Hi and Welcome.

My name is Ed Barrett, and I’m an auto enthusiast who has been reviewing new cars in magazines and newspapers for nearly 20 years.

Like my columns that appear in print, my reviews on this site are designed to help you make a well informed decision when buying a new car. I hope you find them informative and entertaining.

Look under the “Categories” listings along the right side of the page and select the make or year of the vehicle you’d like to learn more about. To find my latest reviews, check the bottom of this page.

WHAT’S NEW

2013 Lexus GS350

Lexus Takes On BMW

Previous generation Lexus GS sedans aspired to take on BMW’s 5-Series cars, but didn’t make the grade. Now Lexus is introducing a fourth generation GS that could be a serious contender. The 2013 midsize Lexus comes as a V-6 powered GS 350, and a gas/electric hybrid, the GS 450h. All-wheel drive is optional on both models. Buyers can also add either a Luxury or more importantly, the F-Sport package to either model.

The 2013 GS gets sharper styling. This is especially evident up front with its protruding two-tiered grille, which takes its cue from the mega-buck LFA sports car. Models with the F-Sport package also get more macho body trim and larger 19-inch wheels.

Lexus cars have a well-deserved reputation for luxury, and the new GS doesn’t disappoint. The base GS comes equipped with a handsome interior that features swatches of leather on the dashboard and doors. A huge 12.3-inch screen on the dash comes with the navigation option. It can be split to show both a map and a variety of other displays. High-tech options, like night vision, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control are available.

However, what makes the GS competitive with the BMW 5-Series is the F-Sport model. Besides the macho bodywork and larger wheels, the F-Sport has stiffer springs, thicker anti-roll bars, larger brakes, adaptive shock absorbers, a faster steering ratio and four-wheel steering.

At a media introduction in Las Vegas, I had the opportunity to drive the new GS 350, as well as the hybrid GS450h, both with F-Sport, and compare them to a BMW 535i on an autocross course at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The Lexus held its own in this comparison test. It felt very well balanced and very responsive on the track, especially when I dialed in the “Sport+” mode. This setting heightens the response, and really gets the GS up on its toes. And adding to the fun quotient, the engine comes with an intake baffle, which delivers a throaty rumble in the cockpit.

Although my experience with the 2013 Lexus GS F-Sport was limited, my impression was that this car can go head-to-head with a BMW.

TO READ THE COMPLETE REVIEW, CLICK ONTO THE FIAT CATEGORY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THIS PAGE.

LATEST REVIEWS:

2012 Models: Acura TL, Audi A6, Audi A7, Fiat 500C, Ford Focus, Honda Fit, Honda Civic SI, Honda Odyssey, Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Genesis, Lexus LS460, Mazda3, Toyota Camry, Toyota Prius v, Toyota Yaris, VW Eos, 2013 Lexus GS350.