Is the Lexus GS 350 fast?
The Lexus GS 350 offers solid acceleration for a luxury sedan, thanks to a 3.5-liter V6 that makes about 311 horsepower. In everyday driving it feels quick and confident, though it isn’t a sports-car rival. Note that the GS line was largely phased out in the U.S. after the 2020 model year, so most examples on the used market are older but still capable performers.
Performance snapshot
Key figures that illustrate how fast the GS 350 is in practical terms:
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 with about 311 horsepower and around 277 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain options: rear-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available
- 0-60 mph: typically in the mid-5-second to low-6-second range (roughly 5.7–6.0 seconds depending on year and drivetrain)
- Top speed: electronically limited to about 130 mph
These numbers translate to smooth, confident acceleration for highway merging and overtaking, but the GS 350 sits behind modern sport sedans in outright sprint pace.
How the GS 350 achieves speed in everyday use
Consider how weight, gearing, and handling affect real-world speed and responsiveness:
- Weight and chassis: The GS 350 offers a solid, comfortable ride with responsive steering, aiding stable acceleration and cornering.
- Transmission and gearing: The 8-speed automatic provides smooth shifts and adequate kick-down response for overtakes.
- Traction and wheels: All-wheel drive improves traction in wet or slippery conditions, influencing launch grip and mid-range acceleration.
- F Sport variants: Sport-oriented trims sharpen throttle response and handling characteristics, but they don’t turn the GS 350 into a true performance car.
In sum, the GS 350 delivers respectable performance for a luxury sedan, offering brisk highway acceleration and confident passing power, especially in sportier trims. It’s fast enough for everyday use, but not in the same league as modern high-performance sedans.
Is it a good value against rivals?
In the crowded entry-luxury segment, the GS 350 often represents a compelling used purchase thanks to its blend of comfort and capability, but some rivals offer quicker sprints or newer technology. For buyers prioritizing a refined ride and a spacious cabin over outright pace, the GS 350 remains a solid option in the used market.
Note: Lexus discontinued the GS in the U.S. after the 2020 model year, shifting emphasis to the IS and ES lines for similar segments. If speed is a primary criterion, shoppers may compare with newer performance-oriented models from rivals or consider the GS F’s historically higher-performance variant as a separate, rarer option.
Summary
The Lexus GS 350 delivers credible speed for a luxury sedan, backed by a 311-hp V6 and an 8-speed automatic, with 0–60 mph times typically around 5.7–6.0 seconds and a top speed near 130 mph. While not a sport sedan, it provides a refined, comfortable, and capable acceleration experience. As of 2024–2025, it’s mainly found on the used market following the model’s U.S. discontinuation after 2020, with buyers often weighing it against newer IS and ES competitors.
