Photo: Motohide Miwa from USA / CC BY 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (270 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2020
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability, build quality, and overall ownership experience.
6 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentOutdated technology/infotainment
Lack of Apple CarPlay, slow and unresponsive screen, missing features like birds-eye view camera and massaging seats compared to rivals.
- Very frequentHigher running costs
Requires premium fuel, expensive tires (especially F-Sport run-flats), and generally higher costs for parts and maintenance compared to non-luxury brands.
- RecurrentUnderwhelming performance for segment
Naturally aspirated V6 (2GR-FKS) perceived as not fast, especially compared to turbocharged German competitors; 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) times around 5.9 seconds noted.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentFuel economy discrepancy
Noted for slightly worse MPG than key competitors in city, highway, and combined cycles despite lower performance output.
- IsolatedPotential for expensive oil leak
Isolated mention of the V6 engine having a reputation for a costly oil leak, though not elaborated as a widespread failure.
- IsolatedStyling similarity to Lexus ES
External design too similar to the less expensive ES model, confusing casual buyers and hurting the GS's premium perception.
The version owners recommend
The 2010-2011 model years for the third-generation (GS 350) are specifically highlighted as the best years. For the fourth generation, the AWD models equipped with the older 6-speed automatic transmission (over the later 8-speed) are preferred by some owners for their better drivetrain pairing. The F-Sport trim is frequently sought for its more aggressive styling and sportier suspension, though it is noted to trade some comfort for these features and can have higher costs for specific parts like brakes.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW 5 Series (specifically 540i), Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and CLS, Cadillac CT5-V and Genesis G80.
Is the GS right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability, build quality, and overall ownership experience. The GS is consistently praised as a durable, comfortable, and well-built luxury sedan that delivers trouble-free service for many years and high mileage, with specific examples cited up to 350,000 miles. It is described as a perfect sports sedan for a broad number of use cases, offering a good balance of power, roomy comfort, and sportiness. However, significant and recurrent criticism is directed at its outdated technology, particularly the infotainment system, which lacks modern features like Apple CarPlay and a responsive touchscreen. The vehicle is also noted for being expensive to maintain compared to mainstream brands, requiring premium fuel, and having higher costs for consumables like tires and brakes. Styling similarity to the less expensive ES model is mentioned as a factor that hurt its market positioning. Sentiment is mixed on performance, with some owners finding it sufficiently powerful and engaging, while others, particularly those comparing it to turbocharged German rivals, describe it as not fast and criticize its naturally aspirated V6 for being underpowered relative to competitors.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a highly reliable and well-rounded but technologically dated alternative to German luxury sedans. Compared to the BMW 5 Series, it is consistently described as more reliable and cheaper to maintain long-term, but less engaging to drive and outperformed in handling. Versus the Audi A6, it is seen as more reliable but with worse fuel economy and an inferior supercharged V6 in the competitor. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is acknowledged as more luxurious and technologically advanced. Within the Lexus lineup, it is positioned as a more engaging, rear-wheel-drive-based sports sedan compared to the front-wheel-drive ES, which is seen as more of a comfort-oriented cruiser. The consensus is that the GS excels in overall durability and balanced performance but lags behind key competitors in technology, fuel efficiency, and outright sportiness.
Recommended configurations
AWD is strongly recommended for improved traction and resale value, especially in climates with snow. The F-Sport trim is recommended for buyers seeking a sportier look and feel. Avoiding vehicles with significant rust or body damage is emphasized. Using premium fuel is stated as a requirement. Conducting a pre-purchase inspection, ideally at a Lexus dealership or with a certified Lexus technician, is universally recommended. For long-term ownership, following a strict maintenance schedule: including regular oil changes with full synthetic, drain/fill of transmission fluid every 30k-40k miles, and timely replacement of wear items like spark plugs, belts, and valve cover gaskets: is advised.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for buyers prioritizing long-term reliability, build quality, and a balanced luxury sports sedan experience over cutting-edge technology. Ideal for owners who plan to keep the vehicle for many years and high mileage. Suitable for commuters and those taking long road trips, offering comfort and quiet cabins. NOT recommended for technology enthusiasts who require modern infotainment, Apple CarPlay, or advanced driver aids. NOT recommended for buyers seeking the highest performance or most engaging driving dynamics in the segment. Buyers should carefully inspect for rust, verify maintenance history, and expect higher ongoing costs for fuel, tires, and repairs compared to mainstream brands. The vehicle's value proposition is strongest on the used market, where its legendary reliability offsets its technological age.
Remarks
Production ended in 2020, but owner discussions indicate parts and support are not expected to be an issue for a long time. The 2GR-FKS V6 engine and related transmissions are shared across many Toyota/Lexus models (Camry, Highlander, ES, IS, etc.), contributing to proven reliability and lower parts development costs, though this also links it to mainstream platforms. The primary reason for the model's discontinuation cited in owner discussions is its lower sales volume compared to the ES and crossovers, coupled with its higher production cost for Toyota and failure to differentiate itself sufficiently from the cheaper ES. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning primarily the third (2008-2011) and fourth (2013-2020) generations.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2006. Years to avoid: 2013, 2008, 2007, 2006Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Lexus GS years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 1 | 1 | steering |
| 2018 | 3 | 1 | visibility |
| 2017 | 6 | 1 | seat belts |
| 2016 | 10 | 1 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2015 | 19 | 0 | steering |
| 2014 | 20 | 0 | steering |
| 2013 | 59 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2012 | 2 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2011 | 15 | 1 | service brakes |
| 2010 | 28 | 1 | air bags |
| 2009 | 12 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2008 | 67 | 1 | engine |
| 2007 | 131 | 3 | engine |
| 2006 | 180 | 6 | exterior lighting |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices26 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2019 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 26V222000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2015-2022 Lexus RC, 2016-2020 GS, and 2022 IS vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 26V222000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2015-2022 Lexus RC, 2016-2020 GS, and 2022 IS vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2017 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 26V222000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2015-2022 Lexus RC, 2016-2020 GS, and 2022 IS vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2016 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 26V222000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2015-2022 Lexus RC, 2016-2020 GS, and 2022 IS vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2011 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 14V647000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Lexus LS vehicles manufactured May 9, 2006, to July 20, 2010, 2006-2011 Lexus GS vehicles manufactured January 6, 2005, to September 10, 2010, and 2006-2011 Lexus IS vehicles manufactured August 30, 2005, to September 10, 2010. Due to anti-corrosion plating remnants, fuel may leak from where the fuel pressure sensor is attached to the fuel delivery pipe.
2010 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 14V647000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Lexus LS vehicles manufactured May 9, 2006, to July 20, 2010, 2006-2011 Lexus GS vehicles manufactured January 6, 2005, to September 10, 2010, and 2006-2011 Lexus IS vehicles manufactured August 30, 2005, to September 10, 2010. Due to anti-corrosion plating remnants, fuel may leak from where the fuel pressure sensor is attached to the fuel delivery pipe.
2008 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 10V309000
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2008 LEXUS PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 26, 2005 THROUGH AUGUST 4, 2008. MICRO-FOREIGN OBJECTS IN THE MATERIAL OF THE VALVE SPRING MAY DEGRADE THE STRENGTH OF THE VALVE SPRING, POSSIBLY CAUSING THE SPRING TO BREAK.
2007 · engine and engine coolingcampaign 09V020000
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 214,570 MY 2006-2008 LEXUS IS, MY 2006-2007 GS AND MY 2007-2008 LS PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ALUMINUM FUEL DELIVERY PIPES (FUEL RAILS). ETHANOL FUELS WITH A LOW MOISTURE CONTENT WILL CORRODE THE INTERNAL SURFACE OF THE FUEL RAILS. AS THIS CONDITION PROGRESSES, THE ENGINE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT MAY ILLUMINATE.
2007 · fuel system, gasoline:deliverycampaign 11V029000
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 LEXUS IS AND MODEL YEAR 2006-2007 LEXUS GS VEHICLES. DUE TO INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR CONNECTED TO AN ENGINE FUEL DELIVERY PIPE WITH NICKEL PHOSPHORUS PLATING, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT, OVER TIME, THE PRESSURE SENSOR COULD LOOSEN. IF LOOSENING OCCURS, FUEL COULD LEAK PAST A GASKET USED IN THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE PIPE AND THROUGH THE THREADED PORTION OF THE SENSOR.
2007 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 10V309000
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 THROUGH 2008 LEXUS PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 26, 2005 THROUGH AUGUST 4, 2008. MICRO-FOREIGN OBJECTS IN THE MATERIAL OF THE VALVE SPRING MAY DEGRADE THE STRENGTH OF THE VALVE SPRING, POSSIBLY CAUSING THE SPRING TO BREAK.
2006 · engine and engine coolingcampaign 09V020000
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 214,570 MY 2006-2008 LEXUS IS, MY 2006-2007 GS AND MY 2007-2008 LS PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ALUMINUM FUEL DELIVERY PIPES (FUEL RAILS). ETHANOL FUELS WITH A LOW MOISTURE CONTENT WILL CORRODE THE INTERNAL SURFACE OF THE FUEL RAILS. AS THIS CONDITION PROGRESSES, THE ENGINE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT MAY ILLUMINATE.
2006 · seat belts:frontcampaign 06V121000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, IF THE FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTORS (BOTH DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER) BECOME LOCKED, THEY MAY NOT RELEASE DUE TO A COMPONENT OF THE EMERGENCY LOCKING SYSTEM. IF THE SEAT BELT IS LOCKED IN THIS CONDITION, THE OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY FASTEN THE SEAT BELT.
2006 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylindercampaign 10V499000
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 AVALON, MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 LEXUS RX, AND MODEL YEAR 2006 LEXUS GS AND IS VEHICLES. BRAKE FLUID CONTAINING POLYMERS IS USED THAT ACTS AS LUBRICANTS FOR CERTAIN BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS. IF REPLACEMENT BRAKE FLUID IS USED THAT DOES NOT CONTAIN SUCH POLYMERS, OR THAT CONTAINS ONLY SMALL AMOUNTS, A PART OF THE RUBBER SEAL LOCATED AT THE REAR OF THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER MAY BECOME DRY, AND THE SEAL MAY CURL DURING MOVEMENT OF THE PISTON. IF THIS OCCURS, A SMALL AMOUNT OF BRAKE FLUID COULD SLOWLY LEAK FROM THE SEAL INTO THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
2006 · fuel system, gasoline:deliverycampaign 11V029000
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 LEXUS IS AND MODEL YEAR 2006-2007 LEXUS GS VEHICLES. DUE TO INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR CONNECTED TO AN ENGINE FUEL DELIVERY PIPE WITH NICKEL PHOSPHORUS PLATING, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT, OVER TIME, THE PRESSURE SENSOR COULD LOOSEN. IF LOOSENING OCCURS, FUEL COULD LEAK PAST A GASKET USED IN THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE PIPE AND THROUGH THE THREADED PORTION OF THE SENSOR.
2006 · air bagscampaign 06V096000
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, DUE TO IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OF THE AIR BAG INFLATOR, WHICH IS USED IN THE SIDE AIR BAG, THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIR BAG, AND THE KNEE AIR BAG ASSEMBLY, SOME INFLATORS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN INSUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF THE HEATING AGENTS NECESSARY FOR PROPER AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. IN THIS CONDITION, THE EXPANSION FORCE OF THE GAS MAY BE INSUFFICIENT TO PROPERLY INFLATE THE AIR BAG WHEN THE SRS SYSTEM IS ACTIVATED DURING A CRASH.
11 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
F 5.0 V8
5.0L 8-cylinder · 477 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2016–2020