Lexus today unveiled the “GS F”, a high performance sports sedan and the latest model in the “F” series, at the North American International Auto Show1 in Detroit, the United States. Following on from the debut of the “RC F” sports coupe in 2014, the addition of the GS F further reinforces the Lexus F series lineup.
“What we are pursuing with the F series is to create a car that excites and brings a smile to the faces of drivers every time they get behind the wheel. We have given a great deal of attention to the basic elements of sound, response, and power in our efforts to develop a car which physically communicates to drivers the true essence of driving,” says Yukihiko Yaguchi, head of GS F development.
Sales of the GS F in global markets are to begin following its sales launch in Japan in the second half of this year.
Lexus will also exhibit the RC F GT3 Concept at the Detroit show, emblazoned with the new Lexus Racing logo. The new logo with its sharp styling expresses Lexus’ determination to further expand its motorsports activities by stepping up the promotion of the F series and introducing vehicles that meet GT3 regulations2.
GS F key features
Thoroughly refined driving performance that exemplifies the hallmark characteristics of the F series
The Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) torque control system provides automatic optimal electronic control of the torque of the left and right rear wheels according to the driving situation, achieving ideal vehicle behavior during cornering. Its three operating modes―Standard, Slalom, and Circuit―provide superior responsiveness under a broad range of situations, from driving on an ordinary road to circuit driving.
The 5.0-liter, V8 engine equipped with the D-4S3 direct injection mechanism produces the linear power feel and superior response characteristics of a normally aspirated engine, while achieving high output. In addition, running the engine on the Atkinson cycle in the cruising range has also improved fuel efficiency and environmental performance.
GS F Engine Key Specifications (North American market version)
| Engine | Total displacement (cc) |
Maximum output (kW/PS/rpm) |
Maximum torque (N-m/kgf-m/rpm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2UR-GSE | 4,969 | 348/473/7,100 | 527/53.7/4,800 – 5,600 |
The eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift (SPDS) transmission, which allows the driver to experience acceleration directly, shifts the transmission in as little as 0.1 seconds when the M position is selected, enabling the driver to enjoy full-scale sport driving.
The use of a specially designed suspension system helps achieve both a high level of operating stability when driving on circuits―helping the wheels stick tightly to the road surface―and a comfortable ride on ordinary roads.
The new Active Sound Control (ASC) achieves a more powerful engine sound in the cabin space through the addition of internal rear speakers that modify the engine sound created during acceleration or deceleration.
Exterior design that appeals to motorsports fans
Wide, low, aggressive proportions contribute to a low-slung design suggestive of the vehicle’s superior driving performance.
Specially designed parts such as stacked quad exhaust diffusers, as well as a large front spindle grille and large air ducts, a rear spoiler, plus lower grille molding made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer, provide enhanced cooling and aerodynamic performance and underline and embody the individuality of the F series.
The newly designed, 19-inch polished aluminum wheels feature black-painted wheel nuts.
Functional interior design
The GS F features functional components that support operation during sport driving, such as special seats with sporty styling reminiscent of the body suits worn by athletes that provide excellent fit, manufactured through integral skin foam molding, as well as pedals with anti-skid slits that ensure reliable contact when pressed during operation.
The GS F supports sport driving with special instrument panel meters based on the look of a modern aircraft cockpit to display information such as coolant temperature, oil temperature, G-force during driving, and rear wheel torque distribution, as well as with switches positioned to enhance operational ease.
Alcantara®4, a new high-grade, anti-glare, anti-slip material, is used for the instrument panel, door trim, and other parts.
Use of the Lexus Safety System+ active safety package
The safety package offers multiple functions, including the Pre-collision System (PCS), which uses millimeter wave radar and cameras to detect cars and pedestrians ahead in order to help the driver avoid a collision or minimize damage by issuing an alarm, activating the brake assist, and turning on automatic braking. In addition, the Lane Departure Alert (LDA) helps prevent accidents by warning the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane and the Automatic High Beam (AHB) helps ensure forward visibility during nighttime driving.
Lexus GS F (North American specifications)
| Length | 4,915 mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 1,845 mm | |
| Height | 1,440 mm | |
| Wheel base | 2,850 mm | |
| Track (front/rear) | 1,555/1,560 mm | |
| Weight | 1,830 kg | |
| Tires and Wheels | Front | 255/35R19 & 19×9J |
| Rear | 275/35R19 & 19×10J | |
1Press days: January 12-13; invitation-only days: 14-15; charity preview day: 16; public admission: 17-25
2GT3: Stands for Group 3 Grand Touring Car, and refers to a set of International racing regulations established by the FIA
3D-4S: Direct injection four-stroke gasoline engine Superior version
4Alcantara® is a registered trademark of Alcantara S.p.A.
