2008 Lexus GS 460 Review
The GS is a luxury sedan that debuted in 1993 with the GS 300. The upper-level GS 400 followed in 1998. The second generation debuted in 2001, and the third came in 2006. It’s won several awards, including AAA’s “Best Car $35,000 – $40,000” in 2005 and J.D Power’s “Highest Ranked Mid Luxury Car,” for 2002-2004.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Lexus GS 460 offers a sporty, yet refined driving experience. While not as agile as the German competition, it makes up for it in refinement and luxury. In terms of sporty luxury models, the GS 460 is the safe choice.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems with the last generation included oil sludge, failing CD players, and failing air conditioners. It was recalled in 1998 due to a defective stability control sensor. Expect 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. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” scores for the front and side, and “Marginal” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, tire pressure monitoring, full side airbags, front knee airbags, adaptive headlights, and stability and traction control. Run-flat tires, and Lexus’ pre-collision radar system are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Excellent fit and finish
+ Quiet
+ Refined handling
Cons
– Needs more headroom
– Not as agile as competitors
– Pricey
Head-To-Head Competition:
The BMW 5 Series 535xi costs a grand less, includes AWD, navigation, and a moonroof. However, the GS has a larger V8 engine with 40 more hp, leather, and a CD changer. The Volvo S80 costs a few thousand less, includes AWD, but has 30 less hp. The Acura RL includes AWD, navigation, and a moonroof, but costs about a thousand more, and has a smaller engine with 50 less hp.
What Others Are Saying:
“It never fails. I road test a bunch of cars, become impressed with a few and, in the process, bump up my expectations of how a fine car should feel and perform. I’m astounded at how good cars have actually become. The quality of engineering in today’s vehicles means that a driver no longer has to choose between ride and handling, performance and gas mileage, or a powerful engine and one that is silky-smooth and quiet. Then along comes a car like this 2006 Lexus GS 430 and it forces me to re-think all those glowing accolades that I had heaped on lesser cars that I thought were so great.” – The Family Car
“Extraordinary technology and Lexus’ reputation can’t make up for lack of power and underwhelming personality.” – USA Today
“The GS still mainly drives like a typically fast, luxurious Japanese sedan because Lexus doesn’t want to entirely give up the soft refinement that has made it a hit. It thus needs more passion. Competing with outfits such as BMW is tough because they’ve spent 50 years developing steering and suspensions that can handle twisting Alpine roads. However, the GS is firmer and thus sportier than one might expect. Its new electronically controlled suspension allows alert handling while retaining the car’s composure and good ride on bad roads.” – Chicago Sun-Times
Read more about the 2008 Lexus GS 460 at the Lexus manufacturer web site.
