Well now, that didn’t take long, did it? Less than three months after the presentation of the LF-Gh concept car at the 2011 New York International Auto Show and Lexus has already started testing the production model that will spawn a successor to today’s GS sedan at the Nürburgring circuit.
Naturally, the Lexus GS prototype is covered in plenty of camouflage but not to the point that it discloses its styling similarities to the LF-Gh study.
Aside from the body proportions, details like the protruding side sills, the high rising belt line, the “dotted” LEDs and large grille up front, and even the alloy wheel designs, appear remarkably faithful to the concept.
We expect the production model’s exterior dimensions to remain close to those of the prototype, which measured 192.5-in. long, 73.6-in. wide and 57.1-in. tall, meaning that the new GS should be a hair larger than the current model.
There’s a lot of mystery surrounding the potential engine choices but chances are that Lexus will stick to a similar lineup to today’s model with 6-cylinder and 8-cylinder gasoline units plus of course, a hybrid version equipped with a gasoline-electric drivetrain.
A more powerful model wearing the F-badge may also be in the cards for the next generation of the GS.
Look for the production model in showrooms sometime towards the end of 2012.
PHOTO GALLERY
_______________________________________________________________________ LEXUS LF-GH STUDY / 2013 GS
