Lexus Australia will power-up its forthcoming GS range by offering both a hybrid and petrol-powered F Sport model when the vehicle launches in the second quarter of 2012.
Headlining the new F Sport model for the GS range will be a 252kW hybrid variant that will sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.9 seconds, while the GS 350 petrol variant will accelerate to 100km/h in 6 seconds.
GS 350 and 450h F Sport models will debut the new Lexus Dynamic Handling System (LDHS), featuring Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) which sees Lexus set another benchmark - the world's first four-wheel steer hybrid.
LDHS integrates DRS, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) to coordinate every aspect of front and rear wheel control and provide agile, sharp and confident driving behavior with a more direct response to the driver's actions.
Using VGRS at the front and DRS at the rear, the system can independently control both front and rear wheel steering angles to greatly improve turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle stability and overall agility when cornering.
The DRS system monitors vehicle speed and yaw rate, steering angle and speed, and lateral G to calculate the required rear wheel steering input, to a maximum of 2 degrees.
At speeds below 80km/h the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions (counter-steer). In certain conditions at speeds over 80km/h, front and rear wheels turn in the same direction (pro-steer).
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Drive Mode Select system
All new generation GS models features a Drive Mode Select function that allows the driver to choose between Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport Plus driving modes, enabling them to tailor their vehicle to spirited, dynamic driving or environmental performance.
In ECO driving mode engine output, throttle opening and gear selection are automatically modulated to optimise fuel efficiency under all driving conditions.
The air conditioning system temperature, airflow volume and seat heater activation are also cooperatively controlled, further reducing fuel consumption.
In Sport mode engine speed and throttle responses are optimised for a more engaging driving experience, exploiting the full capabilities of both petrol and full hybrid powertrains.
Furthermore, all petrol-engined F Sport models feature fasters shifts, earlier torque converter lock-up and throttle blipping on the downshift when M (manual) mode is selected (by moving the gear shifter to the left) in either Sport or Sports Plus drive mode.
F Sport models also debut Sport Plus driving mode, which combines the Sport mode's enhanced powertrain output with coordinated control of the VDIM 5 system (including Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and EPS and, when equipped with LDHS, VGRS and DRS) to reward drivers with the ultimate in sports driving dynamics
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Suspension
The F Sport package features retuned front and rear suspension systems, supported by AVS, to maximise body control and steering response for improved vehicle agility.
Both front and rear shock absorbers have been calibrated to enhance AVS damping control, and the adoption of low-viscosity oil reduces friction for improved shock absorber response to small inputs. Rear suspension shock absorbers have been inclined further to the rear, and the lower bushing has been enlarged and stiffened in the all-new multi-link independent rear suspension. Combined, these modifications take full advantage of the AVS system's control of body roll, improving the vehicle's response to steering inputs for increased agility and a more engaging driving experience.
AVS allows the driver to fine-tune the GS's ride characteristics with a choice of two damper settings: Normal, for everyday driving comfort, and Sport Plus, for improved body control and precise responses to steering input while cornering.
Selecting Sport Plus mode automatically increases the difference between inner and outer shock absorber low-speed compression damping through corners to further reduce vehicle roll. Simultaneously, VGRS automatically reduces the steering gear ratio by approximately 10 per cent while the EPS alters steering assist torque by four per cent. These measures combine to minimise body roll, sharpen vehicle handling and optimise steering feel for the ultimate in luxury sports sedan driving.
Design
The GS F Sport range's performance is supported by a raft of unique styling and design features.
Kicking off the external features is an exclusive front bumper design incorporating enlarged side grilles. Combined with an exclusive upper and lower grille mesh design, this reinforces the new GS's more aggressive appearance, wider track and sporting stance.
To the rear, the GS F Sport features a grey metallic paint finish to the bumper diffuser, which for the GS 450h F Sport is a combination of grey metallic paint with a chrome-plated moulding to the lower section of the bumper. All F SPORT models benefit from a rear spoiler and exclusive, dark premium metallic 19" alloy wheels with unique front and rear widths, paired with 235/40/19 front and 265/35/19 rear tyres - for greater traction.
The interior features matching door and seat upholstery (also available in Garnet, a grade-exclusive colour) combined with aluminium ornamentation, 16-way electrically adjustable F Sport front seats, a black headliner and pillar finish, a dimple perforated leather steering wheel and gear knob, aluminium pedals and dashboard trim, exclusive black logo scuff plates and F Sport badging to the steering wheel.
Lexus Australia chief executive Tony Cramb said that the all-new GS 350 F Sport is an exciting vehicle, and one that will be a strong competitor in the large luxury sedan segment.
"The all-new GS 350 F Sport is a vehicle that will appeal to the sporting driver, those who seek performance and comfort without compromise," said Mr Cramb. With dynamic handling, incredible stopping power and a true sporting feel, the GS 350 F Sport is a vehicle that offers the best of everything to the enthusiast. "GS 350 F Sport is a true sports luxury sedan, offering the ideal mix of driving performance, comfort and advanced technology."
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For more images of the GS 350 F Sport - View our gallery on Facebook: Melbourne City Lexus