Lexus GS 350 F Sport: first look
Unique to the F Sport package will be aggressive, staggered-width 19-inch wheels, F Sport-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), thicker anti-roll bars, up-rated suspension bushes, and larger two-piece front brakes with high friction pads.
Additions to the F Sport continue with Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and a Lexus first in the newly developed Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) for those seeking more agility.
Monitoring vehicle speed, steering direction and driver inputs, the system calculates the optimum angle for all four wheels. LDH helps to optimise the vehicle slip angle.
Using VGRS in the front and DRS in the rear, the combined systems can independently manage both front and rear wheel steering angles to help improve turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle control and overall agility when cornering.
Dynamic Rear Steer (a first for Lexus) alters the rear wheel angles between 0 and 2 degrees - offering greater manoeuvrability at low to mid speeds (up to 80km/h) and stability at higher speeds over 80km/h.
A world first, stopping power for F SPORT models is provided via larger two-piece brake rotors with aluminium hats to reduce both reduce weight and suppress heat deformation.
The GS 350 F SPORT will be exclusively equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels paired with 235/40/19 front and 265/35/19 rear tyres - the widest rear tyres ever on a Lexus sedan.
The wider wheels provide added traction and ensure a sportier look.
Inside, the all-new package also features a sporty attitude with a new 16-way power driver's sport seat, unique interior design treatment and exclusive Garnet red leather interior.
The GS 350 F Sport can be easily distinguished from the other models in the GS range due to a number of external styling differences.
The GS 350 F Sport will be outfitted with a sport front bumper and rear lower valence, rear lip spoiler, unique F Sport mesh grille and F Sport badging.
The Lexus signature spindle grille with its trapezoidal contours fully integrates into the aggressive front bumper allowing for efficient airflow.
The rear bumper underbody area was designed for reduced wind resistance to help keep the car firmly planted on the ground.
Lexus Australia chief executive Tony Cramb said that the all-new GS 350 F Sport is an exciting vehicle, and one that will be a strong competitor in the large luxury sedan segment.
"The all-new GS 350 F Sport is a vehicle that will appeal to the sporting driver, those who seek performance and comfort without compromise," said Mr Cramb.
"With dynamic handling, incredible stopping power and a true sporting feel, the GS 350 F Sport is a vehicle that offers the best of everything to the enthusiast.
"GS 350 F Sport is a true sports luxury sedan, offering the ideal mix of driving performance, comfort and advanced technology."