Is Lexus GS F fast?
Yes. The Lexus GS F is fast for a luxury sedan, thanks to its 5.0-liter V8 delivering 467 horsepower, a 0–60 mph time around 4.4–4.5 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed near 168 mph.
The GS F represents Lexus’ performance-focused variant of the GS lineup, introduced in the early-to-mid 2010s. It pairs a naturally aspirated V8 with a tuned chassis, adaptive suspension, and early efforts at performance braking to deliver brisk acceleration, confident highway passing, and strong track-ready capability relative to its rivals in the luxury segment. While it remains fast by older standards, it sits in a passing of time as newer performance sedans push for greater efficiency and technology integration.
Powertrain and Performance
The heart of the GS F is a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that revs eagerly and delivers broad, usable torque through the midrange, complemented by an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with a limited-slip differential to help traction through corners. The result is quick off the line and confident at high speeds, with a soundtrack that many enthusiasts find appealing.
Key specifications at a glance:
- Engine: 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8
- Horsepower: 467 hp
- Torque: 389 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shift mode
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (no factory AWD)
- 0–60 mph: approximately 4.3–4.5 seconds
- Top speed: electronically limited to about 168 mph
- Chassis: performance-tuned suspension with adaptive dampers and selectable drive modes
- Brakes: standard stoppers with optional carbon-ceramic brakes
In summary, the GS F’s speed comes from a high-revving V8, strong midrange torque, and a setup designed for responsive handling rather than pure luxury ride comfort.
Chassis and Handling
Beyond straight-line speed, the GS F emphasizes cornering ability and driver feedback. It uses a tuned suspension, precise steering, and a limited-slip rear differential to maintain stability while cornering at higher speeds. The adaptive dampers allow the driver to tighten the chassis for sportier feel or soften for daily comfort, helping the car feel composed on twisty roads or a track.
- Suspension: adaptive dampers tuned for agile handling
- Steering: responsive, with good on-center feel
- Traction: available limited-slip differential enhances corner exit grip
These chassis details contribute to a driving experience that many enthusiasts describe as engaging and direct, especially when the throttle is used to load the rear wheels through corners.
Rivals and market context
During its peak, the GS F competed with high-performance variants from BMW, Mercedes, and Audi. Rivals included the BMW M5 (F10 era), Mercedes-AMG E63, and Audi RS7/RS6, all of which generally offered sharper acceleration and more advanced tech by comparison. The GS F stood out with a distinctive Lexus refinement, a naturally aspirated V8 soundtrack, and strong daily drivability.
Rivals at a glance (typical numbers for the era):
- BMW M5 (F10 era): ~560 hp, 0–60 in the low 4-second range
- Mercedes-AMG E63 S: ~585 hp, 0–60 around 3.3–3.5 seconds
- Audi RS7: ~552–600 hp depending on year, 0–60 around 3.5 seconds
Today, the GS F remains a compelling used-option for buyers who want a V8-driven luxury sedan with a more analog driving feel, but it trails newer rivals in overall tech integration, efficiency, and the latest performance electronics.
Summary
In short, the Lexus GS F is fast for its segment and era. It delivers a potent, well-balanced blend of power, handling, and a visceral V8 soundtrack that appeals to driving enthusiasts. However, it is no longer in production, and newer performance sedans offer sharper acceleration, advanced technology, and greater efficiency. For a buyer seeking a high-performance, rear-drive luxury sedan with a distinct Lexus character, the GS F remains a noteworthy option on the used market.
