Lexus Unveils the new GS 250

Lexus has revealed a further extension of its all-new GS luxury saloon range with the unveiling of the GS 250 at the Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition.

The GS 250 is powered by a 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine with D-4S direct port injection and Dual VVT-i intelligent valve timing. Maximum output is 206bhp at 6,400rpm and peak torque of 253Nm is delivered at 4,800rpm, giving the car nought to 62mph acceleration in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 142mph. Combined cycle fuel consumption is 31.7mpg and CO₂ emissions are 207g/km.

The engine is matched to Lexus’s Super ECT-i close-ratio intelligent six-speed automatic transmission, with a sequential manual shift function. The system has been engineered to deliver faster shift speeds, earlier torque converter lock-up and downshift throttle blips, complimenting a range of different drive modes available through the GS 250’s Drive Mode Select System.

Compared the current GS, the new model has a more spacious interior, with notably more head and legroom for rear seat passengers. It will be offered with a range of new technology features, including a 12.3-inch multimedia screen – the largest on the market. It will be available with a new S-flow air conditioning system with nanoe air purifying technology, and a new Mark Levinson audio system with up to 17 speakers.

The new GS delivers improved driving dynamics thanks to a bodyshell that has been rendered 14 per cent more rigid; front and rear suspension revisions; and an optimised seating position for the driver. The driver can also adjust vehicle behaviour to suit road conditions and driving preferences using the Drive Mode Select. This gives the option of Eco, Normal and Sport S modes, while versions equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension offer a further Sport S+ mode for even more dynamic performance.

Safety provisions will include Lexus’s advanced Pre-Crash Safety system, combined with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, and a series of other systems designed to reduce the risk of an accident, including Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitor and Lexus Night View.

The new GS 250 will be launched in the UK at the same time as the full hybrid GS 450h in June 2012; the range will include a performance-themed F Sport version. Further details will be announced nearer the time of launch.

Lexus GS 250 outline technical specifications