Next Lexus GS F Could Use LC F’s Twin Turbo 4.0 V8
Recent rumors suggest that Lexus might finally throw in the towel on its much beloved, naturally aspirated V8.
For years now, Lexus has watched its competition move away from naturally aspirated, big displacement engines to smaller, twin turbo powerplants. And they’ve been widely praised for standing pat, despite falling behind in the all-out horsepower war. After all, there’s just something glorious about a big, naturally aspirated V8. And the current Lexus GS F has drawn praise from the likes of Top Gear’s Chris Harris for sticking to its enthusiast roots.
But if a recent report by Best Car magazine proves true, the Lexus GS F might be joining the same competition it’s beaten in a few comparison tests. Because they’re now hearing that the next generation version of the car will ditch its N/A 5.0 liter V8 in favor of a 4.0 liter, twin-turbo V8. Coincidentally, it’s the same powerplant rumored to land in the Lexus LC F. Which means we’re looking at an engine targeting an output of 600 horsepower and 500+ lb-ft of torque.
The switch would make a lot of sense, despite Lexus’ resistance to change over the last several years. Even though enthusiasts love the current GS F and its naturally aspirated engine, times are changing. The lure of more power and greater efficiency will likely seal the deal. But we have to remember that these are nothing but rumors.
Heck, it wasn’t that long ago when we heard the GS was going to be replaced by the next ES. Which makes a ton of sense considering the sharp decline Lexus (and everyone else) has faced in sedan sales recently. Obviously, we don’t want to see that happen. So if it takes a smaller, more powerful turbo motor to keep the GS alive, we’re all for it.
