Lexus won’t be teasing owners of their German competitors about feeling powerful with a four-cylinder engine any more, as they introduce the 2016 GS 200t
At Pebble Beach, the updated and redesigned mid-size Lexus GS was unveiled with several updates that start with the next generation look of the brand’s spindle grille design language.
Satin chromes soften the look in the day time, and new LED headlights sharpen it at night.
A new front fascia and lower rocker trims carry the new style as do its new tailights and rear deck trims. Offered in a number of new colors, the 2016 Lexus GS also gets new wheel designs across the lineup.
What’s truly new is under the hood however with a new baseline engine, a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The GS 200t will have the same engine just announced for the IS 200t with 241 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque.
With a standard 8-speed automatic, it’s expected to offer up to 33 mpg highway. But this has to be a price play as the GS 450h hybrid achieves this or better, albeit a far more expensive proposition to buy as it’s the most expensive GS model.
The mid-range GS 350 remains available for 2016 now with a few more ponies, now rated at 311 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The hottest variation of the GS 350 will be the F Sport, but don’t forget the 5.0 liter V8 comes this year as well in the fire-breathing GS-F.
Inside, the 2016 Lexus GS gets revised colors and trims, and there’s an enhanced suite of Enform features and connected services available to go with its 12.3 wide screen infotainment system. There’s also the new Lexus Safety System + suite of driver assistance features.
The 2016 Lexus GS 200t, GS 350, and GS 450h will go on sale later this year. Pricing for them will come soon, and I’m curious to see what the new GS 200t will start at.
