Automatic Sport Cars

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Lexus GS460
On its own merits, the 2011 Lexus GS 460 is a fine choice as a luxury sport sedan. It delivers performance, prestige, comfort and plenty of upmarket features to please some of the most discerning of shoppers. Pit the GS 460 against some of the competitors from Europe, however, and its appeal fades as those sedans seem to do most things just a little bit better.

The GS 460's drawbacks, as minor as they are, include a bit less headroom and a less responsive suspension. For average-sized drivers with little desire for athletic handling, these faults are easily forgiven, since the Lexus excels in nearly every other category. The quiet and calm cabin delivers segment-leading comfort while enveloping occupants in top-notch materials and expert craftsmanship.

The 4.6-liter V8 produces an ample 342 horsepower to give the GS 460 relatively swift acceleration, which should satisfy the vast majority of luxury sedan buyers. It is worth noting, though, that it is down on power when compared to other V8-powered luxury sedans. There is also a V6-powered GS 350 for drivers with a smaller appetite for performance, and a more fuel-efficient GS 460h hybrid -- both of which are covered in separate reviews. Regardless of which GS model you may be interested in, you can expect an abundance of standard features and state-of-the-art safety systems.

Among the GS 460's competitors, the biggest threat comes from Germany. The BMW 5 Series offers more space and higher performance. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is hard to beat in terms of style and prestige, while the Audi A6 presents a well-rounded and understated alternative. Luxury sedans hailing from Asia are also worth a look, with the Hyundai Genesis representing a relative bargain, as does the Infiniti M56 with its focus on performance. Even though the 2011 Lexus GS 460 may not be a front-runner in this segment, its reputation for reliability and quality should not be overlooked.
INTERIOR
The standard Regency leather-trimmed, heated, 10-way power front seats (perforated leather trim on GS 460) are comfortably contoured for support on long trips. Ventilated front seats are standard for the GS 460 and available for the GS 350. A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters the air. An optional rear power sunshade may add to passenger comfort on warm days.

All four windows offer one-touch up-and-down operation designed to stop closing during auto-close operation if they sense an object blocking their path. Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down to aid in parking when reverse gear is selected. A power trunk closer provides an added convenience on this extremely well-equipped car. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.

The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, iPod/USB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone and music streaming, and integrated XM Radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription). The system plays through 10 premium speakers while an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds. When connected to the USB port, the iPod can be controlled through the audio system or steering wheel controls, while information such as names for the artist, track and album is displayed.
EXTERIOR
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 and optional on GS 350.
ENGINE
 The Lexus GS460 shares the same platform and body as its less spirited GS350 sister car, but features an all-aluminum 4.6-liter V8 that makes it a much more spirited vehicle to drive.

The defining factor of the GS 460, the 4.6-liter V8 after which it is aptly named, utilizes the Lexus interpretation of variable valve timing with intelligence and electronic intake valve timing (or VVT-iE in short, as per Lexus) and is good for 342 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, an increase of 52 over the 4.3, and 339 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm, a bump of just 20.

This beefy new V8 propels the GS460 sedan from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, compared to 5.7 seconds for the V6 powered GS350 FWD counterpart.

The new all-aluminum V8 engine qualifies the GS460 as an EPA approved Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle, ULEV II standard.

As for fuel economy, the EPA rates the GS460 at 17 mpg in the city cycle, along with 24 mpg on the highway. A class-exclusive and leading eight-speed automatic is the only available transmission, driving the rear wheels.
SAFETY
The Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), standard on the GS 460 and optional for the GS 350, helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. A tire pressure monitor 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 alerts the driver accordingly. A steering-input sensor helps to better judge changes in distance to objects.

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the GS sedans includes variable-force front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. 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. In addition, the GS has active front headrests to help enhance driver and front passenger safety.

The rear back-up camera, included 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.

The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) in the GS models can help mitigate the effects of an accident. 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. On models equipped with AVS, PCS switches the suspension setting to sport mode to help provide appropriate chassis response, preemptively retracts front seat belts, and pre-initializes BA so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal.
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