2008 Lexus GS [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 38 GS reviews and test drives.
Lexus GS Ranks #7 in Luxury Large Cars
Overall Score - 8.7 (Very Good)
Based on U.S. News editors' analysis of 38 leading automotive reviews and test drives, the 2008 Lexus GS ranks #7 of 12 in Luxury Large Cars.
The GS features a refined, luxurious interior and a smooth, confident ride, though some taller passengers may find the cabin a bit tight. If you're in the market for a luxury large car, you should also consider the BMW 5-Series, Infiniti M and Mercedes Benz E Class.
The 2008 Lexus GS offers a lush cabin, smooth ride, strong acceleration capabilities and competitive overall value within the luxury sedan class. The GS underwent a major redesign for 2006. It received additional restyling for 2008, the GS 430 upgraded to the 460 with a more powerful engine and a new name. According to Popular Mechanics, with the GS, Lexus has now "unleashed a seriously sexy and fun-to-drive luxury sedan."
While Road and Track auto writers call Lexus GS interior "first-class" with "all the luxury features you would expect," IntelliChoice gave the GS 350 RWD a value rating of "Excellent" for its predicted five-year cost of ownership compared to other vehicles in its class. The 2008 Lexus GS is an IntelliChoice award winner for overall value, lowest repair cost and retained value.
The Lexus GS is available in two main trims: the base GS 350 and the GS 460. The GS 350 comes standard with rear-wheel drive (RWD) but is available as an all-wheel drive (AWD) model. The GS 460 is only available as a RWD. For 2008, the GS 460 V8 adds a new engine and freshened styling. The new V8 now delivers 342 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, and is mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
GS Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
The majority of reviews find the 2008 Lexus GS driving experience rewarding, with ample power for comfortable cruising. Car and Driver says the GS has "excellent" performance and is "delightful to drive, with a quiet and velvety power delivery." continue
GS Exterior - 7.6 (Good)
The updated GS styling incorporates the company's new design philosophy called "L-Finesse," which is intended to infuse more appeal into their cars. Despite the changes, which Forbes calls "more passionate," a few critics are unimpressed.
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GS Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
Reviews show that the 2008 Lexus GS interior epitomizes a luxurious cabin. From high-quality materials, impressive tech features, to a comfortable, serene ride, the GS is stylish. Auto reviewers conclude that the GS has comfortable seating and class-leading room for five adults. continue
GS Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)
The GS is equipped with many standard safety features, and can be equipped with Lexus' advanced Pre-Collision System. The 2007 GS earned top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, receiving the highest result of "Good" in both frontal offset and side impact tests. continue
GS Reliability - 10.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Lexus GS reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The GS is covered by a 4-year, 50,000-mile basic warranty. continue