Lexus GS

Name: 2018 Lexus GS
Brand: Lexus

EPA MPG: 23 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

EPA MPG: 23 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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Road Test

While not a sales success, the GS is one of Lexus's best sedans and one of the better entries in the midsize luxury class buy successfully melding luxury and sportiness. Engaging to drive yet with a supple ride, it's roughly on the same page as its German competition. The GS 350 has a punchy V6 powertrain and is linked to a smooth transmission. Fuel economy, at 21 mpg on premium fuel, is OK for the class but not a standout. Handling is quite agile and the ride is comfortable. The ultra-quiet cabin is beautifully finished and is quite accommodating but controls are rather frustrating.

2018 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

This Car

100

0 - 100

Lexus GS

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction

2000

2001

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2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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Lexus vs. Other New Car Brands

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Lexus vs. Other New Car Brands

See How All Brands Stack up

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Lexus vs. Other New Car Brands

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2018 Luxury midsized cars Ratings

2018 Lexus GS

$17,275 - $37,925

EPA MPG 23 mpg

Road test

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$17,325 - $18,325

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$13,675 - $21,450

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$18,525 - $19,800

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2018 Lexus ES Hybrid

$19,800

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$10,350 - $17,775

EPA MPG 25 mpg

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EPA MPG 25 mpg

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Features & Specs

sedan

2 front, 3 rear

AWD, Rear

2-liter 4 turbo (241 hp)
3.5-liter V6 (311 hp)
3.5-liter V6 hybrid (338 hp)
5-liter V8 (467 hp)

8-speed automatic
6-speed automatic
CVT

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In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

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Model History

2013-2020

2013 Redesign Year

The 2013 redesign transformed the car. While handling is sporty, the ride is still supple and controlled. Meanwhile, the cabin is roomy, comfortable, and nicely furnished. Our only complaint is the mouselike controller used to operate the cumbersome infotainment system. We'd stick with the regular GS 350 and get all-wheel drive if winter poses a problem where you live. To us, the only must-have option is the blind spot monitoring system. The 2014 refresh brought an eight-speed automatic transmission to rear-wheel-drive models; all-wheel-drive versions retained the six speed. For 2016, Lexus added Siri Eyes Free for iPhone users and all trims were available with the Lexus Safety System +, which includes pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with steering assist and dynamic cruise control. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard.

2006-2012

2006 Redesign Year

This version of the rear-wheel drive GS offers powerful engines, but it isn't a great sports sedan. Handling is unexceptional and the suspension transmits stiff kicks from road bumps. The interior is neat and functional, but strangely antiseptic. However, as you'd expect from Lexus, it is well constructed, luxurious and most controls are easy to use. Still though, passenger room is tight and the driving position is flawed. The V6 isn't as strong as some competitors; though a V8 is optional. A hybrid arrived for 2007. For 2010, the GS came with active front restraints, which move forward in response to the occupant's pressure on the seatback; this further reduces head travel and the potential for whiplash injury.

1998-2005

1998 Redesign Year

This rear-drive sedan sits between Lexus' entry-level ES and its flagship LS. Powerful six-cylinder and V8 drivetrains are the GS's most notable feature. Handling is competent but unexceptional. The suspension emits stiff kicks over bumps. The optional sunroof makes head room tight for tall people. The interior is neat and functional but strangely antiseptic.