Which Lexus GS has a V8 engine?
The V8-powered Lexus GS models are the GS 400, GS 430, GS 460, and the high-performance GS F. These variants mark the GS line’s most powerful options before the model line ended in 2020.
The Lexus GS lineup evolved across four generations, with V8 options appearing in specific variants and periods. Buyers today typically encounter the V8 in older, used examples, topped by the potent GS F. The hybrid and V6-only variants continued alongside them but did not offer a V8 in later years.
V8-powered GS variants
The following list identifies the main production GS models that used a V8 engine, spanning the model’s history from its earlier V8 options through the high-performance flagship. This helps distinguish which trims to look for if a V8 is a priority.
- GS 400 — 4.0-liter V8, associated with the early, first-generation GS lineup noted for introducing a V8 option in this model family.
- GS 430 — 4.3-liter V8, a second-generation variant that offered a larger V8 for improved performance characteristics.
- GS 460 — 4.6-liter V8, another second-generation option that delivered stronger power and torque in the later years of that generation.
- GS F — 5.0-liter V8, the high-performance variant introduced in the mid-2010s, and the final V8-powered GS before the model line was discontinued.
Across these variants, the GS family showcased a progression from mid-size luxury performance to a dedicated V8-driven performance flagship, culminating in the GS F’s track-inspired power. The presence of a V8 typically signals one of these specific trims, especially when paired with badge cues or under-hood displacements.
Generational timeline
First generation (roughly early 1990s to late 1990s): introduction of the GS 400 with a 4.0L V8
Early GS models focused on balancing luxury with a V8 option, establishing the framework for later, larger V8 engines in the lineup.
Second generation (roughly mid-2000s to early 2010s): GS 430 and GS 460 with 4.3L and 4.6L V8s
During this period, Lexus expanded the V8 offerings with more powerful and refined V8s, aligning with rivals’ sport-luxury sedans and paving the way for a high-performance variant.
Third generation (roughly mid-2010s to 2020): GS F with a 5.0L V8
The GS F arrived as the performance apex of the GS line, delivering track-ready power in a street-legal package and marking the culmination of the GS V8 era before the model was discontinued.
How to identify a V8 GS today
If you’re shopping used or trying to verify a model’s powertrain, use these indicators to confirm a V8-equipped GS. The following cues help distinguish V8 variants from the more common V6 and hybrid trim levels.
- Badges and model names on the trunk or side panels: look for GS 400, GS 430, GS 460, or GS F badges.
- Under the hood: engine displacements of 4.0L, 4.3L, 4.6L, or 5.0L typically indicate a V8.
- Exhaust configuration: V8 cars often feature dual exhaust outlets with more pronounced piping and a deeper exhaust note compared with V6 or hybrid models.
- VIN and build sheet: decoding the VIN or checking the original window sticker can confirm the engine type and displacement.
With the GS line ending in 2020, the available V8 options today are limited to used-market purchases, with the GS F representing the most recognizable modern V8 variant.
Summary
In summary, if a V8 is essential, seek out the GS 400, GS 430, GS 460, or the GS F. The GS 400 and GS 430 span the earlier generations, the GS 460 sits in the late-generation mix, and the GS F stands as the pinnacle of V8 performance for the GS lineup. The model line was phased out in 2020, making any current V8 GS a used-market purchase rather than a new-car option.
Did the GS300 come with a V8?
Four generations of the GS have been produced since 1993, each available with six-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive. V8 engines were offered in the second and third generations, and all-wheel drive and hybrid versions debuted in 2005.
Is the GS 430 V8?
The GS 430 model was equipped with a 4.3-liter V8 engine (3UZ-FE) producing 280 PS, and the GS 350 came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (2GR-FSE) developing 315 PS. In March the next year, the GS 450h was added to the lineup as the first hybrid model of Lexus in Japan.
Which Lexus models have a V8 engine?
The 2025 Lexus IS 500 is the last sedan with a V8, and it uses a 5.0-liter engine. While Lexus has phased out V8s in most other models, the 2024 Lexus LC 500 and RC F are also V8 options, with the LC 500 being the final Lexus with a V8 engine for the 2026 model year.
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2025 Lexus IS 500: 57sBen HardyYouTube · Jun 15, 2025
- 2025 Lexus IS 500: This model is the last Lexus sedan to feature a V8, with a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque.
- 2024 Lexus LC 500: The LC 500 coupe and convertible are equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that generates 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque.
- 2024 Lexus RC F: This performance coupe features a 5.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque.
Is the Lexus GS 350 V6 or V8?
The Lexus GS 350 is equipped with a V6 engine. Lexus offers a V8 engine in the top-of-the-line GS F model, but the GS 350 specifically uses a 3.5-liter V6.
This video provides a review of the Lexus GS 350's V6 engine: 1mBen HardyYouTube · May 4, 2020
- GS 350: Features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces around 311 horsepower, notes Ira Lexus of Danvers.
- GS F: This separate, high-performance model uses a more powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine, according to U.S. News & World Report.
