REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

A bit too flashy?

The GS Series from Lexus may not receive unanimous approval on an esthetic level, but everyone agrees on its handling capabilities, which bring it up to par with the best German creations.The GS’s interior is something to talk and write about. Leather and wood combine to create a warm, comfortable, tasteful and refined ambience. However, the dashboard breaks the spell with a design that looks as if it belongs in a spaceship. The Opti-tron lighting developed by Lexus neutralizes any annoying reflections and makes it easy to read the dials, tucked back in cylinders. Lastly, on the right the oversized console, unable to accommodate the hand brake, is home to controls for the radio, air conditioning and navigation system (available only in the United States).  

The three headrests mounted on the rear bench seat leave no doubt that it is meant for three passengers. The only problem: the third person will have to deal with a fairly uncomfortable multi-function seatback (it hides a large armrest and a pair of cupholders) and a massive bump (remember, the GS is loyal to rear-wheel drive).From the technical standpoint, Lexus has unbolted last year the 4.0- litre V8 from under the GS400’s hood, replacing it with a 4.3- litre, a unit adopted from the LS sedan.

With leading-edge driveability, powerful acceleration and impressive pick-up, the two GS models also demonstrate that Lexus is capable of building something other than boring automobiles. While the GS approaches and in some areas even surpasses the 5-Series, some critics will no doubt point out that its performance levels are artificially achieved. The GS’s excellent road stability is due to its Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) system, similar to the ESP system made available by Mercedes, designed to prevent understeering and oversteering by electronically modulating brakes and by shutting off the fuel supply. The VVT-i (for Variable Valve Timing intelligence) system lets the six- and eight-cylinders in the GS supply 80% of their torque at 1,800 rpm. The engines are coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission and aboard the GS430, speeds can be selected manually using buttons mounted on the horizontal branches of the steering wheel. However, note that unlike almost all other systems of the same type, this system is fun to use and amazingly efficient. Unfortunately, Lexus hasn’t decided to mimic BMW by offering a five- or six-speed transmission, claiming that consumers looking for cars in this particular price range just don’t want that alternative.

 With the GS300 and the GS430, Lexus makes liars out of some observers who predicted that the Japanese automobile industry was incapable of reacting effectively to the strong comeback staged by German builders.

PROS
Sporty handling
Excellent transmission
Impeccable manufacturing quality

CONS
Controversial styling
Minimal trunk volume
Uncomfortable rear seats

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