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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Lexus GS 300 Owner Review - 2006 Lexus GS 300
By s. townsend - April 25 - 8:53 pmThis is my fifth Lexus and my third GS 300. I have owned several luxury cars (Mercedes, BMW, Volvo) and none compare to the quality and lack of problems and issues to the Lexus line. I prefer the rear wheel drive and thus continue to choose the GS 300. The 6 cylinder engine is more than sufficient to create power when needed. The 400 is simply a waste of money. The car is quiet, comfortable, sporty and a joy to drive.
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Sport Design - 2003 Lexus GS 300
By auditors - April 24 - 10:00 amThe Sport Edition GS 300 is a fun car to drive. It has all of the amenities and elegance of the GS 300 but it has a Euro tuned suspension and sportier accents. This car also has HID lights not found on the standard GS 300 (only in the GS 430 model. This is a smooth and quiet car that is a joy to drive. I especially like the fact that 3 car seats can fit in the rear.
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Lexus for Life - 2006 Lexus GS 300
By Rosa M - March 25 - 10:50 pmI previously owned a GS 300 in 1995. I absolutely loved the car, but could not afford to keep it after going through a divorce. I always remembered the smooth quite ride and the way the car handled. I have owned 2 Mercedes Benz between 1999 and 2006 and decided to purchase a Lexus in 2006 when the body style changed. It is fully loaded... with the exception of the satellite radio ( I did not like the antenna on the trunk of the car). I absolutely LOVE this car and will never purchase another Mercedes Benz.
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Love the Lexus - 1998 Lexus GS 300
By Mike - March 17 - 2:00 amIve wanted a 98 GS since they first hit the road. I was holding out for a GS 400 to get the V8 and the better 0- 60 time, but decided that the GS300 had plenty of power for my needs. Ive had the car a year now and am very pleased. Knowing what I know now, I would have still made the purchase. The car is very reliable and the service dealer is fantastic. I wish the car got a few more miles per gallon around town than it does (about 17- 18). Also, its recommended that the GS use premium gas, which makes the $/mile higher. But hey, if I wanted low $/mile I would have gotten a Honda Civic or Toyota Matrix. Anyway, two thumbs up for the GS300.
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no traction and exploding tires - 2003 Lexus GS 300
By Going back to Audi - March 17 - 2:00 amTires (Goodyear) known to blow out-and did on me! Rear Drive=Poor traction pulling out on wet pavement and no traction on even a little snow. Nice car but poor gas mileage, and transmission bucks every once in a while.
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GS300 SportDesign GREAT VALUE! - 2003 Lexus GS 300
By eckool - March 7 - 10:00 amThis is my 3rd lexus. I have been in love with this car since year 2000 (Platinum Series), but I didnt have an opportunity to get it at that time. Now I have a chance to own it. All I can say is SWEET. 0-60 in 7.8 sec, graphite wheels, new tail designs, etc.
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Ive had problems - 2000 Lexus GS 300
By kolo - February 11 - 10:00 amThe GS300 is not the best-but good. For the price I expected more luxury.. treated well at the dealer is nice. I have ongoing problems with my 1 touch pwr driver wind closing half way,a noisy sunroof visor(closed), the LCD display on the AM/FM/CD comes in only half way(a 5 looks like a 0) I am told these are common. Annoying for what I paid! 33K used Driven several times from Seattle to the Bay&LA and have 82K miles. The struts/rods need to be replaced @ $800 and the belt is wearing out prematurly. TheLexus is a solid car, but has not been trouble free for me. -concider the newer GS 01 and above Gas milage and premium gas runs me $39.00 every 5-6 day
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Best of the AWD cars - 2006 Lexus GS 300
By joe - January 31 - 7:06 pmBought car in Feb. 05 - took all other AWD cars for test runs (several times) -- Audi a6, Infiniti M, Acura RL-- there was no comparison in comfort and handling. May not have the power of the M or RL but there is plenty there. had previously owned an A6 - good car but nothing like the GS 300. Articles say not a fun car to drive? Cant believe this -- maybe because its so quiet - but this car handles great on a country roads plus its stylish.
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My new GS300 - 2003 Lexus GS 300
By jerome - December 23 - 2:00 amIve had nothing but problem after problem with this damn car. Its spent more time at the dealership than with me and the jackasses at Lexus wont even contend that the car may be a lemon. Waste of $$ and couldnt have asked for more horrible dealer service!!
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GS300 SportDesign - 2003 Lexus GS 300
By Craig - December 15 - 3:36 pmTraded in a 95 LS400 which had 173000 miles and still going strong. The GS300 car handles as good as my 91 corvette without the harsh ride. It is firmer than the LS400 but not harsh. The inline 6 cylinder is smooth as silk. Took a long trip and got 26.5 MPG; in 5th gear at 70mph it is turning 2800 RPM,which seems high for overdrive (compared to 2200RPM on the LS400). This car is an excellent blend of performance and luxury. The brakes are much more responsive than I am used to, but really prefer that. You must drive one of these, very impressive!
