Lexus today introduced the latest member to join the luxury automaker’s ‘F’ division of high-performance cars with the 2016 Lexus GS F performance sedan.
“The cars with the ‘F’ designation are meant to generate a very positive feeling when you’re behind its steering wheel, to be something that’s fun to drive no matter who is driving or where it’s being driven,” says Yukihiko Yaguchi, chief engineer of the GS F. “With the GS F, we wanted to make a special car that not only would exceed the expectations of the most discerning driving enthusiast, but also something that most people can enjoy.”
The vehicle carries 300 pounds less mass than key German sedan competitors, a custom firm suspension, and enhanced braking system, resulting in near-neutral handling balance and a high degree of driver control, Yaguchi says.
The agility and handling of the four-sedan, which builds upon GS 350 F Sport and can seat up to five adults, was tested on Japanese circuits such as Fuji Speedway and perfected on the famous Nürburgring Nordeschleife in Germany.
The sedan comes standard with a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 467 horsepower and peak torque of 389 pounds-feet. Drivers can select among four different models: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Sport S+, the latter designed specifically for the racetrack or challenging roads.
The GS F will feature an updated suite of standard safety features including a pre-collision system with automatic braking and pedestrian detection; radar cruise control with full stop from certain speeds; lane keep assist; automatic high beam; and blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert.
Lexus — which first debuted the ‘F’ brand in 2008 with the IS F sedan, followed by the LFA in 2012, and the RC F coupe in 2014 — also unveiled today the new Lexus Racing logo. Company officials says the design is meant to enhance the appeal of the ‘F’ brand, while letting the motorsports world know that it’s serious about its plans to participate in the international GT3 competition in 2015.
