(continued from above)
After receiving several technology enhancements in 2010, the GS 460 receives
standard a brake override system for 2011 as an additional measure of consumer
confidence. The braking system enhancement will automatically reduce engine
power when the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are applied simultaneously
under certain driving conditions.
The current generation GS sedans
introduced the brand's L-finesse design language. A 112.2-inch wheelbase, long
hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck create a confident, powerful stance
for the GS. A sloped, vertical grille surrounded by four independent headlamps
visually connects the current GS sedans with the previous-generation models
while signaling the brand's design progression. The lower valance features
integrated fog lamps, and a low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to minimize wind noise and maximize highway fuel
efficiency.
Interior Design
Ultra-premium wood,
polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the GS interior with a lavish yet
high-precision feel. Touch points convey quality and controls that respond
fluidly. The customer can choose from among three interior leather color
combinations: Light Gray leather with Dark Gray Bird's-eye maple wood trim,
Parchment leather with Golden Bird's-eye Maple wood trim, or Black leather with
Red Walnut wood trim. Each combination includes a matching wood and leather-trim
steering wheel and shift knob that is standard on GS 460.
Lexus designers
strive to keep controls simple and intuitive, avoiding needless complexity.
Audio and climate-control systems are easy to understand and operate. The unique
instrument panel lighting system relies on variable-transparency glass to
minimize reflections from the gauge faces and to help optimize visibility in
various lighting conditions.
Engine
The GS 460 luxury sport
sedan comes with a V8 engine that produces 342 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 339
lb-ft of peak torque at 4,100 rpm. The GS 460 meets the EPA's Ultra Low Emission
Vehicle (ULEV-II) certification. Lexus has been setting standards for powertrain
smoothness since its inception, and the GS 460's V8 and eight-speed automatic
transmission continue that tradition. The transmission allows manual shifting
for a more engaging driving experience, and helps to maximize performance in
certain driving situations. The GS 460 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.4
seconds.
Lexus GS 460: Review (2/2)