Lexus GS F Buyers Guide

When the Lexus GS F debuted in 2016, it marked Lexus’s entry into the high-performance luxury sedan segment, positioning itself as the more aggressive sibling in the GS lineup. Unlike any other GS model, the GS F was created to blend Lexus’s reputation for luxury with track-ready performance.

It was built not only to compete with established German sports sedans but also to showcase Lexus’s engineering capabilities and passion for performance. The GS F set out to provide a more visceral driving experience, combining performance with the comfort expected from a Lexus.

Under its hood lies a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine. This powerplant produces 467 hp and 389 lb-ft of torque, allowing the GS F to reach 0-60 mph in just over 4.5 seconds. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the GS F offers a dynamic and responsive drive. Its advanced Torque Vectoring Differential enhances handling precision, ensuring stability and agility through every curve.

Externally, the GS F’s bold, angular design stands out with Lexus’s signature spindle grille, flanked by LED headlights and distinctive daytime running lights. Quad exhaust tips at the rear emphasize its sporty character, while a subtle carbon-fiber rear spoiler hints at the car’s high-performance capabilities. 

Inside, the GS F’s cabin comes with supportive, high-bolstered sports seats that provide comfort and security even during spirited driving. The interior is adorned with premium materials, including Alcantara accents and carbon fiber trim.

Advanced infotainment and safety technologies come standard, while the Lexus Safety System+ suite adds features like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control, enhancing peace of mind.

In its segment, the GS F competes against performance-oriented sedans like the BMW M5, Mercedes-AMG E63, and Cadillac CTS-V. Despite serious rivals, the GS F stands out with its naturally aspirated V8 and Lexus’s renowned build quality, appealing to drivers seeking a blend of luxury, reliability, and the thrill of a traditional, high-revving engine.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2016 Lexus GS F

In 2016, Lexus debuted the new GS F introducing a performance variant to the GS lineup. 

It featured a powerful naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Its exterior design made a bold statement, featuring an aggressive front fascia, quad exhaust tips, and a carbon fiber rear spoiler. Inside, the GS F came with sports seats, premium materials, and the Lexus Safety System+ suite, enhancing both comfort and safety for an elevated driving experience.

The starting price of the 2016 Lexus GS F was around $84,440 when it was first introduced.

2017 Lexus GS F

In 2017, the Lexus GS F continued largely unchanged from its debut model.

Lexus introduced minor enhancements to the standard equipment. These updates included the addition of adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with mitigation, and automatic high-beam control as standard features. 

Additionally, performance-minded buyers could now add an optional limited-slip rear differential to the rear-wheel-drive F Sport model.

The starting price of the 2017 Lexus GS F was approximately $83,940.

2018 Lexus GS F

In 2018, Lexus introduced the 10th Anniversary Edition of the GS F to celebrate a decade of its high-performance “F” line. This special edition was crafted as a limited-run model.

The 10th Anniversary Edition was distinguished by a unique matte Nebula Gray paint. Inside, Lexus added blue accents to the cabin, creating a bold contrast against the otherwise refined interior, while black BBS forged wheels enhanced the car’s athletic stance. 

Lexus created only 100 units of this special edition for the U.S. market, making it a rare and exclusive version of the GS F.

The starting price of the 2018 Lexus GS F was approximately $84,350. For the exclusive 10th Anniversary Edition, Lexus priced it higher due to its unique features and limited production, with a starting MSRP of around $89,350.

2019 Lexus GS F

In 2019, the Lexus GS F received no significant updates.

The starting price for the 2019 Lexus GS F was around $84,600.

2020 Lexus GS F

The 2020 model year marked the final chapter for the Lexus GS F, bringing an end to the GS lineup as a whole. 

To commemorate its last production year, Lexus introduced the Black Line Special Edition, limited to just 100 units, which was a variant that added black exterior accents, unique interior trim, and exclusive wheels. Despite its loyal following, the GS F, along with the entire GS lineup, was discontinued after 2020 due to declining sales and shifting market demands.

The starting price for the 2020 Lexus GS F was approximately $85,010, with the exclusive Black Line Special Edition priced slightly higher at $86,035.

Lexus GS F Common Problems

While the Lexus GS F is widely respected for its reliability, a few common issues have been noted by some owners over the years. These problems, though relatively rare, may affect the vehicle’s convenience or comfort but typically do not compromise its core performance. Below are some of the more frequently mentioned issues that GS F owners have encountered.

Keep in mind, that it is essential that all cars, even supercars, can have issues and it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Electronic Parking Brake Malfunction: Some GS F owners have experienced malfunctions with the electronic parking brake system, leading to warning messages and, in certain cases, the brake not engaging or disengaging properly. 

Door Lock Actuator Failure: There have been instances where door lock actuators fail, resulting in doors that cannot be locked or unlocked electronically, necessitating manual operation or replacement of the actuators.

Infotainment System Concerns: The GS F’s infotainment system has been criticised for its complex interface and occasional responsiveness issues, which can affect user experience and ease of use.

Suspension Noise: Some owners have reported unusual noises emanating from the suspension system, particularly over uneven surfaces, which may indicate wear or the need for component inspection.

Recalls

2016 to 2018 Lexus GS F vehicles

Fuel system, gasoline: Delivery: Fuel pump (Recall no. 18V107000)

Specific operating conditions may result in damage to the pulsation damper in one of the high-pressure fuel pumps, possibly causing a fatigue crack in the fuel pump cover. A cracked cover may leak fuel, which, in the presence of an ignition source, can increase the risk of a fire.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Compared to other high-performance sports sedans, owning a Lexus GS F is generally considered to come with relatively low maintenance requirements.

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here are the suggested service schedule and intervals per Lexus:

6 MONTHS or 5,000 MILES

Replace engine oil with 5W-30 oil; replace oil filter

Reset maintenance reminder light

Inspect tires

Visually inspect brake pads, calipers and rotors

Inspect wiper blades

Check installation of the driver’s floor mat

Road-test vehicle

12 MONTHS or 10,000 MILES

Replace engine oil with 5W-30 oil; replace oil filter

Reset maintenance reminder light

Inspect tires

Measure thickness of brake pads and rotors

Replace cabin air filter

Replace Smart Key battery

Visually inspect brake pads, calipers and rotors

Inspect wiper blades

Check installation of driver’s floor mat

Road-test vehicle

18 MONTHS or 15,000 MILES

Replace engine oil with 5W-30 oil;replace oil filter

Reset maintenance reminder light

Visually inspect brake pads, calipers and rotors

Check installation of driver’s floor mat

Road-test vehicle

24 MONTHS or 20,000 MILES

Replace engine oil with 5W-30 oil; replace oil filter

Reset maintenance reminder light

Inspect tires

Measure thickness of brake pads and rotors

Replace cabin air filter

Replace Smart Key battery

Visually inspect brake pads, calipers and rotors

Inspect wiper blades

Check installation of driver’s floor mat

Road-test vehicle

30 MONTHS or 25,000 MILES

Replace engine oil with 5W-30 oil; replace oil filter

Reset maintenance reminder light

Inspect tires

Visually inspect brake pads, calipers and rotors

Inspect wiper blades

Check installation of driver’s floor mat

Road-test vehicle

36 MONTHS or 30,000 MILES

Replace engine oil with 5W-30 oil; replace oil filter

Reset maintenance reminder light

Measure brake rotor thickness and runout

Measure thickness of brake pads

Replace cabin air filter

Inspect the following:

Axle shaft boots

Ball joints and dust covers

Body

Brake lines and hoses

Engine coolant (see page 69)

Engine oil cooler hoses and connections

Exhaust pipes and mountings

Fuel lines and connections, fuel tank band and fuel tank vapor vent system hoses

Visually inspect brake pads, calipers and rotors

Check installation of driver’s floor mat

Road-test vehicle

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Lexus GS F:

Oil Change – Typically costs around $150 to $200. Lexus recommends synthetic oil, and oil changes are generally needed every 5,000 to 10,000 miles depending on driving conditions.

Minor Service – This includes basic inspections, oil and filter changes, and tire rotation. The cost is around $250 to $400 and is usually performed every 10,000 miles.

Major Service – Involves a more comprehensive inspection, including fluid replacements (transmission, brake, coolant), air filter changes, spark plug replacement (if needed), and brake inspections. Major services are often required around every 30,000 miles and can range from $600 to $1,200.|

Tires – High-performance tires for the GS F can range from $1,000 to $1,500 for a full set, depending on brand and specifications. With spirited driving, expect tire replacement approximately every 20,000 miles.

Brakes – Brake pad replacements generally cost around $300 to $600 per axle, depending on the parts used. Full brake replacements, including rotors, can cost up to $1,000 to $1,500 per axle if high-performance components are used.

Clutch – The Lexus GS F has an automatic transmission, so there’s no traditional clutch to replace. However, for general transmission service, which includes fluid replacement, costs are usually $200 to $400 as part of periodic maintenance.

Options List

When it comes to purchasing a Lexus GS F, there are several key options and packages to consider.

The available options are divided into a few categories.

For those seeking the highest level of GS F, the Black Line Special Edition in the 2020 model year offers exclusive features. This edition includes black exterior accents, unique interior trim, and updated wheels. The Black Line’s limited production also adds a level of exclusivity that makes it a desirable choice among GS F models.

Standard GS F models, from 2016 through 2020, come well-equipped with Lexus’s features, including premium leather seats, a high-resolution infotainment system, and the Lexus Safety System+ suite. These features ensure a comfortable and safe driving experience while maintaining a performance edge.

Throughout its production run, Lexus also introduced minor enhancements to standard equipment, like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning, making later models especially appealing to those who prioritize advanced safety technology.

The 10th Anniversary Edition, introduced in 2018, provides a blend of luxury and performance upgrades.

This limited-run model features unique matte Nebula Gray paint, blue interior accents, and black BBS forged wheels, creating an eye-catching yet refined aesthetic that adds to the car’s collectability.

2016 Lexus GS F Options List

2017 Lexus GS F Options List

2018 Lexus GS F Options List

Key Options

Mark Levinson Audio Package

Carbon Fiber Package

Performance Package

Cold Weather Package

Black Line Special Edition Package

Lexus GS F Price and Values

*Note graph includes regular Lexus GS as well.

The Best Lexus GS F to Buy

When it comes to choosing the best Lexus GS F, there are several key factors to consider.

For those looking for the best version of the GS F, the 2020 model year is an excellent choice. As the final year of production, the 2020 GS F benefits from all the refinements and updates introduced throughout its lifecycle. This includes the latest technology, a comprehensive suite of safety features, and the exclusive Black Line Special Edition.

However, in terms of market stability, all years of the GS F from 2016 to 2020 should be a safe hack. 

In addition to selecting the model year, the condition and mileage of the GS F are critical factors to consider. 

Well-maintained cars with low mileage are more likely to retain their value over time, especially as the GS F becomes more sought after following its discontinuation. Ensuring that the vehicle has a full-service history and has been cared for properly can enhance both its reliability and resale value.

Conclusion

In summary, with a starting price around the $25,000 to around $50,000 range, the Lexus GS F stands as an underrated choice for those seeking a luxury performance sedan. It combines Lexus’s reliability with a naturally aspirated V8 engine.

While competitors like the BMW M5, Mercedes-AMG E63, and Cadillac CTS-V offer alternative options in the segment, the GS F stands out through its unique styling, smooth yet powerful performance, and limited-production special editions, like the 10th Anniversary and Black Line models.

The GS F is for those who prefer to fly under the radar while enjoying the power of a high-performance sedan.