Lexus unveils the entry-level GS250 in China

and why is this not sold here? i imagine it will be eventually, maybe when a newer version of the 2.5L is released (i'm assuming this is the same one as has been used in the IS250 for the past 6 years.)

i doubt it is the same as the IS250, after all, IS 250 isn't sold in China (they get IS 300 instead of IS250/350) due to the requirement for the fuel. IS 300 apparently has less compression ratio than 250/350 and would suit wider array of gas sold in China.

i would stay away from direct port injection and go with engine such as 350 that has both direct injection and homogenous combustion if you are to keep the car for long. pure direct port injection has tendency of carbon build up and requires cleaning to restore the HP, and those cleaning aren't cheap.

It is indeed the same engine found in the IS250

A 4 cylinder hybrid is also on the cards so is the M5 rivaling GS-F. So many variants and engine choices show Lexus have extensively developed this new model unlike ever before and i am sure it will be very competitive and in some areas will be best in class. I won't be surprised if the F-sport model proves to be best handling car in it's class.

The car looks great in person.......

GS looks great in Black and JDM version comes with more options like F-sport model gets fog lamps, The exclusive LED headlamps from GS450h and there might be even more differences compare to the US spec.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2011/11/22/lexus-gs-350-f-sport-fog-lamps/