THE powerful and elegant Lexus GS series is being given a new performance boost with the introduction of the GS300 and GS430 Sport models, unique to the UK market.

The GS models have consistently been among the best-performing cars in their segment, thanks to powerful straight-six and V8 engines and a chassis design with front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration. Now the package is being given an extra boost with revised suspension settings and larger wheels shod with wider, lower profile tyres.

Modified springs and shock absorbers and more robust anti-roll bars have been supplied by the company' motorsport division, to give sportier handling. The Sport models sit 20mm lower than the SE models, and ride on new 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels.

The new cars are also distinguished by styling features, including a mesh finish for the front grille, deep front air dam and a rear spoiler on the GS430 and rear lip spoiler on the GS300.

The GS430, introduced in October 2000, has consistently been among the very fastest cars in its class, its impressive 279bhp 4.3-litre V8 32-valve double overhead camshaft engine powering it from rest to 62mph in 6.3 seconds, with 417Nm of torque generated at 3,500rpm.

The GS300 is fettled with an all-aluminium 216bhp six-cylinder engine that moves the car from nought to 62mph in 8.2 seconds, and maximum torque of 294Nm is delivered at 3,800rpm.

Both GS430 and GS300 are equipped with Lexus's five-speed super-electronically controlled transmission, an automatic gearbox that adapts its shift pattern to suit driving style and road conditions. On the GS300 the driver can change gear using steering wheel-mounted buttons.

The new GS Sport models share the same specification as their SE counterparts, including multi-zone climate control, eight-speaker Mark Levinson sound system with dashboard mounted six-CD autochanger, leather seat trim and wood cabin detailing, electrically adjustable heated front seats with memory function on the driver's seat, cruise control, heated electric door mirrors, and electric boot and fuel filler door release.

The GS430 Sport is also equipped with high-intensity discharge headlamps and three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with remote audio controls. The DVD-based Lexus Navigator satellite navigation system, with integrated seven-inch touch-screen LCD multi-information display, is an option on all GS models.

Active and passive safety are addressed with anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, vehicle stability control and traction control. In the cabin there are driver, passenger and front side airbags, curtain shield airbags and front seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters. The roof of the cabin has been engineered to provide protection against head injuries in the event of a collision.

The GS430 Sport costs £39,995 on the road, the GS300 £34,995 on the road.

All Lexus models come with a three-year/60,000-mile warranty and three-year paint warranty. The GS300 Sport and GS430 Sport require a full service only every 20,000 miles with an interim health check which takes less than an hour every 10,000 miles or once a year.

Updated: 12:31 Friday, July 11, 2003