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:
Showing 191 through 200 of 367.00-
Just great all around - 2004 Lexus GS 300
By lexor - July 20 - 10:00 amThis is a great car that does everything well and not anything bad
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A great car to own - 2001 Lexus GS 300
By mylexgs300 - July 11 - 2:26 amThis my 3rd GS300, the previous being a 93 and an 00. When the opportunity came along to purchase this vehicle again, this time from my uncle, I couldnt resist. Besides, the normal routine maintenance, the car has required nothing bus gas. Its amazing to drive and feels like a pillow on the road. I cant see myself owning any other brand of car besides a Lexus.
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Great value for the $$$$! - 2006 Lexus GS 300
By Z - July 8 - 11:56 amI have owned this car for just under 1 year. I bought it back in June of 09 as a certified vehicle with 34,965 miles for $26,000 + tax, tag, title. The vehicle has given me some large and small issues which others speak of on this website and my local dealer has been very nice in taking care of these problems at their expense. Overall the car is great. My suggestion to anyone interested in buying a GS is to buy a certified used vehicle a few years old that will provide you with 100k warranty at a better value for the money plus the peace of mind. Lexus customer service is the best I have ever experienced.
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Driven to perfection - 2006 Lexus GS 300
By Byu1 - June 25 - 9:50 pmThe GS300 has plenty of great features, but the user interface to those features is horrific. If pushing 4 buttons and messing with the touch screen is your idea of how to mange the heater, then you will love this vehicle. I do not want a vehicle which is constantly drawing my eyes from the road, and causing distraction.
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Lexus GS 300 - 2006 Lexus GS 300
By GCP - June 7 - 5:30 pmThe GS 300 is a smooth riding and driving car. The sound system is awesome. I have enjoyed the heated seats and the passenger ajustable heating and cooling system. The controls are very nice and can be hidden out of your way. I am a Volvo driver and decided to get a Lexus. The lexus has exceeded my expectations.
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The Finest Car ever - 2006 Lexus GS 300
By John K. Powell - June 5 - 9:13 pmThis is one excellent automobile. The design can be described as "subtle elegance". When you ride in the GS300, whether drive or passanger, the experience is fantastic.
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Great car, great luxury and a nice drive - 2003 Lexus GS 300
By ak - May 19 - 10:00 amGreat car! Nice mix of luxury and a sporty ride..... Great service
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Great car, great luxury and a nice drive - 2003 Lexus GS 300
By AK - May 19 - 10:00 amGreat car! Nice mix of luxury and a sporty ride..... Great service
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2001 Lexus GS 300 - 2001 Lexus GS 300
By 2001 Lexus GS 300 - May 10 - 11:40 amHave been driving this car for 4 years and there are no issues whatsoever just regular maint. Very quiet ride inside the car, they used top materials to build it. Very impressed and dont want to sell. Definitely would buy again.
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Best Car Ever - 2006 Lexus GS 300
By Glen - May 8 - 3:03 amI bought this car (AWD version) just yesterday (12/06/05) and drove about 36 miles for the day. This is my 2nd Lexus. I previoulsy owned a GS400 and I have to say, this is the best car ever. The Nav and Mark Lev are awesome. I have all options. Sweet.
