New info surfaces on high-performance Lexus GS F

Lexus' long-rumored GS F high-performance sedan is in the headlines again, with the AMG-fighter reportedly set for a new engine.

Reports of a high-performance F-variant of the Lexus GS have been circling the internet rumor mill since the Japanese automaker launched its IS F sedan, and it looks as though the car may finally come to fruition as early as 2012.

According to Road & Track, development is ongoing on the GS F, with the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG rival likely to launch sometime in 2012. Lexus' flagship F sedan won't come cheap though, with an estimated price between $90,000 and $100,000 - trumping the E63 by a few thousand dollars.

But despite paying more, you won't get more. Previous reports suggested the GS F would come fitted with a detuned version of the LFA's V10, but it now appears the upper-medium sedan will use the same 5.0L V8 found under the hood of the IS F. Power will be bumped to 465 horsepower, but that's still well short of the E63's mark of 518 horsepower.

However, Lexus engineers have reportedly removed about 140 pounds from the GS' waistline, which will help in the performance category. Early estimates suggest the GS F will be able to make the sprint from 0-60 in about 4.5 seconds.

Lexus has yet to confirm the GS F, but with the addition of the "F Sport" to the CT 200h line, it seems as though Lexus is truly committed to the F brand.

References
1.'First Look Lexus...' view