Lexus Malaysia has announced that the fourth generation GS model has received an update, which consists of six variants that includes a hybrid, further two variants which uses a 3.5-liter V6, as well as a trio of cars that each utilises a 4-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged powerplant. The latter thus replaces the GS 250 variant.
The 2.0-litre
The 2.0-litre engine is the first turbocharged engine used by Lexus. The 4-cylinder petrol engine (coded 8AR-FTS) was developed by Lexus in-house and has a twin-scroll turbocharger which, together with an intercooler, delivers 241 hp at 5,800 rpm with a maximum of 350 Nm of torque from 1,650 rpm to 4,400 rpm. These outputs represent 17% more power and 38% more torque compared to what was produced by the 2.5-litre engine in the previous GS 250.
This engine is also unique as is combines both a high pressure injection system for direct injection, and a low pressure one for port injection. Its uses are determined according to engine load which is claimed to help with fuel economy.
All the power goes to the rear wheels via an 8-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission.
For owners who want better fuel consumption, there is a Power Saving Control which controls solenoid valve power consumption and also the amount of power generated by the alternator.
The 3.5-litre
The GS 350 and GS 300h variants continue using the same engines as before but with enhancements to improve fuel efficiency. The 3.5-litre V6 2GR-FKS engine in the GS 350 also combine direct injector use that inject fuel directly into the cylinder together with port injectors. It is also paired with the 8-speed gearbox.
The hybrid
As for the Lexus Hybrid Drive used in the GS 300h, the 2.5-litre 2AR-FSE 4-cylinder engine gets the next generation D-4S electronic fuel injection system which operates at a higher pressure. For maximum efficiency, an E-CVT transmission is used.
The rest
Changes in the interior can be seen in the dashboard where the ornamentation starting from the centre has a dynamic form that spreads out and up to the top of the side registers. The opening of each register conforms to the shape of the instrument panel, enhancing the quality feel. To ensure a high quality feel for the high grade variants (except the GS 200t Premium) the steering wheel centre pad now has genuine leather with double stitching.
As for safety features, the GS has Brake Hold Assist, Blind spot monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), the latter two available for all variants except the GS 200t Premium. A Tyre Pressure Warning Display, meanwhile, constantly monitors the car’s tyre pressure and provide a warning when there is a pressure difference. The tyre with reduced pressure will be highlighted in a display so the driver can instantly know and take appropriate action or drive more cautiously until the correct pressure is restored.
Lexus Malaysia provides Security & Solar Film ass standard for all variants, together with a Lexus Emergency Kit.
Prices for the updated Lexus GS is as below:
