2010 Lexus SC 430: Road Test
2010 Lexus SC 430 ▼
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- MSRP: $67,505 -
- Invoice: $60,079 -
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Our road test for the 2010 Lexus SC 430 includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Lexus SC 430 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Lexus SC 430, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Lexus SC 430 help you decide if a 2010 Lexus SC 430 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Take-offs seem sedate, but the refined SC offers good midrange punch and relaxed highway cruising. The transmission delivers smooth, prompt shifts.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged 16.6-18.6 mpg. Premium-grade gas is required.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 3.5 |
Generally an easy rider with the standard tires, but SC 430 gets hard-edge jitters on patchy pavement and wanders some along grooves. The run-flat tires with their stiff sidewalls make the ride borderline harsh. There's minor top-down body quiver, but SC 430 is closed-coupe solid with the top up.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 7.2 |
Agile for a luxury-tourer, despite slightly numb steering. One test SC wandered slightly in simulated panic stops, but stopping distances were short with the car showing minimal nosedive. Run-flat tires require more-frequent steering correction at highway speed.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 3.6 |
Top-up, SC matches most luxury coupes for refinement, despite some low but audible wind rustle and coarse-pavement tire thrum. Top-down wind buffeting is among lowest of convertibles we've tested. The run-flat tires generate more road noise than the standard treads.
CONTROLS
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4.7 |
SC 430's standard navigation screen can be tilted to suit ambient light conditions, but it can wash out in direct sun regardless of positioning. Steering-wheel audio-volume buttons are a bit obscured. Otherwise, most controls are simple enough to use.
DETAILS
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 6.1 |
Sumptuous, beautifully crafted cabin features real wood trim, soft leather, and discreet brightwork. The retractable top has smooth, quick action.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4.9 |
Comfortable 10-way power seats are set low, hampering entry and exit and, for some drivers, visibility. They're also too flat for good lateral support in fast cornering. Legroom is ample, but six-footers will be squeezed for headroom.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | .6 |
A token gesture. There's enough space for parcels or pets, but that's about it.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.1 |
Almost none with the top stowed. A weekend's worth of soft luggage for two demands careful packing with the top up. Run-flat option omits the spare tire to add 0.6 cu ft, a poor trade considering how severely they impact ride quality.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.7 |
SC 430 is a posh, pleasant, semi-sport convertible with the extra security and convenience of a power metal roof, plus Lexus' highly rated customer service, workmanship, and reliability. Avoid the run-flat tires for the best blend of ride and handling. It isn't cheap, but some rivals with similar power and features cost even more.
Total Score
| Base | Base w/run-flat tires | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 63 | 58 | 47.9 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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