2016 Lexus GS 350 Overview
The 2016 Lexus GS 350 stands as a compelling choice in the midsize luxury sedan segment, offering a refined driving experience, upscale interior, and a strong reputation for reliability. It strikes a balance between sporty handling and plush comfort, making it a versatile option for those seeking a sophisticated daily driver.
Highlights
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Engine and Performance: The heart of the 2016 GS 350 is its 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produces a robust 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This potent V6 is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission (or an eight-speed automatic transmission on rear-wheel-drive models with the F Sport package), delivering smooth and responsive power. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available for enhanced traction. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, but the available F Sport package injects a sportier character with adaptive suspension and sportier styling.
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Safety Features: Lexus prioritizes safety, and the 2016 GS 350 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies.
- Standard airbags: A full complement of airbags, including front, side, curtain, and knee airbags, surrounds occupants.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skidding and loss of control by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels.
- Traction Control (TC): Reduces wheelspin during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces.
- Available Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Uses radar and cameras to detect potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid impact.
- Available Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist: Warns the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane and can provide gentle steering input to keep it centered.
- Available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM): Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots.
- Available Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA): Warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.
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Trim Summary:
- GS 350 (Standard): This is the base trim, offering a well-appointed interior with premium materials, comfortable seating, and a generous list of standard features including a high-resolution infotainment display, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power moonroof.
- GS 350 F Sport: This trim elevates the GS 350 with a sportier aesthetic and enhanced driving dynamics. It features unique exterior styling cues, a sport-tuned adaptive variable suspension (AVS), larger wheels, and a more supportive interior with sport seats. This is the trim to consider for those who desire a more engaging driving experience.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Luxurious Interior: The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and excellent build quality. The design is elegant and driver-focused.
- Comfortable Ride: Even in its standard configuration, the GS 350 provides a refined and comfortable ride, effectively isolating occupants from road imperfections.
- User-Friendly Infotainment: The Lexus Enform infotainment system, while not the most cutting-edge by today's standards, is generally intuitive and easy to operate, featuring a prominent central display controlled by a remote touch interface.
- Exceptional Reliability: Lexus has a long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the GS 350 is no exception. This translates to lower long-term ownership costs and peace of mind.
What to Expect
Owning a 2016 Lexus GS 350 typically involves a refined and comfortable ownership experience. The car's build quality and robust engineering contribute to a low likelihood of unexpected mechanical issues. Routine maintenance will follow the manufacturer's recommended schedule, which generally involves oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks. You can expect Lexus dealerships to provide professional and courteous service, though luxury brand maintenance can be more expensive than non-luxury brands. Insurance costs will likely be in the mid-to-high range due to the vehicle's luxury classification and advanced safety features. Overall, the GS 350 is designed to be a dependable companion for daily commutes and longer journeys.
Potential Considerations
While the 2016 Lexus GS 350 is a strong contender, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Infotainment Interface: The Remote Touch interface for the infotainment system, while intended to reduce driver distraction, can be polarizing. Some find it intuitive, while others feel it's less responsive and more cumbersome than a touchscreen.
- Rear Seat Space: Compared to some competitors in the segment, the rear-seat legroom can feel a bit tight, especially for taller adults on extended journeys.
- Fuel Economy: While the V6 engine provides ample power, its fuel economy is not class-leading. Drivers prioritizing maximum MPG might find other options more appealing.
- Base Model Features (Compared to Competitors): While well-equipped, some competitors may offer more standard luxury or technology features in their base trims. However, the GS 350's available option packages can bridge this gap.
Overall Summary
The 2016 Lexus GS 350 is a sophisticated and well-built luxury sedan that excels in providing a comfortable and refined driving experience. Its potent V6 engine, combined with a plush interior and a reputation for unwavering reliability, makes it a sensible and enjoyable choice for those seeking a premium sedan. While its infotainment system may not be to everyone's taste and rear-seat space is not its strongest suit, the GS 350 remains a compelling option that delivers on its promise of Lexus quality and luxury.