2016 Lexus GS F Review: High-Revving V8 Thrills Meet Executive Luxury

Introduction: A Purist's Take on the High-Performance Luxury Sedan

In an era where luxury performance sedans were rapidly embracing forced induction and all-wheel-drive systems, the 2016 Lexus GS F made a bold and unapologetic statement. Designed as the ultimate performance evolution of the midsize GS luxury sedan, the GS F brought an old-school soul wrapped in aggressive, futuristic Japanese styling. Sitting above the GS 350 F Sport and serving as the big brother to the RC F coupe, this sports sedan sought to offer a pure, engaging driving experience without sacrificing everyday executive usability.

While European competitors like the BMW M5, Mercedes-AMG E 63, and Audi S6 relied heavily on twin-turbocharged engines, Lexus chose a different path. The 2016 GS F arrived equipped with a high-revving, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine. Combined with rear-wheel drive, an advanced Torque Vectoring Differential, and track-tuned suspension, the GS F carved out a unique niche for enthusiasts who prioritize visceral exhaust notes, linear power delivery, and bulletproof long-term reliability.

Heart of the Beast: The Naturally Aspirated 5.0-Liter V8

The centerpiece of the 2016 Lexus GS F is undoubtedly its powerplant. Beneath the sculpted hood sits a hand-assembled 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine (codename 2UR-GSE). This mechanical gem delivers 467 horsepower at an exhilarating 7,100 rpm and 389 lb-ft of torque available between 4,800 and 5,600 rpm. Unlike turbocharged powerplants that supply massive low-end torque but taper off near the redline, the GS F rewards drivers who are willing to stretch its legs, pulling hard all the way up to its 7,300 rpm redline.

Power is routed exclusively to the rear wheels via an eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission. Featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, this transmission provides lightning-fast upshifts in manual mode and intelligent downshifts during hard braking. The 2016 GS F launches from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 4.5 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 168 mph. While its straight-line acceleration figures might slightly trail its forced-induction rivals on paper, the immediate throttle response and acoustic symphony of a high-revving V8 create an emotional connection that turbochargers simply cannot replicate.

Handling and Chassis: Torque Vectoring Tech Meets Track Engineering

Translating 467 horsepower to the asphalt requires sophisticated chassis dynamics. Lexus engineers heavily reinforced the GS F's unibody structure with structural adhesives, extra spot welds, and specialized body bracing. The suspension features double-wishbones up front and a multi-link setup at the rear, tuned specifically for high-speed stability and sharp corner turn-in.

A key highlight of the GS F's dynamic capability is the standard Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD). Rather than relying on brake intervention to control yaw, the TVD utilizes electric actuator motors and multi-plate clutches to actively distribute torque between the rear wheels in milliseconds. Drivers can select from three distinct TVD operational modes:

• Standard: Designed to offer a balanced blend of agility and stability for daily driving.
• Slalom: Emphasizes quick steering response and agility, making the vehicle feel significantly smaller and lighter in tight corners.
• Track: Optimized for high-speed cornering stability, giving the driver maximum confidence during high-speed circuit driving.

Stopping power is provided by a high-performance Brembo braking system featuring massive 15.0-inch slotted front rotors clamped by six-piston monoblock calipers, alongside 13.6-inch rear rotors with four-piston calipers. Whether navigating tight backroads or lapping a circuit, the GS F delivers precise feedback, remarkable balance, and tireless braking performance.

Aggressive Exterior Styling with Functional Aerodynamics

Visually, the 2016 GS F leaves no doubt about its performance credentials. The front fascia is dominated by Lexus's signature spindle grille, executed in an exclusive mesh pattern surrounded by deep brake-cooling air intakes. Striking L-shaped LED daytime running lights sit beneath sharp triple-beam LED headlights, giving the front end an intimidating presence in rear-view mirrors.

Along the side profile, wider front fenders feature functional air vents designed to extract heat from the engine bay and reduce drag. The car rides on lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. At the rear, the GS F distinguishes itself with a subtle carbon-fiber lip spoiler, dark-tinted taillights, and the signature F-brand quad stacked exhaust tailpipes integrated into an aggressive rear diffuser.

Cabin Luxuries: High-Performance Meets Executive Refinement

Inside, the 2016 Lexus GS F strikes a harmonious balance between track-focused ergonomics and premium luxury craftsmanship. The cabin is anchored by custom high-back sport seats wrapped in perforated leather, featuring heavy side bolstering designed to keep occupants firmly in place during hard cornering. Premium Alcantara accents line the instrument panel, armrests, and center console, giving the interior a distinct motorsport feel.

Tech features include an electronic instrument cluster inspired by the LFA supercar, which changes its display configuration depending on the selected drive mode (Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport S+). Center stage is taken by a massive 12.3-inch high-resolution display controlled via the Lexus Remote Touch joystick interface. Standard safety amenities are comprehensive, featuring the Lexus Safety System+, which includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Intelligent High Beams.

Verdict: An Enduring Masterpiece in the Performance Sedan Segment

The 2016 Lexus GS F remains one of the most compelling performance sedans of its era. While it didn't win the ultimate stat-sheet war against its turbocharged rivals, it offered something far rarer: character, analog driver engagement, and long-term durability. With its thrilling V8 exhaust note, pin-point torque vectoring handling, and luxurious daily usability, the 2016 GS F stands out as a future classic for automotive enthusiasts who value driving purity above pure numbers.