This is what Lexus has come up with to compete with the BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, Jaguar XFR-S and Cadillac's new CTS-V: the new GS F.
However, Lexus' decision to give the high-performance version of the GS saloon the same naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 as the RC F makes you wonder if they actually mean business, as the Japanese model is seriously underpowered compared to its chief rivals.
At least it is on paper where the eight-cylinder unit is rated at 467hp (473PS) at 7,100 rpm and peak torque of 389 lb.-ft. (527Nm) at 4,800-5,600rpm. That's a far cry from the BMW M5's 552hp (560PS), the Mercedes E63's 550hp (557PS), let alone the Cadillac CTS-V's almighty supercharged V8 with 640hp and 630 lb-ft (855 Nm).
Acceleration figures have yet to be announced.
The GS F's V8 is hooked up to an eight-speed automatic gearbox with manual-shifting capabilities driving the rear wheels through the same Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) found in the RC F,with three operating modes named Standard, Slalom and Track.
Lexus says the GS F also benefits from structural reinforcements and suspension upgrades "designed to optimize this super sedan’s handling envelope without detracting from its ride quality".
At 1,830kg or 4,034 lb, the GS F is 115kg (253 pounds) lighter than the M5 and 195kg (430 pounds) lighter than the E63 AMG 4MATIC.
It's a pity that the GS F doesn't have the oomph under its hood because Lexus did a nice job with the exterior – better than Cadillac, if you ask me, even though some may find the huge chrome grille at the front on the excessive side.
It has a mildly aggressive kit with reworked bumpers on both ends, a rear diffuser with quad exhausts, flared wheel arches, side skirts, a carbon fiber boot lid spoiler, plus 19-inch rims shod in 255/35 front and 275/35 rear tires.
The interior is dressed in two-tone leather and Alcantara surfaces with body-hugging front sport seats, carbon trims, a sports steering wheel and added kit.
We'll learn more about the new GS F at the Detroit Motor Show next week.
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