New Styling in 2013 Lexus GS Doesn't Sacrifice Safety

WATERTOWN, Mass., April 23, 2012 – When it arrived at Lexus dealerships in February, the all-new 2013 Lexus GS became the standard-bearer in the luxury automaker's across-the-board shift toward more aggressive designs. However, buyers will be comforted to know that the luxury sedan's sleeker styling doesn't mean suspect safety, as the redesigned Lexus GS was recently named an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick.

In determining its Top Safety Picks, the IIHS evaluates vehicles' structural integrity and occupant protection in four different tests. Each model is put through a 40-mph frontal-offset crash test, a side-impact crash test and a rear crash-protection test that rates the safety of seats and head restraints. Meanwhile, the fourth test evaluates roof strength to determine the level of protection in the event of a rollover. The 2013 Lexus GS earned a top score of Good in all four tests to earn a Top Safety Pick.

"There is a minimum federal standard for vehicle safety, but Top Safety Picks go above and beyond that to deliver a superior level of protection," said Vincent Liuzzi, general manager of Greater Boston Lexus dealer Lexus of Watertown. "The 2013 Lexus GS has turned a lot of heads with its new design and dynamic handling, and now it has proven that it can protect a lot of heads as well."

In addition to its class-leading 10-airbag system, the 2013 Lexus GS features new Whiplash Injury Lessening front seats that are designed to absorb more of the impact in rear collisions. While the IIHS took passive safety features like those into account during testing, it did not evaluate safety technologies that can prevent crashes from occurring in the first place. The new GS offers a number of those active safety features, including an available Pre-Collision System that warns drivers with beeps and visual alerts if their eyes have closed or if there is an obstacle ahead when they not looking.

Along with its new safety features, the 2013 Lexus GS wears a new spindle grille that has become the signature style element of the new Lexus lineup. The redesigned 2013 Lexus ES sported that same grille when it debuted at the 2012 New York International Auto Show earlier this month. Featuring a lower profile, new LED daytime running lights and combination rear lamps, the 2013 ES includes more space for rear passengers thanks to a lengthened wheelbase.

In New York, Lexus also unveiled its first-ever ES hybrid in the form of the 2013 ES 300h, which is manufacturer-estimated to return about 40 mpg in its combined city/highway rating. Four drive modes, including Normal, Sport, Eco and EV, will allow drivers to adjust the new Lexus hybrid's blend of performance and fuel efficiency.

"The Lexus ES is already the lineup's best-selling car, but the 2013 model's new, progressive styling should broaden its appeal when it goes on sale later this year," added Liuzzi. "On top of that, the larger backseat will help attract more families, and the hybrid model will win over the growing group of eco-conscious luxury buyers."

About Lexus of Watertown:
Lexus of Watertown is a recipient of multiple Elite of Lexus awards, given annually to dealerships that showcase overall excellence. They have a wide selection of new and certified pre-owned Lexus models, in addition to an exemplary service department that keeps customers coming back. Easily accessible from MetroWest, the North Shore and the South Shore, Lexus of Watertown is just minutes off the Mass Pike between Route 128 and Route 93. For more information, visit them online at www.lexusofwatertown.com, call them at 888-227-9560, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LexusWatertown, or stop by their showroom at 330 Arsenal Street in Watertown, MA.