3
0
Premium midsize car; Built in Japan
  • 4-door sedan
  • longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $17,500 – $46,500*


2007 Lexus GS


2007 Lexus GS


2007 Lexus GS


2007 Lexus GS

Pros:
  • Acceleration
  • Quietness
  • Ride
  • Steering/handling
Cons:
  • Cargo room
  • Control layout
  • Brake-pedal feel

Ride quality over sharp bumps is disappointing, and hiding secondary controls in a drop-down dashboard pod is counterproductive. Otherwise, each GS is comfortable, cultured, and competent. Top-notch customer care and traditionally strong Lexus resale values appeal greatly, though the latter translates to heftier used-car valuations. Overall, six-cylinder models are the smart GS buys, giving up little to the costlier V8 version.

Overview

Lexus redesigned its midsize sedans for 2006 with more power, fresh styling, and new features–including available all-wheel drive. Compared to the 2001-2005 version, the GS gained 2 inches of wheelbase and measured an inch longer overall.

The rear-wheel-drive GS 300 and the all-wheel-drive GS 300 AWD had a 245-horsepower V6 engine. The rear-drive GS 430 held a 300-horsepower V8. All models used a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate.

Antiskid/traction control and antilock four-wheel disc brakes were standard. The GS 430 added driver-adjustable shock absorbers with three firmness settings. GS 300s rode on 17-inch wheels; the GS 430 used 18-inchers. Run-flat tires were standard with AWD, optional otherwise.

All models had front knee airbags, front torso side airbags, and head-protecting curtain side airbags. Also standard: a keyless-entry/engine-start system, hands-free wireless cell phone connection, leather upholstery, and heated power front seats. An information touch screen displayed an available voice-activated navigation system, rearview TV camera, and with the transmission in Park, DVD video.

Other options included cooled front seats, front/rear-obstacle detection, and steering-linked headlamps. Also available was Lexus’ Pre-Collision System, designed to automatically cinch seatbelts and apply brakes if an unavoidable crash was detected. With its GS sport sedan, Lexus competed against the BMW 5-Series, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

A gas-electric hybrid version, called the GS 450h, went on sale in early 2006. It teamed a gasoline V6 engine with an electric motor to produce a total of 339 horsepower. Like other Lexus and Toyota hybrids, the GS 450h could run on either gasoline or electric power, or both sources, depending on conditions. No plug-in charging was required. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) worked with the GS 450h.

Yearly Updates

2007 GS
Base models got a new engine for 2007, triggering a model-name change to GS 350. Horsepower output from the V6 now beat the V8 (now rated at 290 hp), though the latter generated substantially more torque. The lineup now consisted of a GS 350, GS 430, and the hybrid-powertrain GS 450h. A new Power Active Vehicle Stabilizer system became available for the GS 430 and GS 450h, intended to counteract body sway and improve cornering.
2008 GS
The 2008 Lexus GS got slightly revised styling and a new V8 engine. New for 2008 was the GS 460. It had a 342-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 and an 8-speed automatic. GS 460 was rear drive only.
2009 GS
The 2009 Lexus GS was largely unchanged.
2010 GS
The 2010 Lexus GS was largely unchanged.
2011 GS
The 2011 Lexus GS sees no major changes.

Engines

longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive

In the 2006 model year, the GS 300 had a 245-horsepower V6 engine, while the GS 430 held a 300-horsepower V8. A larger (3.5-liter) engine went into the V6 model for 2007, and the GS 430 was re-rated at 290 hp. All models used a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate, except for the GS 450h hybrid. That sedan used a combination of 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine and an electric motor, with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Only the V6 sedan could be equipped with all-wheel drive. For 2008, a 342-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 and an 8-speed automatic joined the engine lineup.

dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.0/183
Engine HP 245
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 230
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 22/30
dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.3/262
Engine HP 290-300
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 319-325
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 18/25
dohc V61
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.5/211
Engine HP 292
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 267
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
CVT automatic

 25/28
dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.5/210
Engine HP 303
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 274
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 21/29
dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.6/281
Engine HP 342
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 339
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
8-speed automatic

 17/24

1. V6/electric engine. Total hybrid-powertrain output (gasoline and electric) of GS 450h is 339-340 horsepower.

Road Test

Engines are strong and smooth, helped by Lexus’ silky, responsive transmission. The V6 has plenty of ready power, whereas the GS 430 qualifies as satisfyingly swift. A test GS 300 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7 seconds. The V8’s extra thrust is evident but not truly compelling. A GS 430 reached 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. Lexus bills the GS 450h as a high-performance hybrid. In reality, the hybrid powertrain lacks the immediate kick of a conventional V8, but the 450h does surge ahead with dispatch, accelerating to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. Overall, the hybrid system calls little attention to itself.

Fuel economy is passable with gasoline power, but better in the hybrid. Test GS 300 AWDs averaged 18.2 mpg in mixed city/highway driving that included gas-eating performance tests, and 22.5 mpg with more highway use. Test GS 430s averaged 17.2 to 19.5 mpg, including comparable performance runs. The GS 450h managed 22.7 mpg in similar driving. Lexus recommends premium-grade fuel for all engines.

Ride comfort is generally a plus. Each GS is comfortably unruffled on smooth pavement, but sharp bumps too easily make their way through to the passenger compartment with 18-inch or run-flat tires. Some testers have complained of minor float over large humps.

Handling capabilities differ little among the three GS models, though none feels as agile as a BMW 5-Series. Even so, cornering lean is modest, augmented by good grip and balance. All-wheel drive is much preferred to rear-drive in slippery or wintry conditions. Steering is quick enough, but can feel a bit overassisted. Some testers have suggested that strong stopping power can be marred by poor pedal modulation, with brakes feeling either mushy or touchy.

Though quiet, these cars are less isolated than the Lexus norm, but they equal nearly every class rival for hushed refinement. The sole annoyance is coarse-surface tire thrum. Wind rush is impressively low. The classy-sounding V8 engine rises to a muted growl at full throttle, while the GS 450h sounds slightly raspy. All engines are nearly inaudible at idle.

Gauges are large and legible on a pleasing dashboard layout, but switches for secondary functions, such as power-mirror adjustment, trip odometer reset, and fuel-door release are housed in a drop-down pod to the lower left of the steering wheel. This reduces clutter, but needlessly compromises access to these controls. If left open, the pod can hit the knee of the driver who’s entering the vehicle. Lexus’ touch-screen control system interfaces with too many functions, complicating what should be simple adjustments. Lexus-typical cabin decor blends high-grade plastics, leather, and genuine wood accents.

Six-footers get ample front legroom, but only average head clearance, on seats that feel all-day comfortable. Taller-still drivers may feel cramped, though. A power tilt/telescoping steering wheel has been standard, but some testers believe lack of power-adjustable pedals is a curious omission for a Lexus. Occupants sit fairly high, so good all-around visibility is the rule, despite moderately shallow side and rear windows. The backseat feels no more spacious than in the previous GS–and less roomy than a BMW 5-Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class, despite Lexus’ claim to the contrary. Rear head and legroom are decent for most adults, but foot space is limited and taller riders will crave more head clearance. Entry/exit is hampered a bit by somewhat narrow back-door openings.

Trunk space isn’t all that roomy, and bulky rear-wheel arches intrude. The trunklid swings on non-invasive strut-type hinges, but the small opening makes for awkward loading. No folding rear seatback is installed; just a slim pass-through. Cabin’s small-item storage is limited. The GS 450h hybrid’s battery is mounted behind the rear seats, further reducing trunk space and eliminating the pass-through.

Ratings

Model Tested: Lexus GS 300 w/AWD

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 7
70%
Fuel Economy - 5
50%
Ride Quality - 7
70%
Steering/Handling - 7
70%
Quietness - 8
80%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 6
60%
Room/Comfort Front - 8
80%
Room/Comfort Rear - 5
50%
Cargo Room - 3
30%

Other

Value - 7
70%

Total: 63

Specifications

4-door sedan
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
112.2 190.0 71.7 56.1
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
12.7 18.8 5
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
37.8 37.0 43.5 36.4
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: N/A 4-door sedan

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - N/A
N/A0%
Front Passenger Injury - N/A
N/A0%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - N/A
N/A0%
Rear Passenger Injury - N/A
N/A0%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Air conditioner
Description: The air conditioning system may emit foul odors and is repaired by replacing the A/C amplifier and the cabin air filter with one not containing charcoal. (2006)
Air conditioner
Description: Floor gets wet from A/C condensation backup due to clogged drain hose. (2006-07)
Brakes
Description: When a brake job is completed (brake pads replaced) on a vehicle equipped with the electronically controlled brake system, a trouble code will set that must be cleared using the diagnostic tester. (2006-07)
Brakes
Description: Original brake pads caused excessive dust and improved pads (with slightly reduced braking performance) are available. (2006-07)
Engine knock
Description: Knocking sound when engine is first started cold due to bad intake cam gear on some 3.5L V6 engines. (2007)
Exhaust system
Description: Excessive sulfur odors from the exhaust are corrected by replacing the front catalytic converter with a revised unit. (2006)
Mirrors
Description: Rearview mirror vibrates, especially with the moon roof open. (2006-07)
Rear axle noise
Description: Rattle from the rear when going over bumps caused by excessive free play in the parking brakes. (2006-08)
Sunroof/moonroof
Description: The moonroof may not auto close requiring reinitialization. (2007-09)

Recall History

2006
Description: Some airbag inflators were produced with insufficient heating agent for proper deployment.
2006
Description: If front seatbelt retractors become locked, they may not release and seatbelt cannot be fastened properly.
2006
Description: A crack may form in two specific fuel pipes located in the engine compartment leading to fuel leakage, increasing risk of fire. Dealers will replace the two involved fuel lines with newly designed lines.
2006 GS
Description: If replacement brake fluid is used that does not contain certain polymers, or that contains only small amounts, a part of the rubber seal located at the rear of the brake master cylinder may become dry and a small amount of brake fluid could slowly leak from the seal into the brake booster. A leak of brake fluid could lead to a change in brake pedal feel and overtime, degradation in braking performance, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the seal with a newly designed one. This service will be performed free of charge.
2006-2007 GS
Description: Due to insufficient tightening of the fuel pressure sensor connected to an engine fuel delivery pipe with nickel phosphorus plating, there is a possibility that, over time, the pressure sensor could loosen. If loosening occurs, fuel could leak past a gasket used in the connection between the sensor and the pipe and through the threaded portion of the sensor. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire. Dealers will inspect for fuel leakage from the threaded portion of the fuel pressure sensor and if a fuel leak is not confirmed, dealers will further tighten the fuel pressure sensor with the proper torque. If a fuel leak is confirmed, the gasket between the sensor and the fuel deliver pipe will be replaced with a new one, and the sensor will be tightened with the proper torque. This service will be performed free of charge.
2006-2007 GS300 and GS350 AWD vehicles
Description: There is a possibility that the plastic pad embedded into the floor carpet may interfere with the operation of the accelerator pedal. The accelerator pedal could temporarily become stuck in a partially depressed position rather than return to the idle position. A stuck accelerator pedal may result in unintended and sustained vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will modify the plastic pad on the floor carpet free of charge.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on July 20, 2014.
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