Overview
The 2017 Lexus GS is a midsize luxury sedan designed for drivers who want a comfortable, quiet daily driver with strong build quality and available performance upgrades. It sits in the premium sport-sedan space as a refined alternative to European rivals, with an emphasis on smooth power delivery and long-term dependability. The 2017 model is part of the fourth-generation GS (2013–2020) and benefits from the mid-cycle updates introduced for 2016, including refreshed styling and improved infotainment. It’s ideal for commuters, long-distance travelers, and buyers who value reliability as much as luxury.
Key Features
1) Engine choices for different priorities: the GS 350 uses a 3.5L V6 (around 311 hp) with an 8-speed automatic, available in rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; the GS 200t uses a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder (around 241 hp) with an 8-speed automatic for efficiency-minded buyers.
2) Available F Sport package: sport-tuned suspension, more aggressive styling, supportive seats, and sharper handling feel compared to the standard GS setup.
3) Strong safety and driver assistance availability: Lexus Safety System+ features like pre-collision braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control are commonly found on well-equipped trims.
4) Premium cabin and ride quality: quiet insulation, high-quality materials, and a comfortable suspension tuning that prioritizes smoothness over harsh sportiness.
5) Tech and comfort highlights: available Mark Levinson premium audio, heated/ventilated front seats, and a spacious feel for front occupants, making it a solid highway cruiser.
Common Issues & Reliability
Shoppers searching “2017 Lexus GS reliability” will generally find the GS scores well for longevity, but there are still patterns owners report when looking up “2017 Lexus GS problems” and “2017 Lexus GS common issues.”
1) Infotainment/Remote Touch frustrations and glitches: some owners report laggy response, screen freezing, or intermittent Bluetooth/audio issues, often showing up in the first 20,000–60,000 miles. In many cases, software updates, re-pairing devices, or component servicing resolves it, but the interface itself is a common complaint.
2) Turbo four-cylinder oil consumption or seepage concerns (GS 200t): while not universal, a subset of owners report higher-than-expected oil usage or minor oil leaks/seeps as mileage climbs (commonly reported around 60,000–100,000 miles). Staying on top of oil level checks and using correct oil specifications is key.
3) Brake wear and occasional brake feel complaints: the GS is a heavy sedan, and some drivers report faster-than-expected pad/rotor wear, especially with city driving or aggressive braking. Expect brake service needs to appear anywhere from 30,000–60,000 miles depending on driving habits; some also mention brake squeal or vibration when rotors warp.
4) Interior and cosmetic wear items: repeated reports include seat bolsters showing wear, dashboard/trim squeaks or rattles on rough roads, and occasional door lock actuator or window switch issues as the car ages (often 70,000+ miles). These are usually annoyance-level rather than drivetrain-threatening problems.