Lexus GS350 Ups The Ante on BMW with Over 300HP
For 2007, the new Lexus GS 350 enters the market as a more powerful version of 2006's newly introduced third-generation GS 300. It joins the GS 430 in Lexus' mid-luxury sedan offerings. The 2007 GS 350 builds upon its predecessor model's already significant levels of performance, advanced luxury and intuitive technology, and it becomes the most powerful six-cylinder model in its segment. The handling performance of the 2007 GS 430's potent 4.3-liter V8 is further optimized by a newly available active stabilizer system that automatically and seamlessly counteracts body sway to improve cornering performance. "The 2007 GS models epitomize the direction of the Lexus brand, offering more emotional design and remarkably higher performance without compromising the luxurious comfort, attention to detail and quality that continue to rank Lexus as the leader in the luxury category," said Bob Carter, Lexus group vice president and general manager. The 2007 GS 350 replaces the previous 245-horsepower 3.0-liter engine with a new 303-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, which delivers blistering performance with zero-to-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, as well as exemplary fuel efficiency for the class. The GS 350 is available in rear- and all-wheel-drive models with respective preliminary EPA-estimated fuel mileage ratings of 21/29 and 20/27 city/highway; the V8 GS 430 continues as a rear-wheel drive model, carrying an EPA-estimated rating of 18/25 mpg. Aluminum alloy 18-inch wheels are standard on the GS 430 and newly available for the rear-wheel-drive GS 350. All GS models offer the new Generation 5 Lexus DVD Navigation System for 2007, which features Bluetooth® compatibility, voice activation and a rear back-up camera. In addition, the Lexus Link® telematics system is now available for 2007 GS models. 303-Horsepower V6 Is a Power Leader Optimized for low internal friction, the GS 350’s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 303 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 274 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. A new direct fuel-injection system provides much finer fuel-mixture control to improve both power and fuel efficiency. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) acts on both intake and exhaust valves to further enhance performance through a wide rpm range. The GS 430’s 4.3-liter double overhead-cam V8 engine produces 290 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 319 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,400 rpm. Continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) ensures excellent low- and mid-range power for easy highway merging. Both GS models achieve the EPA’s Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification. All 2007 GS models maximize performance with a six-speed automatic transmission that features a sequential manual-shift mode. All-Wheel Drive for All-Weather Performance The 2007 GS 350’s available all-wheel-drive system helps to enhance handling in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive car, but will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system’s electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors. Ultra-Advanced Dynamic Handling Control The Lexus GS combines the best-proven design chassis systems with new dynamic handling technology. The double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension systems feature with geometry optimized to virtually eliminate unwanted wheel-angle changes during suspension movement. The result is a natural, confident feel that’s also spirited. An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, standard on and exclusive to the GS 430, provides four settings, including "sport," for tighter, more precise control. AVS can automatically select appropriate suspension damping for driving conditions. New for 2007, the GS 430 offers the advanced Active Stabilizer system that reduces body sway and enhances vehicle control during cornering. This new system uses electric actuators, rather than slower hydraulic units commonly found in similar systems. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by the front and rear actuators. The Active Stabilizer system responds within 20 milliseconds, compared to 100 milliseconds for a competitor. The Lexus system consumes no power under normal operating conditions, whereas the competitor’s system consumes over 240 watts. The GS 430 provides the performance enhancements and advanced vehicle control of the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. VDIM integrates and manages a host of handling technologies more quickly than previous dynamic handling technologies could. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle, and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver. VDIM integration helps to provide precise management for the Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle). New for 2007, the GS also allows the driver to disengage the stability and traction control via the Trac Off switch. Electric Power Steering Electric Power Steering (EPS) in the GS 430 provides precise electric power assist using a DC motor built into the steering gear housing, rather than hydraulic assist. Eliminating the hydraulic steering pump reduces engine drag, and the simplified steering system is lighter and more compact, as well. Also in the GS 430, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) can vary the steering from 2.7 turns lock-to-lock for low-speed maneuverability to a slower 3.2 turns lock-to-lock for highway-speed stability. VGRS also provides differential steering control, which helps correct for a delay in steering response, something that occurs in all vehicles, to help enhance driving feel in lane changes and other transitional maneuvers. Intelligent and Powerful Brakes Enhanced braking performance in both GS sedans begins with mechanical components that significantly increase brake friction and improve stopping power, while effectively eliminating brake fade. Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) help form a powerful safety front. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel to help minimize body dive or sway during hard braking and cornering. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to activate the ABS, it will apply maximum braking force until pedal pressure is released. The GS 430’s Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB) is a brake-by-wire system. ECB translates brake pedal pressure into electric signals that, via computer control, help provide precise and optimized braking in virtually any traction condition. Electronic control provides quick brake response when needed, helping the GS 430’s VDIM system to anticipate and help correct skids before they occur. The ECB system is backed by conventional hydraulic brake control in the unlikely event of electronic failure. Lexus designers strive to keep controls simple and intuitive, avoiding needless complexity. A secure and distraction-free setting enables the driver to best appreciate the GS’ enhanced performance. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. Audio and climate-control systems are easy to understand and operate, and the GS locates controls that are used less frequently behind a dash panel on the left side of the steering wheel. The gauge cluster features machined aluminum facings for a classic look. Highlighting the sporty nature of the GS and emphasizing a closer driver-and-machine connection, the quick-response tachometer moves more directly in concert with changes in engine rpm. The unique instrument panel lighting system relies on variable-transparency glass to minimize reflections from the gauge faces and to help optimize visibility in all lighting conditions. A comprehensive interior lighting system provides just the right amount of light where the driver and passengers need it. All four windows offer one-touch up-and-down operation with jam protection. Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down when reverse gear is selected to aid in parking. A power trunk closer provides a finishing touch on this extremely well-equipped car. Advanced Safety Systems Both GS models implement a variety of advanced safety systems. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes variable-force front airbags for both driver and front passenger. Sensors determine the severity of an impact and in turn the airbag deployment force, helping to provide an appropriate level of occupant restraint. The GS features standard seat-mounted side airbags for the front seats, knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front and rear side-curtain airbags. The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) in the Lexus GS models can help reduce collision damage. A millimeter-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS switches the Adaptive Variable Suspension to sport mode for optimal chassis response, preemptively retracts front seat belts, and preinitializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. The active braking feature will automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 G’s if the driver fails to react to system warnings. Technology for Safer and Easier Driving Both ’07 GS models provide multiple systems to help improve driver safety and improve the overall behind-the-wheel experience. The Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), standard on the GS 430 and optional for the GS 350, helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. A Tire Pressure Monitoring system can detect a critical loss in pressure in one or more tires and alert the driver. The available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car’s front and rear bumpers and alert the driver accordingly. This updated version of the system first used in the LX 470 SUV and the previous-generation Lexus LS flagship sedan offers additional function by adding a steering-input sensor to better judge changes in distance to objects. The rear back-up camera, available in conjunction with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse gear. Indulgent Luxury, Passionate Design The next-generation GS performance sedans ushered in a new more passionate design direction for the brand. From an architectural standpoint, the new Lexus design language, dubbed L-finesse, is more sculptural and dynamic and eschews gimmickry for intriguing simplicity. A 112.2-inch wheelbase, long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck create a confident, powerful stance for the GS while a sloped, vertical grille surrounded by four independent headlamps visually connects the newer models with the previous generation while at the same time lending a distinct look that signals the brand’s design progression. The boldly styled lower valance features integrated foglamps, and a low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to minimize wind noise. L-finesse extends to the interior as well with a passenger compartment designed to impart a unique spatial feeling that creates an intuitive and naturally comfortable environment. The end result is a cabin that is intimate without feeling confining. Ultra-premium wood, polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the GS interior with a lavish yet high-precision feel, with touchpoints that convey quality and controls that respond fluidly. The GS customer can choose from among three interior leather color combinations: Ash with Black Bird’s-eye maple wood trim; Cashmere with Brown Bird’s-eye maple wood trim, or Black with walnut wood trim. Each combination includes a matching wood and leather-trim steering wheel and shift knob. The next-generation GS sedans continue the Lexus tradition of providing luxury that envelopes the occupants without introducing unnecessary distractions. The standard Regency leather-trimmed, heated, 10-way power front seats (perforated leather on GS 430) are supportive and comfortably contoured for long-trip support. Fan ventilation for the seats is optional. A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters and deodorizes the air, and a standard rear power sunshade adds to passenger comfort on warm days. Premium Audio Choices Lexus long ago established an elevated standard for mobile audio systems, and the next-generation GS models uphold this tenet with a standard system that features an AM/FM/cassette stereo and a 6-disc in-dash CD changer. The system plays through 10 premium speakers while an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds. Within the ultra-quite Lexus GS interior, all styles of music come to life with the 7.1-channel optional Mark Levinson® audio system. Featuring 11 channels of amplification with a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers, the system allows users to play both CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color seven-inch touch screen when the vehicle is in park. Fifth-Generation Navigation System All 2007 GS models offer the optional generation five Lexus DVD Navigation System. This revamped system includes voice-recognition that allows the driver to enter a destination by voice command. Visual support is greatly enhanced with a central screen featuring a high-resolution 800 x 480 pixel display in 32,000 colors. On-screen details are crisp and clean, and maps and roads include 3-D shadow effects. Spanish is added to the already available English and French text display options with the user able to select the language preference at system start-up. The DVD map database contains more than five million Points of Interest (POI). The database for Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, and New York includes a building footprint-display feature that can show graphic representations of buildings and structures to help the driver identify surroundings. System functions include multiple route calculations, route preview, simplified highway junction graphics, and a dual-map screen mode. Bluetooth® wireless technology integrates with the navigation system to allow the transfer of personal phone books to the navigation system. The driver can also make hands-free phone calls via its touch-screen control panel.