LEXUS has made a number of updates to its GS executive sedan for 2016 in a bid to give it even more of a luxurious look and feel. At the same time, the company has launched a new model in the form of the GS 200t EX which benefits from the 2l turbocharged engine that was first introduced in the NX crossover and subsequently also in the IS200t sedan.
Externally the updated model gets a new signature spindle grille for 2016, framed by satin chrome trim and flanked by new standard bi-LED headlights. Inside, the horizontal sweep of the dashboard has been emphasised by the adoption of a more dynamic shape to new, full-width metal ornamentation. There are also redesigned air vents and a new analogue clock featuring GPS time adjustment.
The centre console instrumentation features a new high-end audio panel, while the climate control section adopts a new high-contrast, Electro Luminescent Display for improved visibility of temperature settings.
Further trim enhancements include new metal ornamentation to the gear shift lever, steering wheel, air vents, door handles and switchgear. The seat upholstery features a new design incorporating a horizontally quilted back panel and a new side stitching pattern.
The company says that the quality of the interior lighting has also been improved through the adoption of a centrally-mounted LED rear space lamp, and a change in ambient lighting hue.
Under the bonnet, things remain the same for the GS350 but the inclusion of the 200t provides a turbocharged petrol engine producing 180kW and 380Nm. The company is claiming acceleration from 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 230km/h.
“The GS features a range of noteworthy updates and the addition of the GS200t EX model will deliver new levels of performance and efficiency in Lexus’s mid-size sedan segment,” says Glenn Crompton, vice-president of marketing for Lexus SA.
There have also been some changes to the suspension with a new coil spring calibration. The shape of the free piston in the conventional and AVS damper units has been optimised to improve response, says the firm. The front stabiliser bar shape and characteristics have also been refined. A performance damper reduces vibration and increases stability.
The GS’s underbody aerodynamics have been improved by positioning the bottom edge of the front bumper 10mm further forward, to adjust the air passing under the floor.
Lexus says that the body of the new GS has also been refined, with new design features and greater use of key body manufacturing techniques. It has an additional 188 points of spot-welding to the frame to optimise panel-coupling rigidity — focusing on the cowl, the junction of the rocker panels and B-pillar, and the rear shelf.
The rear of the cabin has more laser welding points, and the door surrounds have an additional 132 laser-screw welding points compared with the outgoing body.
When it comes to the multimedia offering, the 12.3-inch screen gains full-screen map capability when equipped with navigation. Other changes include enhanced voice recognition. The screen can split into two sections to show different functions, such as navigation, audio and climate control information.