DRIVEN: Lexus GS F, The Car I Should Have Bought?

[@larry-notthecableguy]

The only disadvantage of owning a Lexus is not being able to hangout with your mechanic as much.

[@ethericdezigns1528]

And power...an accord could smoke a 350....which is unfortunate because I was once a big fan of the 350

[@Low_keyTD]

@@ethericdezigns1528 I believe no gen accord is smoking a lexus with direct injection my man. I have an 08 GS350 and it's pretty stout for a V6. Definitely has more top end than most standard issue V6s

[@ciello___8307]

@@ethericdezigns1528 the F will smoke an accord. And people don't buy a GS350 to race. They buy it as a nice luxury car lmao

[@yousef.al-assaf]

@@ethericdezigns1528 And IS350 would smoke any accord. It's all about the power-to-weight ratio.

[@Hachijo3GS]

@@Low_keyTD I totally agree with you! I got an 07 GS 350 and the top end is so good for a V6 compared to others

[@aus10li]

Had my GSF since 2019 and it is the best car I've owned. Have an aftermarket exhaust on it and it's incredibly intoxicating. Will never get tired of it. The exotic Japanese v8 sound tuned by Yamaha is worth it alone.

[@ED-xk5sb]

I got a 2016 GSF with Flowmaster fatback exhaust, it one of the best sounding cars I ever heard and I get so much compliments from it. I daily the crap out of it!

[@aus10li]

@@ED-xk5sb Hell yeah! Can't get enough of it. The F is super rare and will last forever too

[@jayhill4045]

I love my 2016 gsf too!!! Never will get rid of it either. Only 2384 gsfs registered in North America. Very rare indeed. Great point about Yamaha tuning the engine. I say it all the time. Glad someone else said it lol

[@dragospahontu]

What is the long term consumption

[@JonnyBeoulve]

I rented an LC500 last week, which I believe has the same engine and only a minor difference in acoustics. I can't think of a car I've enjoyed listening to equally as much except for the Porsche 718 Spyder (4.0 flat six).

[@MediocreHero66]

Owned my GS F since 2018, best car I've had as a daily and wouldn't change it out. Just a few info points for you or others looking at this model and some concurrences on its failings. Later models came with AVS, the 15/16's came with the fixed dampers. The infotainment is shite and the gearbox could be better, but the Japanese favoured reliability, look at all the modern german cars coming out with torque converters and not DCTs! Regarding the steering, did you definitely have it in SS+ as it is two turns on the select mode to do so, SS has much lighter steering than SS+. Active sound control is only active in SS/ SS+ but can be switched off by the button. UK options were, do you want a sunroof and uprated Mark Levinson audio, everything else standard! The rare factor is definitely holding prices, plus a N/A V8 that will last forever and Toyota/ Lexus has just released a warranty scheme for all cars up to 10yrs old/ 100k miles, so these babies now have 10 years warranty! The owners club is friendly, approachable and knowledgeable. Great video as always, hope the extra info is useful, and yes I'm a bit of a Lexi enthusiast :P

[@TheBlastoise313]

I have an 18 F Sport. I thought its plenty stiff on sport +. Gotta test out the mazz to see how much stiffer it is.

[@samarnett5007]

@@TheBlastoise313 Cant really compare an fsport to one of these...

[@CarsofGlasgow]

The rarity factor in the UK is a plus.

[@HK.Builds]

Congratulations mate that is a dream machine you have right there. I have only ever seen 2 GSFs in the UK and both were at dealerships. Extremely rare cars.

[@Mateicats]

You can install an aftermarket apple CarPlay system and it’s lovely.

[@hyypersonic]

This car is going to skyrocket in value over the next 10 years. Mark my words.

[@danielbec4287]

I believe you:(

[@SirFlukealot]

I drive a Lexus IS, I do agree with James the ride on the Lexus range is very firm, you do feel bumps in the road quite a lot, especially the F-Sport suspension package. However, that being said, the peace of mind knowing that it's Toyota engineering, means that sure the M5 driver will beat me at the track, however I can still enjoy worry free driving over 5+ years, whereas BMW maintenance may not allow such a happy ending. I could be wrong, and I am sure there are some people who have bullet proof M5s, but I would be willing to bet that's the exception, not the rule.

[@ApothecaryTerry]

I wouldn't say Lexus rides are particularly firm, except the CT- I find an F Sport less firm than an S-Line badged Audi for example. Perception is a part of it- I've heard loads of people say the 981CS has a "smooth" ride...but going from a GS450h Premier to the porker was like going from a memory foam mattress to a concrete floor. I'd also bet on a lot more than 5 years- Lexus give 10 year warranties out with their services now and I can't imagine they expect it to cost them much. The main thing I'll say against Lexus is their current range only has a few desirable cars. GS is discontinued, IS in the UK has no good drivetrains so it's just the LC and LS that are really good, plus the RX for SUV fans.

[@watchfan6180]

I have a 2018 Yaris. It is top spec in black, black silver alloys sport seats. If I had the money I would have this Lexus over any BMW. This is luxury and quality. BMW is sportier, better luxury but quality is garbage. The 70s, 80s, 90s where BMW and Mercedes’ quality years, now they lost their quality

[@techyd8411]

Have an IS f-sport, I agree the ride is firmer but that’s mostly the fault of the wheel and tyre combo, my previous IS was on 17” wheels and the ride was excellent. I had an E220 amg line and the ride on that was terrible when compared against both

[@ARentz07]

I had a 2016 IS 300 F Sport, and now have a 2021 IS 350 F Sport. The 2021 rides a lot better. I think Lexus were overcompensating for something back then. But really, whatever they've changed on the newer cars (aluminum control arms and new dampers, I believe) does seem to have worked in the favor of ride quality.

[@tjk9263]

The engineers at BMW need to go back to school because I even know that using plastic timing chain tensioner guides for your M performance cars is not the best idea.

[@johang7498]

Those are interesting cars you bought, James and this Lexus seems like a great alternative indeed. Keep celebrating your love for the more unusual cars, as to me, it gives the greatest content on your channel!

[@pielight7449]

I’ve had a late 2017 GSF for coming up to 2 years. Agree with much that is said in the review. The ride on mine is fine for a performance car, but being a later model than that tested it has adaptive suspension so the ride significantly less firm in the non sports modes. Throttle response is probably what I would expect in a naturally aspirated high revving engine, i.e. feels dull at lower revs which is due to substantial torque not available till much higher up the rev range (unlike a forced induction/turbo engine that produces a very large percentage of its percentage at very low revs). Naturally this means it is necessary to keep the engine on the boil using the gearbox (as mentioned in the review). This is either a good thing or bad thing depending on how you want to drive, ie. lazy but rapid progress is making less use of the gearbox, then a turbo engine with equivalent peak power (bhp) will suit you more. The GSF reminds me of 2 stroke motorcycles, ie very rapid if kept in the power band and great fun in doing so if that’s your thing. It’s all relative though, there is still plenty low down power compared with the average car (so more relaxed driving is effortless), but not compared with your German turbo super saloons. The sound makes up for that and the overall driving experience if you use the modes is fantastic - it took me quite a while to really appreciate its potential which is not immediately obvious until you get properly familiar with its characteristics, modes, TVD etc. I don’t agree with the steering being over light as far as my car is concerned…I find it perfectly weighted and precise and can’t imagine how It would be improved - again this could be down to the latter model perhaps having changes to the steering as well as the known addition of adaptive suspension…you’d have to be a lunatic to find the limitations with this and grip on a public road (my mate had a 2011 db9 Aston Martin and commented that the GSF handling/road holding was significantly superior. Gearbox does lag but this is minimal in the sports modes (particularly sports plus). The infotainment system control is nowhere near as bad as almost every tester finds it - unfortunately it takes quite some to get used to, but with practice becomes second nature and just about as quick as the majority if not all other systems (this is the second Lexus I’ve had with this controller). If you have the car for a day or two, yes it’s an issue, but to actually own a car wth it fitted, I find it no issue and much prefer it to the touch screen of my wife’s car. All in all I find it a brilliant car which for the first time by choice, plan to keep for many years (aided by Lexus reliability and warranty support).

[@prestigeandperformancecarclub]

As an underdog, sleeper and super sedan, it’s phenomenal. Sure, you can have a M car, it’s probably a better drivers car, but the sound, the comfort, the fuel economy are all in one package in this car, and there is something to be said about having just that something a little bit different to the rest. We absolutely love it when it comes on our drive outs and road trips. Thank you so much for taking the time to video us James. See you again soon!

[@grandmastagrimm8773]

Whats average mpg

[@prestigeandperformancecarclub]

@@grandmastagrimm8773 around 28mpg, 33-40 on a good long run.

[@grandmastagrimm8773]

@@prestigeandperformancecarclub damn that’s great. I’ve been looking at getting one for years now just hoping I can get one below 50k I don’t mind 60k+ miles. This the only car I want if I get a new one

[@prestigeandperformancecarclub]

@@grandmastagrimm8773 they are around 35-40k at the moment. You should be able to get less than 30k miles for under 40k easily. It’s a fantastic car.

[@grandmastagrimm8773]

@@prestigeandperformancecarclub I can’t find any at that price! Lmk where I’d definitely buy

[@sdlausen1]

I honestly don't know why more people don't buy Lexus products. They truly make the best user friendly, reliable, daily cars on the planet. That goes for all their models.

[@inspirice9844]

No euro prestige, people don't know what they're missing out on having a car where money is spent on making sure it doesn't fall apart rather than having the latest technology that gets dated quickly anyway.

[@jameswhitehorn6432]

Because where a Lexus really shines is in its ownership experience; this shows up less on a road test, so journos think they’re average.

[@superchickenlips1]

I have a HUD in my car. After a couple of months using it I really like it. It's one of those toys that when you don't have one, you think it's just a toy. Something to show off. When you've used one for a while, you see it's a very useful thing indeed. Mine display my speed, the speed limit of the road I'm on, and sat nav info if you have a route planned. These bits of info are very important, and mean you don't have to look away from the road to see your speed. Having the speed limit there is also great for your license. I feel the same about cruise control. I thought it would just make you lazy giving you less to concentrate on. It really doesn't. I look further ahead and plan accordingly to avoid turning the cruise control on and off. The same goes for a reversing camera. Saves your neck and back and you can see more when combined with your mirrors. Some things look like toys, but aren't once you've used them.

[@smokesgtp]

Agreed. Had one in a 90's GM product LOL. I've loved them ever since. It's a safety add without question.

[@leeadler4221]

Another GSF owner checking in. Pretty fair review - though the 2016's Sachs dampers I don't find too firm at all, though I guess it's personal preference. Also to note that the TVD is a proper mechanical unit, unlike the German offerings, meaning they power your outside wheel through a corner rather than braking the inside wheel. In normal mode the pedal is definitely sluggish, but I can't say I've really suffered with SS+ being laggy - it's pretty sharp. For a couple hundred quid, the Apexi throttle controller would solve your issue though - can make it lightning fast. What I love most about these is that people don't know what they are. They see a Lexus badge and assume hybrid so you see a lot of surprised faces when you open it up (more-so with exhaust tweaks to free up some airflow and sound.)

[@mikeshane-m1z]

just got a blue [like this one ] abt 3 weeks ago ... was wondering if a throttle controller was able be fitted ... have a gs460 [just sold a gs430] both had throttle controllers on them .. still got gs460 as a daily with one on it ,, huge differance .. so is Apexi the best brand or is there others // i use Elite Drive smart throttle .. got 3 settings .. road , sport , race you can turn up from 0-9 ,so 10 settings in each those .. plus normal , auto [changes as you drive ] and can change into manual mode from automatic .. is something like that compatable ?

[@GRfourfun]

I own a blue facelift Lexus ISF and I’ve test driven the GSF and RCF. The GSF is definitely the one to go for out of those two, the clocks are great, very LFA like but the tech/mouse not so much. I wouldn’t have one over my ISF. The ISF with its uprated suspension (some 8 seconds quicker round the Fuji speedway and rides much better than the early cars), revised steering ecu and lsd is for me the better drivers car and the gearbox is better too as the RCF and GSF use a fuel saving system which delays throttle response.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

It really comes down to, do you need the practicality of the larger platform? I'd take the GS-F because I've sat in the back seat of an IS350 and it was unpleasant - the platform is too small for 4 adults to sit comfortably for a long trip - whereas I've also sat in the backseat of a GS460 and it was very nice indeed. If you don't have such concerns and are only ever going to have children or do short trips with adults in the back, the IS-F is of course going to be a better choice.

[@HK.Builds]

10 year warranty on these. Saw one for sale for 40k the other day. Instant future classic for sure, the ISF is holding value extremely well.

[@GRfourfun]

The ISF really is and will always be the first F car.

[@CarsofGlasgow]

@@GRfourfun I think most Lexus F cars are holding their values, RC F right up to the LFA

[@GRfourfun]

@@CarsofGlasgow I agree, I saw a LFA at Lexus Stoke a few years back for £495k, it sold as well.

[@CarsofGlasgow]

@@GRfourfun They are impressive vehicles. I don't actually think I have ever seen one in real life. I bet the v10 sounds amazing!!! I drive the SC 430 which is a poor relation to the V8 F models.

[@GRfourfun]

@@CarsofGlasgow It was the first one id ever seen in the metal, so nice. I like the SC430, I’ve driven a few and my friend has one too. He has an exhaust and pedal box, goes and sounds great.

[@RJLightning68]

Love the GS-F, such a great looking super sedan. Wish Ford had made something similar in this day and age.

[@awesomusmaximus3766]

I have nothing but high praise for Lexus

[@shotty.]

always a new lexus on the channel, would love to see you spend a little more time in the midrange of these cars like a 3rd gen GS350, or something of the like. Another great run around the bend, as always 🫶🏼

[@jordanbuttkevitz6895]

I’ve owned 2016 GSF for two years. The steering does stiffen around corners albeit at fairly high speed - I think it’s above 70mph. You have to drive the GSF hard at the limit to really feel it’s capability. It was designed to be a track car (Lead Engineer for GSF worked on the MarkIV Supra). Example: sport+, manual mode, hold traction control off until expert mode disappears (zero nanny’s), TVD in track mode. Off the line will light up the tires and even pulling from 2nd gear will do it - it will pull all day long at high RPMS. You basically live in 2nd or 3rd gear most of the time. Also I never drive in other modes and rarely use automatic because it is not the greatest at changing gears.

[@AntoniusTyas]

That is a brave way to start a video. That aside, always liked the GS F. It's an antithesis to the remote, super powerful F10 M5 and the definitely-overpowered, if actually quite entertaining, CTS-V.

[@apt62]

It’s basically a jdm e39 M5

[@ILiquidCourageI]

@@apt62 pretty much! It even has its own "le mans blue" colour!

[@klasseact6663]

The GS-F is going to end up being "one of those cars" and those with them will be happy FOREVER😎

[@angelhr79]

Yeah I fully expect my 2020 to last me a long time, possibly pass it on one day as long as I take good care of it.

[@ARentz07]

I drove a 2016 RC F a couple of years ago, and I found the ride to be surprisingly no more firm than my 2016 IS 300 AWD F Sport I had at the time. Granted, Lexus seems to have been on a trend of making their F and F Sport products less-firm recently. My current car, a 2021 IS 350 F Sport, rides better than either of those 2016 models. Even the LC 500 got a suspension update a couple of years ago due to its firmness. So, it would seem, at least, that they are listening... To me though, the GS F is special. They don't make a GS anymore, and the F version is the most exclusive variant of that model. I'd still buy one.

[@wj6107]

"I can't think of many cars that would suffer more on a limited test drive, like a 1 hour out the show room and back than the Lexus GSF." -Chris Harris Sorry dude, don't think you really understood the point of the car.

[@JonSwansonE]

An hour out and back? Lucky. In America we're lucky to get 10 minutes with a car before it's time to talk numbers.

[@Elansol]

The main thing is, you can have it as your daily driver, which is what it is for me, not perfect and it does seem to employ a butler to deliver the gear change, but its a gentleman's racer, an MMA champion if you will, with a pipe and dinner jacket as opposed to a football hooligan with a can of stella and no shirt.

[@theylive2749]

“A football hooligan with a can of Stella and no shirt.” 🤣🤣🤣

[@joelamosun9341]

Brilliant point Sir!

[@R-Tap]

It's hard to look past a QP for a daily, beautiful car, beautiful noise. But, this is a SuperSleeperSaloon. Total class. Buy one, sometime. Mad Lexus's are cool.

[@leon-zg7wn]

Owned both a Quattroporte 4.2 and a LS400, both were the best V8 engine i've ever experienced.

[@nickmoore2301]

Didn't anyone read what James posted 🤔 This video was uploaded on the wrong day so he took it down and re posted it today 👍 As a former Maserati 4200 owner my choice is the Quattroporte, but I'm just biased 😁

[@grayfool]

My stepson had an ISF a few years ago. OOHHHHH that engine!

[@ikaruga24]

I love the look and feel of this car. I recently got the calculated decision to get myself a much older Lexus as my first UK car (not a new driver, have been driving for the past 22 years with no accidents) as the road tax and insurance for me will be exactly the same between a Ford Fiesta and a Lexus IS250. Thus i have made up my mind to get my first ever luxury car. I am torn between the old IS 200 (1999-2004), the newer IS 250 and the GS 300 (2005 - 2008 for both). I have read a lot about these and the most prominent thing i need to keep in my mind is that the last two models have carbon built up due to the direct injection system and thus i will need to pay someone every couple of years to clean it out for me. Some other minor issues between those two models exist but are easily fixable when they occur. The one i am most drawn to is the IS 250 of course as it's looks and general "air" seem to be likely the thing that fits me best. I don't care how fast it is, it's plenty fast for what it is but since i will be using it mostly to cruise motorways then the GS 300 is also a very likely candidate. Can't say where i will end up in the end as all three models seem to have merits that definitely appeal to me and are on my budget range. Is anyone having any opinion on any of these?

[@Rawdil]

Lexus offer fuel injector cleaner after every service. If you buy the bottle directly, it's cheaper. Only around £14.

[@ikaruga24]

@@Rawdil Thank you for the answer mate. Sadly my whole endeavor went to shit. Got an IS250 that seemed fine but proved to be a dud. Sitting around way too long caused gear box issues that only occurred about a month after i got it. Took quite a bit of effort to locate the problem but long story short it needed a new gear box. I wasn't prepared to pay 6K for it though for such an old car so i decided to part exchange it.

[@velvetjones1856]

Yes Lexus would have been a great choice instead of going from bad to worse. You look very comfortable in the car. Toyota/Lexus are very reliable, a must for my daily drivers.

[@12jamiegavin12]

Best part about the Lexus over the m5 is it’ll actually last longer than a few years without bankrupting you. Got myself an ls400 for £800 to see what the apparent billion dollar luxury car was all about and it was absolutely flawless. The V8 was so smooth, gearbox seem less and the interior looked like it rolled out the factory. Even with 165k on the clock it was a great car.

[@AWMJoeyjoejoe]

165k is delivery mileage for an LS400.

[@lindopool]

I love the layout of the quad exhausts! I wish car manufacturers would be more creative in the layout and shape of exhausts.

[@fransb8543]

The thinking man's choice of super saloons

[@Rightonrightoff]

It’s weird how cheap you can find this car in the UK. In the United States, this car and this brand in general is THE most expensive used brand there is in its class. This car used still commands high price, much higher than any of the German brands. It’s reputation in the United States far exceeds of any brand. It’s surreal to hear you talk about the Maserati, as Maserati is considered utter garbage here. It goes to show most car reviews are just cultural reflection.

[@ghostridertom]

Honestly, you are only testing it briefly. You do not know how to use the gearbox and driving modes :-) It is not as crisp as German transmissions. You are here a case of short term test drive. I had multiple IS F (2008 and facelifted 2011), now I have GS F as my daily. It is a great car to own and drive. Steering light but not numb, transmission not the best but you are not really making it justice. Also reliability is crazy good for a performance car and the performance is a top notch usable real world power. I do love it, it has soul. And I do have supercars to compare so I am not blind to the slow transmission but really you just do not know how to use it here, same with throttle response, it should be instant in a S+ mode manual gearshift :-) Infotainment is a no issue as you learn to operate it in a week (clumsy it is for sure :-) ) only thing that matter is the Mark Levinson Audio and that is great value too. BMW AUDI MERCEDES are super but boring, lease to show off style cars - I have money and I buy style buyers :-) This is the way of the few, analog a bit, modern a bit. This I will own for a decade+, value of long term ownership is unique.

[@naturalTJ]

Great review on Lexus!!!! I love the GS

[@Liddo77]

Was looking at one of these (I'm after a nice V8 saloon) but I want something with a decent ride. Thanks for the honest review, I'll now focus on a late Jag XFR 😉

[@chrisslater3174]

Paul, FYI the ride on my 2014 E63S has proven to be so surprisingly excellent - I anticipated some compromise for the V8 ownership experience - that I'm almost into my third year of ownership and I'm reluctant to consider alternatives.

[@Liddo77]

@@chrisslater3174 I hadnt considered the E63 Chris, due to my experience with a 16 plate C63. I thought the ride was AWFUL, so much so I moved it on within 3 months. I do however really miss the noise, and there are a few E63's around here making me a tad jealous ;o)

[@chrisslater3174]

@@Liddo77 Sorry to hear that - although interesting to note - but can only tell you my experience so far. And I have to say, I pretty much bought it for the noise... 😂

[@aus10li]

Had a lightly used 2012 Jag XFR in 2016 and while it was good at first, it had two major engine repairs in the 10 months I had it. Now I have a GSF and would never look back. I wouldn't do it if I were you lol

[@Beer_Dad1975]

If you don't mind the car being a bit older, the GS460 has a wonderful ride and a rock-solid 4.6 litre quad cam V8 - only puts out 355bhp stock, but it's still quick enough.

[@Teslamafia]

Very rare, reliable and sounds amazing. They hold value very well also. Great car all round.

[@Lot76CARS]

This and the previous ISF are really underrated and the last of their breed.

[@2ZZGE100]

467 HP for the GSF. 472 HP in the 20+ RCF and 471 HP for the LC500. RCF is the lightest (3960 lbs for RCF, 4100 lbs for the GSF and 4400 lbs for the LC500) and the sportiest/firmest of the three since it is supposed to compete with the M3/M4. Having driven all three, RCF has a pretty heavy-feel tuned steering in SPORT+ as well.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

I'd be hazarding a guess that exhaust header restrictions due to package limitations in the GS platform are the reason it's down on power a little compared to the RCF and LC500.

[@2ZZGE100]

@@Beer_Dad1975 It was a slightly different intake design. The 2015 - 2019 RCF made the same 467 HP. They changed the intake design slightly in 2020+ RCF/Track Edition and it went up to 472 HP.

[@pielight7449]

UK GSF and RCF have identical bhp and torque, ie. 471 bhp and 391 ft/lb

[@donaldlin586]

I currently own 2017 GSF. I think you're 50% right on the steering. To get more steering feel, you have to push it a bit more like higher G or higher speed(more wind downforce) which compress the front springs a bit more to generate more steering feel. My solution is installing Ohlins DFV 16/12K... Thanks to the much stiffer springs now I get plenty of steering feel from my GSF ALL THE TIME!!! PS: GSF really has two very different personalities just like Ohlins ROAD & TRACK...

[@andymiller8877]

Just as good the 2nd time around 👍

[@danielchapter70128]

Your audio of the engine while driving alone has me sold. I test drove the 2016 GS-f last weekend and for my needs it’s so good. A bit pricey but I found one with 56,000 miles on it for $40,500

[@ozhoneybadger]

Did you get it?

[@raftermanhoward1883]

I really do like the look and especially the sound of the GS F. Obviously it's also a lot more fun and special than the regular car. Sadly there are impossible to find, at least on the continent. AFAIK there are only 3 for sale in the whole of Europe at the moment, with the cheapest being €51.000. The GS is still one of my favourite sedans ever made though, and therefore I ended up with a GS 450h. A bit more practical, a bit more economical, a bit comfier, a bit cheaper, a lot cheaper on import taxes (Netherlands), but also less character, less speed, and 2 cylinders that are dearly missed. Still the best car I've ever had though.

[@iantownsend500]

The new Lexus IS500 is a brilliant car as well

[@deeharris2305]

Yes!

[@GRfourfun]

It is, as an ISF owner I really like it.

[@seeingthelight3608]

Designed for USA market only due to demand of Lexus NA. Love the design and looks great in grey. Shame there's no new ISF or IS500 for UK.

[@Billfish57]

Reliability is the Japan way. This car kicks ass because it will get you there and back every time, always, compared to other countries cares that are in the shop for something stupid sometimes major. Lexus keeps you out of the shop and on the road. That's why I want the car in the first place.

[@JonSwansonE]

I think you're the only reviewer that actually gets the GS F right. I test drove one today full of expectation based on what everyone else everywhere always says about them, but was very disappointed in the same way you were. The steering was light and numb, offering very little feel on center and not loading up properly. It felt quick and precise, but uncommunicative. The throttle response was nonlinear, especially at lower rpms. If that engine isn't on cam, it feels sluggish. Does sound amazing if you get it on cam though. The transmission is really not great. The paddles are plasticky, and it shifts harshly but not in a timely manner. It almost feels disobedient compared to a ZF. The harsh shifts toss the whole car around and because there's a delay it feels like the car is smacking you for trying to drive it hard. All in all, it adds up to a car that feels strangely heavy and artificially eager. My point of reference is a Jaguar XF Sportbrake S (with the supercharged V6 you hate so much), and it steers way better, has a more linear throttle response plus a much more obedient transmission (if more laid back). It feels like the much lighter car despite being bigger in every dimension and heavier. Anyways, here's to you for getting it right when everyone else got it wrong.

[@llleaolll]

Эту машину невозможно понять за одну поездку.

[@drewsalter]

i always knew i wanted one. So I got one eventually. And it gets better and better.

[@chrise2329]

These are definitely an interesting alternative to the normal M / AMG / RS candidates.

[@watchfan6180]

I am starting to enjoy and watch your channel again. Liked and subscribed.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Welcome aboard!

[@watchfan6180]

@@JayEmmOnCars Thank you. I will leave my disagreement with you re Porsche 944 in the past where it belongs. Your honesty in speaking your mind when given cars to review (911 white videos) is unique on utube

[@DavidColex]

@@JayEmmOnCars Why not go full average and buy a german brute instead? Jag, Maser, Lex... I mean, they're all oddballs!

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

What an interesting car. I had no idea Lexus made such a car. Please do more videos on the Maserati. Looking froward to the next car review. Keep up the good work.

[@icehawk3442]

Sorry, I just think that infotainment dial is the most amazing solution of the 2010s. Touch screens are silly and cause accidents, touch pads are too imprecise and takes time to get what you want. A tactile grid that stops you where there are valid options are just the best, fastest way to do it. I would get one with a car made in 2023 if possible. Is it possible to improve in actuation? Yes, I'm told it's too sensitive for the majority. But for the younger generation who grew up gaming on super-high resolution optical mice, this is the right kind of sensitivity to get things done real quick. Perhaps a customisable sensitivity (detent force) would help mass appeal.

[@ozhoneybadger]

Quite a thought

[@GudInformation]

I have a GS350 with Ultra luxury package, I need to go test drive a GS-F , LS600hLand a LC500.

[@Toyota4Life]

You also have to remember when you compare this to the Germans for example the BMW M5 how many generations of that vehicle have there been? BMW has had years to develop that vehicle where this GSF…. Is the only one that there’s ever been. For a first model year this is definitely a sweet car and this is the only large high-performance sedan offering from Japan

[@moistydoooood]

i would have chosen a GSF. not only is it reliable and a great daily driver-it’s a lexus. it’s a v8 that gets to 100kmph quicker than most cars on the road, and it’s fun and luxurious.

[@cc2681]

Not quite the same cars, but I've owned an IS-F and a Grandturismo S so I understand James questioning his daily Quatroporte for the GSF. Both were great in their own ways but neither were as much fun to drive as a lot of other cheaper alternatives. The Maserati sounded superior and had "a sense of occasion" whenever I drove it but I miss the IS-F a lot more.

[@armand6408]

What is the problem with the multimeda joystick?? I have a gs450h with the same joystick, and I see no problem for over 2 years. In fact, is far better than a touchscreen!

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Good message today sir. I would buy that Lexus for the V8 engine and that's about it. I think that at $25-$30,000 it'll make a wonderful used car. (:

[@TheRageddavid]

That Lexus will still be running in 15 years time Can’t say that about many M5 models Also, Lexus have amazing customer service

[@freddiejones4598]

M5’s have been absolutely bomb proof since the e60. Very reliable

[@ronaldowaldo4267]

@@freddiejones4598 🤣

[@user-qq2mo1ek2r]

Unless you have owned a Lexus, you won't get it.

[@OS993]

Why do you not test the air con, and engine cooling? We already know the performance stats.

[@global_nomad.]

always good to know what is worth trying....just enjoyed going back to your video on the LC500 and aligning those thoughts with this one

[@clinteagles9357]

Lexus all day every day. I have an 11 year old GS and it has never gone wrong, not once

[@squoblat]

That pedal response is a problem in all of the Lexus models, and has been since the IS250. The Is200 was the one exception, but that came with a severely underpowered engine. It's the only thing that lets the range down. Every car I've ever had has been a Lexus, with the exception of my weekend car (which is a Toyota). It's incredibly upsetting that Lexus have discontinued the RWD ranges in the affordable price brackets in the UK. The LS is too big for my tastes and as much as I'd love an LC, having two coupes isn't practical. I'm not sure what my next car is going to be, but the ES is not a fitting replacement for the IS/GS. Edit: the biggest draw factor for owning a Lexus is the customer service/after care. That alone is worth paying a bit extra for. I've driven all of my Lexus models to within an inch of their life, not only has nothing ever gone wrong, but I've been looked after incredibly well by Lexus. There have been a few occasions where they have bent over backwards to help.

[@lrs3]

I wonder where I've seen this before...

[@pedrowilson6211]

I have owned a GSF for 4 years. Great car only down side is the inside carbon fibre bubbles which is a common issue.

[@poovaneswaransupramaniam19]

Nice review jayemm...the lexus gsf may not have the razor sharp handling, outdated ui infortainment system, dated powertrain...but as a complete package, it is an amazing car...speaking as a current lexus owner of a 2009 ls460...

[@andystevens7557]

My wife will probably never sell her ISF, unless it is for a new (yet to exist) one. She calls the IS500 the "F Minus".

[@compilation8800]

Is thes re-upload?

[@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13]

New, the Maserati was clearly the cooler choice... Second hand, the Lexus shows you've made the thinking man's choice. Which I think makes it way cooler.

[@rsdtr]

Nop there’s no Voice enhancement crap in the LEXUS GSF… it’s the intake induction sound… I disconnected the speakers fuse and still sounds the same …

[@pieswimmer1]

I just bought an 06 GS430 with the venerable 4.3L 3UZ and ever since I got it I've been dreaming of this car in this exact color. Maybe someday. I think my goal is picking up an lc500 by the time I'm 30

[@pdcichosz]

The best clip in this video was Quattroporte revving and I think it just about sums up the dilemma ;)

[@riccccccardo]

Love Lexus 😍

[@jamesstaggs4160]

"All the angles" is what's wrong with car designs now and in the past few years (in my estimation). It seems like that's all they do now is angles, and they're not the good kind of angles such as the ones from the 70s and 80s. It's just all so busy that my brain just turns it into one big piece of geometry so all cars now wind up looking the same to me.

[@samharper5881]

Agreed. It's just a bit of a fun but fussy mess at the front and dull from the side.

[@CarsofGlasgow]

Great car, I love the GSF, especially in USB. Great spec & epic sound.

[@10Tenths]

I think I've seen this movie before!

[@marcnobel3938]

Finally the GS F! Great Video. THX

[@AStick3Pedals]

I'd love to see a video on the first generation Panamera. Maybe even with a V8 manual if you can get your hands on one!

[@riccccccardo]

I have a GS 450h f sport and I love it. Yes they lack the savagery of speed of the Germans but that’s it.

[@farhanhussain5937]

The gs450h is fastt. Faster than equivalent Germans such as the 535d etc

[@HK.Builds]

The GS450H is very very fast though. Like a cayote in a suit 😂

[@riccccccardo]

@@farhanhussain5937 yes it’s fast the speed is very linear and gradual build up he was spot of mines has that same unresponsive 1-2 2nd dead spot under heavy acceleration but it is what it is. Mines also comes with 4 wheel steer which I love feels like your on a merry go round fun fair sometimes. Mines very economical to I average 34-36mpg doing 30 miles a day Monday to Friday and random spirited driving.

[@Birmingham_racing]

My brother used to have a 2006 gs450h loved the car but hated the cvt gearbox when you put your foot down

[@riccccccardo]

I don’t even mind the Toyota Lexus Way of no turbos in my previous car SUPER MONEY PIT Audi A4 2.0 TFSI Quattro mk7 I sold at 128k milage I was always scared of the turbo needing to be replaced at some point.

[@spainter1985]

Can see the appeal of these, fantastic looking car!

[@computerhelpcc]

V8 sound at 3600+ under heavier throttle is awesome. Jay somehow did not record that. Many serious drivers (Chris Harris, Scott Pruett, TFL hotshoe PCA guy, etc) all noted excellent drivers car albeit one that takes some time to appreciate. HVAC and audio can both be used mostly without doing a thing with the joystick/screen combo. Steering wheel is too thick (nothing from Porsche is like it, so, ahem). My 2016 CPO, the one year with fixed-rate shocks, is sometimes bouncy on highways in a way my 1999 911 with a fully refreshed suspension never is. The red seats make the interior waaay more exciting.

[@BananasFroggy]

Nice to hear you can afford those cars now! Love your work!

[@rmoore4yris]

They are still high at just about $50k for the 2016 model. Pricing to this car will be going up as they get older.

[@bassicuk1986]

I ser a fast Lexus and I HAVE to click 🙈😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍

[@skm4308]

I'm thinking of buying a F Sport model but I just don't know which one I love the GSF for the size and interior and the new 2022 IS500 F Sport is alright much faster since it's a much smaller car but the interior is terrible since it's heavily outdated.

[@MrCalverino]

I love these🔥

[@leebrown6623]

Stunning car, awesome content as always

[@aadi8568]

Stunning car

[@austinedwards1918]

What Lexus are doing is slowly building up their sports car range and will one say put out more the japenese market does not call for sports cars although there is a drifting sports club amongst the young who retro fit their cars to suit their drifting needs. I think they are cautious and biding their time.

[@cwang6951]

I have the GS350, great car! Great to see the GS finally on the channel I'm not a fan of the 8 speed, the 6 speed in the GS350 is far better.

[@jtland4842]

I just hope you Maserati doesn't break like they somewhat known for. FCA cars really can't come close to matching the reliability of a Toyota/Lexus. Maybe things are a bit different in the UK vs here in the US but from what I know, FCA (now Stellantis) don't have nearly the build quality of a Lexus. The Lexus might be worth 7-10K more purely based on the reliability alone. I can basically guarantee you that that 5.0 liter V8 150,000+ miles easily as long as you do the basic required maintenance. I have heard of plastic pieces in the engines of FCA cars literally melting.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

And weirdly I met a guy recently whose 5L Lexus V8 failed

[@ryanjones5594]

It's a shame about the front end looks and the PlayStation 2-style appearance of the electronics. Other than that it seems a cracking car

[@narrowistheway77]

Ahhhh, the Japanese Mercedes! That skit is still a classic to this day and that’s coming from an American 😉😂

[@Dogeyess]

You mean Lexus?

[@boogboog8097]

Sensible lexus Passion and a maintenance budget Maserati 🇮🇹

[@josefgordon7712]

I feel like most people who complain and fault this car against it's competition have never driven it and honestly don't "get it" I'm a fan 👌

[@daiganzen7794]

Checked auto trader 1 for sale in the UK

[@tom11zz884]

Well one thing for sure. The Lexus is far more reliable, better quality, and superior resale value.

[@simonalexandercritchley439]

James,you should check out the youtube channel The Car Care Nut for his take on Lexus and the F series.Has a good insight to why they are built /drive the way they do.

[@Punisher9419]

Was this not meant to be released yesterday? Because I watched it yesterday.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

No, it was meant to come out on Tuesday actually

[@Punisher9419]

@@JayEmmOnCars Oh well. It was a good review nonetheless.

[@maciejthx3158]

Lexus = Best 👌

[@jasonalpha]

Great car.. you can adjust the sensitivity of the mouse

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

Great review of an interesting car. The 'melted radiator grille' look of modern Lexi is a horrid thing.

[@TheDOWfan]

Subjective. I love it.

[@panos323]

Love it