Video: 2014 Lexus GS 350 Review

The GS 350 is a perfect example, it was redesigned last year and incorporates both of those elements. And now I want to show you how. The most distinctive element of Lexus's new design theme is it's spindle grill, which is appearing on all of its cars now. It starts up here carries through to the lower bumper, and it really sets the tone for the whole car's design, which has a much more creased appearance than the outgoing GS. Along with the more aggressive exterior design Lexus has really made the driving experience more aggressive too. And it's done in a couple of ways. First off, the steering is really responsive. It gives this big car a pretty nimble feel for its size. It's also pretty firm riding car, kind of what you expect from BMW and Audi. Though, there is a little more floatiness that kind of harks back to the Lexus Avalon. You can limit that though with the available adaptive suspension and it's sport plus setting, which really controls up and down motions of the suspension. The GS's cabin is richly appointed in nice materials and I like that Lexus is moving away from some of the silver, heavy trim that they've had in prior models. There's not as much here and they're making greater use of authentic materials like this real wood trim. This car is equipped with available 18 way power seats, and they're firmly cushioned, but I like the driving position and I liked the adjustability because it has adjustable thigh support and also adjustable side bolsters. One of the most striking things in the interior is the available 12.3 inch dashboard screen that replaces the standard 8 inch screen. The extra size is great and it has a split screen function. What's not so great is Lexus's remote touch interface. That's on the center console and operates the screen. My biggest issue with the remote touch system is that it requires more of the driver's attention than competing systems from BMW and Mercedes, both because of the on-screen menu layout in the jumpy cursor. While a mouse controller might be a good idea for a computer. It doesn't make sense in a car. The backseat offers passable comfort and I'm about 6'1", and I have the front seat adjusted to where I drive. I have a little extra leg room, but not much. When you get the optional luxury package, you get a lot of amenities and includes a power rear sunshade, these manual side shades, and also rear controls for the air conditioning system and stereo. The trunk measures 14.3 cubic feet. And there's a large opening, which makes it easier to load bulky cargo like this stroller, the backseat doesn't fold, but there is a pass through for when you need to carry long skinny items in the trunk. Lexus is known for its comfortable, reliable cars, but it's shaping a new sportier image for herself with models like the GS 350. Well, this car brings a distinctive look in a more engaging driving experience than what's been the Lexus norm. It still has a way to go if it really wants to challenge the BMW five series in this segment. (car speeding off)