2008 Lexus GS 350 Review
The GS is a luxury sedan that debuted in 1993 with the GS 300. The upper-level GS 400 followed in 1998. The second generation debuted in 2001, and the third came in 2006. It’s won several awards, including AAA’s “Best Car $35,000 – $40,000″ in 2005 and J.D Power’s “Highest Ranked Mid Luxury Car,” for 2002-2004.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Lexus GS 350 is an engineering marvel that manages to outpace the competition in both power and gas mileage. It’s quiet interior and excellent fit and finish make it a great everyday car, while it’s horsepower and handling make it a true driver’s car. The GS 350 could very well be the best in its class.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems with the last generation included oil sludge, failing CD players, and failing air conditioners. It was recalled in 1998 due to a defective stability control sensor. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Government crash test scores are not available. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” scores for the front and side, and “Marginal” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, tire pressure monitoring, full side airbags, front knee airbags, adaptive headlights, and stability and traction control. Run-flat tires, and Lexus’ pre-collision radar system are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Quiet
+ Excellent build
+ Strong performance
Cons
- Requires premium fuel
- Awkwardly placed controls
- Expensive options
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Acura RL includes standard AWD and navigation, but costs a couple thousand more. The Cadillac DTS has a bigger trunk and a V8 engine, but costs over a thousand more, has nearly 30 less hp, lacks a CD changer, a moonroof, and gets four fewer miles to the gallon. The Volvo S80 costs a couple thousand less and includes AWD, but has 20 fewer horses, and gets four fewer miles to the gallon.
What Others Are Saying:
“Once in a while, a car hits the sweet spot. The vehicle seems so well-designed and drives so nicely that it’s as easy to get excited about it as it would be to cheer about a breathtaking high-performance machine. The 2007 Lexus ES 350 is one of those sweet-spot sedans.” – USA Today
“If you can keep the option list to a minimum, the satisfyingly powerful Lexus GS 350 may just be the best bet for the money.” – The Family Car
“The Lexus approach to high performance isn’t easily grasped by everyone, so it’s easy to overlook the genuinely rewarding road manners of the Lexus GS sedan. This car has the calm, intuitive personality we associate with the Lexus brand, yet it has capability to get you to your destination as quickly as you dare. Even during a morning commute, you can seize a few moments of driving enjoyment. At the same time, the GS never feels heavy or clumsy like its German competition. Although the third-generation GS doesn’t have the styling presence of its predecessor, this remains a first-rate driver’s car.” – The New York Times
Read more about the 2008 Lexus GS 350 at the Lexus manufacturer web site.
