2006 Lexus LS 430 Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2006 Lexus LS 430 includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Lexus LS 430 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Lexus LS 430, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Lexus LS 430 help you decide if a 2006 Lexus LS 430 is right for you.

2006 Lexus LS 430 Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Instruments/controls (w/navigation system)

Ride

Passenger room

Interior materials

Quietness

Build quality

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	7	6.9

Smooth, ample power abetted by silky, responsive automatic transmission. No chance to time yet, but Lexus claims 5.9 sec 0-60 mph. Test LS with previous 5-speed automatic clocked 6.7 sec.

Fuel Economy

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
5	5	5	4.2

Test models averaged 18.4 mpg in mixed driving, 19.9 in mostly highway use. Lexus requires 91-octane fuel.

Ride Quality

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
9	8	9	8.5

Pillowy on most surfaces with base suspension or available air-spring system. Firmer Euro-Tuned Suspension affords better body control with little comfort penalty.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
6	7	6	6.9

Surprisingly adept, but no LS is as agile as top European rivals. Test cars made swift, undramatic simulated emergency stops.

Quietness

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
10	9	10	8.5

One of the quietest cars around, though mild wheel patter on rough pavement, slight body drumming over railroad tracks.

Controls

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	6	5.9

Mostly handy and logical, though ordering extra gizmos adds switchgear clutter. Navigation system easier to use than most, but also governs some audio and climate functions. Interior decor conservative, but flawless in materials and workmanship.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
10	10	10	9

Spacious for adults of most any size. Wide, supportive seats with multiple power adjustments. Drivers benefit from power tilt/telescope steering wheel and fine all-around visibility.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
9	9	10	8.1

Adult-roomy here, too. Seat blends fine support, soft padding. Ultra Luxury Package combines upgraded leather with indulgent amenities.

Cargo Room

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	6	5

Sufficient for most travel needs, but Ultra Luxury Package's included rear air conditioning trims trunk volume by 2.7 cu ft. Decent cabin storage for small stuff.

Value within Class

Base	Base w/Euro suspension	Base w/Ultra Lux. Pkg.	Class Average
10	10	9	5.4

The LS 430 is priced at about the midpoint in the premium-large-car class, but matches any competitor for expected standard features and optional gadgets. Though less sporty than German rivals, this Lexus is an unsurpassed Best Buy blend of comfort, refinement, workmanship, and resale value.

Total Score