GS Topic Hub

2018 Lexus GS350 F Sport RWD – Road Test Review – By Tom Burkart

In an age now where mid-size luxury sedans are stronger, faster and better than ever before…. How come they aren’t the kings of the family fleet any more? Way back in the 90s when your scribe grew up, we had a quick way of telling whether the cars lined up for a party in the neighborhood were from parents or the kids. If it was all 4Runners and Explorers, then it was definitely a kid party and time to get wild! But if it was stately 740iL’s, XJ’s and Lexus LS sedans… then we knew it was a parent party …

Aug 21, 2018 Read more

2018 Buick Regal GS – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

We’ve been really impressed by Buick lately. Both the Enclave and Encore crossover/suv’s impressed us, and the word has been getting out – Buick is selling well, and appealing to a new, younger, audience. But the Buick Regal may be the biggest surprise of all. Yes, the Regal. You probably know the name – it started way back in 1973. Along the way it has soldiered on, some models better than others. One of the high points was the Regal Grand National, with a turbo engine that caught the imagination of enthusiasts and brought back some of the luxury/performance sparkle …

Aug 10, 2018 Read more

NAIAS 2018 Debut – Lexus LF-1 Limitless Concept – GS-Sized F-SUV of Future

One of the wildest concept debuts so far at Detroit? This freaky faced Lexus! Once you get over its beak, there is greatness to discover. Cab-backwards with a heavenly hood length and amazing proportions. This is the future high-performance Lexus SUV we’ve been dreaming of. The LF-1 badge is no joke. Imagine GS-F or hotter powertrains within. Likely the new V6TT from the new LS500!? Hot as the molten copper paint. Check out the Limitless in detail below. 2018 Lexus LF-1 Limitless Concept

Jan 15, 2018 Read more

BMW Motorcycles Evolution Since 1923 – Animated Timeline Via 20 Iconic Bikes

The history of BMW Motorrad is actually the story of the evolution of the motorcycle in general. Giant leaps of innovation are clear to see about every dozen years, but the BMW innovation throughout keeps moving the two-wheel world forward at warp speed. For a non-bikes guy like me and perhaps you, the names and styles are all a bit perplexing. We have labelled all the main bike photos to help make it all a bit clearer. The pre-war bikes in particular are hard to distinguish at first without the labels. So which is your favorite? We’d pick the …

Dec 19, 2017 Read more

2017 Lexus GS350 RWD Luxury – Road Test Review + Drive Video!

The GS slides into 2017 with great stance, racy handling and serious value. The Lexus transformation into a performance-car brand is firmly ON TRACK with this new GS. So smooth and easy… but handles and hustles in Sport+? Even without the F Sport package, our tester drew stares like the GS-F during its week in the speed fleet. We thoroughly enjoyed its performance and luxury, with a special nod to some amazing options that make a good car into a great car. Standard article headings and a quick drive video of the fresh-faced Lexus GS here to share. HD Drive …

Jul 17, 2017 Read more

2018 Lexus LS500 F Sport – Air-Ride, Active 4WS + Live NYIAS Photos

There is some kerfuffle that the new LS500 F Sport sticks with the 415HP V6TT from the standard car – versus bringing extra ponies like a proper F model might. But that misses the point of F Sport entirely. Here is a style and handling upgrade that costs little and delivers big dividends. Outside, the unique look is dechromed and diipped in a sexy gloss black. More aggressive fascias, wheels and sill details complement the sharp new brakes. A BBK Big Brake Kit wishes it was as cool as these Lexus clamps. A true performance mod for F-Sport are …

Apr 12, 2017 Read more

2017 GENESIS G80 AWD 3.8 – Road Test Review

The Genesis G80 is a real luxury-car hero around here. The car’s beating performance heart is evident every time we have the pleasure of snapping Sport mode on and the throttle down. Here is a long-wheelbase limo that handles! The AWD upgrade on the G80 3.8-liter V6 makes a fantastic case for itself on the basis of handling alone. WHat it brings to the table is a precise, grippy nose and unshakeable confidence around fast corners. The Big G as a standalone brand for 2017 kept this car essentially the same as 2016. With the car business — and especially …

Mar 31, 2017 Read more

2016 Lexus GS-F – HD Road Test Review – F*** YES!

Nothing prepares you for the GS-F. Even after weeks of heated anticipation, the GS-F’s arrival out front dropped jaws. And whipped heads around with its sonics for anyone within a mile radius of the highest-performance Lexus four-door of all time. The GS-F introduction for the 2016 modelyear joins a comprehensive GS revamp of the tech, style and powertrains up and down the lineup. A new turbo four kicks off a nine-strong model range as the GS200t, while and this monster 467HP V8 tops the broad new GS offering. F Sport upgrades for the GS200t, GS350 and GS450h are all available, with the middle …

Jun 23, 2016 Read more

2017 Corvette Grand Sport Makes Surprise Geneva Debut

Imagine the bulk of the monstrous, 2.9-second COrvette Z06 — but available without the supercharged engine!? The results would be very similar to this just-launched GS. 460-horsepower from the dry-sumped V8 also includes a heavenly active exhaust and seven-speed manual transmission. You get a hang of the extra gear in a snap because the long–throw shifter is so precise and feelsome. The Grand Sport is set for a summer 2016 arrival to the US — and just a few months later to Europe! The price premium over the loaded Z51 is likely to be around $5k, or around $70k. A Z07 …

Mar 01, 2016 Read more

Road Test Review – 2016 Buick REGAL GS

We want to love the Regal GS. Its looks are crisply European, as is its dashing corner grip and unflappable high-speed poise. But remember the old Pirelli slogan “Power is nothing without Control” ? Well, the Regal GS inspires a flip in that phrase: Control is nothing without powerrrrr. Since writing up our first test impressions of the 2015 Regal GS with “Deeply Disappointing” in the headline, we have had more than ample chances to change our tune. An invite to a Buick Regal GS track day appeared out of thin air, and then a fresh 2016 model for …

Jan 24, 2016 Read more

2016 Buick ENVISION Is New 5-Seat Crossover – Standard Turbo to Rival Audi Q5 – Arrives in April

The 2016 Buick Envision is a pretty huge part of an upcoming Buick product onslaught: the 2017 LaCrosse and Cascada cabrio are the other hotties new to the showroom floor. New to the brand ethos in general? A sexy expectation of future products like an AWD, V6TT variant on the Cadillac ATS Coupe/Chevy Camaro platform like the AVISTA concept. The dreamers among us noted right away: the AVISTA looks like an ideal basis for a next-gen GNX around 2019. The Envision hopes to make its Chinese-import status an afterthought for US shoppers — through the sheer strength of its luxury …

Jan 11, 2016 Read more

Track Drive Review – 2016 Buick Regal GS – Flypaper Handling Is Now $3k Cheaper!

Autobahn Country Club might be my “Happy Place.” Recalling this track’s frisky bends, howling tires and full-throttle straightaways brings a smile instantly. Buick invited us to flog their performance flagship, the 2016 Regal GS, around the Illinois track and autocross to show off the machine’s latest updates: new colors and a price that is much more approachable. How approachable!? A cool $3,300 off the base price for the GS takes the entry level to $35k versus near $38k before. Three drivetrains continue for 2016: FWD auto, FWD manual and AWD automatic. The GS AWD we tested out still comes in …

Oct 15, 2015 Read more

2016 Lexus GS-F Lands in USA! Showroom Sales From January with ~$66k Price, Standard TVD and Active Acoustics

‘Ultrasonic Blue’ F cars take on a new meaning when you think of Lexus chasing — and rapidly catching – BMW M and Mercedes-AMG supercars. Their rapid progress up the performance charts is much like the latest hypersonic cruise missile technology — aimed to strike anywhere in the world in less than an hour of flying time. We’re thrilled with the new hot-rod pace and style of the GSF, and can’t wait to see its performance stats. As a rear-drive model, expecting a 0-60-mph sprint in the 3’s is unrealistic. But in-gear power and thrilling performance are absolutely guaranteed — …

Oct 14, 2015 Read more

2016 Lexus GS Refresh Adds GS200t Turbo, More GS350 HP and 4WS on F Sport!

The 2016 Lexus GS made a glamorous oceanfront debut tonight at Pebble Beach! A GS-F-inspired refresh outside includes standard bi-LED lighting and a fresh face for all six variants of the 5-series-fighter. New styling outside is only a part of the equation, though. The GS450h, GS350 and GS350 AWD are joined by a new engine choice: the GS200t with the 241-pony turbo four from the NX200t. Eight-speed automatics all around make the most of the power: even the entry-level turbo sprints to 60-mph in just 7.2 seconds. The GS350 does the benchmark launch in just 5.5 seconds for 2016, thanks …

Aug 13, 2015 Read more

HD Road Test Review – 2015 Buick Regal GS AWD

Hot Buicks are some of the most adored American cars of all time. So when Buick decided to bring over the European Opel/Vauxhall Insignia to the US market for the first time, the excitement over receiving their OPC/VXR performance variant was palpable. Confirmation that the big brushed-alloy fangs would make it across the pond to US buyers for the first time brought many GNX rumbles to the surface. Would this hot Buick be able to inherit the Banker’s Hotrod legacy? A turbo engine and all the autobahn-ready handling seemed like a perfect statement of intent for Buick at the time. …

Aug 12, 2015 Read more

Winter Drift Gallery – 2015 Buick Regal GS AWD Slides Sideways Across Canadian Border

The big news on the very-cool Buick Regal GS this year is the addition of AWD as an option on the automatic transmission, plus a stick-shift choice for the Hy-Per-Strut front-driver. Eager to get sideways, the new Regal GS is at home in the snow like no Buick sports-sedan in decades. Enjoy this photo blast…. just try not to get snow in your eyes! 2015 Buick Regal GS AWD

Feb 14, 2015 Read more

Super Sedan Design Shootout – 2016 Lexus GS-F vs. 2016 Cadillac CTS-V vs. E63 AMG vs. M5

INTRO: How freaky does that sliced image montage look above!? Despite the four car’s here not quite matching up in the photos we have at hand, they all share a great deal of buyer and market appeal. For shoppers needing supercar pace with room for five people, there have never been more choices. Very exciting times in the super-sedan business! In a segment that the BMW M5 once owned all to itself, the current M5 Jahre 30 Edition is a run-out special for 2015 that feels ancient versus the latest AMG, Cadillac and Lexus four-doors. To save the M5 …

Jan 18, 2015 Read more

2016 Lexus GSF – New Super Saloon Is E63-Seeking Missile

‘Ultrasonic Blue’ F cars take on a new meaning when you think of Lexus chasing — and rapidly catching – BMW M and Mercedes-AMG supercars. Their rapid progress up the performance charts is much like the latest hypersonic cruise missile technology — aimed to strike anywhere in the world in less than an hour of flying time. We’re thrilled with the new hot-rod pace and style of the GSF, and can’t wait to see its performance stats. As a rear-drive model, expecting a 0-60-mph sprint in the 3’s is unrealistic. But in-gear power and thrilling performance are absolutely guaranteed — …

Jan 13, 2015 Read more

Update1 – 2016 Lexus GS F Revealed! 467HP with Standard Torque-Vectoring Diff

The new GSF is official! With the powertrain from the incredible RCF pushing out 467-horsepower, the GSF is sure to be a rocketship with sprint times approaching 4.2-seconds to 60-mph. Crucially, the GSF will run the torque-vectoring differential as standard. This bit of kit is available in the RCF’s performance carbon package — and totally transforms the vehicle’s handling attitude. Three switchable settings let you control how aggressively the F manages power entering, around and leaving corners. TVD gives a great feeling of potency and adds liveliness to the rear end of the car while also helping laptimes. This tech …

Jan 06, 2015 Read more

1958 Porsche 356 Carrera Zagato Speedster Is Worlds Only Aluminum-Bodied Example

Zagato Classic has recreated their first-ever Porsche project here: a 356 Speedster that was lightened and made quicker for a racing customer in Paris. The tailfins are particularly delightful as functional and style-enhancing elements, as is the lower and lighter windshield. If you are thinking: hey, this Zagato 356 Speedster actually looks much more like the 550 Spyder — you are correct. The commission of a new aluminum body for the steel-skinned 356 meant Zagato could make the car as streamlined as Porsche’s most-successful racer ever (at the time): the 550. Shown below on the grass, you can see the …

Jan 03, 2015 Read more

Concept Flashback – 2007 Maserati GS ZAGATO

Proof of how much easier it is to criticize than to create? The 2007 Maserati GSZ was a bespoke design of a fastback Grand Sport atop the factory Maserati Coupe’s shell. There are a few angles on this GSZ that really work and are elegant, pure and stylish. But Zagato’s trademark double bubble roofline and intersecting rear canopy do not sit very happily on the ultra-short Maserati’s frame. Moreover, the additional rounding of the glass surfaces is less-than-athletic. But compared with the classic A6G Zagato Maserati which inspired the design, the round and overinflated roofline is a good match. From …

Dec 26, 2014 Read more

Mecum Kissimmee 2015 Preview – 1996 Dodge Viper GTS

The time has come. Charger-palooza today with eight back-to-back posts of some of the amazing Mopar machines liberated from the Wellborn Musclecar Museum Collection. Liberated? Just kidding. These cars lived a happy and pristine life in the Wellborn Museum. As true collector pieces, though, they may not have been doing as many stoplight dragraces as the badges intended. Sunny conditions and cost-no-object acquisition and restorations by the Wellborn Collection means that these Chargers are arguably the world’s finest. Wellborn Musclecar Museum Collection If you fall in love with one of these, know you might never find a better …

Dec 19, 2014 Read more

BMW Motorcycles Evolution Since 1923 – Animated Timeline Via 20 Iconic Bikes

The history of BMW Motorrad is actually the story of the evolution of the motorcycle in general. Giant leaps of innovation are clear to see about every dozen years, but the BMW innovation throughout keeps moving the two-wheel world forward at warp speed. For a non-bikes guy like me and perhaps you, the names and styles are all a bit perplexing. We have labelled all the main bike photos to help make it all a bit clearer. The pre-war bikes in particular are hard to distinguish at first without the labels. So which is your favorite? We’d pick …

Dec 18, 2014 Read more

2016 Lexus GS-F Teased Ahead of Detroit + Exclusive Digital Renderings

Lexus has not specified exactly what new F model is coming to Detroit – preferring to leave a bit of mystery in the two teasers just revealed. We have a hunch it is the long-rumored GS-F in production form, arriving to Lexus showrooms in Summer 2015 as a 2016 model. But it could be a new IS-F, or perhaps even the expected LS revamp. We believe it is the GS-F from a close look at the front fenders, the hood length, and the fact that the GS would greatly benefit from the latest nose shown in the IS and RC. …

Dec 17, 2014 Read more

Bugatti GS Vitesse 1 of 1 Edition Celebrates Type 41 Royale In Bespoke Yellow / Black

When spending more than $2-million on a single car, every one is inherently special. The Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse falls into this league of ultra-customized purchases – where an extra few hundred thousand dollars in special add-ons in the new normal. Such is the case of this Vitesse One of One edition, delivered in secret last month at Pebble Beach in a private gala. Aside from the gorgeous fly yellow into obsidian exterior, there are unique touches on all sides. The grille is quite special – as the first-ever Veyron to have the normal mesh replaced by a laser-cut PL, …

Oct 23, 2014 Read more

Road Test Review – 2014 Lexus GS350 AWD Is Quick And Balanced with Killer 835W Audio System

By Special Contributor Ken Glassman Photos Include the 2015 GS350 F Sport Crafted Line EXTERIOR Refreshed in 2013, the Lexus GS350 remains about the same for the 2014 model year. For whatever reason, the mid-size Lexus has never been a great selling model, maybe because it goes up against some stiff competition from the European models like the Audi A6, Mercedes E-Class, BMW’s 5-Series, and even the excellent Cadillac CTS. But the GS350 and its GS hybrid cousin are still very fine automobiles, and should appeal to anyone looking for a mid-size luxury car. The power comes from …

Oct 19, 2014 Read more

EXCLUSIVE! 2014 Bugatti Veyron Legend ETTORE BUGATTI in 45 Stunning Photos

Updated 8.27.14 We owe a deep nod of gratitude to Bugatti executive leadership for letting our camera lens into this exclusive Bugatti luncheon at Pebble Beach on Concours day. Like everything in the world of Bugatti – and especially Los Legendes de Bugatti – it is a land of velvet-rope access. Limited availability. Manufactured scarcity. That is part of the Bugatti myth as well as the entire client experience. Mobs of people is not on the agenda. But flashbulbs and press guys? Lucky for us — that is part of the cult of Bugatti. Great to play any part available …

Aug 27, 2014 Read more

2015 Lexus GS350 Crafted Line Aces Style Mood in Bright White Over Gloss Black – 37 New Photos

The GS350 F Spot Crafted Line is really dynamic and attractive in real life — with the custom two TUMI luggage pieces that are included a nice addition. Gorgeous news from Lexus for five lucky 2015 models! The Crafted Line by Lexus introduces a dark ultra-white/gloss-black glamor to the LS 460, GS 350, IS 250, ES 350 and RX 350. The Ultra White shade shared by all five cars is the latest and extremely amazing shade that was launched for 2014. The Crafted Line cars all vamp up with glossy dark wheels, trims, grilles and mirrors to match the stunning …

Aug 21, 2014 Read more

Veyron GS Vitesse Legend ETTORE BUGATTI is Pebble Beach 2014 Debut

A blue-carbon and brushed-alloy finish for the Ettore Bugatti Legends car is a stunning combination – perfectly complementing the saddle leather inside for dramatic effect. The leather and horses theme is pervasive, with Cordovan leather featured in design sketches early on. The muted tones reflect the low-sheen appeal of horseshoes and other early steel machinery. This is a machine you can image would look amazing at speed. In Ettoe Bugatti’s day, many photos had a lively buzzy effect from trying to keep focus in a fast racing environment. Once stopped, the subtle and timeless beauty of this final Legends Veyron …

Aug 07, 2014 Read more

2014 Buick Regal Turbo and GS AWD – Inside and Out in 50 High-Res Photos

We still have yet to drive the Buick Regal, but the car is very handsome for 2014 in both the base eAssist or Turbo trims — and definitely int he sexy GS package. The GS is the OPC/VXR version from across the pond – with everything the European cars have to increase the sportiness of the handling, performance and cabin feel. Our GS trades the twin-turbo V6 of the Euro cars for a turbo four – which is the biggest change overall besides the new Buick badges everywhere. The lighter engine up front actually dramatically enhances road feel and how …

Jul 28, 2014 Read more

2014 Lexus GS350 vs F Sport vs GS450h – Buyers Guide Info and Model Comparisons

Something about the GS is quite special on the roads. This car looks wide, brand-new, and clearly a flagship Lexus. But it is not immediately clear which: none look this good, this rear-drive and wide. Relatively clutter-free taillamps help plant the GS from the back, where this base-model GS350 looks more than worth the price. But how to tell them apart! GS350 versus the GS350 F Sport versus GS450h? Very subtle differences to the untrained eye, but the F Sport adds some intrigue to the nose and grille that is only clear up close. In addition to the wind slashes, …

Jun 11, 2014 Read more

Low-Volume Specials – Buick Regal Country Tourer Could Be Yours… At A Price

When a long-term product plan from GM was released a few years ago by a disgruntled employee CMO to a German newspaper, the revelations about what exactly lay ahead for Opel were quickly silenced. Luckily, it was not the Guardian who received the documents. The one thing I recall before all the news … went away … was the Country Tourer name for a potential Vectra replacement wagon. An all-road-style option for families who not only need AWD, but need some extra ground clearance and gravel resistance on the lower panels as well. These are not some kind of …

May 20, 2014 Read more

Update1 – 2015 Lexus NX300h and NX200t F Sport Revealed! Expected Fall Arrival To US From $29,900

The eagerly-awaited Lexus NX compact crossover is here! With the NX300h and a brand-new turbo option called the NX200t F Sport, the NX is shaping up to be a fine addition to the Lexus global model line. Its compact five-seater dimensions will also make room above it for the RX to grow in size, perhaps even adding a third row of seating in some form of a length stretch — a la the BMW X7. Yes, Lexus currently has a broad SUV and crossover lineup with the GX460 and LX470 models at the very top of the ladder. These cars …

Apr 11, 2014 Read more

BUGATTI Marque Showcase — Geneva, Salon Prive and Pebble Beach — Veyron Vitesse and GS Rembrandt — Plus Venet, Jean Bugatti, L’Or Blanc and GS Vitesse

So many Bugatti’s, so little time! Just kidding. It really is the opposite, in fact, with a production run closing in on the final 75 units pretty soon on the horizon in 2015. But when your car costs as much as these magnificent specimens, who wouldn’t want a custom theme and livery? Quick shorthand: GS signifies the targa cars, while the Vitesse models are the fastest and newest of the all. The Vitesse wears significant updates and shaping to the entire nose, with a mid-wing in the air ducts that is not present on the earlier cars. Geneva 2014 …

Mar 23, 2014 Read more

2014 Lexus GS350 vs F Sport vs GS450h – Buyers Guide Info and Model Comparisons

Something about the GS is quite special on the roads. This car looks wide, brand-new, and clearly a flagship Lexus. But it is not immediately clear which: none look this good, this rear-drive and wide. Relatively clutter-free taillamps help plant the GS from the back, where this base-model GS350 looks more than worth the price. But how to tell them apart! GS350 versus the GS350 F Sport versus GS450h? Very subtle differences to the untrained eye, but the F Sport adds some intrigue to the nose and grille that is only clear up close. In addition to the wind slashes, …

Mar 13, 2014 Read more

1963 Corvette GS Chaparral by Dick Coup at National Corvette Museum

The Corvette Museum faced a big setback this week: a giant sinkhole under the museum’s grand pavilion caved in, taking eight Corvettes into the deep soil underneath in the process. Bowling Green is quite nearby to Mammoth Cave, and the geology of the region is tricky to build on. So, is it curtains for this Bowling Green landmark just before the huge 20th-anniversary celebration this fall? Absolutely not. First off, the Corvette Museum owns hundreds of acres of land. The new motorsports park across the road has plenty of room for a ne location, or the current spot could simply …

Feb 13, 2014 Read more

Low-Volume Specials – Buick Regal Country Tourer Could Be Yours… At A Price

When a long-term product plan from GM was released a few years ago by a disgruntled employee to a German newspaper, the revelations about what exactly lay ahead for Opel were quickly silenced. Luckily, it was not the Guardian who received the documents. The one thing I recall before all the news … went away … was the Country Tourer name for a potential Vectra replacement wagon. An all-road-style option for families who not only need AWD, but need some extra ground clearance and gravel resistance on the lower panels as well. These are not some kind of “country” …

Jan 08, 2014 Read more

HD Video Reviews – 2014 Chevy Camaro 2LT RS With New LED Lights and Active Exhaust

Some great Camaro driving videos in the vault from my press loaner RS a few weeks ago. I thoroughly enjoyed the Camaro RS – as you can clearly see in these videos, hopefully. Highlights include: 323-horsepower V6 engine’s sonorous exhaust bellow as the active baffles open up incredible JATCO six-speed manual overall improvements to the handing, tech, and refinement Here are some images of this $33,000 plaything, including the latest LED lights front and back. Out back, this RS has strong 1990’s SC400 overtones about its proportions – a very good thing. The original GS and SC were styled by …

Nov 24, 2013 Read more