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2016 Lexus GS F Review

 

Good points

  • Fantastic, willing 351kW V8
  • Great noise and exhaust note
  • Excellent value – $100k less than the E63 AMG!

Needs work

  • Pretty hefty at 1.8 tonnes
  • Sharp steering can feel artificial
  • No folding back seats
Lexus GS F Review - Chasing Cars

What’s more important in a fast sedan? Outright speed, or fun? Given that sensible four-doors are rarely as sharp as their two-door counterparts, engineering in favour of passionate dynamics is legitimate.

It seems Lexus agrees. The latest effort of the brand’s F performance division is the GS F. Under a coat of Lava orange paint, F have transformed the competent but unremarkable GS sedan into a loud, in-your-face executive express. But it’s not built to beat a BMW M5 or a Mercedes-AMG E63 in the 0-100 sprint stakes.

Instead, the 2016 Lexus GS F is built for fun. Under the bonnet sits an old-school, five-litre V8. It’s naturally aspirated: unlike the Germans, there are no turbos here. No turbos means there’s not much torque down low. Instead, to push the 351kW of power to the rear wheels, it’s up to you to wring out the motor.

And if you wring it out, you will find a 7,300rpm redline. Approaching it is a sensual experience akin to a symphony orchestra in full flight. Feed in engine speed and butterfly valves – and some well-calibrated speaker enhancements – open up to a brutal scream. There’s no hiss of induction. There’s no short-shifting around turbo torque. It’s just you, a tremendous engine, rear wheel drive, decent handling, and a beautifully-built car.

Who would have ever thought we’d be describing the Lexus GS F as the purist’s option in the segment owned by the BMW M5?

And yet, that’s exactly what this car is.

Budget Direct
Comprehensive cover
/ year
(indicative only)
Budget Direct
Comprehensive cover
/ year
(indicative only)

Key specs (as tested)

Engine
Capacity
5.0L
Cylinders
8
Induction
Naturally aspirated
Power
351kW at 7100rpm
Torque
530Nm between 4800-5600rpm
Configuration
Conventional
Power to weight ratio
192kW / tonne
Fuel
Fuel type
Petrol
Fuel capacity
66L
Consumption
11.3L/100km
Average Range
584km
Drivetrain
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
Rear wheel drive
Engine configuration
V8
Gears
8
Dimensions
Length
4915mm
Width
1845mm
Height
1440mm
Unoccupied weight
1825kg
Cargo space seats up
520L
Cargo seats down
Seats do not fold

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The estimate provided does not take into account your personal circumstances but is intended to give a general indication of the cost of insurance, in order to obtain a complete quote, please visit www.budgetdirect.com.au. Estimate includes 15%^ online discount.
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Budget Direct Insurance arranged by Auto & General Services Pty Ltd ACN 003 617 909(AGS) AFSL 241 411, for and on behalf of the insurer, Auto & General Insurance Company Limited(ABN 42 111 586 353, AFSL 285 571).Because we don’t know your financial needs, we can’t advise you if this insurance will suit you. You should consider your needs and the Product Disclosure Statement before making a decision to buy insurance. Terms and conditions apply.

Indicative quote based on assumptions including postcode , 40 year old male with no offences, licence suspensions or claims in the last 5 years, a NCD Rating 1 and no younger drivers listed. White car, driven up to 10,000kms a year, unfinanced, with no modifications, factory options and/or non-standard accessories, private use only and garaged at night.

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