Lexus debuts GS 460 and LX 570 in Brisbane

Australian show goers will get an early preview of the minimally facelifted Lexus GS series with its unveiling of the new 4.6-litre V8 GS 460 version at the Brisbane motor show in February.

The reworked V8 Lexus is due to be introduced here in March, wielding the 4.6-litre engine from the Lexus LS 460, along with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a cartload of Lexus technology to strengthen its challenge to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Jaguar S-Class.

Developing 255kW at 6400rpm and 460Nm of torque at a high-ish 4100rpm, the 90-degree 32 valve V8 has dual variable valve timing technology and produces 47kW more power than the previous 4.3-litre engine, while squeezing about as much torque as is possible out of its capacity.

With an average combined cycle figure of 11.1L/100km, Lexus says fuel economy is improved, while the acceleration moves up a notch or two with a claimed zero to 100km/h time of a very fast 5.4 seconds. The current GS 430 takes seven tenths of a second longer.

However the GS 460's 255kW output is clearly a detune of the 280kW version used in the LS 460.

The new engine joins a lineup comprising unchanged 183kW V6 (GS 300) and 218kW hybrid (GS 450h) powertrains.

The mild facelift sees attention to the front and rear of the GS Lexus, with a new grille and front and rear bumpers. The wheels are also new, as are the external rear view mirrors that now incorporate turn direction indicators.

The Brisbane show will also preview the new 5.7-litre V8 LX 570 off-roader (more here), hooked up to a six-speed transmission and riding on what is described as "the most advanced suspension system of any Lexus vehicle to date."

The LX 570 will be introduced locally in April.

Later in the year, Lexus will also be launching the performance oriented 300kW 5.0-litre V8-engined IS-F model, a compact hotshot aimed directly at BMW’s new M3 V8.

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