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The 2016 Lexus GS F performance sedan roared into the marque’s showroom in Sitra this week, packing improved driveability and cabin space to appeal to prospective buyers looking to start 2016 in style.
According to the Japanese manufacturer, the ‘F’ in GS F embodies the philosophy of ‘fast’, and as the first ‘F’ model since 2007, no effort has been spared on the performance front.
Chief Engineer, Yukihiko Yaguchi, said: “With the GS F, our aim was to develop a car that combines the versatility of a sedan with the agility and dynamic character of the ‘F’ brand.
“We wanted to produce a car that is fun to drive every day, whether it is on a busy street or a winding road, regardless of one’s driving skills. Having a driver deliver positive feedback and really enjoying his every day driving experience, that’s what the ‘F’ brand is all about.”
Performance starts with the engine, and no expense has been spared fitting this machine with a direct injection 5.0L V8, which channels 471BHP with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission.
Whether it’s on the open highway or in the twisty streets of Adliya, there’s a variety of driving modes to eke out every individual need, such as Eco, Sport+ and Sport S+, as highlighted in the recent MotoringWeekly test drive report.
Noise enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either as the Active Sound Control (ASC) combines the natural noise of the vehicle’s engine with an artificially-produced sound in a new, advanced four-speaker system (two speakers in front and two behind) that provides more powerful engine and exhaust noise.
The outer cover is just as important as the innards, of course, and the GS F doesn’t disappoint. The front view emphasises a wide stance with a low centre of gravity, with accentuated overhangs giving the model a sharp, edgy feel.
The front fascia is defined by an aggressive representation of Lexus’ trademark spindle grille, featuring a special ‘F’ series mesh and a pair of wide and tall air inlets beneath the headlights to maximize brake and engine cooling.
In addition, the centre pillar and outer mirrors are painted in a dark, glossy metallic hue to further enhance the element of sportiness in the ‘F’ series which is apparent in the 19-inch alloy wheels.
The GS F incorporates the full suite of Lexus Safety System+ technologies, such as the Pre-Crash System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control System (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Automatic High Beam (AHB) / Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM). A raft of passive safety features such as a full complement of airbags and an intricate alarm system come as standard.
Takayuki Yoshitsugu, chief representative of Toyota MENA, said: “True to the spirit of all the ‘F’-line models, we developed the GS F to create a sense of excitement for our customers whenever and wherever they drive it. The GS F’s high-speed performance and handling, which have been nurtured on race tracks around the globe, reflect our attempt to provide the ultimate driving experience.
“The sedan embraces the virtues of sound; response and limitless power feel to support Lexus’ ‘F’-brand identity of a performance car. We look forward to delighting our customers with this latest model and would like to acknowledge their support over the years.”
The 2016 Lexus GS F is available now at the starting price of BD23,000. For more information, visit the Lexus showroom in Sitra, call 17737773, or visit www.lexus.com.bh
