The Lexus GS midsize luxury sedan was a core model in the Lexus lineup for nearly three decades. First introduced in 1993, Lexus positioned the GS as a sportier, more dynamic alternative to its front-wheel-drive ES sedan. It competed in the highly competitive midsize luxury segment against rivals such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. However, Lexus decided to discontinue the GS after the 2020 model year.
This article will explore the reasons behind the GS’s discontinuation and examine the models that have effectively replaced it in the Lexus lineup.
The Discontinuation of the Lexus GS
In recent years, the automotive industry has seen a significant shift toward SUVs and crossovers, with many buyers prioritizing the practicality, versatility, and higher seating position these vehicles offer. This trend has put pressure on traditional sedan segments, including the midsize luxury category in which the GS competed. Despite its reputation for quality, reliability, and driving dynamics, the GS struggled to maintain strong sales in this changing market landscape.
In 2019, Lexus sold just 3,378 units of the GS in the United States, making it the brand’s slowest-selling four-door sedan. The declining sales, coupled with the increasing competition from rival luxury brands, made it difficult for Lexus to justify continued GS production. Furthermore, Lexus has been focusing on expanding and updating its SUV and crossover lineup to meet the growing demand in those segments. Models such as the RX, NX, and UX have become increasingly crucial for the brand in terms of sales volume and profitability.
Replacing the GS: The Lexus Lineup
While the discontinuation of the GS leaves a void in the Lexus sedan lineup, the brand has several models that effectively serve as replacements, catering to different segments of the luxury car market. The Lexus ES is a midsize luxury sedan that has been a mainstay in the brand’s lineup since its inception. It offers a comfortable, refined, and well-equipped driving experience, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a premium sedan.
On the other hand, the Lexus IS is a compact luxury sport sedan that appeals to enthusiasts and drivers who prioritize dynamic performance. Finally, the Lexus LS is the brand’s flagship luxury sedan, offering the ultimate comfort, technology, and prestige.
The Lexus ES: A Comfortable and Refined Option
The Lexus ES has long been known for comfort, luxury, and refinement. With the discontinuation of the GS, the ES has become the brand’s primary midsize sedan offering. The current generation ES, introduced for the 2019 model year, features a sleek and sophisticated design that showcases Lexus’ signature spindle grille and a coupe-like roofline.
Inside, the ES offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials, advanced technology features, and a range of premium amenities. Available features include semi-aniline leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, a Mark Levinson premium audio system, and the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 suite of driver-assistance technologies.
The Lexus ES 350 comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, while the ES 300h Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 215 horsepower. Both models provide a smooth and refined driving experience, with a focus on comfort and efficiency.
The Lexus IS: A Sportier and More Dynamic Choice
The Lexus IS offers a compelling alternative to the ES for drivers who prioritize a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. This compact luxury sport sedan features an athletic and aggressive design, with a bold spindle grille, sharp lines, and a muscular stance.
The IS is renowned for its handling prowess, thanks to its well-tuned suspension, responsive steering, and balanced chassis. It offers a level of driving engagement and agility that sets it apart from the more comfort-oriented ES. The IS is available with a choice of two powertrains: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque or a 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
Lexus offers the IS F Sport variant for those seeking even greater performance. This variant adds sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and exclusive styling elements. The range-topping IS 350 F Sport features the abovementioned V-6 engine and can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds.
The Lexus LS: The Flagship of Luxury
At the pinnacle of the Lexus sedan lineup sits the LS, a full-size luxury sedan that represents the ultimate expression of the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, technology, and refinement. The current generation LS, introduced for the 2018 model year, showcases a bold and distinctive design with a massive spindle grille, sleek lines, and an elegant profile.
The LS’s interior showcases premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. It features a spacious and opulent cabin, with available features such as 28-way power-adjustable front seats, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, a 23-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, and a rear-seat luxury package that includes massaging seats and a touch-screen control panel.
The LS is available with a choice of two powertrains. The LS 500 comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine that produces 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, while the LS 500h hybrid pairs a 3.5-liter V-6 with two electric motors for a combined output of 354 horsepower. Both models offer a smooth, quiet, and effortless driving experience, with advanced features such as air suspension and active noise cancellation.
While the discontinuation of the GS marks the end of an era for Lexus, the brand remains committed to offering a range of compelling sedan options for luxury car buyers. In the near future, Lexus will likely focus on expanding its lineup of electrified vehicles, including hybrid and fully electric models.
Experience the Lexus Lineup at Lexus of Stevens Creek
If you’re interested in exploring the current Lexus sedan lineup and experiencing the models that have replaced the discontinued GS, we invite you to visit our Lexus of Stevens Creek dealership. Browse our new vehicle inventory for the latest Lexus sedans, including the ES, IS, and LS, and our extensive selection of SUVs and crossovers. If you’re specifically interested in a luxury utility vehicle, check out our new SUV inventory.
a car parked in a parking lot by Vitali Adutskevich is licensed with Unsplash License
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