Lexus GS (05-11) - Review

Review by Ben Wall on 22 May 2006

Last Updated: 27 October 2009

The Lexus GS – an alternative to the likes of the BMW 5-Series – has never been as common as its German counterparts. But those who prefer something different will find the Lexus a well equipped and refined alternative with great levels of standard equipment. It's packed with cutting edge technology too - there's even a hybrid option in the form of the GS450h. It features an electric motor alongside the conventional petrol engine, meaning outstanding performance but low emissions. Buying from Lexus dealers means you'll be getting the best service around - the company repeatdly tops nearly every customer service poll, both here and in the US. However, there's no diesel option and none of the petrols are particularly economical.

3.5 out of 5

Other Lexus reviews

3.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£31,650 - £52,015

Used price range:

£5,963 - £32,872

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Gadget-packed, comfortable ride, different to the usual German saloons, hybrid version available

Thirsty petrol engines, no diesel engine available, overly assisted steering feel

Driving & Performance

Performance

4 out of 5
"Lexus is a luxury brand, so it's no surprise all the engines are large and powerful. The entry-level..."
Handling

3 out of 5
"This GS is tauter and sharper to drive than before. The suspension has been firmed up and the..."

Comfort

Comfort

5 out of 5
"The seats in the GS are soft and give good support while leather upholstery is standard on all but..."
Practicality

3 out of 5
"Although reasonably large, the boot on the 300 and 430 can be difficult to access, because of the..."
Equipment

4 out of 5
"All cars have a ‘Smart Key’ entry and push-button start-up system, 10-speaker sound system with..."
Behind the wheel

3 out of 5
"Front visibility is good, although thick rear pillars and the sloping shape towards the bootlid..."

Costs

Running costs

2.5 out of 5
"The GS's running costs are in-line with other large petrol saloons. Fuel economy is around 30mpg for..."
Green credentials

2.5 out of 5
"Without a diesel engine, the GS scores fairly badly on the eco front. There is a hybrid model..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

5 out of 5
"The Gs was awarded a five-star Euro NCAP rating for crash protection and a four-star rating for..."
Reliability

5 out of 5
"Lexus is a popular buy among canny used buyers. One of the main reasons is the firm’s impeccable..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

2.5 out of 5
"There may not be a long waiting list, but that doesn't make getting a discount any easier as Lexus..."
Buying used

3 out of 5
"It's not as common as a BMW or Audi, but there are a decent number of GS models on the second hand..."
Selling

4 out of 5
"There's always a market for a Lexus. The mix of value for money, extensive equipment and an..."