2002 Lexus GS 300/430: Road Test
2002 Lexus GS 300/430 ▼
- MSRP: $38,605 - $47,405
- Invoice: $33,972 - $41,242
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Our road test for the 2002 Lexus GS 300/430 includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Lexus GS 300/430 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Lexus GS 300/430, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Lexus GS 300/430 help you decide if a 2002 Lexus GS 300/430 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 6.2 |
Slightly sleepy away from a stop, but strong thereafter. Test GS 300 took 7.6 sec 0-60 mph, GS 430 just under 6. Automatic transmission is velvety smooth and usually quite responsive in both manual and full-automatic mode.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.6 |
Good for this level of acceleration. In mostly city driving, test GS 300 and 430 each averaged 17.2 mpg. With mostly highway travel, test GS 430s averaged 19.6- 21.6 mpg. Both engines require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 8 | 7.2 |
Comfortably supple in the main, though GS 430 can be a little fidgety and thumpy on its optional Z-rated 17-inch tires.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Corners with reasonable precision, aided by firm, responsive steering, but doesn't match European rivals for outright agility. Simulated panic stops are stable and short.
QUIETNESS
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.8 |
Low wind and mechanical noise, but marked tire roar with optional 17 inch tires on the 430. Both models still quite refined by absolute standards, though.
CONTROLS
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 6 | 6.3 |
Pleasing overall design, but silver background to main instruments annoys, as do semihidden trunk and fuel releases. Revised navigation system still incorporates too many audio and climate functions and is only slightly less frustrating to use than previous design. Exemplary materials and workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 |
Ample adult space and cosseting seats. Good basic driving stance abetted by power seat and steering wheel adjusters. Visibility good except directly aft.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Supportive, with adequate leg space, but head room tight for the very tall. Three adults are cramped for shoulder width. Easy entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.2 |
Sufficient for long weekends, but not exceptional for the class. Same goes for interior small-items stowage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 5.1 |
Neither GS model is as athletic as the German competition, but these posh Lexuses compensate with their smooth ride, plentiful features, and quality workmanship. Both GSs earn our Recommended nod for the value they provide against direct rivals, though the GS 300 gives up little to its V8 sibling and is the smarter buy in this line.
Total Score
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 67 | 65 | 59.5 |
Total Score: 67
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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