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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  The Best - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By The Professor - February 24 - 5:20 am

  This is my second Lexus and my first GS. Safety is a big concern of mine and my old Lexus saved my life more than once due to its quick response. Whoever said watch out for the other guy knew what he was talking about. The GS is AWESOME. The ride is smooth and very quiet. Anyone with back issues should sit in this car. Easy to back-up, easy to do anything except that little drawer on the side that hides various functions can at times be hard to see. But, that may be an age factor. Gas mileage is good. Trunk could be bigger, but that is an incentive for me to shop less. BMW look out!!!

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  Unbelievable Quality & Ride - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By My First Lexus - February 9 - 3:13 pm

  This is by far the best car Ive ever owned. The ride is smooth as silk and the responsiveness is top notch. The interior is impeccable and luxurious without being overstated. Ive read other reviews regarding the hide away panel with the less frequently used controls and actually like it as it keeps the dashboard from being overly cluttered. The navigation system is easy to use and quite intuitive. The Mark Levinson sound system is one of the tops in any car Ive owned before.

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  Love My GS 300 - 2005 Lexus GS 300
  By Tina - January 25 - 10:20 pm

  What a great car. Its so much fun to drive. I have heated seats and that is such a plus on those cold mornings. The car is loaded with so many extras for the price, it would be hard to name anything more I would look for a car to have. My only concern is that it is a gas piggy, I brake for most gas stations ......

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2004 Lexus GS 300
  By gbmullin - January 17 - 10:00 am

  Aside from a problem on delievery with the front right strut, this has been the best car Ive ever owned. Handling., reliability, and comfort are exceptional.

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  It Doesnt Get Much Better Than This! - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Howard - January 15 - 9:03 pm

  Have had my GS 300 AWD for a month now, and its simply the best I have ever owned. Ride is smooth, interior is "out of this world", and the acceleration and handling make it a ride to look forward to. Getting good gas mileage (24-25 mpg) and the car gets nothing but compliments. Other than the trunk being a little small, this is one wonderful automobile. Tested many the others (Acura TL & RL, Infiniti G & M, Avalon) before buying, but the Lexus is the "class of the class."

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  Lexus GS - 2005 Lexus GS 300
  By Amassey1980 - November 26 - 9:30 am

  I upgraded from the ES300 to the GS300. The handling and responiveness is what made me purchase the GS vs. the LS, as well as the GS having more room than the ES and it has a more meaty look than a luxuy sedan. It is awesome on trips, you feel a few bumps but over all it is nice quiet and smooth. There have not been any problems so far with the car. The Lexus brand has made an impression on my and my family so as long as they make good quality luxury cars that look good, they will have me for a customer.

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  Benzinger - 2003 Lexus GS 300
  By cebenzinger - November 21 - 2:00 am

  The car rides beautifully and handles well through curves as well. It has excellent wet weather handling. I would have liked some additional features, including radio controls on the steering wheel, something standard on our Toyota Sienna @ $10K less.

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  After 4 Years - Drives like new - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By cambino123 - October 24 - 5:10 am

  Ive owned this machine for almost 4 years now. The ride is still crisp and the pickup is still strong. Had to get the dash rattles fixed under warranty. This car is a delight to drive and makes my wife mad because I always want to take it out.

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  my lexus story - 2001 Lexus GS 300
  By jose torres - October 22 - 10:00 am

  I WAS IMPRESSED WITH MY FIRST JAPANESE CAR. THE APPEARANCE AND ENGINEERING FAR SURPASSED THE AMERICAN DESIGNS.I AN SOLD ON LEXUS.

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  gs 300 w gps - 2002 Lexus GS 300
  By absinvestor - October 15 - 2:00 am

  I am a realtor and gps saves time and clients love it. Couldnt live without it!!!