New Lexus GS to Debut in 2011
December, 2009 / By Peter Lyon

It's looking like 2011 will be the year a next-generation Lexus GS finally hits U.S. showrooms. When it does, as we've previously reported, expect to see a high performance Lexus GS F version join the party.

Sitting on a new platform, the base Lexus GS (the present 2010 Lexus GS 460 is pictured) will lose around 1 inch from its front overhang while width and tread will both expand by roughly the same amount. Wheelbase will remain the same at 112.2 inches, but cabin height will stretch 1.3 inches.

Most surprising will be the change in engine specs. Gone is the current 4.6-liter V-8, replaced by a 2.5-liter V-6 -- most likely a version of the engine presently found in the IS. The present 3.5-liter V-6 will become the top of the range. About a year after launch, a 2.5-liter hybrid will reportedly be added to the GS lineup.

In contrast, the GS F variant will employ the IS F's 5.0-liter V-8, but with strategic modifications including revamped ECU and exhaust. Horsepower will reportedly be boosted from 417 hp to as much as 464 hp. While that doesn't touch cars like the Cadillac CTS-V's 556-hp, the GS F should no doubt be plenty fast.

The new GS F should handle well as well. Arguably the most impressive piece of new technology on the GS F will be its (right-left rear) torque split mechanism fitted to the rear drive wheels. This device is being likened locally to Honda's SH-AWD or Mitsubishi's AYC unit, with the big difference being that the latter two examples are all-wheel drive, while the GS F is rear drive.

Rivaling the BMW M5, Benz AMG E63 and the CTS-V, the GS F will also incorporate a lighter platform and some carbon fiber body parts to get pounds down to a target weight of around 3530 lbs. Also expected to join the GS in the 2011 calendar year is a new Lexus IS, and given the news of the GS F, we wouldn't be surprised to see a next-generation IS F as well.

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2009/112_2011_lexus_gs/index.html#ixzz0ePgqJoSb