How long before a 4th generation of the GS 350 Will be replaced? Is the pattern where Lexus produces car for a certain number of years before they replace it with a reskinned or whatever new or model?

 

2016 is a "refresh". I wouldn't expect a 5GS until MY2020, released early in 2019. And that is just a guess.

They released the 3GS in 2005. Refreshed it in 2008. 4GS was released Feb 2012 as MY2013.

 

So does that mean the GS 350 would be due for a refresh as a 2017? I ask because I've considered having one built that is a 2016 but I don't want to be in a position having a new 2016 near the time to refresh model would be introduced.

 

The '16 is the refreshed model.

 

Excellent

thank you Ron

 

I think the 5th gen will probably be released in 3-4 years...hopefully with new, more powerful engines. It'll probably use the architecture of the new LC500 too, which will probably make it even lighter!

 

The general pattern has been a "complete" remodel after the current version/body style has been in production for about 6-8 years depending on its popularity, sales, and Lexus' vision for the car itself.

Since the current generation GS has been in production since 2012 (as a 2013 model), and it was recently refreshed for 2016, you can expect it to remain in production in its current "refreshed" state for at least another 2-3 years.

Essentially if you buy a 2016, it will look like an "older" generation by the time 2019-2020 rolls around and new exterior sheet metal arrives.

 

Was my post in Japanese or something?

 

Yeah, it does make sense that they will reface it in 2016 then do a complete redesign in 2017....on a low volume sedan....

Hum.....maybe 2020 sounds more logical.

 

looks like it takes 7 years for Lexus models to be in production... previous IS was 7 years 2007 - 2013.

 

2nd gen IS was actually 2006 - 2013, or 8 model years.

 

Thanks for correction, you are right

Does any other automakers keep any models in production for so long?

 

Back in the 80's etc, Benz kept their S Class running for 13 years from 1979 to 1992.
Their E Class did run for 10 years from 1976 to 1986.
The 190E ran for nearly 11 years from 1982 to 1993.

Meanwhile the Corolla and Camry ran for as little as 4 years.

These days, everyone compromizes and runs for 5 years like the Camry if the model is very competitive, or runs for 7 years aka luxury cars.

Make sure you test drive the Tesla S, because that may change your thinking about internal combustion engines altogether.
The 4GS may be my very last internal combustion engine.
I may not buy any small capacity turbos at all, nor any gasoline-electric hybrids; I may jump directly into electric vehicles...