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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  Fun, Fun Fun! - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Loving It! - April 16 - 2:26 am

  The driving experience has been great. Handles all types of city driving and mountain roads with ease. Best car I’ve driven!

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  A GREAT car - 2002 Lexus GS 300
  By A Happy Teen - April 14 - 1:00 am

  I just got a used 2002 Lexus GS300 for a Christmas present (as my first car!). It is really an amazing car. Its 7 or 8 years old with around 96K miles on it, but it still drives like a new car. Im always getting compliments about it. The standard 6 CD changer is amazing, and the audio has an amazing bass system. The styling is absolutely amazing (but Im not crazy about the tail lights). This car hasnt broken down in the 7 years its been on the road. Gas mileage stinks, but its a big SAFE car (6 airbags). Id rather have a heavy safe car than a light car with good gas mileage any day. Take the weight and safety.

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  Finally, a car that is an entire package - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Matt - April 12 - 2:53 pm

  As a 3-time owner of BMWs (both 3 and 5 series), I have finally found the "complete" car. Although the GS 300s suspension isnt as tight as my 5 series, everything else overcomes that shortcoming. Wonderful new design. I could not be happier.

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  Best Car Ever Owned - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Al Gray - April 11 - 1:10 pm

  "Smooth and classy," the GS 300 AWD is outstanding in all respects. The options are not just "bells and whistles," but great additions to comfort and enjoyment (i.e ventilated seats that both heat and cool, rear window sunscreen, 3 driver seat settings, fantastic sound system, outside and inside assisted lighting, and more). The car rides like a dream, has plenty of power for normal driving conditions (ECT power and snow settings when needed), and has averaged around 24-25 MPG during combined city/highway driving. The 245 H.P V-6 is quiet and responsive for our needs. It was either a GS300 AWD or Audi A6. We made our decision after driving both vehicles, and making careful comparisons.

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  LOVE this car - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By keef2 - April 2 - 6:20 am

  I have liked Infinitis, Acuras, Volvos. Those feel vibration harsh compared to my dark sapphire blue beauty. This GS300 is amazing in every way

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  Lexus-Air is the new way to fly - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By L-Air - March 25 - 6:50 pm

  After years of deciding on the BMW 5 series, it took me only a test drive for the new GS instead. These are many factors that made me change my mind. *Touch Screen (not many mid price range vehicle has this option without the NAVs, unless you want to pay for aftermarket) *Solid, fast, Quiet, smooth ride. *white reading spot lighting and body sensing dome lights. (This provide the feel of an aircraft on land. Try going high speeds through the deserts while reading the emergency evacuation pamphlet-if you can get your hands on one) Please read the reviews prior to purchase based on the "expert car critics point of view." You will love it! Lexus-Air is now boarding for departure!

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  alexnme - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By alexNme - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful Car, however I am very disappointed in the Quality of the car, I have had my car for about a 1 1/2 and the car has been in the shop 13 times. from recalls to cupped tires to break system, steering shaft. My rear view mirror fell down and it took Lexus 6 times to put it back right. The brakes have been replaced on my car 4 times and they are still grinding. I wont say that I will never buy another lexus but I will never buy a preowned car again from CARMAX. my impala that I still have, I love same features as my lexus no problems at all!

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  Awesome - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By kevins - March 20 - 12:56 pm

  This will be my 15th vehicle and as far as quality the best. The only downside coming out of a 7 Series BMW is the weight seems some what on the light side. Other than that this is truely an incredible machine.

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  2006 Lexus GS-300AWD - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By HJ Grand - March 7 - 10:50 am

  This is one outstandingly built automobile. The overall quality, fit, finish and ride are wonderful. Acceleration is certainly more than adequate, and the gas milage has been a nice surprise at about 26mpg. Handles extremely well. Everything works as it should, and not a rattle or squeak to be found. It simply does not get much better than this car!

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  Researched them all, bought the best - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Byran - February 21 - 7:13 am

  Before buying the GS 300, I researched every other competitor, save the Mercedes. They all had their redeeming qualities, but the Lexus had the best combination of all of them - style, creature comforts, build quality/reputation, and pure driving pleasure. I kid you not - I LOVE this car. I previously had a 1999 Porsche 911 Cabriolet, and thought I loved that - Im sorry Porsche, but our love affair is over. The Lexus emotes luxury - from the welcoming lighting, to the softness and comfortability of the seats.