1998-2005 Lexus GS 300/400/430 Full Review

Our in-depth review covers everything you need to know about this generation Lexus GS. Get the latest news, find a local dealer, and get a free price quote for this generation Lexus GS.

1998-2005 Lexus GS 300/400/430 Review

From 1993-97, the Lexus GS 300 failed to attract legions of buyers. Redesigned for 1998, the midrange rear-drive sedans from Toyota's luxury division came in two flavors: GS 300 with a 6-cylinder engine, and a new GS 400 with a V8 borrowed from the bigger LS 400. Both engines grew more potent for 1998, thanks to Variable Valve Timing/Intelligence (VVT-I). Each model used a 5-speed automatic transmission, but the GS 400 added "E-shift," a quartet of steering-wheel buttons that allowed sequential manual gear selection. Upshifts were made using either of two buttons on the steering wheel's face, while downshifts were accomplished by comparable buttons on the backside.Though the GS wheelbase shrunk half an inch, the new sedans measured 6 inches shorter overall. Even so, Lexus claimed increased passenger and cargo room.Seat-mounted front side airbags were standard. So was a Vehicle Stability Control anti-skid system, integrated with the standard antilock braking and traction control. Like the flagship LS 400, both GS models offered an optional in-dash navigation system with touch-screen display. Rivals included the Acura RL, BMW 5-Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Year to Year Changes

1999 Lexus GS: Addition of standard Daytime Running Lights was the sole change for 1999.

2000 Lexus GS: A standard Brake Assist feature went into both models for 2000, as part of the Vehicle Stability Control system. It automatically provided full hydraulic power in response to quick, strong brake-pedal movement. Child-seat anchors were added to the rear parcel shelf.

2001 Lexus GS: Subtle styling revisions and a larger V8 engine mark a mild freshening of Lexus midline model. The GS 400 becomes the 430 as a 4.3-liter V8 replaced the 4.0-liter unit. All models get side curtain airbags, wood interior trim, and an electronic compass. New audio and navigation systems and high-intensity-discharge headlamps are optional.

2002 Lexus GS: For 2002, the navigation system got revisions including multiroute calculation, simplified graphics, and route preview, along with a faster computer and the ability to play DVD movies on its dashboard screen.

2003 Lexus GS: Lexus' midrange sedan gets only minor trim and equipment changes.

2004 Lexus GS: The GS 300/430 received no major changes in 2004.

2005 Lexus GS: Lexus' midrange sedans are little-changed for 2005. New-design '06 models are expected by summer '05.

1998-2005 Lexus GS 300/400/430 Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Fuel economy

Steering/handling	Navigation-system controls

Quietness

Build quality

Exterior finish

Interior materials

Side airbags

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

With any engine, these sedans have silky powertrains, ultralow noise levels, ample midrange punch, and powerful, undramatic braking. The automatic transmission is smooth and responsive and the "E-shift" buttons on the GS 400 do their job well enough. Wind and mechanical noise are minimal enough so tire roar becomes noticeable, especially with the optional low-profile 17-inch tires. Both engines demand premium fuel. Test GS 400 sedans have averaged 17.9 to 19.0 mpg, while a GS 300 returned 17.2 mpg (with more city driving). These sedans offer a higher level of control than prior Lexus models. Both GS models blaze ahead with ironlike stability at high speed. Unlike other Lexus sedans, they also corner with grippy precision, aided by firm and responsive steering. You can expect a trifle more body lean than in a 5-Series BMW, and the GS isn't quite as "tossable" on curvy roads. At the same time, you get a ride that's comfortably supple over most any surface, though the GS 400 can turn fidgety and thumpy over tar strips and expansion joints. Passenger and cargo room are better than before, though not by much, in a rather cozy interior. Rear entry/exit isn't the best either, though all doors open exceptionally wide, and back-seat head room remains tight for 6-footers. Otherwise, space is ample for four adults, or five in a pinch (perhaps literally). Though not exceptionally roomy, the trunk is satisfactory. GS drivers face a well-arranged Lexus dashboard that presents large gauges and large, simple minor controls. Like all Lexus models, this one is solidly built and carefully finished, crafted of top-quality materials, though we noted a couple of uncharacteristic interior rattles in a GS 400. Cabins are trimmed in supple leather and gorgeous wood.

Value for the Money
All told, GS is the only true Japanese alternative to taut-handling German sport sedans, without losing the posh, smooth ride of a Lexus. Prices are a drawback, but the GS is still worth a look if you're shopping in the Lexus level. We prefer the BMW 540i and Mercedes-Benz E430 over the GS 400, which makes the GS 300 our pick as the better value of the duo.

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Lexus GS 300	Rating

Performance	6

Fuel Economy	4

Ride Quality	7

Steering/Handling/Braking	6

Quietness	8

Controls/Materials	7

Interior Room	8

Room/Comfort (rear)	4

Cargo Capacity	4

Value within Class	6

Total:	60

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

1998-2005 Lexus GS 300/400/430 Reliability

Trouble Spots

Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Air conditioner: The A/C fails to operate accompanied by failure of the temperature gauge, transmission-selector light, and the outside-temperature indicator just displays two dashes, but the system returns to normal if the key is switched off and on, requiring replacement of the A/C electronic-control unit. (1998)

Audio system: If the CD player stops working, but returns to normal when the key is cycled, or the there is cross-talk on the AM band, the company will replace the radio-tuner assembly. (1998)

Electrical problem: Using the wrong cigar-lighter element (wrong size for the socket) can cause a short circuit. (1998-2000)

Oil consumption: Excessive oil consumption caused by sludge buildup on the cylinder heads. Company is extending warranty. (1998-01)

Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.


Item Name	Repair Cost

A/C Compressor	$810

Alternator	$540

Automatic Transmission or Transaxle	$1,195

Brakes	$535

Constant Velocity Joints	$1,410

Exhaust System	$810

Radiator	$630

Shocks and/or Struts	$1,605

Timing Chain or Belt	$420

NHTSA Recall History

1998: Due to manufacturing defect of yaw-rate sensor, Vehicle Stability Control system can operate improperly if sensor is affected by certain electromagnetic waves, as from a cellular phone; should this occur, brake may operate unexpectedly, affecting steering and speed control.

1998-2005 Lexus GS 300/400/430 Prices

Prices	Good	Average	Poor

1998
GS 300	$9,200-10,200	$8,300-9,200	$4,800-5,300
GS 400	$10,000-11,200	$9,000-10,100	$5,200-5,800

1999
GS 300	$10,500-11,500	$9,500-10,400	$5,600-6,100
GS 400	$11,500-12,800	$10,400-11,500	$6,300-7,000

2000
GS 300	$12,500-13,700	$11,300-12,300	$7,100-7,800
GS 400	$13,700-15,000	$12,500-13,700	$8,100-8,900

2001
GS 300	$14,500-15,800	$13,200-14,400	$9,000-9,800
GS 430	$16,000-17,500	$14,600-15,900	$10,200-11,200

2002
GS 300	$16,700-18,000	$15,200-16,400	$10,700-11,500
GS 430	$19,300-20,800	$17,800-19,100	$12,500-13,500

2003
GS 300	$19,500-21,000	$17,900-19,300	$12,700-13,700
GS 430	$23,500-25,000	$21,600-23,000	$15,300-16,300

2004
GS 300	$22,400-23,900	$20,600-22,000	$14,600-15,500
GS 430	$27,500-29,000	$25,600-27,000	$18,400-19,400

2005
GS 300	$25,500-27,000	$23,700-25,100	$16,800-17,800
GS 430	$31,000-33,000	$28,800-30,700	$21,700-23,100

This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:

Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.

Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings; engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.

Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo, etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from region to region.

1998-2005 Lexus GS 300/400/430 Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	4-door sedan

Wheelbase, in.	110.2

Overall Length, in.	189.0

Overall Width, in.	70.9

Overall Height, in.	56.7

Curb Weight, lbs.	3693

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	14.8

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	19.8

Seating Capacity	5

Front Head Room, in.	39.2

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	44.5

Rear Head Room, in.	37.4

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	34.3

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Powertrain Options and Availability

Placing a different engine in each model gave the Lexus buyer a choice of two distinct driving experiences. An inline 6-cylinder engine in the GS 300 produced 225 horsepower. The GS 400 got a 300-horsepower, 4.0-liter V8. Both models used a 5-speed automatic transmission, but the one in the GS 400 included steering-wheel buttons to upshift and downshift manually when desired.

Engines	Size liters / cu. in	Horse- power	Torque	Transmission: EPA city/hgwy	Consumer Guide Observed

dohc I6	3.0 / 183	220-225	220	5-speed automatic: 20/25	5-speed automatic: 17.2

dohc V8	4.0 / 242	300	310	5-speed automatic: 17/24	5-speed automatic: 17.9

dohc V8	4.3 / 262	300	325	5-speed automatic: 18/23	5-speed automatic: --

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Built In: Japan

Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive

< 1998-2005 Lexus GS 300/400/430 Photos

1998-2005 Lexus GS Local Listings >

Also in the 1998-2005 Lexus GS 300/400/430 Review:

Lexus GS 300/400/430

Lexus GS 300/400/430 Road Test

Lexus GS 300/400/430 Reliability

Lexus GS 300/400/430 Prices

Lexus GS 300/400/430 Specs & Safety

Lexus GS 300/400/430 Photos

Lexus GS 300/400/430 Full Review