The Times Herald (Norristown, PA)
2018 Lexus GS F is all about performance
Some cars just scream out their identity. You look at it, and you know what you’re going to get when you sit behind the wheel. That’s very much the case with the Lexus GS F, a vehicle with massive power numbers and a fully engaging ride that aims to tackle the biggest names in the exclusive luxury performance sedan segment.I recently spent some time driving a 2018 Lexus GS F, and I’m back with a full report.
Looks
Looking like it would be very much at home racing around a track competitively, the 2018 GS F features a very large, intense spider-web design up front on the grille, which works well on the F Sport considering its character. It’s also low to the ground and features some great curves in its exterior design.Inside, you get the usual highclass Lexus experience, both in terms of seating materials and overall materials used inside the vehicles. My only knock on the interior design is that the driver’s seat is not the most comfortable, but I’m willing to forgive that because the ride is tremendous and you quickly lose sight of such small concerns once you’re enjoying the ride.
Engine, horsepower
The 2018 Lexus GS F has an excellent growl to it. And for good reason. Under the hood you’ll find a 5.0-liter (dual overhead cam, 32 valve) V8 boasting Vehicle: 2018 Lexus GS F Price as tested: $86,725 Best feature: Powerful engine and thrilling ride Rating: 4 out of five stars Who will want this vehicle?: If race-car-level power and luxury looks are your top two priorities, the Lexus GS F is right in your wheelhouse 467 horsepower and 389 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s the most powerful vehicle Lexus has ever produced. An 8-speed automatic transmission is featured, but you can use paddle shifters to control the gears yourself.Driving the GS F is something you will look forward to doing every time.
In a straight line, it takes 4.5 seconds to go 0-60 mph; and it’s smooth and responsive in the curves. If you like a vehicle that’s fast and responsive to driver input, there are few that are on this level.
The quality of the ride is helped along by the retuned double-wishbone suspension and Brembo ventilated disc brakes. The GS F is a rear-wheel drive vehicle, which will make many potential buyers in this category happy.
Technology, safety
Even though this is a racy vehicle, it’s also a Lexus so you still get your share of safety materials — including airbags, vehicle stability control, seat belts with pretensioners, anti-lock brakes, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure alert with steering assist and lane keeping assist, and LED headlamps with daytime running lights.
As usual with Lexus vehicles, I have to bring up the fact that the infotainment system desperately needs an overhaul.
They continue to rely on a mouse-like Remote Touch approach to controlling it, which is imprecise and distracting — especially when you’re on the road.The screen is large (12.3 inches) and nicely organized, and can even be split in two to show more information, but it’s the controls that need improving. A booming Mark Levinson audio system is offered as an option — with 17 speakers, 835 watts and surround sound, and I recommend it (it’s one of few options you can add to the GS F, which is basically a one-size-fitsall offering)
MPG
Official fuel mileage numbers on the 2018 Lexus GS F were 16 city/24 highway/19 combined. While saving gas isn’t usually the priority on these hot rod vehicles, the good news is Lexus is best in class with these numbers.
Price
You’re not going to pick up a GS F with your piggy bank money. My test vehicle came in at $86,725; and it starting price is $84,350.
In short, it’s very expensive but also very fun to drive.
Those two things tend to go hand in hand, whether you’re dealing with Lexus or the other major luxury brands. But believe it or not, the German performance rivals to the Lexus (Audi RS7, BMW M5, etc.) actually cost quite a bit more, starting in the 6-figure range, making something in the $80K range seem a like a bargain performance sedan.
The closest in price to the Lexus is Cadillac’s racy CTS-V, which is similarly priced and a strong domestic alternative.
Bottom line
If you want to have a beautiful luxury car with racecar-like tendencies, the 2018 Lexus GS F is one of the most appealing options you have in the current marketplace. Matt Myftiu can be reached via email at matt@autotechreviews. com. His past reviews can all be seen online at autotechreviews.com.