# Lexus GS — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Lexus GS on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/lexus-gs

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2016
- **Ideal trim**: Luxury
- **Target mileage**: 60,000–80,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £15,000

## Why this model

The Lexus GS 300h is a fantastic choice if you're after a reliable, comfortable, and refined executive saloon without the hefty running costs of its German rivals. Lexus consistently tops reliability surveys, so you're getting a car that's built to last. The hybrid powertrain means decent fuel economy for its size, especially around town, and it's super smooth to drive. It might not be as sporty as a BMW 5 Series, but for cruising and comfort, it's hard to beat. Plus, it holds its value pretty well for a luxury car.

## What you should pay

For a 2016 Lexus GS 300h, you're looking at a sweet spot where the initial steep depreciation has already happened. Prices are stable, and you get a lot of car for your money. Expect to pay around £14,000-£16,000 for a well-maintained example with average mileage. Always compare prices across AutoTrader and Motors.co.uk to get a feel for the market.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Luxury' trim is our top pick because it offers a fantastic balance of features and value. You get all the creature comforts you'd expect from a premium car – like full leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive navigation system – without paying the premium for the sportier 'F Sport' trim's adaptive suspension, which some might find a bit firm. It's the perfect blend of comfort and tech for everyday driving.

## What to check before you buy

- Infotainment system can feel a bit dated compared to newer rivals
- Minor electrical glitches (rare)
- Wear on suspension components (bushes, linkages) on higher mileage cars
- Hybrid battery degradation is rare but worth checking service history for

## Running costs

Running costs are surprisingly reasonable for a luxury saloon. You'll get around 40-45 mpg in real-world driving, which works out to about 15-17 pence per mile for fuel at current prices. Road tax (VED) for a 2016 hybrid is typically low, around £20-£30 per year, which is a nice bonus. Insurance will vary, but expect to pay around £500-£900 annually depending on your personal circumstances and no-claims bonus.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Hybrid
- **Horsepower**: 223 bhp
- **Mpg**: 45-50 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent (consistently top-rated)
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2012)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Executive | £38,000 | £19,000 | 17-inch alloy wheels; Leather upholstery; Heated front seats |
| Luxury | £42,000 | £21,500 | 18-inch alloy wheels; Premium leather upholstery; Heated and ventilated front seats |
| F Sport | £45,000 | £24,000 | 19-inch F Sport alloy wheels; Sport seats; Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £15,000 | 100% |
| 2027 | £13,000 | 86.7% |
| 2028 | £11,500 | 76.7% |
| 2029 | £10,000 | 66.7% |
| 2030 | £8,800 | 58.7% |

Buying a 2016 Lexus GS 300h now means you're picking it up after the steepest part of its depreciation curve. Luxury saloons tend to lose a lot of value in their first few years, but by year 8-10, the depreciation slows down considerably. You'll still see some value loss, but it's much more manageable, making it a smart buy if you plan to keep it for a few years.

Total value lost since new: 41.3%.

## Alternatives to consider

- BMW 5 Series (F10/G30)
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W212/W213)
- Audi A6 (C7)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.