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Sharp looking Lexus GS 350 F Sport lives up to its outward appearance by delivering strong performance. (Photo: Lexus) a specific, sport-designed model like the IS F or the world class, $400,000 LFA supercar.

But all of that is about to change. Straight from corporate headquarters in Japan, a new philosophy has emerged – keep the luxury and add European-style performance, so all future Lexus models can go head to head with the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

If the 2013 Lexus GS F Sport is any indication of the future, then Lexus is certainly on target.

Think of the GS F Sport as a car with a bad attitude, one you mistakenly awoke from winter's sleep, and it's mad as hell. We had the opportunity to drive the F Sport

Lexus is going head to head with the Germans in the midsize class. (Photo: Lexus)

at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and it is an absolute blast.

Power comes from a 3.5-litre V6 that outputs 306 horsepower. The engine's intake features a "sound generator" that adds a snarly quality when you put your foot into it.  Think small block V8 for the sound and power this engine creates. Available in rear wheel drive with rear wheel steering, or all-wheel drive, the GS F Sport's handling is spot on. Turn in any direction and inputs are followed as if the GS F Sport was an agile, obedient canine.

Handling prowess comes courtesy of 19-inch staggered-width alloy wheels, adaptive variable suspension with driver selectable mode switch, and Lexus Dynamic Handling

New GS interior offers top-quality like usual, but styling delivers greater sense of occasion. (Photo: Lexus)

with variable gear ratio electric power steering. Sport seats with power adjustable side bolsters lock you in place during spirited driving.

When it's time to slow your roll, massive multi-piston brakes with enhanced cooling stop you effectively.

Styling is super aggressive, and is the first to feature Lexus' new "Spindle" grille. Body panels are sharply creased, and very dramatic, but this is not typical tacky Japanese add on styling. All panels flow with synergistic harmonies that indicate speed, power and performance. And lest we forget this is a Lexus, luxury.

The interior features perforated leather seats and aluminum trim throughout. All GS models include an impressive analogue clock that sets off the interior nicely. Stitched

Comfortable, supportive and plenty of room. (Photo: Lexus)

leather adorns dash, door and console panels, as well as the steering wheel and shift knob. Aluminum sport brake and accelerator pedals highlight a stylish performance interior.

A large 12.3-inch display houses a central 8-inch screen for navigation, and also displays audio and climate control functions on smaller side screens. Lexus has improved the Enform 2.0 telematics system to include the ability to pair your smartphone so that popular apps like Facebook, Pandora and Yelp can be accessed from the display screen.

An available 17-speaker, 835-watt Mark Levinson audio system provides concert hall sonic quality.

On the road, the F Sport can turn into a luxo

Forget calling shotgun, if you're a passenger the rear seats look inviting. (Photo: Lexus)

cruiser with the simple rotation of the adaptive damping system dial. In "Eco" mode, throttle settings are geared towards fuel economy, and the car returns a decent 8.5 L/100km to boot. In "Sport F Plus" mode, all parameters are geared for maximum performance.

Should you want to be coddled, opt for the GS Luxury Package, which still gives you 306 horsepower with a friendlier wood and leather demeanor, and less aggressive exterior styling.

But for me, the F Sport is the ticket. I get rocket ship performance and reliability I can count on. Luxury performance car ownership no longer has to send you to the poorhouse.

Expect the 2013 Lexus GS lineup, which also includes a Hybrid model, in showrooms in February 2012. Prices have not yet been set.
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