Out with the old, in with the new Lexus GS 460

The Lexus GS 430 is dead. Long live the Lexus GS 460. For 2008, the top-of-the-range GS model gets a new 4.6-liter V-8, an eight-speed automatic transmission and an active power stabilizer system, which allows the driver to switch the suspension between "comfort" and "sport" modes for even better body control.

The GS is the Lexus model that's just on the tauter side of luxurious anyway, mixing a well-stocked, high-quality interior with a smooth, rear-drive performance that sees the zero-to-60-mph sprint handled in 5.4 seconds. The engine produces 342 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, going through the new gearbox that features a sequential manual shift option.

A wind-cheating 0.27 coefficient of drag indicates that the basics are all seen to. Build quality is of a level that only robots from the future should be able to achieve. Average fuel consumption is 17/24 mpg city and highway, respectively. The car also has a full complement of driver aids under the umbrella of its vehicle dynamics integrated management system, such as a stability program and braking assistance. Meanwhile, available gadgets include a keyless entry system, a reversing camera, parking sensors, a powered rear sunshade and a power trunk closer. Prices start at $52,620.

-- Colin Ryan

Comments

[Aaron]

I own a Lexus GS 300 and have always been pleased with it. The 230 hp engine is already too powerful for almost any normal driving scenario. The continued emphasis on increasing horsepower, rather than increasing fuel economy, is foolish. While even more horsepower is a nearly useless benefit, consumers do care about saving gas money, about protecting the environment, and about the political problems with using too much foreign oil.