History

When the GS was first introduced in 1993, it was intended as a splash of scarlet in Lexus' inoffensive sedan lineup, as well as being Japan's answer to German sport sedans. It was an attractive car with an inviting interior. In 1998, the GS was redesigned with a more dramatic styling and an available V8 engine. In 2001, the GS 430 became available. With a more powerful V8 engine than the 1998 GS 400, the GS 430 became one of the most powerful four-door sedans available. Completely redesigned for the 2006 model year, the GS 430 now comes equipped with an impressive 4.3-liter, 300 horsepower V8. The 2006 GS 300 was also redesigned in an effort to appeal to semi-cost conscious buyers wanting a blend of sport and luxury. To that end, it comes supplied with a decent amount of luxury equipment and a 245-hp, 3.0-liter V6 engine.

Overview

The 2006 Lexus GS is looking to make a statement. As the first All-Wheel Drive sedan from Lexus, the new GS provides an artistic blend of luxury and sport. From its state-of-the-art keyless entry system to its perforated leather-trimmed interior, Lexus pulled out all the stops in designing this masterpiece.

The handsome wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel, electronically adjustable for rake and reach, frames a newly designed dash panel. Following established Lexus standards, each gauge, button, wheel and lever is clearly identified by easily read words or symbols, and the three-pod analog instrument cluster's white-on-black graphics can be grasped at a glance.

Safety definitely did not take the back seat when creating the new GS. Along with the usual airbags for both front passengers, Lexus offers, for the first time, driver and front-passenger knee bags to augment the many other levels of the supplemental restraint system.

Of course, the GS boasts all the usual amenities expected by luxury car buyers, including power door locks; cruise control; electric trunk and fuel filler door releases; a pass-through tunnel to the trunk for hauling long items; a dual-zone climate control with an auto-recirculation feature to help minimize micro-dust, pollen, and other air pollutants from entering the car; auto-dimming for outside mirrors as well as the interior rearview mirror, which also incorporates a compass and Homelink programmable garage door opener; and illuminated vanity mirrors in the sun visors.

Specifications

Engine

• 3.3 Liter, four-cam v6, 245hp (GS 300)
• 4.3 Liter, four-cam, 32-valve v8, 300hp (GS 430)

Standard Features

• Perforated leather-trimmed interior
• Lexus Personalized Settings
• Homelink
• Water-repellent windows
• Lexus Memory System
• Steering wheel mounted audio controls
• Heated front seats

Options

• Lexus DVD Navigation System
• Mark Levinson Audio System
• 17” Chrome Wheels
• Rear spoiler