New Lexus Models for 2013
The definitive 2013 research guide to the new cars by Lexus.
ES 350
Powered by a 268-bhp 3.5-liter V-6 engine, the ES won't win many drag races. But it's more than enough power to keep ahead of traffic while returning 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Active mounts work at idle to keep engine vibrations and noise at bay, while the electric-assist power steering system and throttle/transmission maps can be switched from Eco to Normal to Sport via the Drive Mode knob.
Honestly, we're surprised a Lexus ES 350 would even have a Sport mode, but this is all part of Lexus' ongoing reinvention. With this in mind, it wasn't all that odd that our test loop incorporated the winding roads around a lake in Newberg, Oregon—a road affectionately dubbed the Newbergring.
Through sweepers and tighter bends, the ES
surprised us with its rigid chassis. And while it does understeer, the body sits flatter than previous generations and overall road-holding is improved. On the other side of the coin, Lexus has increased interior volume, with rear seat leg room growing by 4.1 in. This indicates to us that in this latest iteration, the ES ultimately stays true to its luxury-sedan roots.
GS 350
The all-new GS was introduced in 2012 as a 2013 model. We've already driven it and concluded that this is a legitimate BMW 5 Series competitor with sharp handling and excellent power coming from its 306-bhp 3.5-liter V-6. The 338-hp hybrid-powered GS 450h is also a must-drive for people with an environmental conscience who still like their luxury.
Future
The big news from Lexus in 2013 will be the all-new version of its flagship sedan, the LS. Also, be on the watch for the GS F, a performance version of the GS 350, equipped with a high-horsepower engine. We're predicting a V-8 with about 500 bhp. And although the production run of the LFA is officially over, there is talk of an LFA II, but it's too early to guess what fo
