500mile road trip in the GS

We had the chance to spend 3 full days in the GS300 on open roads on the outskirts of East Malaysia. Having the option of choosing the Volvo S80, we opted for this six potter instead as we were eager to explore the V6's full potential on the highways.
















The rented car had done 75,000 miles and we were expecting wear and tear issues especially where creaks and leaks are concerned. Since this car does not have one designated owner throughout its lifespan, we would expect performance to dip due to constant torture by various users, but being typically Japanese, it was as reliable as any other Toyota in the market.
















First impression

A drive 100km westwards of Brunei was the order of the day upon collection of the GS. You can sense the amount of thought put in to suit Lexus' target market once settled in the driver's cockpit. A host of technological gadgets were available for the driver to tinker with. Rear automatic window blinds, front and rear parking sensors with reverse cameras, a user friendly cruise control, anti glare rear view mirror, and an intuitive infotainment system ensures that the GS ferry the driver from point A to B with utmost satisfaction and comfort. I was indeed pampered by the tons of "convenience device", and the buttons were well within reach, which proves that Lexus had spent time to perfect its ergonomics.
















The drive

We knew that we had rented the appropriate car for these uninterrupted roads, and the GS didn't disappoint. The ride was exceptionally comfortable and crucially, you will still feel confident cruising at speeds of around 140kmh. Minimal wind and tyre noise were present at such speeds as well, and we were sure passengers had no qualms on agreeing that they found it tough to stay awake when tucked in nicely at the rear seats.
















Although we could feel the GS's chunky stature around sweeping corners at high speeds, there was no drama and the steering reacts according to your commands. Being RWD, there were absolutely no hints of understeer, something which I found vital for keen drivers to enjoy their time behind the wheel. We did not have to worry about the rear being tail happy due to its commendable traction control system.
















The steering was a bit on the light side, but that doesn't mean that it lacks steering feel. It is responsive, but no where near those on BMW. We doubt Beemer followers will derive pleasure in terms of the driving experience. As a driver's car, the GS falls behind the German E60 5er, but passengers will have less complaints when greeted with potholes in the GS.
















Verdict

How the car performs depends on the kind of roads it is being driven on. In the city, we found it a bit sluggish due to its hefty weight and lack of torque low down the rev band, but if you are spending most of your time on the freeway, there's no stopping the driver from unleashing the GS300's full 246bhp and 300nm with supreme assurance that this Japanese luxury carrier can handle the roads with ease.