2013 Lexus GS 350 review

Redesigned for 2012, the GS luxury sedan is notably improved inside and out. Those upgrades helped boost its overall road-test score to 84, up significantly from the 75 of its 2006 GS 300 predecessor. The GS 350 now goes head-to-head with the Mercedes-Benz E350 and BMW 535i, but still trails the best-in-class Audi A6 and Infiniti M37.

The difference is easily felt from the driver's seat. The ride is supple and controlled, handling is responsive, and the 306-hp, 3.5-liter  V6 engine delivers quick acceleration and plenty of power for passing and merging. We measured 21 mpg overall, which is very competitive for this class. One blemish: In contrast to the silky-smooth engines we've come to expect from Lexus, this V6 has a raspy edge when it's revved. It's supposed to sound sporty, but it just sounds gruff.

Inside, occupants will find a quiet, nicely finished cabin. The driver has plenty of room, unlike in the cramped cockpit of the previous GS. Our biggest complaint with the interior is that it's marred by a newfangled control system that relies on a giant video display and mouse-like controller that's distracting and complex.

Reliability is above average based on our latest subscriber survey.

The GS sails placidly over road flaws, and handling is just a notch behind its German competitors. It's steady and surefooted in corners. Steering feels quick and well-weighted, but it can be a bit vague on center. Still, the GS feels engaging to drive on the road and on the track. When pushed to its handling limits at our test track, the GS instilled confidence in our drivers and threaded our avoidance maneuver at a commendable speed.

A small 37-foot turning circle helps with parking. And an optional $500 radar-guided park-assist system lets the car parallel park itself. It works well but requires patience.

The V6 is mated to a smooth and responsive six-speed automatic transmission. Most competitors have more speeds, which aids in their efficiency. There are sport, eco, and snow modes that alter steering and throttle response. All-wheel drive is an option. A hybrid version, the GS 450h, is also available and pairs the V6 with an electric motor for a combined 338 hp. That drivetrain is offered as an alternative to an optional V8. Like most luxury sedans, the GS takes premium gas.

Inside you'll find rich materials and impressive fit and finish. A power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel has generous adjustment, and optional 18-way adjustable seats help drivers dial in a customized fit. The rear is comfortable for two people, but the center position is narrow, making things tight for three.

Gauges are brightly lit and simple, and an optional $900 heads-up display projects the vehicle speed onto the lower windshield. The giant center screen is also clear, with large fonts. The Lexus Enform infotainment system lets you control some smart-phone apps onscreen. And voice commands can be used for many common functions. Otherwise, it can be hard to navigate through the plethora of onscreen buttons with the controller, which we found to be complicated and fussy to use.

The GS's trunk is spacious, but the rear seatbacks don't fold down to increase cargo space. There's only a small center pass-through for longer objects.