The new Managing Director of LEXUS Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd, Mr Kuah Kock Heng who was present at the unveiling of the 2008 LEXUS GS 300 said, “To date, we have surpassed our target for 2007, with over 195 units of Lexus cars sold, and GS 300 contributed to 83 units of the overall sales. We are confident that the new upgrade GS 300 will be well received in the market and will further augment our position in the premium segment.

Launched in 2005, the third generation GS was the first production vehicle to feature Lexus's radical L-finesse design philosophy, combining distinctive, elegant styling with peerless interior refinement and highly engaging driving dynamics. The 2008 LEXUS GS 300 retains 3.0 L V6 3GR-FSE engine with Dual VVT-i and the 24-valve DOHC engine produces 228 bhp/170 kW of power at 6,200 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. With advanced features in its design displaying the evolving L-finesse philosophy characterized by incisive simplicity, purity and intriguing elegance, the engine has a muscular character to give credibility to its sports sedan image.

The refreshed 2008 GS 300 benefits from numerous subtle exterior and interior styling enhancements. External revisions include a discreet yet distinct restyling of the grille and headlamps, the incorporation of indicator lamps within the door mirrors, a lower rear bumper and underbody for improved aerodynamic efficiency and a range of new colors including Black Opal, Black Opal Mica, Beige Metallic and Frosty Pearl Mica.

Interior refinements include a redesigned gearlever gate, switchgear and instrumentation enhancements, the addition of an auxiliary audio socket to the 14-speaker, Mark Levinson Premium Surround System which allows the use of iPod, and the optional availability of semi-aniline leather upholstery.

Featuring new 17", 7-spoke wheel designs, the GS 300 equipment is now enhanced with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), which is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle, and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver, to further improve dynamics.

“The refreshed GS 300, which is emblematic of LEXUS “Pursuit of Perfection” will certainly raise the benchmark in terms of refinement in quality, detailing and styling in the luxury market”, concluded Mr Kuah.

The 2008 LEXUS GS 300 is available at LEXUS Center Mutiara Damansara from 19 January 2008, and is priced at RM408, 800.00 (on the road without insurance).