Lexus GS (05-11) - Review

Review by Ben Wall on
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

2.5 out of 5

Running costs

The GS's running costs are in-line with other large petrol saloons. Fuel economy is around 30mpg for the GS300 but drops to 25mpg for the more powerful 430 and 460 engines. Consumbales such as tyres aren't cheap either while insurance groups start at 16. Company car users will find the 450h a tempting model as its green credentials place it in a lower tax bracket than similarly powered rivals, adding up to a saving worth £1000s each year. It's also able to return 36mpg.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

10,000 miles minor/20,000 miles major.

Warranty

Three years/60,000 miles. Five years/60,000 miles for battery and hybrid components on GS450h.

Road tax (12 months)

£205.00 - £475.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

2.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
    179
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M
    269

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

Without a diesel engine, the GS scores fairly badly on the eco front. There is a hybrid model available which emits 185g/km - impressive considering it boasts more than 300bhp. However the other standard petrol models aren't as good - the 460 emits 261g/km of CO2 and returns 25mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2