Lexus GS 350 Slated for 2013 Makeover

With all the high dollar concept cars grabbing the headlines, it’s hard to tune the constant need to upgrade out. After seeing a recent re-design of the Lexus LF-A, I have been continuously scheming a way to get the $375,000 to purchase it. It didn’t take me long to realize I was going to fall short, but during my research I did find an alternative that offers Lexus styling without breaking the six digit mark.

The 2013 model year will see an all new, redesigned Lexus GS 350. I was never a fan of the GS series, but this time they got it right. The new design is sleek and sexy, and the interior is loaded with the newest technology. The key selling points for me are the design, and the enhanced performance options that were inspired by the LF-A supercar. A wider stance, quicker shifts and stiffer structure will have the new GS driving more like a Nascar than a family sedan.

The 3.5 liter V6 produces 306 horsepower with variable valve timing, and is the only base engine in its segment with both port and direct injection. The new GS will rocket from 0-60 in 5.7 seconds, and it gets better gas mileage.

I know there is a lot more affordable competition for this model, but Lexus is aiming at giving drivers a total package. The 8 inch central control monitor will display your GPS, play DVDs, and allows you to check your Facebook or look for restaurant reviews on Yelp. An SMS text-to-speech converter will read your text messages aloud, and send back a pre-recorded response. The two-tone interior ties all the technology together, and with the led lighting spaced throughout gives the new GS a truly futuristic style.

With all this technology, it would be preposterous not to address safety. The new Whiplash Injury Lessening System increases the likelihood that occupants will be in an optimum position at the moment of impact. The chance of impact is mitigated with dynamic radar cruise control which provides early warning of upcoming objects that may result in a collision. If everything else fails, a class leading 10-airbag system, including knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, will make your landing as soft as a pile of feathers.

With all these features, and the glaring fact that this is still a Lexus, I know what you’re thinking; and yes, the base price is a whopping $48,000. Since the 2013 Lexus GS 350 is due for a February 2012 release, there is plenty of time to save up and get your finances in a row. While I consider $25,000 too much for an automobile, this one is requiring some serious consideration on my part.


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