The performance-focused sport sedan segment is full of top picks from Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac and Jaguar.
How does the Lexus GS 350 stack up against the world’s finest sedans?
This weekend we found out, driving an Atomic Silver, 2015 Lexus GS 350 sedan.
It came with all-wheel-drive and the F SPORT package, a must for driving enthusiasts.
Although not much is new for the 2015 Lexus GS 350 F SPORT, it does get a revamped infotainment display that can be subdivided for control of different functions, like audio and navigation.
There are also 18-inch wheels that now come standard plus a new, limited-edition Crafted Line trim level.
Features & Options
The 2015 Lexus GS 350 F SPORT ($50,850) came with the optional Blind Spot Monitor ($700), cold weather package ($190) with heated steering wheel, a heavy-duty heater, headlamp washers, water-repellent front door glass and a wiper de-icer.
The optional F SPORT Package for true driving enthusiasts ($4,640) comes with a rear spoiler, a sport-tuned adaptive suspension, a variable-ratio steering system and upgraded brakes for sportier driving dynamics.
It also comes with more luxury, like heated and ventilated front seats, a power rear sunshade, and automatic wipers. 19-inch wheels with all-season performance tires are also added, along with unique exterior styling, plus 12-way-adjustable F Sport seats with four-way power lumbar.
This F Sport tester also came with the optional Mark Levinson premium sound system ($1,380), one-touch power trunk ($400), and Intuitive Park Assist ($500).
Total MSRP including destination: $59,755.
Interior Features
Like you would expect from a Lexus vehicle, it comes with all the luxury you want and is well-built with quality materials throughout the cabin.
We enjoyed the ventilated front seats this weekend as the temperatures in Denver are heating up. Just push the switch above the console and you get heated or cooled seats, depending on the season.
The F Sport 16-way power, leather driver’s seat kept me perfectly comfortable as we took the GS 350 up I-70 into the mountains for the weekend. The F Sport package enhances lateral support, with adjustable side bolsters and additional thigh support.
Even though we had no passengers, the rear seats do have enough head and leg room for two adults to ride comfortably.
This tester came with the navigation package, featuring a 12.3-inch split screen multi-media display. The upgraded screen is easy to view and gives the driver the ability to view and control up to three systems via a triple split screen.
We struggled with the mouse that controls the audio, climate, and navigation systems, however. It’s not that easy to figure out when standing still, and even harder when you are moving.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2015 Lexus GS 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 306 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. An automatic stop-start function helps to conserve fuel, which is good since the GS requires premium gas.
EPA Fuel Economy Ratings
19 / City
26 / Highway
21 / Combined
Driving Dynamics
We took the Lexus GS 350 F SPORT up I-70, into the mountains and to the historic mining town of Breckenridge. This was a good test as the altitude reaches 10,500 at the top of Loveland Pass. The ride up the mountain was smooth, quiet, and relaxing with barely a hint of wind or road noise in the big sedan.
The power of the naturally aspirated V6 offered enough when we needed it, passing slower cars easily up the mountain Interstate.
We didn’t need to get the revs up high to tap the engine’s full potential.
On a tight mountain road near the house, the GS 350 stayed firmly planted to the road and provided a decent amount of sporty handling performance for a big sedan.
The F SPORT package increases road holding ability and offers more driver engagement with variable-ratio and rear-wheel steering systems.
We would recommend the package to driving enthusiasts.
The 19-inch wheels, stiffer suspension and performance tires on the F SPORT do give the GS 350 a slightly different ride, which is worth the cost.
The all-wheel-drive version gets a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. That will enhance the experience of more spirited driving, like we were doing.
Conclusion
The 2015 Lexus GS 350 F SPORT sedan is a highly capable performer for driving enthusiasts. It features both the driving dynamics of a sports sedan along with a refined, comfortable ride.
The high-quality Lexus interior is first class in every way too.
The Lexus GS 350 offers plenty of cutting-edge safety and convenience technology, although the down side is how the high-tech, electronic interface is not so easy to use.
In light of this, The Lexus GS 350 F SPORT keeps pace with the finest sports sedans from around the globe. If perhaps you are looking for a little bit different Lexus, in terms of style, check out our review on the LS 450 F SPORT.
