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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  What a Car - 2003 Lexus GS 300
  By ZNRED - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Now have close to 5,000 miles on our GS300, have taken a trip or two and enjoy driving it more each day. The Mark Levinson sound system is tremendous as is the Nav system. The car averages between 28-29 MPG on the road at 70-75 MPH. The dealership experience was great, unlike BMW dealers who seem to think they rank a step or two above the consumer!

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  Great Blend of Sport and Luxury - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By lou tomich - June 6 - 7:03 pm

  Using this car for business and pleasure is a delight. Most of the tests Ive read in the car magazines critisize it for not being Porsche- like in the sport handling context. On Americas highways this car has all the smoothness and agility you could ask for. The interior amenities are numerous and very useful. I could drive it forever.

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  too many trips to dealer - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By wph1215ecu - May 11 - 11:57 pm

  bought this car used in 2008 &absolutly loved it. several recalls were handled and a few pretty large issues were fixed under my 50k mile warrenty, I had to get something else fixed under my extended warrenty under 100k mile. brake wear out faster than they should, sometimes hear a grinding. I continue to notice issue in the steering wheel where it seems to almost stick in a groove slightly pulling to the right when im cruising the highway btw 60-80mph. side mirrors motors went bad after 100k miles. notice a mildew smell in the a/c since i bought it. low tire pressure light is always on. sometimes my car shakes when i come to a stop like its about to shut off. now steering col & eng cyl bad

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  Great package - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By JTW - May 6 - 3:53 pm

  The car had all the features that many cars are still lacking these days. Only issue was the run-flat tires and optional spider wheels that caused problems following pot-hole hits. Gas mileage has been great and actually improved over time. Still a great looking car with exceptional paint quality.

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  AMAZING!!!!! - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By James - May 4 - 9:36 am

  I owned a 98 GS and just got the all new 06. Wow!! What a great car!! The smoothness and quietness and the responsiveness are incredible. I loved my old GS, but this one is light years ahead of my old one. The fuel economy is amazing too...3 0 miles per gallon!!

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  Go ahead, buy one. Dont feel guilty - 2002 Lexus GS 300
  By J. Y. - May 4 - 2:00 am

  What I liked about my Lexus GS300(Platinum edition) is that its simplicity. Every control buttons and gauge is in right place. No fancy, just simple. The car is very nimble and responsive. Although, the car can use some more horsepower but its enough for the city drive. The service is excellent and it shows why they are always ranked top in J.D Power survey. The only problem that I have with GS300 is you watch your head(I got hit numerous times and it really hurts) when you open the car trunk. Its kinda unstable when its not fully opened. Youll know what I mean when you go and open it.

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  Love this ride - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Sam - April 28 - 8:53 am

  My lease came due on my BMW and I shopped for about 2 months and test drove a ton of vehicles. I fell in love with the GS. It is no BMW in regards to driving capabilities but I am not into driving this car like I am at Daytona. The ride is great. The car sticks to the ground. Steering and handling is superb. The Mark Levinson sound is awesome and I am a huge audiophile. Its the best that I have heard. Reliability is great. Overall I am thoroughly impressed by this vehicle. Coming from owning BMWs, I am very happy with my decision.

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  Its it and thats that! - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Laurie H. - April 25 - 12:00 am

  I set out to buy a Jaguar, then checked the BMW 530i, and out of curiosity, checked the new GS 300 (just to be sure). The interior is magnificent, full of tremendously useful features within a luxurious cabin. The exterior is sleek and refined. But I have to say this car is confused -- it doesnt know if its a sports car or a luxury sedan -- it does BOTH beautifully! Its tight and agile on corners, accelerates with authority, but is as quiet as a library. I chose the AWD due to the possibility of having to move back to snow territory -- I know itll be perfect! Before you buy any other car, take this baby for a ride!

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  Another great Lexus - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By George Johnson - April 23 - 10:36 pm

  This time, Lexus added more road feel and is sportier. But the same Lexus comfort and all the great technology of the LS 430 is very much present. Just handles better and its a joy on the road.

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  Why Lexus Is The Best - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Rick - April 16 - 2:26 pm

  This is my second Lexus. Have a 2003 Rx300. No one can build like Lexus. The GS 300 I purchased is a great vehicle. Looks (flint mica with black leather) are striking ... getting lots of compliments. Its ride and comfort are first class. Build quality is superior. At the end of the workday it is like my decompression chamber as I head home. Price vs. features is hard to beat.