2006-2011 Lexus GS.. What You Didn't Know (Facts & Specs)

Summary

This video delves into the 2006-2011 Lexus GS sedan, covering key facts about its design, performance, and features. The GS underwent significant changes, including the introduction of more powerful engines and advanced electronics. Notable models like the GS 350 and GS 450h are highlighted, along with details on their performance, such as 0-60 times and fuel economy. The video also discusses the car's market performance, which saw a sharp decline in sales, and provides resources for potential used car buyers. Ultimately, the video warns about the challenges of maintaining older luxury sedans, stressing the unpredictability of long-term reliability.

Takeaways

• 😀 The 2006-2011 Lexus GS sedan is a rear-wheel-drive model, built on the N platform, with some notable redesigns and improvements over the previous generation.
• 😀 The GS 300 model was 100 lbs lighter than its predecessor, thanks to a shift to an aluminum block V6 engine, offering 245 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque.
• 😀 The 2007 model year introduced the GS 350 with a more powerful 3.5L V6 engine, producing 303 horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque, improving 0-60 times.
• 😀 The GS 460 model came with a 4.6L V8 engine, offering 342 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 149 mph.
• 😀 Lexus introduced the GS 450h hybrid, which had a 3.5L V6 paired with a nickel-metal hydride battery, offering 340 system horsepower and a 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds, though it was not a popular choice due to its high price.
• 😀 The GS 350 became the most popular model, due to its strong performance and relatively better fuel economy compared to the V8 and hybrid models.
• 😀 The GS sedan was one of the first to be styled using Lexus's L-finesse design language, and the GS 450h was the first hybrid to feature a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive powertrain.
• 😀 This generation of GS cars was equipped with a wide range of electronics, such as VDIM, VSC, and ABS systems, which worked together for enhanced safety and driving assistance.
• 😀 The interior of the GS was praised for its luxurious design, with high-quality materials, plush seats, and a top-tier audio system like the 14-speaker Mark Levinson unit.
• 😀 Despite its features, the GS's sales figures were low, especially as Lexus's more affordable models like the ES sedan took a larger share of the market, leading to the eventual discontinuation of the GS in 2020.
• 😀 The used car market for the GS is challenging, with many vehicles having high mileage, potential maintenance costs, and issues such as oil consumption and electronic malfunctions. It's recommended to thoroughly research used GS cars before purchase.

Q & A

What makes the 2006 to 2011 Lexus GS a unique model in Lexus's lineup?

The Lexus GS from 2006 to 2011 was unique due to its redesign, which introduced a rear-wheel-drive sedan built on the N platform, in contrast to front-wheel-drive models built on the K platform. It featured new engines, a six-speed automatic transmission, and advanced electronics, which set it apart from other Lexus vehicles at the time.

Why was the 2006 Lexus GS300 lighter than its predecessor despite its larger size?

The 2006 Lexus GS300 was 100 lbs lighter than the previous generation because it switched from a straight-six iron block engine to a 3L aluminum block V6, reducing the vehicle's overall weight while increasing performance.

What was the significant change in the GS lineup in 2007?

In 2007, Lexus replaced the GS300 and GS430 with the GS350 and GS460 models. The new GS350 featured a 3.5L V6 engine, producing 303 horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving power output over the previous GS300.

How did the GS350 and GS460 compare in terms of performance and fuel economy?

The GS350, with its 3.5L V6 engine, accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, offering fuel economy of 19 city/26 highway mpg. The GS460, with its 4.6L V8 engine, was slightly quicker at 5.4 seconds to 60 mph but had a lower fuel economy of 17 city/24 highway mpg.

What was the GS450h, and why did it not gain much popularity?

The GS450h was a hybrid version of the Lexus GS, featuring a 3.5L V6 paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 340 horsepower. It had a 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 131 mph. Despite its performance, its high price (over $57,000) and minimal fuel economy improvement made it less popular.

What sets the 2006-2011 Lexus GS apart in terms of safety and driving tech?

The 2006-2011 Lexus GS was equipped with advanced safety and driving tech, including VDIM, VSSC, ABS, ECB, electronic steering, and the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) on V8 models. These features helped keep the vehicle stable during aggressive driving and contributed to the car's overall safety.

How did the design of the 2006-2011 Lexus GS reflect Lexus's new direction?

The third-generation Lexus GS was the first production vehicle styled using the L-finesse design principles, marking a shift in the brand's design philosophy. Its sleek, slope-backed rear end led some to consider it the first 'four-door coupe' before the Mercedes CLS.

What are some of the common complaints from owners of the 2006-2011 Lexus GS?

Common complaints from owners of the 2006-2011 Lexus GS include issues with excessive oil consumption, electronic gremlins, all-wheel-drive problems, and the high cost of maintaining luxury vehicles, especially with high mileage over 150,000 miles.

What challenges do prospective used car buyers face when considering the Lexus GS?

Used car buyers face challenges such as high repair costs, potential reliability issues, and the expense of parts. Vehicles with over 150,000 miles often require significant maintenance, and financing for cars of this age is difficult, often resulting in high-interest rates.

What was the overall sales performance of the 2006-2011 Lexus GS?

The 2006-2011 Lexus GS had disappointing sales figures, with units selling between 30,000 to 7,000 per year. Despite initial interest, sales plummeted, and the model was discontinued in 2020 due to poor performance in comparison to other Lexus models like the ES.