2007 Lexus GS 430 Review
The GS line of luxury sedans debuted in 1993 with the 300 model. The upscale GS 400 joined the lineup for the second generation in 1998. The line received a refresh in 2001, with improved style and safety. Lexus introduced the third generation in 2006, when the GS 400 was replaced by the 430. The GS, like much of the Lexus lineup, has won numerous awards, including SmartMoney’s “Best New Car Value,” J.D. Power’s “Highest Ranked Mid Luxury Car,” and AAA’s “Best Car $35,000-$40,000.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
You can’t go wrong with a Lexus. The Lexus GS forwards the manufacturer’s already good reputation with its sleek styling and numerous gadgets. The GS proves that while no car may be perfect, Lexus gets pretty close.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the GS four stars for initial manufacturing quality and three and a half stars for initial design quality. Problems affecting the last generation included nonfunctional air conditioning, audio problems, and excessive oil consumption. The GS was recalled in 1998 due to possibly flaky stability control. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Government crash test scores are not available. The IIHS gives the GS a “Good” rating in front and side tests, and “Marginal” in rear tests. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, tire pressure monitoring, full side airbags, front knee airbags, adaptive headlights, and stability and traction control are standard. Run-flat tires and Lexus’s pre-collision radar system are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Lexus quality
+ Extensive safety features, even for a Lexus
+ Smooth, quiet ride
Cons
– 430 is as expensive as German models
– Lack of AWD
– Some awkward interior controls
Head-To-Head Competition:
There are several alternatives to the GS 350. The Acura RL includes AWD and navigation, but costs $1,600 more than the GS, and also lacks its six-speed transmission. The Audi A6 also includes standard AWD and navigation, but is much more reasonably priced at only $950 more than the 350. However, the A6 lacks traction control and a sunroof, and has about 50 less hp. If you’re leaning more toward performance, the Cadillac DTS costs about the same as the 350. It has a larger eight-cylinder engine, standard navigation, and more cargo space. However, it lacks the GS’s CD changer and sunroof, besides delivering 30 less hp and getting slightly worse gas mileage.
What Others Are Saying:
“It’s not too often that you get a lot for a little when buying a car, but Lexus has done just that with the GS 350. …If you can keep the option list to a minimum, the satisfyingly powerful Lexus GS 350 may just be the best bet for the money.” – The Family Car
“Warning to all competitors: With the new 2006 GS 430, Lexus has its sights on becoming the benchmark in the sports-luxury class as it is in the regular luxury class.” – The Auto Channel
“Potential buyers of the GS 430 will need deep pockets. Target market is the 40-something with a household income north of $150K – no doubt the same people who, unlike me, can actually afford to stay at the Aerie Resort. But this is where the going gets tough for Lexus: This is exactly the same buyer that the German luxury car companies have drawn a bead on. So why would this unnamed high roller buy a GS 430 instead of a BMW 545i, Mercedes E500 or Audi A6 4.2 The GS will be far less common in fancy-restaurant parking lots, at least for a while.” – About.com
Read more about the 2007 Lexus GS 430 at the Lexus manufacturer web site.
