Does Lexus GS 350 have sport mode?
Yes. The Lexus GS 350 includes a Drive Mode Select system with a sport-oriented setting, and higher-trim variants such as the F-Sport offer additional, more aggressive modes.
Across model years the exact naming and availability can vary, but sport-oriented driving modes are a regular feature on most GS 350 configurations equipped with the automatic transmission. This overview explains what sport mode is, where to find it, and how it differs by trim.
Drive modes offered on the GS 350
Most GS 350 models with the automatic transmission provide a multi-mode drive selector that tailors throttle response, transmission shifts, and steering feel. The common lineup is:
- Eco mode: softens throttle response and often shifts earlier to maximize efficiency.
- Normal mode: balanced performance and comfort for everyday driving.
- Sport mode: sharpens throttle response, speeds up shifts, and increases steering feel for a more engaging drive.
- Sport S / Sport S+: higher-performance variants (notably in F-Sport trims) that further tighten responses and may enable more aggressive shifting or manual-style control.
Note that some model years or markets may label Sport S as the top sport setting, with Sport S+ appearing only on certain generations or packages. If you own a non-F-Sport GS 350, you will most likely see Eco, Normal, and Sport as the primary options.
Engaging sport mode and what to expect
Engaging sport mode varies slightly by generation, but the general approach is consistent across recent GS 350 models. Use the drive mode selector on the center console to switch modes. On most versions you will see labels such as ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT on a dial or button, with F-Sport models offering SPORT S or SPORT S+ as additional selections.
- Locate the drive mode selector on the center console near the shifter, or use steering-wheel controls if equipped.
- Rotate or press to select SPORT (or SPORT S / SPORT S+ on applicable trims).
- Drive the car to experience the difference; you may notice quicker throttle response and more immediate shifts.
- When you want a smoother ride or better efficiency, switch back to Normal or Eco.
In practice, sport mode is designed for spirited driving and can increase engine noise, stiffness, and fuel consumption compared with Normal or Eco modes.
Fuel economy and daily driving
Sport-oriented modes typically raise engine and transmission responsiveness but may reduce fuel economy and ride comfort on rough roads. The effect varies by year and trim, so your experience may differ between a standard GS 350 and an F-Sport variant.
Availability by year and trim
The GS 350 has been offered with a Drive Mode Select system across many model years, though exact names and the range of modes can vary by generation. Non-F-Sport GS 350 models typically include Eco, Normal, and Sport, while the F-Sport variant commonly adds Sport S and sometimes Sport S+ for more aggressive tuning. Always check your owner’s manual or the vehicle’s display to confirm the exact mode options on your specific car.
Summary
The Lexus GS 350 does provide sport-oriented driving modes. Sport is typically available on most trims with the 8-speed automatic, and higher-performance variants such as the F-Sport expand the lineup with Sport S/S+ for even more aggressive settings. Availability and naming depend on model year and trim, so verify with your vehicle’s Drive Mode selector and manual for your exact configuration.
