New for 2015

The 2015 Lexus GS 350 gets new standard 18-inch alloy wheels and a revamped multimedia system with 12.3-inch display screen divided into three sections corresponding to audio, navigation, and climate control.

Another Level

Lexus automobiles have a knack for blending comfort and performance, and the 2015 Lexus GS 350 is no exception. The GS 350 continues to gain new levels of desirability thanks to powerful yet efficient engines and a bevy of luxury and tech features that help keep this well-heeled cruiser one compelling luxury sedan.

Powertrains and Performance

Nestled under the hood of 2015 Lexus GS 350 is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 306 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Standard rear-wheel models receive an eight-speed automatic transmission while available all-wheel drive versions get a six-speed. For more precise shift management, both versions come with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters.

On the road, the Lexus GS 350 knows how to conduct itself. Acceleration and braking response are top-notch. Contributing to this automotive acumen are a number of mechanical components such as a stiff frame, lightweight aluminum control-arm suspension, and wide track.

The GS 350 also does a wonderful job giving drivers the final say as to how the GS 350 should perform. This is facilitated by Lexus’ 3-Way Drive Mode (Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow), allowing you to tailor the car’s behavior based on road conditions and how you want to drive—all of which dictate varying degrees of power steering assist and throttle response.

Fuel prices go up and fuel prices go down, but you won’t have to worry about that too much while driving the 2015 Lexus GS 350. The GS 350 employs a rather nifty automatic start/stop function that helps conserve fuel. Altogether, RWD models earn an EPA estimated 23 mpg (19 city/29 highway),* while AWD models earn 21 mpg combined (19 city/26 highway).*

Features and Trims

The 2015 Lexus GS 350 starts at $48,600** and is offered in base and Crafted Line trim levels.

Despite its “base” moniker, the entry-level GS 350 comes with a king’s ransom-worth of standard features, including 18-inch wheels, automatic xenon headlights, LED accent lights, and heated mirrors. There’s also standard keyless ignition/entry, cruise control, and the aforementioned driver-selectable modes.

Inside, the GS 350 brings even more toys to the party. Here you’re treated to leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats, driver seat memory functions, and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. All of this is topped off by matte wood trim and ambient lighting.

Cutting edge technology is another important aspect of the GS 350’s impressive repertoire. Standard tech features include Lexus Remote Touch interface, an eight-inch central display, Bluetooth® hands-free phone and wireless audio streaming, a rearview camera, and a 12-speaker surround sound system—complete with CD player, satellite and HD radio (subscription required), and USB/iPod® support.

The GS 350 also supports Apple’s Siri integration for select iPhones, as well as Lexus’ Enform smartphone suite, allowing control of various vehicle functions (adjusting climate, starting the engine, setting up speed alerts, etc.) all from a compatible smartphone.

Next up is the limited-edition GS 350 Crafter Line. It comes with a number of unique exterior/interior touches and bundles in additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alerts, front and rear parking sensors, and navigation.

The GS 350 is also available with a number of packages. There’s a Cold Weather Package, a Premium Package, a Luxury Package, and a Navigation package.

Should you wish to forgo the package route, the GS 350 can be outfitted with a wide range of standalone features. Noteworthy options include adaptive cruise control, an innovative head-up display, and an upgraded 17-speaker premium Mark Levinson sound system.

Design

Setting the proper tone for a luxury and performance vehicle is never easy. Get too heavy handed in one direction and you begin to alienate customers in the other—and vice versa. Thankfully, the 2015 Lexus GS 350 performs a delicate balance between sporty and luxurious, a balance that is perhaps best reflected in the GS 350’s exterior design.

Consisting of sharp lines and highly defined shapes, the GS 350 wears a versatile suit of metal that is just as comfortable on the track as it is parked outside an office in Silicon Valley. Those sharp lines are complimented by distinctive headlights and LED taillights, with Lexus’ aggressive “spindle grille” proudly positioned front and center.

As previously mentioned, the GS 350 sits on standard 18-inch alloys. However, adding a dash of drama is as easy as checking the box marked “F Sport Package,” and in doing so netting yourself larger 19-inch versions in the process. There’s also a rich and varied array of paint colors in addition to your traditional silver, white, and black options.

Inside, the GS 350’s slightly edgier tone is muted in favor of a more comfort-focused cabin. The three-spoke steering wheel is a pleasure to grip – complete with redundant steering wheel controls for audio/interface functions – while the liner and dash feature contrast stitching alongside premium leather and matte wood trim. That is, of course, in addition to a large center console and attractively shaped instrument panel that includes a large eight- or 12.3-inch multi-informational display that is controlled via Lexus’ second-generation Remote Touch Interface, which should be instantly familiar to anyone who has ever operated a smart device.

Safety

The 2015 Lexus GS 350 comes with a comprehensive list of standard safety features that include antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front knee airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front and rear side airbags, a rearview camera, and front seat active head restraints.

Also included as standard is Lexus’ Enform Safety Connect system, which includes automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, and an emergency assist button.

The GS 350 can be further outfitted with optional safety features. These include front and rear parking sensors, a blind spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alter, lane-keeping assist, a driver drowsiness monitor, and a frontal collision warning system that can ready the brakes as well as tighten seatbelts in the event of an impending collision.

Bottom Line

Boasting a stylish exterior and wide array of talents, the 2015 Lexus GS 350 is smart and luxury-filled sedan that is sure to please every mile it’s driven.

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us at 3Birds Template today.

* 2015 EPA-estimated ratings. Actual mileage will vary.

** MSRP does not include delivery, processing and handling fee of $925. Excludes taxes, title, license and optional equipment.

Image: Lexus