Did you know that the 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds? This impressive statistic highlights the performance capabilities of this luxury sport sedan, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a blend of comfort and driving excitement.
Introduction
The 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport: A Sport Sedan with Luxury Touches
The Lexus GS 350 2015 model year marks a significant point in the evolution of Lexus’ midsize luxury sedan. Building on the success of previous generations, the 2015 GS 350, particularly in its F Sport trim, offers a tantalizing combination of performance, luxury, and technology. This review will delve deep into what makes the 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport a standout in the competitive luxury sedan market.
As we explore the various aspects of this vehicle, from its bold exterior design to its powerful performance and advanced features, we’ll uncover why the GS 350 F Sport has earned its place as a respected contender among Lexus luxury sedans. Whether you’re a longtime Lexus enthusiast or someone considering their first foray into the brand, this comprehensive review will provide valuable insights into what the 2015 GS 350 F Sport has to offer.
Exterior Design
A Bold and Aggressive Stance
The 2015 GS 350 design immediately catches the eye with its bold and aggressive stance. Lexus has crafted a sedan that exudes confidence and sportiness, with a low, wide profile that hints at its performance capabilities. The sleek lines and carefully sculpted body panels not only enhance the car’s visual appeal but also contribute to its aerodynamic efficiency.
One of the most striking features of the GS 350 F Sport is its distinctive front fascia. The large air intakes and sharp angles give the car a purposeful look, setting it apart from its more conservative luxury sedan counterparts. The LED daytime running lights add a modern touch, while also improving visibility and safety.
The Spindle Grille: A Lexus Trademark
At the heart of the GS 350’s front-end design is the now-iconic Lexus spindle grille. This bold design element has become a trademark of the Lexus brand, and on the F Sport model, it’s even more pronounced. The mesh pattern unique to the F Sport adds an extra layer of aggression, making a strong statement on the road.
The spindle grille isn’t just about looks; it’s also functional. The large opening allows for improved airflow to the engine, helping to keep the powerful V6 cool during spirited driving. This blend of form and function is a recurring theme throughout the GS 350 F Sport’s design.
F Sport Styling Enhancements: A Distinctive Look
The F Sport package brings several exclusive styling elements that set it apart from the standard GS 350. These include:
- Unique 19-inch alloy wheels with a dark graphite finish
- F Sport-specific front bumper and rear diffuser
- Rear lip spoiler
- F Sport badging on the front fenders and rear deck
These styling enhancements not only give the GS 350 F Sport a more aggressive appearance but also contribute to its improved aerodynamics and handling. The larger wheels, for example, not only look great but also allow for wider tires, enhancing grip and cornering ability.
The attention to detail in the exterior design extends to the color options as well. The 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport is available in a range of sophisticated colors, including the striking Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0, which is exclusive to F Sport models. This level of customization allows owners to express their personal style while still enjoying the distinctive F Sport design elements.
Interior Design and Features
A Luxurious and Tech-Filled Cabin
Step inside the 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport, and you’re greeted by a cabin that seamlessly blends luxury with sportiness. The interior design reflects Lexus’ commitment to quality materials and craftsmanship, with soft-touch surfaces, high-grade leather, and precision-engineered controls throughout.
The centerpiece of the Lexus GS 350 interior 2015 is the large 12.3-inch high-resolution display screen. This widescreen display serves as the hub for the car’s infotainment system, providing access to navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings. The screen’s size and positioning allow for easy viewing without distracting from the road.
F Sport Interior: Sporty Accents and Premium Materials
The F Sport package elevates the interior with several unique touches:
- Sport seats with enhanced bolstering and perforated leather trim
- F Sport steering wheel with paddle shifters
- Aluminum pedals and scuff plates
- Perforated leather shift knob
- 16-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power side bolsters
These F Sport-specific elements not only enhance the sporty feel of the cabin but also provide tangible benefits in terms of driver comfort and control. The sport seats, for example, offer excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for long journeys.
The Remote Touch Interface: A Touch of Controversy
One of the more divisive features of the 2015 GS 350 features list is the Remote Touch Interface. This mouse-like controller is used to navigate the infotainment system. While some users appreciate its intuitive nature, others find it can be distracting to use while driving. It’s worth noting that this system does have a learning curve, and many owners report becoming more comfortable with it over time.
Despite the potential drawbacks of the Remote Touch Interface, the overall technology package in the GS 350 F Sport is impressive. The GS 350 F Sport technology suite includes:
- Lexus Enform App Suite for smartphone integration
- Available Mark Levinson premium audio system
- Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming
- Voice command functionality
These features contribute to a connected and modern driving experience, allowing drivers to stay informed and entertained without compromising safety.
Performance and Handling
A Powerful V6 Engine: Plenty of Punch
At the heart of the 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport is a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated powerplant provides smooth and linear power delivery, with plenty of punch for both everyday driving and more spirited occasions. The engine’s responsiveness is particularly noteworthy, offering immediate acceleration when called upon.
The 2015 GS 350 performance figures are impressive:
- 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds
- Top speed electronically limited to 142 mph
- Quarter-mile time of 14.4 seconds
These numbers put the GS 350 F Sport firmly in the sport sedan category, offering performance that can rival many of its European competitors.
F Sport Suspension and Handling: A Sporty Drive
The F Sport package isn’t just about looks; it brings significant upgrades to the car’s handling capabilities. The Lexus GS F Sport specs 2015 include:
- Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system
- Larger front brakes with high-friction pads
- Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS)
- Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) on rear-wheel drive models
These performance enhancements result in a car that feels more agile and responsive than the standard GS 350. The adaptive suspension, in particular, allows for a comfortable ride during normal driving conditions while firming up for improved handling when driving more aggressively.
The Six-Speed Automatic Transmission: Engaging and Responsive
The 2015 GS 350 F Sport is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. While some competitors had moved to eight-speed transmissions by this time, the six-speed in the GS 350 is well-tuned and responsive. It offers smooth shifts in normal driving modes and becomes more aggressive in Sport and Sport+ modes.
The inclusion of paddle shifters adds an extra layer of driver engagement, allowing for manual control of gear changes when desired. This feature is particularly enjoyable on winding roads or during spirited driving sessions.
Safety and Technology
Comprehensive Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road
Lexus has always prioritized safety, and the 2015 GS 350 safety features are comprehensive. Standard safety equipment includes:
- 10 airbags, including knee airbags for both driver and front passenger
- Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Backup camera
Optional safety features include:
- Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Driver Attention Monitor
- Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Lane Keep Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
These advanced safety systems work together to provide a high level of protection for both occupants and pedestrians, contributing to the GS 350’s strong safety ratings.
F Sport Technology: Advanced Features for a Connected Drive
The F Sport package doesn’t just enhance performance and styling; it also brings some advanced technology features to the table. These include:
- Heads-Up Display (HUD) projecting key information onto the windshield
- LFA-inspired digital instrument cluster with moving center ring
- Drive Mode Select with additional Sport S+ mode
These F Sport-specific technologies not only add to the sporty feel of the car but also enhance the driving experience by providing easy access to important information and allowing the driver to tailor the car’s performance characteristics to their preferences.
Fuel Efficiency
A Balance of Performance and Efficiency
While the 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport is primarily focused on performance, it still manages to deliver respectable fuel efficiency for its class. The GS 350 fuel efficiency ratings are:
- 19 mpg city
- 29 mpg highway
- 23 mpg combined
These figures are competitive for a V6-powered luxury sport sedan, especially considering the performance capabilities of the GS 350 F Sport. The inclusion of an ECO driving mode helps to maximize efficiency when desired, allowing drivers to balance performance and fuel economy based on their needs.
Comfort and Practicality
A Spacious and Comfortable Interior for Five
Despite its sporty nature, the GS 350 F Sport doesn’t compromise on comfort. The cabin is spacious, with ample head and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The 16-way power-adjustable driver’s seat offers a wide range of adjustments, ensuring drivers of all sizes can find their ideal position.
The rear seats are equally comfortable, with enough space for three adults to sit comfortably on shorter journeys. For longer trips, two adults will find the rear seats particularly accommodating, with generous legroom and supportive cushioning.
A Practical Trunk for Everyday Needs
The GS 350 F Sport offers a respectable 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space, which is on par with many of its competitors in the midsize luxury sedan segment. The trunk opening is wide and low, making it easy to load and unload larger items. While the rear seats don’t fold down (a common feature in this class), there is a pass-through for longer items like skis.
This combination of passenger comfort and cargo practicality makes the GS 350 F Sport a viable option for those who need a car that can handle both daily commutes and weekend getaways with ease.
Conclusion
A Compelling Blend of Sport and Luxury
The 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport successfully walks the line between a comfortable luxury sedan and an engaging sports sedan. It offers a level of performance that will satisfy enthusiasts, wrapped in a package that doesn’t compromise on the luxury and refinement expected from the Lexus brand.
Key strengths of the GS 350 F Sport include:
- Powerful and responsive V6 engine
- Sharp handling, especially with F Sport upgrades
- High-quality interior with advanced technology features
- Comprehensive safety features
- Distinctive F Sport styling
Areas where some might find room for improvement:
- Fuel efficiency, while respectable, lags behind some turbocharged competitors
- The Remote Touch Interface can be polarizing
- Lack of folding rear seats limits cargo flexibility
The 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport: A Strong Contender in the Luxury Sedan Segment
When compared to its 2015 Lexus vs competitors, the GS 350 F Sport holds its own. It offers a unique blend of Japanese reliability and craftsmanship with performance capabilities that can rival its German counterparts. While it may not have the brand cachet of some European luxury marques, the GS 350 F Sport offers a compelling alternative for those seeking a well-rounded luxury sport sedan.
Overall Assessment
A Well-Rounded Sport Sedan with a Touch of Luxury
The 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport is a car that manages to excel in multiple areas. It offers:
- Engaging performance that can satisfy enthusiasts
- Luxurious comfort for daily driving and long trips
- Advanced technology and safety features
- Distinctive styling that sets it apart from more conservative luxury sedans
For potential buyers, the GS 350 F Sport represents an excellent option in the midsize luxury sport sedan market. It’s a car that can serve as a comfortable daily driver during the week and a fun, engaging sports sedan on the weekends.
2015 GS 350 owners often praise the car’s reliability, a hallmark of the Lexus brand. This, combined with the performance upgrades of the F Sport package, makes for a compelling ownership experience. The existence of active GS 350 clubs and Lexus forums speaks to the enthusiasm and community surrounding these vehicles.
When considering 2015 Lexus models, the GS 350 F Sport stands out as a well-rounded option that doesn’t force buyers to choose between luxury and performance. It delivers both in a package that’s distinctively Lexus, offering a unique alternative to the usual European suspects in this segment.
For those interested in experiencing the GS 350 F Sport firsthand, visiting Lexus dealerships or attending GS 350 events can provide valuable insights. Many Lexus service centers also offer extended test drives, allowing potential buyers to get a real feel for the car’s capabilities.
In conclusion, the 2015 Lexus GS 350 F Sport is a testament to Lexus’ ability to create vehicles that balance performance, luxury, and reliability. It’s a car that can appeal to a wide range of buyers, from luxury seekers to driving enthusiasts, making it a standout option in the 2015 luxury sedan market.
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