The 2007 GS 350 builds upon its predecessor model’s already significant levels of performance, advanced luxury and intuitive technology, and it becomes the most powerful six-cylinder model in its segment. The handling performance of the 2007 GS 430’s potent 4.3-liter V8 is further optimized by a newly available active stabilizer system that automatically and seamlessly counteracts body sway to improve cornering performance.
"The 2007 GS models epitomize the direction of the Lexus brand, offering more emotional design and remarkably higher performance without compromising the luxurious comfort, attention to detail and quality that continue to rank Lexus as the leader in the luxury category," said Bob Carter, Lexus group vice president and general manager.
Aluminum alloy 18-inch wheels are standard on the GS 430 and newly available for the rear-wheel-drive GS 350. All GS models offer the new Generation 5 Lexus DVD Navigation System for 2007, which features Bluetooth® compatibility, voice activation and a rear back-up camera. In addition, the Lexus Link® telematics system is now available for 2007 GS models.
V8 Is a Power Leader
The GS 430’s 4.3-liter double overhead-cam V8 engine produces 290 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 319 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,400 rpm. Continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) ensures excellent low- and mid-range power for easy highway merging. Both GS models achieve the EPA’s Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification. All 2007 GS models maximize performance with a six-speed automatic transmission that features a sequential manual-shift mode.
Ultra-Advanced Dynamic Handling Control
The Lexus GS combines the best-proven design chassis systems with new dynamic handling technology. The double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension systems feature with geometry optimized to virtually eliminate unwanted wheel-angle changes during suspension movement. The result is a natural, confident feel that’s also spirited.
An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, standard on and exclusive to the GS 430, provides four settings, including "sport," for tighter, more precise control. AVS can automatically select appropriate suspension damping for driving conditions. New for 2007, the GS 430 offers the advanced Active Stabilizer system that reduces body sway and enhances vehicle control during cornering. This new system uses electric actuators, rather than slower hydraulic units commonly found in similar systems.
An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by the front and rear actuators. The Active Stabilizer system responds within 20 milliseconds, compared to 100 milliseconds for a competitor. The Lexus system consumes no power under normal operating conditions, whereas the competitor’s system consumes over 240 watts.
The GS 430 provides the performance enhancements and advanced vehicle control of the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. VDIM integrates and manages a host of handling technologies more quickly than previous dynamic handling technologies could. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle, and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver.
VDIM integration helps to provide precise management for the Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle). New for 2007, the GS also allows the driver to disengage the stability and traction control via the Trac Off switch.
Electric Power Steering
Electric Power Steering (EPS) in the GS 430 provides precise electric power assist using a DC motor built into the steering gear housing, rather than hydraulic assist. Eliminating the hydraulic steering pump reduces engine drag, and the simplified steering system is lighter and more compact, as well.
Also in the GS 430, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) can vary the steering from 2.7 turns lock-to-lock for low-speed maneuverability to a slower 3.2 turns lock-to-lock for highway-speed stability. VGRS also provides differential steering control, which helps correct for a delay in steering response, something that occurs in all vehicles, to help enhance driving feel in lane changes and other transitional maneuvers.
Intelligent and Powerful Brakes
Enhanced braking performance in both GS sedans begins with mechanical components that significantly increase brake friction and improve stopping power, while effectively eliminating brake fade. Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) help form a powerful safety front. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel to help minimize body dive or sway during hard braking and cornering. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to activate the ABS, it will apply maximum braking force until pedal pressure is released.
The GS 430’s Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB) is a brake-by-wire system. ECB translates brake pedal pressure into electric signals that, via computer control, help provide precise and optimized braking in virtually any traction condition. Electronic control provides quick brake response when needed, helping the GS 430’s VDIM system to anticipate and help correct skids before they occur. The ECB system is backed by conventional hydraulic brake control in the unlikely event of electronic failure.
Lexus designers strive to keep controls simple and intuitive, avoiding needless complexity. A secure and distraction-free setting enables the driver to best appreciate the GS’ enhanced performance. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. Audio and climate-control systems are easy to understand and operate, and the GS locates controls that are used less frequently behind a dash panel on the left side of the steering wheel.
The gauge cluster features machined aluminum facings for a classic look. Highlighting the sporty nature of the GS and emphasizing a closer driver-and-machine connection, the quick-response tachometer moves more directly in concert with changes in engine rpm. The unique instrument panel lighting system relies on variable-transparency glass to minimize reflections from the gauge faces and to help optimize visibility in all lighting conditions.
A comprehensive interior lighting system provides just the right amount of light where the driver and passengers need it. All four windows offer one-touch up-and-down operation with jam protection. Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down when reverse gear is selected to aid in parking. A power trunk closer provides a finishing touch on this extremely well-equipped car.
Exterior Source: Internal
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