2016 Lexus GS F Powers Into Detroit
The letter F stands for a lot of things, but at Lexus it should stand for fast. It’s the designation used on the brands sportiest models and this year that lineup expands to include the GS F.
At the forefront of the GS’s transformation is a change under the hood. Gone is the 3.5-liter V6, replaced by a 5.0-liter V8 making 467 hp and 389 lb-ft of torque. It will be paired exclusively to an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels.
Although this isn’t the first time a V8 has been offered in a GS model, it’s the first time one is being offered in this latest generation and it’s by far the most powerful engine ever offered in the GS range.
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To help get power to the ground, the GS f will use Lexus’ Torque Vectoring Differential that first appeared on the RC F coupe. The car’s structure has been reinforced and the suspension setup is exclusive to the F model. To further enhance performance, the GS F comes with driver selectable modes such as slalom and track.
The 4,000-lb. sedan will wear 19-inch wheels at all four corners with wide 275 mm tires in the rear.
Although the GS F isn’t quite ready to take on the likes of the BMW M5 or the Cadillac CTS-V, it is a significant step-up in performance over the regular GS 350 and gives you more choice, which is always a good thing.
GALLERY: 2016 Lexus GS F Live Photos
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A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
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This isn't in the same class as the CTS-V or the M5, it is actually comparable to the M3 and CTS-Vsport. So It would be unfair to compare it with a Supercharged or Turbocharged V8 of any kind.