Here are the first official images of the 2016 Lexus GS-F. Powered by the RC-F’s naturally aspirated 5.0 V8, this new performance sedan makes 467 HP at 7,100 RPM and 389 pound-feet of torque between 4,800 and 5,600 rpm. This power is channeled through Lexus’ eight-speed transmission.

Lexus is utilizing its Torque Vectoring Differential from the RC-F, which uses three modes – Standard, Slalom, and Track – to manipulate torque delivery to better suit different driving conditions.

Lexus has already released a few specifications about the GS-F, we already know the sedan weighs 4,034 pounds and will roll on 19-inch wheels with 255/35-series tires up front, and 275/35 tread out back.

This is a step in the right direction for Lexus, but we are a bit disappointed – especially considering the numbers being thrown down by competitors like the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, not to mention the new 640-hp, 200-mph Cadillac CTS-V that’ll also debut at next week’s Detroit show.

We are thinking that this car is more like a legit CTS V-sport / Audi S6 competitor, rather than a CTS-V / M5 / RS7 etc. brawler. If Lexus prices this car around $70k, it could shake up that 2nd-tier of midsize sport sedans. It’s also the only one in that category with a N/A engine, and the 2nd lightest (next to the V-sport). Again, if they price it right, they could have a winner.

However, we were still hoping that Lexus would come out of the gates swinging with a 600 HP car that could compete right away with BMW and AMG. Here’s to hoping this is just a baby step towards higher power performance offerings from Lexus’ F-division.