Is the 2014 GS 350 a good car?
The 2014 Lexus GS 350 remains a solid used-luxury sedan for buyers who value refinement, reliability, and a smooth, quiet ride. It won’t match newer models for tech features or fuel economy, but it delivers strong all-around quality and a reputable ownership experience.
Overview
Launched in the third generation, the 2014 GS 350 pairs a 3.5-liter V6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offers rear-wheel drive as standard with all-wheel drive available, and a sporty F-Sport package that tightens handling and adds distinctive styling. Critics at the time praised the GS 350 for its refined powertrain, serene cabin, and long-term reliability, while noting that software, infotainment, and some driver-assistance tech felt dated compared with some rivals. For many buyers, the GS 350 represented a balanced choice in the luxury-sedan segment—less ostentatious than some competitors, more comfortable for daily use than many sport sedans.
Performance and Handling
The GS 350 uses a 3.5L V6 with about 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired to an eight-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is optional. An available F-Sport package adds a stiffer suspension, larger brakes, and more aggressive tuning for sharper handling. The car delivers smooth, linear acceleration and a hushed highway experience, with confident mid-range power and refined cruising ability. The overall driving experience emphasizes comfort and predictability rather than track-focused aggression.
The following key performance specs summarize the driving experience:
- Engine: 3.5L V6, ~306 hp and ~277 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shift mode
- Drivetrain: RWD standard; AWD available
- Suspension: conventional setup with optional adaptive damping; F-Sport offers stiffer tuning
- 0–60 mph: approximately 5.7–6.0 seconds (varies by drivetrain and options)
In practice, the GS 350 is more about refinement than exuberant sportiness. It excels as a comfortable long-range cruiser, with handling that remains composed and predictable in most daily driving scenarios.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The cabin combines high-quality materials with Lexusesque attention to detail. Front seats are typically comfortable for long trips, and the interior remains quiet at speed. Higher trims and the F-Sport package bring leather, wood accents, and, in some configurations, a more premium audio system. Infotainment in the 2014 GS 350 includes Bluetooth, a navigation option, and a display that, by today’s standards, feels dated and less intuitive than newer systems. Overall, the interior quality remains competitive for a 2014 model, with a focus on durability and long-term resilience rather than the latest tech tastes.
Key cabin features and tech include:
- Quality materials and comfortable seating
- Available Mark Levinson audio system on higher trims
- Infotainment with optional navigation; Bluetooth connectivity
- Standard amenities such as dual-zone climate control and power-adjustable seats
While the interior remains solid, some buyers may prefer newer touchscreens, advanced driver-assistance features, and more contemporary smartphone integration found in newer competitors.
Reliability, Ownership Costs, and Practicality
The GS 350 benefits from Lexus's reputation for reliability and durable construction. With routine maintenance and proper care, these cars can deliver strong long-term ownership experiences. However, as a 2014 model, you should anticipate age-related wear items and potential maintenance costs typical of luxury vehicles, including tires, brakes, suspension components, and fluid services. Insurance and maintenance expenses tend to be higher than mainstream brands but can be more favorable than some German rivals, depending on the specific vehicle history and local service costs.
Consider these factors when evaluating a used GS 350:
- Comprehensive service history and records of regular maintenance
- Condition of the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension
- Evidence of leaks or unusual noises during a test drive
- Consistency in tire wear and brake performance
A well-maintained example can offer strong resale value for a used luxury sedan, though depreciation is a reality as with any aging vehicle. Fuel economy is decent for a V6 luxury sedan of its era but lags behind newer hybrid or turbocharged rivals.
Safety, Recalls, and What to Check Before Buying
The 2014 GS 350 provides a solid safety package for its time, with multiple airbags, stability control, and available advanced features depending on trim. If you’re buying used, check for open recalls and review safety ratings from credible sources for the model year. A pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems can help uncover issues that might affect daily usability or long-term reliability.
To help you navigate a purchase, use this quick checklist:
- Vehicle history report (accidents, title status, service history)
- Full inspection of the engine and transmission for abnormal noises, leaks, or misfires
- Assessment of the transmission’s shifting behavior and any hesitation
- Inspection of brakes, tires, and suspension components for wear
- Verification that any recalls have been addressed and that safety features function correctly
- Test drive to evaluate ride, steering, and throttle response
Archival safety ratings and recall status can provide added peace of mind, but a hands-on inspection is essential when buying any used luxury car.
Summary
Bottom line: The 2014 GS 350 delivers a refined, comfortable, and reliable ownership experience with strong everyday usability. It remains a compelling choice in the used-luxury market for buyers who value Lexus dependability, a quiet ride, and solid all-around performance. Its drawbacks include aging technology, moderate fuel economy for its class, and potential maintenance costs as the car ages. If you prioritize a serene cabin and predictable performance over the latest tech shifts, the 2014 GS 350 is worth considering—especially with a well-documented service history and a careful pre-purchase inspection.
