What transmission does the Lexus GSF use?
4 Answers
The Lexus GSF is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. Compared to conventional transmissions, this type of transmission has increased gear ratios, resulting in a more closely spaced gear ratio setup. This ensures that the vehicle always operates in the appropriate gear during driving, which can reduce engine speed to some extent, improve fuel economy, and lower overall operating costs. The overall side profile of the Lexus GSF is largely similar to the standard version, but features like the 19-inch blackened multi-spoke Y-shaped alloy wheels and the large brake calipers hidden within hint at its substantial capabilities. In terms of dimensions, the car measures 2915mm in length, 1845mm in width, and 1440mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2850mm.
The Lexus GSF uses an 8-speed automatic transmission, model AA80E (also known as Sport Direct Shift). This transmission is exceptionally intelligent—it shifts as smoothly as milk tea with pearls during normal driving, with no noticeable gearshift jerks even in traffic jams. When you floor the accelerator, its downshift speed rivals that of a dual-clutch transmission, dropping two gears in just half a second, unleashing the roar of the 5.0L V8 instantly. Driving my friend's car on mountain roads, I found the manual shifting incredibly responsive—the paddle shifters execute shifts immediately. Most impressively, after 6 years and 100,000 km, the transmission fluid hasn't even been changed, yet it's never given any trouble. Lexus' powertrain is truly built for durability.
I've studied this car's 8AT transmission extensively. Lexus calls it the SPDS system. Unlike conventional 8ATs that feel sluggish, its torque converter achieves up to 90% lock-up range, with direct clutch engagement during low-speed following for both fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The gear ratios are brilliantly arranged - the first three gears are closely spaced for uninterrupted acceleration G-forces during launch, while the upper five gears feature wider ratios (cruising at 120km/h with just 1800rpm). The shift logic learns your driving habits - after several days of aggressive driving, it automatically initiates downshifts 300-500rpm earlier. Paired with the active differential, it even locks gears automatically during corner exits when you apply throttle, making track driving exceptionally effortless.
My friend just got a used GSF and let me try it out. The most impressive thing about that 8-speed transmission is its daily comfort. In grocery-getting mode, it's as gentle as an ECVT, with smoother engagement at traffic light starts than Audi's DL501 dual-clutch. You don't even need to switch to sport mode for high-speed lane changes and overtaking—just press the throttle to 70% and it'll drop three gears by itself. Special praise goes to its cold-start performance: at -10°C when leaving the garage, the shifting feel was no different from summer. This transmission is maintenance-free for life—three GSF owners I know drove over 150,000 km before their first transmission fluid change. Its mechanical quality truly lives up to Lexus standards.
