose a bit of sex appeal in the transformation from concept to production, the GS seems to have lost a bit more than we had expected, especially out back.

In any case, this looks to be the low-end of the range, not the F Sport or V8 model, and we'll hold our final judgments until we see the finished product in Monterey. Stay tuned for the full details this weekend.

2012 Lexus GS leaks out ahead of Pebble Beach debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 lexus gs2012 lexus gs 350breakinggsgs 350gs350gs450hgs460lexusmontereypebble beachTue, 16 Aug 2011 17:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20019337/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/16/2012-lexus-gs-leaks-out-ahead-of-pebble-beach-debut/20019337/article-detail.xml 20019337 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/lexusgs630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/lexusgs630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus teases 2012 GS 350 ahead of Pebble Beach debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/lexus-teases-2012-gs-350-ahead-of-pebble-beach-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/lexus-teases-2012-gs-350-ahead-of-pebble-beach-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/lexus-teases-2012-gs-350-ahead-of-pebble-beach-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Lexus GS 350 teaser

We've already been behind the wheel of the 2012 Lexus GS sedan, and we've spied it lapping the Nürburgring under layers of camouflage. All that time, though, we've been forced to imagine what the finished product will look like under all those loose-fitting layers of clothing.

The wait is almost over. Lexus will officially unwrap the 2012 GS 350 at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance on Thursday, August 18th at 4:15 PM (PDT). We'll be there, bringing you the goods live, but in the meantime, the Japanese automaker has decided it's high time to start teasing.

We know that the car's styling was foreshadowed by the LF-Gh Concept that was shown off at the 2011 New York Auto Show, and nowhere will that be more evident than in the shape of the car's grille. Lexus tells us that the new design philosophy that will debut with the 2012 GS will eventually spread through the rest of its lineup, so we're keenly interested in seeing how this car looks in the flesh.

Check out a high-resolution version of the teaser by clicking on the image above. We've also taken the liberty of adding a lightened version of the image for you, which may or may not help you pick out some interesting details. Lastly, feel free to check out the official press release after the break.

Continue reading Lexus teases 2012 GS 350 ahead of Pebble Beach debut

Lexus teases 2012 GS 350 ahead of Pebble Beach debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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How Lexus Plans To Take On BMW's 5-Series

2012 Lexus GS prototype

Something happened after the IS F, CT and LFA: Lexus no longer wants to make cars for people who don't like driving.
Some might claim the Lexus IS has historically strayed furthest from the Lexus swarm, but the GS has always been a Lexus apart for this writer. Until recently it was only outdone by the original SC in terms of novel interpretations of the family design language, and it has been the least like a motorized cocoon. Others on the team disagree with me, contesting that the IS is more exciting, but - and this is just an opinion - even with the extra weight, I'd take a GS over an IS. It's been my favorite Lexus, but I'll admit the word "favorite" is a little bloodless here - the GS had no competition since there was no other Lexus I really wanted to drive.

But something happened after the IS F (an after-hours project until the engineers behind it convinced corporate), CT and LFA, and some would say it's about time: Lexus no longer wants to make cars just for people who don't like driving. The current Lexus slogan - at least, the one on the license plate surround of the GS 350 that Lexus gave us to drive - is "The Passionate Pursuit of Perfection." That was coined in 2000. In 2006, Toyota trademarked "The Passionate Pursuit of Potential."

The slogan was never used, but it's certain that Lexus feels the proof of that potential lives in this next-generation Lexus GS. We got a chance to drive a couple of pre-production models in California recently, and... Lexus might be right.

Continue reading 2012 Lexus GS

2012 Lexus GS originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 gs2012 lexus gsfeaturedgslexuslexus gsquick spinquickspinWed, 27 Jul 2011 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20001257/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/27/2012-lexus-gs-quick-spin-review/20001257/article-detail.xml 20001257 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/18-2012-lexus-gs-prototype-qs-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/18-2012-lexus-gs-prototype-qs-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus pondering GS coupe?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/lexus-pondering-gs-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/lexus-pondering-gs-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/lexus-pondering-gs-coupe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lexus LF-Gh concept

If you're in the market for a new Lexus, it'll have to come with four or five doors, unless you've got the $375,000 to shell out on the LFA or want to drop the entire roof with the IS Convertible. But that could all change with the arrival of the new GS line.

The new-for-2013 sedan - previewed by the LF-Gh concept in New York and recently spied undergoing testing at the Nürburgring - is expected to bow at Pebble Beach in just a few weeks. But while that vehicle, like the IS, ES and LS, is expected to be a proper four-door sedan, rumor has it that a coupe version could be in the works as well.

If it comes to fruition, the GS coupe could pick up where the smaller, discontinued SC left off and go up against the likes of the Audi A5, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe and BMW 6 Series, but Inside Line advises it likely wouldn't arrive until the spring of 2013 at the earliest.

A convertible version could be in the cards as well, though Lexus would be just as likely to avoid stepping on the IS C's toes. Of course, this could all come to naught, or Lexus could opt to go an entirely different route for its next two-door model.

Lexus pondering GS coupe? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus gscoupegslexuslexus coupelexus gslexus gs 350 coupelexus gs coupelexus gs350lexus gs350 coupeMon, 25 Jul 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19999512/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/25/lexus-pondering-gs-coupe/19999512/article-detail.xml 19999512 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/27-lexus-lf-gh-hybrid-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/27-lexus-lf-gh-hybrid-concept.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Lexus GS to debut at Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/2012-lexus-gs-to-debut-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/2012-lexus-gs-to-debut-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/2012-lexus-gs-to-debut-at-pebble-beach/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Lexus GS spy shots

Well, that was fast. Just days ago, we got our first glimpse of the next-generation Lexus GS out testing on the Nürburgring, and now, AutoGuide reports that the production car is set to debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in Monterey, California next month. Lexus has yet to confirm this report.

Not surprisingly, the 2012 GS will take many of its styling cues from the Lexus LF-Gh concept that bowed at the 2011 New York Auto Show in April. Even in the spy shots, we could see that the LED running lamps up front were left intact, along with the unique grille shape and arched lower air intake openings.

AutoGuide reports that the car shown in Monterey will likely be a hybrid, though Lexus is expected to also offer conventional gasoline versions of the GS. A high-performance F variant is in the cards, as well.

2012 Lexus GS to debut at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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