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:

• 

  Nearly flawless - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By wjohnstone74 - November 15 - 12:59 am

  After owning 7 North American automobiles (4 of them brand new), I cant believe I am about to complain about my Lexus - just nit-picky stuff really. Reliability wise, the car has been flawless. I have 138,000km on it and the only issue I have had was a hole in each side of the stainless steel exhaust pipe right before the secondary cat converters. This was a $1400 repair, so I got a local muffler shop to weld on two 1 foot sections of pipe and now its fine. Except that they fried an o2 sensor on me while welding. I have the creaks and rattles in the dash like everyone else. That is annoying. Also, the tranny seems lost when feathering the throttle below 20km/h.

• 

  The ultimate cruiser - 2002 Lexus GS 300
  By ShawnC - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Spirited, comfy, great stereo (Mark Levinson), and a GPS to boot. The first car I own where I can drive 350 miles straight and not feel a sore anywhere on the body.

• 

  Almost Perfect - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Lance - October 23 - 10:40 am

  One of the reasons why I love this car is the styling. It is bold, while still maintaining its GS heritage. First thing you notice when you get inside is the abundance of luxurious materials. Leather is smooth and steering wheel is a dream to hold. Navigation with backup camera is absolutely necessary as visibility is impossible out the back and parking sensors add even more convenience. High performance tires wear out under 25k miles and will be pricey to replace. At 6 feet tall, it fits just right, but any taller and Id be against the roof. Trunk is spacious, but opening is small and trunk springs make it a struggle to close. Need a real trunk closer/opener.

• 

  SPORTY BLACK BEAUTY - 2003 Lexus GS 300
  By Ice Parker - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Just got the Sport Edition GS300 and, after only 2,000 miles, it is a luxurious dream machine. Black with saddle leather interior, euro tuned, great features and fine classic looks. A fine value of a MB exterior clone with a BMW drive-train.

• 

  I love my car! - 2000 Lexus GS 300
  By Dj - September 29 - 10:46 am

  This is my second car and I love it. I have changed very little things to it such as 3 tvs and the IS 19 inch chrome rims. I also have a spoiler on it. The car has a quiet ride and has a very smooth ride also.

• 

  Awesome car - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Debbie - September 26 - 3:53 am

  Im a repeat Lexus customer. Love the new GS 300 for many reasons including the ride, comfort, smart key and gas mileage. Excellent car for highway travel with regards to quiet ride and comfort. In my opinion, Lexus has a winner in the new GS series. Dont listen to the critics, go try out this car for yourself; youll see why Im pleased with my decision to purchase another Lexus product.

• 

  Nice ride - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Anthony - August 24 - 1:20 am

  Smooth ride, very comfortable, luxury feeling in all aspects. I love all of the state of the art options (smartkey, navi, rear camera, ac & heated seats, auto wipers, push start, etc.), its like all you have to do is sit down and drive. The fuel economy was surprising, I consistently take weekend trips of 220+ miles and on the highway i can avg up to 30+ mpg. Only complaint is the expensive little fixes, HID headlight bulbs cost $430 at the dealership, FOR A LIGHT BULB!

• 

  Retirement Gift! - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Jerry - August 12 - 2:43 pm

  I test drove most of the sedans priced between 45 and 50K. To me, the Lexus GS 300 drove the smoothest. I was impressed with its acceleration, fuel economy, ride and the responsive steering. My GS 300 is loaded. Something I did not plan on... but am totally satisfied with it.

• 

  GS 300---WHAT A GREAT AUTOMOBILE!!! - 2001 Lexus GS 300
  By Jack Burke HHI - August 5 - 10:00 am

  The GS 300 is a solid, reliable, stunning car which is extremely comfortable and fun to drive. Exterior styling is supurb, a real "Head Turner". It drives beautifully, and I feel totally safe driving the car. Plenty of head, leg, and trunk room. I love the car!!!

• 

  Best lexus sedan for the money - 1998 Lexus GS 300
  By Wayne859 - August 3 - 11:10 am

  I have owned 3 GSs over the last 6 years and the 98 is the one I currently drive. This car is smooth, well built and a pleasure to drive. Buying it used is easy, because its a Lexus. No unscheduled repairs (Ive put 55k mls on this one and 65k mls on another)! Almost same interior as the LS with better mileage. Better quality feel than the ES. It is expensive to service, but far less than a BMW or Mercedes would be, and if you find a good independent repair shop youre a lot better off. I highly recommend this car.