Is Lexus GS or ES better?
When it comes to Lexus' midsize luxury sedan lineup, the GS and ES models are two of the most popular options. Both offer premium features, refined driving dynamics, and the renowned Lexus reliability, but there are some key differences that may sway your decision. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Lexus GS and ES to help you determine which one is the better choice for your needs.
Lexus GS: The Sportier Option
The Lexus GS is the brand's more performance-oriented midsize sedan. It features a more powerful engine lineup, including a turbocharged 4-cylinder and a V6 option, as well as a more engaging driving experience with sharper handling and a more responsive feel on the road. The GS is the choice for those who prioritize a sporty, driver-focused experience.
Lexus ES: The Comfort-Focused Sedan
In contrast, the Lexus ES is geared more towards comfort and luxury. It offers a smoother, more refined ride quality, with a focus on providing a serene and relaxing driving experience. The ES is the better option for those who value a plush, comfortable cabin and a more cosseting ride.
Key Differences
- Engine and Performance: The Lexus GS offers more powerful engine options, including a turbocharged 4-cylinder and a V6, while the ES is available with a V6 or a hybrid powertrain.
- Handling and Driving Dynamics: The GS has a more engaging, driver-focused handling setup, while the ES prioritizes a smooth, comfortable ride.
- Interior and Comfort: The ES offers a more luxurious, cosseting cabin experience, while the GS has a sportier, more driver-oriented interior.
- Pricing: The Lexus GS typically starts at a higher price point than the ES, reflecting its more premium positioning.
Ultimately, the choice between the Lexus GS and ES comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you're looking for a more engaging, performance-oriented luxury sedan, the GS is the better option. If you prioritize comfort, luxury, and a serene driving experience, the ES is the way to go.
What is the most common problem with Lexus GS 350?
Top Lexus GS350 Problems
- Brief Rattle or Knocking Noise on Initial Start Up.
- The Inside Rear View Mirror May Become Discolored.
- Software Upgrade for Navigation & Heater Control Displays.
- Lexus GS350 sputtering issue with check engine light and traction control warning.
Is Lexus ES basically a Camry?
No, the Lexus ES is not a Camry, but they share the same platform and some mechanical components because Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota. The ES is a more premium version, featuring a more luxurious interior, better materials, a quieter ride, and a more powerful standard engine.
- Platform and powertrain: The ES and Camry have historically shared the same platform, and many modern versions use a similar platform and powertrains. For example, the Lexus ES 350 and many Toyota Camry models use a similar 3.5L V6 engine.
- Luxury and features: The ES is designed to be a luxury sedan, with a more premium and quiet interior, higher-quality materials, and a softer ride compared to the sportier or more mainstream focus of the Camry.
- Positioning: The Camry is a mass-market sedan, while the ES is a luxury vehicle. This means the ES comes standard with more luxury features and has a higher price point to reflect its premium positioning.
Why did Lexus get rid of GS?
Lexus discontinued the GS sedan due to low sales, which were a result of several factors, including a market shift towards SUVs and crossovers. Declining sales were also driven by increasing competition from rivals and strong internal competition from the more popular and less expensive Lexus ES. Lexus opted to focus its resources on higher-volume models instead of continuing to produce the GS, which had become an economically unviable model.
- Weak sales: The most significant reason was the GS's consistently weak sales figures, particularly compared to other models like the ES and RX crossovers. By 2019, Lexus sold just over 3,300 GS units compared to more than 50,000 ES models.
- Market shift to SUVs: The auto industry, including the luxury segment, has seen a major consumer preference shift towards SUVs and crossovers, leading to a decline in demand for sedans like the GS.
- Internal competition: The Lexus ES was a major competitor, as it offered a more affordable and comfortable alternative that appealed to many buyers who would otherwise consider the GS. Some buyers also found the two models looked too similar, making the ES the more logical choice.
- External competition: The GS struggled to compete with rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which were perceived as offering a more prestigious brand and sometimes better technology and performance on paper, even if more expensive.
- Economic and resource allocation: With sales in such a slump, it was no longer economically sensible for Lexus to continue producing the GS. The company chose to allocate its resources to developing and promoting its more popular and profitable models, especially its successful lineup of SUVs and crossovers.
Did the Lexus ES replace the GS?
In 2018, Lexus discontinued the GS for European markets and replaced it with the front-wheel drive ES already sold in North America and.
