Lexus GS: A sedan that left before its time, but will always be remembered
Many cars have come and gone in the luxury sedan world, but some cars truly hold a special place in people’s hearts because of their style, performance, and technology. The Lexus GS was one such remarkable car.
For nearly 27 years, the Lexus GS struck that “perfect balance” where it was not only comfortable but also capable of accelerating like a sports car when needed. But in 2020, Lexus discontinued it. Since then, car lovers have been left with one question: Why was such a powerful and beautiful car discontinued?
The GS’s Debut: Right Time, Right Decision
The Lexus GS debuted in 1993, just a few years after Toyota introduced its luxury brand, Lexus, to the world. The LS 400 had already taken the market by storm, and the GS was designed as a middle ground—not too big, not too small.
The GS was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign—who had created iconic cars like the DeLorean and VW Golf. This gave the GS a distinct European touch, yet also a Japanese poise and elegance.
Performance That Surprised People
People generally thought of Lexus as a comfortable, quiet car—but the GS stunned everyone.
By the end of 1990, the GS 400 came equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing nearly 300 horsepower. Faster than the BMW 540i of the time! Lexus had quietly created a sedan that could rival German cars, with unwavering reliability.
Later generations, the GS 430 and then the GS 460, added more power. But in 2016, the GS F launched—with a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 467 horsepower. This car was a true enthusiast’s dream.
GS Inside: The Authentic Lexus Experience
The GS’s interior also captivated. Soft leather seats, excellent finishes, and a comfort that’s hard to find in any new car even today. Where other companies clung to cheap plastics and gimmicky features, Lexus relied on robust quality and simplicity.
Models from 2010 onward featured a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, a Mark Levinson audio system, and numerous safety features. Yes, Lexus’ Remote Touch technology received mixed reviews, but once you get used to it, it becomes a great experience.
And most importantly—Lexus interiors don’t deteriorate over time. Even a 10-year-old GS feels brand new today, while German cars from the same era tend to feel “old.”
Style That Was Ahead of Its Time
The GS’s design improved with each generation. But the fourth generation, from 2012 to 2020, truly excelled. The “spindle grille” design, which has become a Lexus trademark today, was the first to stylishly adopt it.
The GS F’s four exhausts, wide bodywork, and aggressive stance gave it a muscle car-like look, yet it remained a premium sedan—a perfect blend of poise and excitement.
But why was the GS discontinued?
Now the big question: Why was such a great car discontinued? The answer is—Sales.
The SUV era had begun. People were now preferring SUVs over sedans. Lexus’ GS gradually lost its market share. On the other hand, the company’s affordable and best-selling sedan, the Lexus ES, was well-received.
The ES was more affordable, offered front-wheel drive, and offered good fuel efficiency. So Lexus said goodbye to the GS.
The GS F “Black Line Edition” was launched for the last time in 2020, with just 200 units. Still, it was an emotional farewell for car lovers.
Why the GS Still Matters
Although the GS is no longer produced, its craze remains undiminished. The Lexus GS has now become a hidden gem in the used car market.
The GS F is now a “future classic” in the eyes of collectors. Variants like the GS 350 or GS 460 are also sought after—because they offer the same luxury as German cars, but at half the cost and with better reliability.
For those who want performance without the hassle of maintenance, the GS is still a smart choice.
GS: A car we probably got too early
Looking back, the Lexus GS was the sedan we couldn’t handle. It was the definition of a “mid-size performance luxury sedan”—one with both power and elegance.
Even though Lexus has discontinued it today, the GS still has a strong fan base. This car is still remembered by those who know what the GS was—and what it could have been.
Conclusion: TopSpeed’s Opinion
The Lexus GS neither achieved sales like the BMW 5 Series nor created brand value like the Mercedes E-Class. But it did what no one else did—created a sedan that was luxurious, reliable, and heartily drivable.
Was it too early to discontinue it? Absolutely. Especially after the launch of a performance beast like the GS F.
Even today, if you find a Lexus GS—especially the GS F—in good condition, buy it without a second thought. It’s not just a car, it’s a memory of an era.
FAQs
1. What is the Lexus GS and why is it special?
The Lexus GS was a luxury performance sedan known for its perfect balance of comfort, reliability, and sports car-like performance—making it a rare blend in the premium segment.
2. When was the Lexus GS introduced?
The Lexus GS debuted in 1993, positioned between the LS and ES models. It was designed by Italdesign’s Giorgetto Giugiaro and quickly became a symbol of refined performance.
3. Why was the Lexus GS discontinued in 2020?
Due to declining sedan sales and rising SUV popularity, Lexus discontinued the GS in favor of more popular models like the ES, which offered better fuel economy and affordability.