2002 Lexus SC 430: Road Test
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2002 Lexus SC 430 ▼
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- MSRP: $61,005
- Invoice: $53,117
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Our road test for the 2002 Lexus SC 430 includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Lexus SC 430 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Lexus SC 430, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Lexus SC 430 help you decide if a 2002 Lexus SC 430 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.8 |
Takeoffs seem lazy, but SC gathers speed fast--test car did 0-60 mph in a quick 6.2 sec--and is a relaxed cruiser. Silky transmission generally responsive, but will hesitate to downshift in certain situations.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.6 |
Our Chicago test car averaged 16.6 mpg, on par with rival Mercedes CLK430 and Jaguar XK8. California test car logged 18.5 despite performance tests. Premium fuel required.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4 |
Mainly an easy rider, but 18-inch performance tires produce hard-edge jitters on patchy pavement and some wander along grooved surfaces. Optional run-flats make things stiff and lumpy. Body shows minor top-down quiver on rough roads, but is closed-coupe solid with top up.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.3 |
Agile for a luxury tourer despite slightly numb steering. Traction/antiskid system a safety plus. So are the brakes: One test SC wandered slightly in our "panic stop" routine, but distances were short, nosedive minimal.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 3.6 |
Top-up, SC matches or beats most luxury coupes for refinement, despite some low but audible wind rustle and coarse-pavement tire thrum. Top-down wind buffeting is the lowest among convertibles we've tested.
CONTROLS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.3 |
Navigation screen angles to suit ambient light, but can still wash out. Steering-wheel audio volume buttons a bit obscured. No problems otherwise. Retracting top smooth and quick up and down. Sumptuous, beautifully crafted cabin features real wood, soft leather, discreet brightwork.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.1 |
Comfortable 10-way power seats are low-set, hampering entry/exit and, for some drivers, visibility; they're also too flat for good lateral location in hard cornering. Ample leg room, but top-up head room just adequate for 6-footers.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 1 | .6 |
Scarcely any of either on padded token "seat," which is best used for small parcels and pets.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 2.1 |
Almost none with the top stowed, barely enough for two on a long weekend with top up and careful packing. Optional run-flat tires delete spare tire to add 0.6 cu ft, a poor trade for their harsher ride.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.2 |
Priced a bit above the CLK430 convertible but far below the ragtop XK8, the SC 430 offers a pleasing mix of performance and panache, plus the extra security and convenience of a power metal roof. Demand exceeds supply, so don't expect discounts.
Total Score
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 54 | 45.6 |
Total Score: 54
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