2005 Lexus SC 430: Road Test
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2005 Lexus SC 430 ▼
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- MSRP: $63,575
- Invoice: $55,308
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Our road test for the 2005 Lexus SC 430 includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Lexus SC 430 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Lexus SC 430, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Lexus SC 430 help you decide if a 2005 Lexus SC 430 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8.1 |
Takeoffs seem lazy, but SC gathers speed fast--test car did 6.2 sec 0-60 mph--and is a relaxed cruiser. Silky transmission generally responsive, but sometimes hesitates to downshift.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.4 |
Our Chicago test cars averaged 16.6-18.6 mpg. A California test car logged 18.5, despite performance tests. Premium-grade fuel required.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 4 |
Mainly an easy rider, but with hard-edge jitters on patchy pavement and some wander along grooved surfaces. Optional run-flat tires with stiff sidewalls make ride even harder. Body shows minor top-down quiver on rough roads, but is closed-coupe solid with top up.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 8.6 |
Agile for a luxury tourer, despite slightly numb steering. Antiskid/traction system a safety plus. One test SC wandered slightly in simulated panic stops, but distances were short, nosedive minimal. Run-flat tires require frequent steering correction at highway speed.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 3.9 |
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 among lowest of convertibles we've tested.
CONTROLS
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Navigation screen angles to suit ambient light, but can still wash out. Steering-wheel audio-volume buttons a bit obscured. No problems otherwise. Retractable top smooth and quick, up or down. Sumptuous, beautifully crafted cabin features real wood, soft leather, discreet brightwork.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Comfortable 10-way power seats are set low, hampering entry/exit and, for some drivers, visibility; they're also too flat for good lateral location in fast cornering. Ample leg room, but top-up head room just adequate for 6-footers.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | .4 |
Scarcely any space or comfort on token "seat," which is best used for small parcels and pets.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 |
Almost none with the top stowed, barely enough for two on a long weekend with top up and careful packing. Run-flat option omits the spare tire to add 0.6 cu ft, a poor trade for the harsher ride.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.6 |
SC 430 is a posh, pleasant, semisporting convertible with the extra security and convenience of a power metal roof, plus Lexus' highly rated customer service, workmanship, and reliability. It isn't cheap, but some rivals with similar power and features cost more.
Total Score
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 54 | 49 | 47.8 |
Total Score: 52
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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