TTAC Photochop: New Lexus GS MkIV
Lexus struggled for years to find its identity. Now, that the brand is done teenaging (it will turn 20 next year), we can see clear signs of maturity in its visual language. The manufacturer that had to draw its inspiration form the likes of Mercedes-Benz is now a trend setter. Lexus’ L-finesse brought us two of the best sedans on the market (IS & LS). The GS is the remaining model due to be L-freshened-up. I tried to make this rendering fit between the current IS and LS (that are gorgeous designs IMO), ensure that it advanced enough for the next decade and offered an evolution on the front quad lamps theme. For the first task, I blended elements from the IS and the LS. The proportions and volumes distribution are a mix between the sporty feel of the smallest Lexus and the elegance of their flagship. I tackled the second objective by drawing inspiration from the HPX Concept: front air intakes divided by a chrome stripe (including LED fog lights), a descending edge on the rear shoulders, edgy cuts in the front spoiler and side skirts. The third part was tricky. I wanted some quad lamps that will no longer evoke Mercedes E-Class, while maintaining a subtle connection to the other sedans.
More by Andrei Avarvarii
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It looks better than what Lexus will probably do with it. The GS and IS both have cramped interiors and the short greenhouses make them seem claustrophobic to be inside. Lexus has a thing for higher belt lines and shorter greenhouses. I like what you've done better than the current GS. The comparatively tall greenhouse should make the interior feel airy and more spacious.
Lexus never really excited me, for whatever reason. I liked the IS250/350 styling enough, and really admired the LS430/460. The ES is a tarted-up Camry, and the GS always seemed too bland. However, Lexus has yet to make any serious mistakes building the brand. That being said, my time at the Lexus dealership test-driving an IS was probably my best dealership experience I've had. The facility was amazing and the salesman was top-notch. Though I didn't buy, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the dealership (Lexus of Bellevue).
I think the current IS is a handsome, understated car with horribly cheap looking rear lights... Good enough that the new C-class shares a ton of its details in front, just with a lot more bling. The LS is a bit bland, but okay. The GS is awkward and never quite hit its stride. I'd like to see something more aggressive personally.
I just wish that Lexus would fix the design of the RX. It's so... ugly. Their other designs (especially the ES, LS, LX and GS) rock.