When Lexus redesigned its mid-size luxury sedan for the 2013 model year, it faced a stubborn perception problem. People viewed its cars as floating armchairs—brilliantly reliable, but utterly devoid of pulse. The 2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport arrived to smash that stereotype with a bolder spindle grille, a stiffer chassis, and a sharper focus on the driver. Underneath its sculpted sheet metal sits a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine pushing 306 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed (RWD) or eight-speed (AWD) automatic transmission. It bridges the gap between pillowy comfort and aggressive rear-wheel-drive handling, making it a compelling choice on the pre-owned market.
If you're eyeing a used 2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport, you need more than just marketing fluff. You need to know how it actually handles twisty backroads, what real-world fuel economy you'll get, which common mechanical issues to check before handing over cash, and whether it genuinely holds its own against German heavyweights like the BMW 5 Series. Let's break down everything you need to know about this sports sedan.
Powertrain Performance and Driving Dynamics
The heart of the GS 350 F Sport is Toyota's 2GR-FSE 3.5-liter V6 engine. It relies on both direct and port fuel injection (D-4S), which keeps carbon buildup on the intake valves at bay while delivering crisp throttle response. You don't get forced induction here, meaning power builds linearly up to its 6,400 rpm redline.
Rear-wheel-drive models feature a traditional six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, while all-wheel-drive variants receive a six-speed automatic as well (note: standard non-F Sport RWD models got an eight-speed transmission for 2013, but the F Sport packaging retained specific tuning). Zero to sixty miles per hour takes roughly 5.7 seconds for rear-wheel-drive versions, which feels brisk enough for daily merging and highway passing.
The real magic of the F Sport package lies in its suspension setup. It features adaptive variable suspension (AVS) with stiffer springs, thicker stabilizer bars, and performance-tuned dampers.
- Normal Mode: Absorbs potholes and expansion joints with decent composure, though it's noticeably firmer than a base GS.
- Sport S Mode: Tightens up the electric power steering weight and sharpens throttle response.
- Sport S+ Mode: Engages firmer damper settings, minimizes body roll through tight corners, and holds gears longer during aggressive driving.
Rear-wheel-drive models also feature optional Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) with Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS). This system actively turns the rear wheels by up to two degrees in phase or counter-phase with the front wheels, tightening low-speed turning radiuses and stabilizing high-speed lane changes.
Exterior Design and Aerodynamic Upgrades
Lexus introduced its polarizing spindle grille design with this generation, and the F Sport variant cranked the aggression up a notch. The front fascia features a distinct mesh grille insert, larger side air intakes, and a lower front spoiler designed to channel air cleanly around the body.
Down the flanks, 19-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in staggered summer tires (235/40R19 front, 265/35R19 rear on RWD models) fill the arches properly. A subtle trunk lid spoiler and a lower rear diffuser complete the exterior look, distinguishing it immediately from standard luxury trims. For official dimensions and safety ratings, you can reference the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration vehicle database.
Interior Cabin, Comfort, and Technology
Stepping inside reveals a driver-centric cockpit that leans heavily into premium materials. The F Sport package adds perforated leather upholstery with available garnet or black color schemes, aluminum trim accents, and a black headliner. The 16-way power-adjustable driver's seat includes side bolsters that hold you securely when you start pushing through corners.
The dashboard centers around a massive 12.3-inch split-screen infotainment display, controlled via the second-generation Remote Touch mouse-like controller. While the screen size was revolutionary for 2013, the joystick controller takes time to master and can distract you from the road if you're trying to click tiny menu items while driving.
Cabin quietness remains a massive selling point. Acoustic glass and extensive sound deadening keep wind and tire noise to a minimum, preserving the serene highway cruising experience Lexus is famous for. Rear seat legroom measures a generous 36.3 inches, easily accommodating adults on long trips.
Real-World Ownership Costs and Fuel Economy
Running a performance luxury sedan requires budgeting for consumable items that cost more than a standard commuter car.
- Fuel Economy: EPA ratings sit at 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined for rear-wheel-drive models. All-wheel-drive drops slightly to 19/26/21 mpg. Premium fuel is strictly required.
- Tire Replacement: Because RWD F Sport models use staggered wheel sizes, you can't rotate front and rear tires, meaning rear tires wear out faster and must be purchased in performance-specific compounds.
- Brake Service: The F Sport package features larger ventilated rotors and high-friction brake pads. Replacing front pads and rotors at an independent specialist typically runs between $500 and $800.
For broader automotive maintenance trends and recall checks, the U.S. Department of Transportation provides helpful public safety advisories.
Common Issues and Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
While the 2013 GS 350 boasts legendary Japanese reliability, used models carry specific age-related quirks. If you're inspecting one, check these key areas:
- Water Pump Failure: The 3.5-liter V6 can develop coolant leaks around the water pump housing between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. Look for pink crusty residue near the pulley.
- Infotainment Delays: The Remote Touch controller software can lag or freeze in older firmware versions. Test every menu function thoroughly.
- Control Arm Bushings: Front lower control arm liquid-filled bushings tend to tear over time, causing a slight vibration in the steering wheel around 60 mph.
- Tire Cupping: Staggered suspension setups combined with aggressive alignment specs can cause inner-edge tire wear if the car's alignment hasn't been kept up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport fast?
It's quick rather than blisteringly fast. With 306 horsepower, it hits 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. It feels punchy and responsive in everyday driving, but it won't out-accelerate a twin-turbo BMW 535i from the same era.
Can I turn off traction control completely?
Yes. Holding down the traction control button for more than three seconds disables both traction control and vehicle stability control, allowing for a more unfiltered rear-wheel-drive experience on a closed track.
Is the ride too stiff for daily commuting?
The F Sport suspension is noticeably firmer than a base Lexus GS or ES, but it avoids the bone-jarring harshness found in some German sport sedans. Most drivers find it strikes an ideal balance for daily use.
How does it compare to a 2013 BMW 535i?
The BMW offers more tuning potential and sharper initial steering feel, but the Lexus completely destroys it in long-term reliability and lower maintenance costs.
