A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4
Comfort & Interior
4.6
Running Costs
4.1
Practicality
4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a luxury executive saloon that combines Japanese reliability with genuine premium appeal? The Lexus GS delivers exactly that blend of sophistication and dependability that’s made it a compelling alternative to German rivals. This full size executive car positions itself as a refined choice for professionals who value comfort, quality, and long term reliability above all else. The GS stands out in the competitive executive saloon market with its hybrid powertrain options, whisper quiet cabin, and exceptional build quality that Lexus is renowned for. While competitors like the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E-Class might grab more headlines, the GS offers something different with its focus on serene driving comfort rather than outright sportiness. The spacious interior features premium materials throughout, while the hybrid variants deliver impressive fuel economy without compromising on performance. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable long distance cruiser or a reliable executive car that won’t let you down, the Lexus GS represents excellent value in the luxury saloon segment. For drivers who appreciate understated elegance and want a car that will serve them faithfully for years to come, few rivals can match what the GS brings to the table.
What's the Lexus GS Like to Drive?
The Lexus GS focuses on smooth, refined performance rather than outright speed. The range centres around hybrid powertrains, with the GS 300h offering around 220 horsepower from its petrol electric combination. This provides more than adequate performance for real world driving, with enough power for confident motorway merging and overtaking. The CVT automatic transmission prioritises smoothness over sportiness, delivering power in a seamless, whisper quiet manner that makes every journey feel relaxed.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.5L Hybrid / 3.5L V6 Hybrid
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Power Output
220 - 345 bhp
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0-60 mph
8.6 - 5.6 seconds
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MPG Combined
50 - 55 mpg
- Boot Space
- 520 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Lexus GS: Comfort & Features
Step inside the GS and you’re immediately struck by the quality and attention to detail. The dashboard design is clean and sophisticated, dominated by high quality materials and precise build quality that feels genuinely premium. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, offering excellent support for long journeys with heating, cooling, and multiple adjustment options. The cabin is remarkably quiet, with excellent sound insulation that creates a serene environment even at motorway speeds.
A compelling blend of performance and refinement, the GS offered a uniquely driver-focused experience. It proved Lexus could deliver a truly engaging luxury sedan, often overlooked but richly rewarding.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Lexus GS?
As a hybrid luxury saloon, the GS offers surprisingly reasonable running costs for its class. The hybrid powertrains are the star here, delivering real world fuel economy in the early 50s MPG, which is impressive for a car of this size and luxury level. This translates to lower fuel bills compared to traditional petrol or diesel executive cars. Insurance groups are moderate for the luxury class, though naturally higher than mainstream alternatives.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Lexus GS
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BMW 5 Series
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Mercedes E-Class
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £35,000 | £38,000 | £40,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.5L Hybrid 220hp | 2.0L Turbo 184hp | 2.0L Turbo 194hp |
| Power | 220 bhp | 184 bhp | 194 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 8.6 seconds | 7.7 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 52 mpg | 45 mpg | 43 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 520 litres | 530 litres | 540 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Hybrid efficiency, Exceptional reliability, Quiet cabin | Sport handling, Advanced tech, Premium badge | Luxurious interior, Smooth ride, Strong resale |
Is the Lexus GS Practical for Everyday Use?
The GS strikes an excellent balance between luxury and everyday usability. The 520 litre boot is generous for the class, easily accommodating luggage for family holidays or business trips. The boot opening is wide and the loading lip is low, making it easy to load heavier items. Inside, you’ll find plenty of storage spaces for everyday items, from door pockets to a useful centre console compartment.
Absolutely love my GS hybrid. It’s incredibly smooth and quiet, perfect for my daily commute. The fuel economy is brilliant for such a big car and I’ve had zero reliability issues in three years of ownership.
The Lexus GS stands out in the executive saloon market by offering a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and reliability. It packages exceptional build quality, refined hybrid powertrains, and a beautifully crafted interior into a practical and dependable executive car. While it may not offer the sportiest driving dynamics, it excels in the areas that matter most for daily luxury motoring: comfort, quietness, and long term dependability.