2003 Lexus GS 300/430: Road Test
2003 Lexus GS 300/430 ▼
- MSRP: $38,725 - $47,825
- Invoice: $34,077 - $41,607
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Our road test for the 2003 Lexus GS 300/430 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Lexus GS 300/430 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Lexus GS 300/430, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Lexus GS 300/430 help you decide if a 2003 Lexus GS 300/430 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6.5 |
Both models seem sleepy on takeoff, but then come on strong. Test GS 300 took 7.6 sec 0-60 mph, GS 430 just under 7. Automatic transmission is velvety smooth and usually quite responsive in both manual and full-automatic modes.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
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., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 8 | 7.1 |
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., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Corners with reasonable precision, aided by firm, responsive steering, but lags the best European rivals for outright agility. Simulated panic stops are stable and short.
QUIETNESS
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 6.8 |
Low wind and mechanical noise, but marked tire roar on the 430 with optional 17-inch tires. Both models still quite refined, though.
CONTROLS
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 6 | 6.6 |
Pleasing overall design, but silver-colored main gauge faces annoy, as do semihidden trunk and fuel-filler releases. Navigation system controls too many audio and climate functions, takes time to sort out. Exemplary materials and workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.2 |
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., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Supportive, with adequate leg space, but head room tight for the tall. Easy entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.9 |
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., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 5.7 |
Neither GS has quite the sports-sedan performance and handling of a BMW 5-Series, but they do have a smooth ride, plentiful features, and quality workmanship. Both stack up well for value against direct price rivals, but the GS 300 is the smarter buy, giving up little to its costlier V8 sibling.
Total Score
| GS 300 | GS 430 w/nav. sys., 17-inch wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 67 | 63 | 60.5 |
Total Score: 67
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