Overview & Reviews

A refined and elegant car since its early-1990s inception, the midsize Lexus GS 300 sedan always came up short in the personality department. Partly, this was a problem of perception. Lexus initially promoted the rear-wheel-drive GS as a legitimate competitor to the elite European sport sedans, but the car's soft suspension, over-assisted steering and sluggish powertrain said otherwise. The fact that it cost just as much as its German rivals certainly didn't do it any favors either.

As a luxury sedan, the Lexus GS 300 was more convincing, particularly the third-generation model, which could be loaded with all the latest technology and upscale amenities. Cabin materials were typically of high quality, and everything was put together with exacting precision. Add in an outstanding reliability record and it's no surprise all three generations of the GS 300 proved popular with consumers, despite the fact that the automotive press never fully warmed to it.

Most recent Lexus GS 300

Last redesigned for 2006, the third-generation Lexus GS 300 lasted only one year, as Lexus installed a powerful new 3.5-liter V6 in its rear-drive midsize sedan the following year, prompting a name change to GS 350. With the exception of their engines, the GS 300 and 350 are identical.

Upon its debut, there was nothing radical about the third-gen GS 300. Its bodywork was fresh and modern, but followed the same basic lines as the previous model. It was motivated by a new, all-aluminum 3.0-liter V6 capable of 245 horsepower, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. In addition to the default rear-drive setup, buyers were given the option of all-wheel drive. With either drivetrain, acceleration was acceptably brisk (with 60 mph coming up in the 7-second range), though the heavier GS 300 AWD model felt soft off the line. Power delivery was undeniably smooth.

Lacking the adaptive suspension of the V8-powered GS 430, the Lexus GS 300 offered little inspiration when pushed around corners. Instead, it excelled as a highway cruiser, carrying itself with grace over most road irregularities while shielding its occupants from most outside noise. This made it easy for the GS 300 driver and passenger to settle back into its plush seats and enjoy the optional Mark Levinson sound system. An intuitive control layout contributed to the GS 300's relaxing nature.

Major standard equipment on the GS 300 included HID headlights, leather upholstery, wood trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, stability control and a complete menu of side, head and knee airbags. Options included DVD navigation, a rear backup camera, adaptive cruise control and the PreSafe accident preparedness system.

In a 2006 comparison test of all-wheel-drive luxury sport sedans, a Lexus GS 300 AWD brought up the rear in a field of five. "With a V8 and the right options, the 2006 Lexus GS is a good sport sedan," our author wrote. "Give it a V6 and a softer suspension with all-season tires and there's less to get excited about. Luxurious and capable, the Lexus didn't have enough personality to stand out in this crowd."

Past Lexus GS 300 Models

Consumers shopping for a used Lexus GS 300 will come across plenty of examples from the second generation, sold from 1998-2005. Like the later version, it was a luxury sedan at heart and really wasn't tuned for aggressive, back-road driving.

It came with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine throughout its model run. The engine was actually a carryover from the first-generation GS 300, but now aided by variable valve timing, it offered a bit more usable torque. Horsepower came in at 225 or 220, depending on the model year. A five-speed automatic transmission drove the rear wheels. Power delivery was quite smooth, and acceleration was average among six-cylinder midsize luxury sedans.

Cloth upholstery was technically standard on GS 300s of this generation, but you'll be hard-pressed to find one on the used market that doesn't have the optional leather package. Features like 10-way power seats, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, stability control and front-seat side airbags were standard throughout the model run; side curtain airbags were included from 2001 onward. An excellent Nakamichi sound system was optional from 1998-2000; an equally good Mark Levinson system replaced it in 2001. Another new option for '01 was a DVD-based navigation system.

The original Lexus GS 300 was introduced for 1993 and sold through 1997. At the time, its sleek styling set it apart from other luxury sedans, both import and domestic. Interior accommodations were luxurious and roomy enough to accommodate occupants of all sizes. Tepid performance and high pricing were the big letdowns on this midsize luxury sedan, though the latter is obviously not an issue for used GS shoppers. All GS 300s of this generation had a 220-hp 3.0-liter inline-6. The best years to look at are 1996 and '97, as these models had a five-speed automatic transmission; earlier models had a four-speed automatic.

User Reviews:

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  almost perfect - 2002 Lexus GS 300
  By djlink - July 9 - 10:00 am

  Even though this model has been around since 98 I still get nice comments quite often. The ride is fine for me, Im not throwing it around corners so the luxury is my priority. Switched to michelin pilots after 500 miles, goodyear tires were inferior. Only changes I would suggest are quite minor; 4-spoke wheel with radio controls and improved trunk hinges to avoid crushing luggage. Pretty minor items. Dealer service is just what you expect and more, Id be hard pressed to ever consider another make of car.

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  another lexus joy - 2004 Lexus GS 300
  By mamasita - June 30 - 1:20 pm

  i have owned the rx300, the new es300, the is300 sportcross. i loved the reliability of all of them. i did not care for the es styling. i loved the is 300 sport cross for city living. but the gs 300 is the best.. combo of luxury, space, safety, and lexus quality. ac is perfect. and it drives like a dream

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  Bought Used and saved on this Lexus - 2005 Lexus GS 300
  By H Janke - June 27 - 12:26 am

  Bought this 05 about two months ago. Saved from the sticker price about $12k. Nice car, ride with standard stock tires is a bit noisy. Suggest a smoother riding factory tire. Interior needs in dash 6 CD, currently in glove box. Needs sunglass holder over head. Very comfortable interior ride over 30 mph. Solid feel and lots of room inside and also in trunk. Gas mileage averages about 18 mpg in town and 22 mpg highway. Nice sound system, leather seats very comfortable, lumbar support very good. Dash instrument panel easy to read. Solid all around vehicle.

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  I fell in love!!! - 2003 Lexus GS 300
  By eoh - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 2000 GS300 two weeks ago with 36K miles on it. I was trying to decide between a new Beetle converible and a used RX300... and then I saw this. I knew right away it was exactly what I wanted. I spent a little more than I had originally planned, but it is worth every penny. In one week, I have absolutely fallen in love with this car. As long as I live, as much money as I ever make, I will never need more car than this. Its stylish, luxurious and powerful. Its one of the best decisions Ive ever made in my life. I commute 1-1/2 hours to work and this car puts a smile on my face every day. Makes a great first impression but is not overdone.

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  My new GS - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Daniel H Kline - June 9 - 5:40 pm

  Probably the best and most expensive car I have ever owned, I read a review while at the gym on 3/17 and went to dealer on 3/18 purchasing the beautiful new style it is a pleasure to drive and love getting all the stares of people in other cars.

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  Good but not "Great!" - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By ws - June 8 - 1:33 am

  This is 4th Lexus Ive owned and has surprised both on the upside and downside. Mileage was a pleasant surprise. Im not a lead foot but do push the car hard. I thought the mpg on the Nav display was bogus when it consistently showed 30+ on road trips...but it was nuts-on when it came time to top the tank. Fit and finish were excellent and Ive had zero unscheduled trips to the dealership in 60K+ miles. That said, interior road noise is far too high for a car of this caliber. The run-flats are a joke - a point echoed by other reviewers. The drop down tray to hide infrequently used buttons is a good idea, but placement is problematic. Ive nailed my knee more than once.

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  Worth every penny spent! - 2004 Lexus GS 300
  By Fooshe - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This car has been flawless. I think a couple extra ponies under the hood would be nice, but not really all that necessary. The GS430 is TOO much engine for everyday use. Ride is silky smooth and my 100 a day, round trip commute is not so bad anymore. I look forward to my drive now. No regrets!

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  First time Lexus buyer - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Cebron - May 29 - 1:03 am

  The GS 300 is a lot of fun to drive. There is not much difference in feel from the 300 to the 430. Navigation system is a little clumsy to operate and the XM radio has poor reception compated to other XMs Ive had, but overall the creature comforts of the car are very good. The look and feel of the car overall is great. I have owned Acura, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, but Lexus is a better car for the money. Lexus just has a different feel that I have not experienced with any other. Great car!

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  Tire noise is horrible! - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By RKB - May 6 - 10:56 am

  On our second set of tires and car has 47,000 miles on it. Tire noise is driving us crazy. Road noise inside car is worse than riding in my daughters Honda Civic. Happens after about 15,000 miles on tires. Dealer tells us its the high performance tires that are noisy. You would think a car of this value would drive quiet, but thats not the case with the tires.

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  2006 lexus gs300 - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By chuck otto - April 23 - 4:50 am

  Smooth ride, good handling, fun to drive. All of the features are functional and easy to use. Many positive comments from others about the styling and color.