Category: Executive 
Price Range: No data available
High-tech safety kit, refinement, hybrid option, Lexus reliability and quality, handsome looks
No diesel option, hard ride, poor steering feel, lack of character; VDIM and pre-crash safety systems only in top-spec models
It's not quite the all-out sports saloon Lexus claims it to be, but it's a comfortable, sophisticated, high-quality choice with some unique touches
Demonstrations of the VDIM system (standard in the GS 430 and GS 450h SE-L, optional in the GS 300 SE-L) showed, for example, how on a wet slippery surface, or a surface where different wheels have different levels of grip, or under sudden braking, skids can be corrected by automatic steering inputs and reduction in engine power, along with modulation of the brakes. It's less obtrusive than many cruder traction control systems, and promises to be effective, though obviously, no electronic system is fool-proof and it mustn't be seen as a substitute for safe, sensible driving that'll always get you out of trouble.
Models without the VDIM as standard feature the usual ABS, stability control and traction control nonetheless. But if a crash is inevitable, the crash-sensing kit, which is similar to Mercedes' Pre-Safe system, uses radar sensors to detect if a collision is imminent, tightens the seatbelts and primes the brakes for an emergency situation, giving optimum occupant restraint, smoothing the brakes' application and backing up foot pressure. Tested as a passenger in a low-speed on-track simulation, the belts - all with pre-tensioners, even in the rear - really did hold firm, and would definitely help protect against whiplash injuries, as well as having an effect in more serious situations. An anti-dive function prevents against 'submarining', when an occupant slips down inside the seatbelt. If it does all go horribly wrong, there are also up to 12 airbags, ten standard-fit, including front side curtain airbags, head airbags and driver and front passenger knee-protecting airbags. The GS has scored a class-leading five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests, with four stars for child protection (using Lexus' own child seats and ISOFIX anchorage points) and though it only scored two stars for pedestrian protection, it's still the best in class on that count.
