Its expected that automakers typically increase the price of their vehicles either on an annual, or bi-annual basis by at least a couple percentage points in order to offset inflation and other cost increases, but not so for the latest GS 350.
Lexus has confirmed pricing for the redesigned 2013 GS 350, which will start at the same $46,900 MSRP (plus $875 destination) as the previous generation 2011 model.
With all of the enhancements to the all-new GS, the base price remains the same at $46,900, said Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division. We expect the GS will suit the needs of many drivers and compete well in the segment.
While Lexus did not offer any explanation as to why or how it was able to price its latest GS the same as the outgoing model, consumers will likely welcome the effective savings when it comes time to buy. Standard features include bi-xenon HID headlamps, L-shaped LED daytime running lights, Drive Mode Selector, paddle shifters, a new energy-saving auto climate control system (S-Flow) that uses the occupant-detection system to focus air-flow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated, next-generation Remote Touch with one-push confirmation that allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls and optional navigation, synthetic leather instrument panel with contrast stitching, LED interior lighting, a new multimedia system (with available next-generation Lexus Enform) and color TFT multi-information display.
In typical Lexus packaging fashion, the GS 350 can be had with one of a two packages: Premium Package and Luxury Package.
The Premium Package will set buyers back $1,400, adding rain-sensing wipers, heated and ventilated front seats and power rear sunshade.
The Luxury Package will cost a more noteworthy $5,750, but add an extensive list of features including: Adaptive Variable Suspension, Adaptive Front Lighting System, unique high gloss linear espresso wood ornamentation, semi-aniline leather, 18-way power front driver and passenger seats with articulated back, side bolster and thigh support controls, four-way lumbar, butterfly headrests, driver and passenger seat memory, rear HVAC and audio controls, rear manual side sunshades, 18-inch alloy wheels and wood and leather steering wheel.
If you prefer to put your money into sporty styling and performance, the GS F Sport package may be for you. The F Sport package will set you back $5,690, but will add a new sport bumper, rear lower valence, rear lip spoiler, unique mesh grille inserts and F SPORT badging, unique 19-inch wheels and an F SPORT-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension.
Rear-wheel drive models will also be equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and new larger front brakes with high friction pads. The GS F SPORT interior features a new 16-way power drivers sport seat and a unique interior design treatment.
Navigation can also be added to any model for $1,735, which makes use of a 12.3-inch split-screen.
The GS 350 is powered by a largely carryover 3.5-liter V6 that features D-4S port and direct injection technologies and produces 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The mill sends power the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually via flappy paddle shifters affixed to the steering wheel.
The GS 350 returns 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while an optional all-wheel-drive system makes the car all-weather capable but carries 200 pounds of extra weight that reduces the highway figure to 26 mpg. The system sends 30 percent of power to the front under normal circumstances, but slushy conditions can see a 50/50 split when needed.
Overall, the
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LED Dome Lights, LED Daytime Running Lights, and will come out with even more innovation in the future.
