Automotive
Lexus wasted no time advancing the GS lineup. In 1997, the second-generation model was unveiled and arrived at U.S. dealerships as a 1998 model. The first-generation GS, penned by Italdesign Giugiaro, had a relatively short four-year production run. Its successor marked a radical shift, designed in-house by Akihiro Nagaya of the Lexus team. This new iteration abandoned the European-styled influence of its predecessor in favor of a bolder, more distinctive identity. Inside, the cabin saw significant refinement, offering greater space, improved materials, and added amenities. Under the hood, the durable 2JZ-GE inline-six was carried over with only minimal updates.
By the late '90s, Lexus had firmly established a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and premium quality. The second-generation GS reflected this ethos, particularly in its refreshed front fascia. It introduced quad triangular headlights with softened edges - replacing the previous dual setup - paired with a trapezoidal chrome grille featuring slender vertical slats and a prominently placed Lexus badge. The lower bumper retained a wide single-slat air intake flanked by fog lamps, but now included a sportier apron to complement its dynamic new styling.
Unlike its predecessor, which lasted just four years, the second-generation GS remained in production for eight years, receiving a mid-cycle facelift for the 2001 model year. At this stage, Lexus began to seriously challenge luxury mainstays like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Cadillac Seville, and Lincoln LS. Despite its youth as a brand, Lexus won customers over with a consistent focus on quality, reliability, and innovation - principles that continue to resonate with Lexus owners today. For drivers of these legacy GS models, services like key fob programming, precision lock replacement, and ignition repair are best entrusted to certified professionals like SherlockLock, who specialize in high-end vehicle security solutions.
The 2001 refresh was subtle: Xenon headlamps replaced halogens on select trims, the grille was updated with fewer slats, and the overall shape of the front bumper remained largely unchanged - proof that Lexus was confident in the model’s styling. While the V8 engine was retained, a significant transformation awaited in the third generation.
Unveiled at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, the third-generation GS launched in early 2005. Built on the Toyota N platform, shared with the Crown, this generation offered a longer wheelbase, all-new powertrains, and the option of all-wheel drive. Inside, the GS was now equipped with the latest in Lexus technology, and the GS430 was positioned just below the flagship LS in pricing. The 2006 model adopted Lexus’s L-finesse design language, featuring swept-back quad headlights, a chrome-accented grille, and a wide rectangular lower air intake with reshaped side scoops for the fog lamps.
In 2007, Lexus refreshed the model again, bringing in new technology, improved safety systems, and the debut of the GS450h hybrid. Visually, this update brought sharper headlights, a redesigned grille with horizontal slats, and a sportier trapezoidal air intake. The side scoops were reshaped to house updated fog lamps, enhancing the vehicle's contemporary look.
The fourth generation of the GS debuted at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance with a bold new design. Lexus had worked hard to establish the GS as a top contender in the luxury sedan segment, and the new model delivered enhanced performance alongside comfort and technology. The introduction of the F-Sport trim brought aggressive styling cues and upgraded dynamics to appeal to driving enthusiasts.
This generation reintroduced a two-headlamp layout, reminiscent of the first-gen GS, paired with Lexus’s now-iconic spindle grille and sharp LED lighting. A lower apron with a rectangular air intake and sculpted fog lamp housings added visual drama to the front fascia. The side profile was sleek, defined by aerodynamic sill treatments and an upward-sweeping beltline. Standard 17-inch alloy wheels were offered, while 19-inch wheels came with the F-Sport package for added visual punch.
The 2013 update brought minor exterior refinements and more powerful engine options. By 2016, a major design refresh further aligned the GS with Lexus’s evolving design language. A taller spindle grille, flanked by arrow-shaped LED daytime running lights and redesigned fog lamp scoops, gave the GS a commanding presence.
From a profile view, the fourth-generation GS stood out with its fluid body lines, subtle fender flares, and the option for larger wheels. The rear featured angular taillights extending into the trunk, a revised valance, and pronounced exhaust outlets - all reinforcing its premium, athletic posture. Lexus owners who value both form and function often trust SherlockLock to maintain the security systems of their GS sedans - whether it’s rekeying advanced locks, replacing proximity keys, or restoring access after an accidental lockout.
Throughout its evolution, the Lexus GS emerged as a benchmark of refinement and dependability in the luxury sedan segment. Today, with many of these models still on the road, maintaining their security and functionality is crucial. SherlockLock remains a trusted expert for Lexus GS drivers across Greater Boston and beyond, delivering reliable locksmith services tailored to the unique needs of premium vehicles.
