Automotive
Even though the third generation of the Lexus GS retained the V8 engine from its predecessor, it arrived as a completely reimagined vehicle - new from the ground up - and brought a substantial leap in both luxury and technology. Introduced at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, the redesigned GS entered production in early 2005, marking a major step forward for Lexus’s mid-size premium sedan lineup.
Built on Toyota’s N platform, which it shared with the Japan-market Toyota Crown, the 2006 Lexus GS came with a longer wheelbase, newly refined powertrains, and - for the first time in the model’s history - an available all-wheel drive system. Lexus clearly intended to compete more aggressively in the luxury space, particularly with tech-savvy customers who were demanding more than just plush seating and smooth rides.
This generation introduced the brand’s L-finesse design language, signaling a shift toward more sculpted, emotionally engaging styling. At the front, the GS retained the iconic quad-headlamp setup, though now swept rearward for better aerodynamics. These flanked a subtle, rear-tilted grille adorned with Lexus’s signature “L” badge, outlined by a thin chrome bezel. Below, a wide central intake and side-mounted scoops completed the front fascia, offering both function and flair.
From the side, the 2006 GS echoed design cues from the original 1993 model, particularly the ascending beltline. Yet proportions were dramatically different: a longer hood, a more compact rear deck, and a sloped roofline contributed to a sleek, near-fastback silhouette. Chrome-trimmed side sills and 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels added upscale details, with larger wheels reserved for higher trims.
At the rear, Lexus abandoned the four-taillight motif of previous GS models. Instead, it adopted a more modern approach with unified LED elements on both the quarter panels and trunk lid - streamlined for a cohesive rear profile. Aerodynamics were also a focus, with the GS achieving an impressive drag coefficient of 0.27, enhancing both fuel efficiency and quietness at highway speeds.
Inside, the GS offered what Lexus customers had come to expect - and then exceeded those expectations. The cabin featured leather-wrapped surfaces and rich wood trim accents, including inserts on the door panels, steering wheel, and center console. A 7-inch touchscreen served as the control hub for the infotainment system, complete with a Mark Levinson premium audio setup for audiophile-level sound. In Park mode, the screen could play DVDs, enhancing the GS's credentials as a true executive sedan.
The driver faced a trio of classic analog gauges with brushed black aluminum faces and crisp white needles. Integrated digital displays in the speedometer and tachometer added modern convenience without disrupting the analog aesthetic. Thanks to the extended wheelbase, rear legroom improved significantly, and taller passengers found plenty of headroom - maintaining the GS’s reputation for comfort across all seating positions.
For Boston-area Lexus GS owners, maintaining the integrity of these advanced systems - particularly key fobs, ignition security, and smart locks - requires skilled support. That’s where SherlockLock comes in. As a certified local locksmith trusted throughout the greater Boston area, SherlockLock offers expert services for keyless entry systems, transponder key programming, laser-cut keys, ignition rekeying, and emergency lockouts, all tailored to luxury vehicles like the GS.
Whether you're cruising through Back Bay in your GS430 or parked in Cambridge with a tech-rich GS300, SherlockLock ensures your Lexus remains as secure and functional as the day it left the factory. Their unmatched attention to detail and up-to-date expertise in modern Lexus systems make them a top choice for premium car owners who value both reliability and precision.
As the third-gen GS continues to age gracefully, it stands as a testament to Lexus's ability to balance performance, comfort, and forward-thinking design. With SherlockLock by your side, that legacy stays safe - one key at a time.
