2004 Lexus GS 300 and 430 - Reviews - Buying Guide
2004 Lexus GS 300 and 430 Buying Resources:
2004 Lexus GS 300 and 430 Review:
The 2004 Lexus GS 430 and the 2004 Lexus GS 300 are truly
luxurious sedans that compete effectively in the near-luxury
class with excellent interior amenities and a choice of power
resources.
With a significantly lower price point than the LS 430, it
not surprisingly has fewer standard bells and whistles but
for most, the standard features will meet expectations. If
not, a wide selection of optional extras will allow the personalization
of specific luxuries that may make for large savings.
The choice of an extra 80 hp in the 4.3-litre-powered GS
430 means that buyers have a lot of choice when it comes to
power and performance as well.
Under the Hood
The GS 430 has tremendous power, and can do 0-60 mph in under
7 seconds. This is a luxury car with the heart and performance
ability of a sports car. The GS 300, in contrast, uses a 3.0-liter
inline 6-cyl engine with 220 hp instead of 300hp for the 430.
But, this car is only slow relative to its big brother. 200hp,
a 5-speed automatic transmission, antiskid/traction-control,
antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and fittings that include optional
low profile Z-rated 235/45R17 Bridgestone Potenza RE030 performance
tires, mean that this V6 model can tear it up. Both models
do okay on gas as well, at 18-24/5 mpg (city/highway).
The leadership in safety that Lexus is known for is represented
clearly in the advanced technology used in the GS line. Cutting
edge technology includes three-point seatbelts for all five
seating positions, dual front airbags, front seat-mounted
side airbags and front side curtain airbags. Pretensioners,
force limiters and height adjustable anchors all add to front
seatbelt effectiveness.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The GS 430 has leather upholstery, memory driver seat, and
heated front seats, available as options for the GS 300. In
fact, the GS 430 remains the benchmark for interior amenities
in a mid-luxury car.
The standard equipment is complemented by both stand-alone
options and major options packages. SportDesign packages with
unique trim, styling and suspension upgrades are available
along with pure luxury alternatives like satellite navigation,
DVD player and climate control seats.
|
