Some folks might see midsize luxury sedans as the automotive equivalent of a dark blue business suit. They provide a nice, neat look, and are appropriate for many settings, but they are kind of boring. But it doesn't have to be that way. The 2017 Lexus GS 350 F Sport trim model proves that.
The GS 350 uses some distinctive design touches to set itself apart. Its creative grille has a crisscross-pattern mesh, which provides a little extra flair to the familiar Lexus spindle grille. There is also a diffuser-style rear fascia that fits around triangular exhaust tips.
On the exterior, the GS 350 includes standard features such as LED headlights, arrow-head LED daytime running lamps, side mirrors with turn-signal indicators, a dual-pipe exhaust system and 18-inch alloy wheels. Optional features include a power trunk lid, a rear spoiler, sport-tuned adaptive suspension and larger 19-inch alloy wheels.
The GS 350's standard power plant is a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that makes 311 horsepower and is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. Gas mileage for the F Sport is rated at 19 mpg city, 28 highway.
The nicely appointed interior features a premium NuLuxe leatherette trim with a 60/40-split folding rear seat. There is a Lexus Navigation System with 12.3-inch display on the center console, the Lexus Enform app suite, Siri Eyes Free mode, voice command recognition, USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio and a Mark Levinson premium audio system. Automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, push-button start, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and rear HVAC are standard.
Options include power front seats, heated/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel.
For safety, there is a standard Lexus Safety System+ with pre-collision prevention, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Other standard safety features include a backup camera, blindspot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert. The F Sport also features an optional limited slip differential.
Driving dynamics are not bad for a midsize sedan. There are different modes including Sport, Snow and Eco, with Sport obviously being the choice if you're looking for some modest thrills on the road.
Overall, the most appealing things about this sedan, though, are its comfort, attractive styling and ample safety features.
Pricing for the tested F Sport model was around $61,000.
So if you choose the automotive equivalent of a suit, get one with some style and that looks good when you go out on the town. When it comes to those qualities, the Lexus GS 350 F Sport is a great fit.
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