Overview & Reviews

Since its inception, the Lexus luxury division has been steadfast and relentless in its pursuit of, well, perfection. A challenging benchmark to be sure, but one the brand has been exceedingly successful at meeting with home run after home run. The original first-generation LS 400 was a smash hit that quickly rose to the head of the luxury sedan class with a large and loyal owner base and a slew of industry awards.

For the mid-'90s second-generation makeover, Lexus was wise enough to leave well enough alone and not fix what wasn't broken. So when a third-generation redesign was slated for 2001, exactly how would Lexus better its top-rated sedan in the premium luxury segment? The answer was to swing for the fences yet again with more of everything: design edginess, interior room and comfort, performance, safety and technology.

The resulting Lexus LS 430 was one of the finest luxury sedans available anywhere. A two-time winner of an Edmunds.com Editors' Most Wanted award, the LS 430 boasted a top-notch interior, a superb ride, excellent build quality and an impressive array of features. The only thing that gave shoppers pause at the time was the car's price. Loaded with options, this was the first LS-series car to finally reach the price levels of premium European luxury sedans.

With price depreciation having set in, that's less of an issue now. As a previously owned model, the Lexus LS 430 provides the same exceptional luxury sedan experience as it did when it was new. For shoppers in this segment, especially ones wanting a luxury sedan that's a bit more demure than its German rivals, the LS 430 is an excellent choice.

Most Recent Lexus LS 430

The Lexus LS 430 was produced for the 2001-'06 model years. As a redesign of the previous LS 400, it featured a 4.3-liter V8 engine, a freshened aerodynamic shape and a new suspension that offered greater stability and a smoother ride. The new LS 430 also offered a richer, more stylish and roomier interior with advanced safety and luxury features.

The sedan's V8 provided 278 horsepower and 312 pound-feet of torque. Initially, power flowed to the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. (In 2004, Lexus upgraded the transmission to a six-speed.) A full complement of airbags came standard, as did antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control, the VSC stability control system and tire-pressure monitoring.

Naturally, plenty of luxury features came standard as well, including dual-zone climate control (with air registers that swept back and forth), a 14-way power driver seat with memory positioning, cruise control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, auto-dimming mirrors, an in-dash CD changer and a power trunk closer. Many used LS 430s will also have the optional upgraded leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, moonroof, voice-activated navigation system and 240-watt Mark Levinson premium audio system.

Additional options included rear-window and rear-door sunshades, parking assist, rear seat heaters and power door closers. The Lexus LS 430 was also available with adaptive cruise control, a smoother-riding air suspension, power-adjustable rear seats and a separate rear air-conditioning system.

The cabin of the Lexus flagship was warm and inviting given its high-quality leather, abundance of rich walnut or maple trim, sharp electroluminescent gauges and wonderfully comfortable seats. It offered plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, and the large trunk held 20-plus cubic feet of luggage.

Serene in nearly all situations, the Lexus LS 430 excelled in both urban commuting and long-distance road trips. The suspension easily soaked up road irregularities, especially when equipped with the optional air suspension. Although they excelled in nearly all other areas, previous LS models weren't known for inspired driving dynamics -- and though capable in the curves, the LS 430 also did little to engage more passionate drivers. Therefore, if you expect some excitement from your luxury sedan, we think one of its European rivals will suit you better.

In terms of selecting a particular vintage of LS 430, there are only minor changes to be aware of. Nothing really happened until 2004 when the LS received a major midcycle update that consisted of mild exterior revisions, the aforementioned six-speed automatic transmission, adaptive headlights, knee airbags for front occupants and a standard moonroof. New options included the Pre-Collision system, SmartAccess keyless start, a Sport package with 18-inch wheels and an enhanced navigation system with a rear back-up camera, expanded voice recognition functionality and Bluetooth phone capability. The upgraded Mark Levinson stereo, also part of that refresh year, provided optimized sound for different seating positions, and satellite radio was also offered.

User Reviews:

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  Very pleased - 2005 Lexus LS 430
  By rookie - February 14 - 10:00 am

  After driving SUVs for the past 6 years it was a major change to get into a sedan,but could never have made the transition if not for the Lexus. Wonderful car that comes with extraordinary customer attention and care. Gas mileage is very good. Unfortunately it requires premium fuel.

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  Unmatched Quality - 2001 Lexus LS 430
  By Michael JC - February 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive tried the Beemers and the MBs and there is no luxury sedan built better or more luxuriously for the money than the LS430. Maintenance is virtually nil, unlike the German "uber autos." The MB has a ride nowhere near the comfort of the Lexus. This is my first LS 430 after owning two LS400s. I doubt Ill ever buy anything other than the big LS. Its the best car Ive ever owned and Ive owned 41 cars to date.

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  2003 LS430---$ for $---Best Luxury Car EVER Made - 2003 Lexus LS 430
  By Douglas W. - January 22 - 7:04 pm

  Recently purchase a one owner 2003 LS430.....This was a 1 owner CEOs car that was garage kept..... After 6 months, I am floored by the quality and performance of this vehicle. This car has 238,000 original miles and has had only routine maintanance. I am having the extensive 90K service which will include more than just the timing belt and water pump..(will do tensioner, seals, bearings, etc while already there).. Getting done next week (Using only OEM materials--Aisin, etc...)..There are no signs of leaking, its strictly preventative, and Lets me know Im good for another 100K or so!!.. I challenge you to find another luxury car that will go 238K on original TB/WP and hasnt needed any repair other than routine maintenance (brakes, fluids, etc) ... Feels like a plane at takeoff , only there is no noise, and the trans is still whisper quiet and shifts are undetectable. Mark Levinson sound system compliments the car perfectly...(Not meant for deep pounding base songs, but rather excels with classical, smooth jazz, as well as rock and most pop)..I replaced the foam surround on the rear deck subwoofer , other than that, there is really no wear or broken items that would keep you from thinking your not in a much more newer car. Speaks Volumes for the fit , finish, and quality of the materials used during the buil... Navigation CD was $10 on ebay and was upgraded in a minute... Still havent mastered the voice commands available to me, but its a learning curve for a middle aged man. Ill be going through the suspension next as Im sure the wearable rubber parts could use replacement by now (front end bushings and the like). Again, keep in mind, everything is all original with 238K miles and 14 years of time on them!!..I look forward to finding 2005 or 2006 to add to my garage (as Id like to have an LS with the 6 speed transmission as well).

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  Great Highway Car - 2004 Lexus LS 430
  By S.B. Beyer - January 15 - 5:00 am

  Drove this new car 8500 miles around the Western USA, all sorts of terrains, it performed wonderfully. Best car Ive ever owned. handles well on highway.

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  The Best Overall - 2004 Lexus LS 430
  By FC44 - January 13 - 10:00 am

  2004 Lexus LS430 is worth all and more than paid. Does it all and in excellent fashion. Only problem area discovered is the nav software. Keeps taking me somewhere near my destination but not exactly, as my 2002 Lexusdid. Lexus says they went to a different software company and many such complaints are being received. Expect a fix soon. The system also has problems selecting routes that are best (Fastest or Shortest when selected). Otherwise, Imm thrilled to have this car. Looked closely at MBZ and was impressed with exterior styling. Price was not deciding factor. I made the right buy!

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  LEXUS TRUTH - 2005 Lexus LS 430
  By Larry, Mill Vlly, CA - January 11 - 7:23 pm

  Lexus is stand alone quality, reliability, and comfort. This car is no exception. It DOES have sporty handling - all the driver need do is utilize the controls at their disposal, namely to down shift and place in "sport" mode, and then the vehicle literally behaves like a sports car. Lexus is the enlightened choice. It is the most economical choice, because of its durability and reliability. Since it lasts three times longer than a quality cheap car, it is the most economical and enlightened car purchase choice. These are the facts. Safe driving to you.

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  Only God Could have Done This - 2002 Lexus LS 430
  By Diceman - January 11 - 10:00 am

  I brought a LS430 with the ultra-lux pack and I tell you this car is nothing but Perfection, Perfection, Perfection. Love the Nav system and heated front seats. This car was well thought out. Blows Cadillac Deville of the planet.Tell Cadillac quit trying to run with the big boys,they dont have the toys of my LS

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  Best Car for the Money!! - 2004 Lexus LS 430
  By Al - December 19 - 10:56 am

  I traded in a 99 LS 400 which I have been driving for past 6 years. The 04 LS 430 is a big improvement. Dealer Certified Car so am set for another 6 or 7 years. Looks and performs just like a brand new car even with 34,000 miles. A true luxury automobile.

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  Honey Bunches of GOod Car - 2003 Lexus LS 430
  By Snoopo - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Just Buy IT!! This is the best car that Ive ever owned. It is much more reliable than a BMw or a Mercedes, and its cheaper too!. I also own a 1991 LS400, and it still runs like new. This is a definite buy for people looking for a higher- end car thats big, comfy, and purely awesome!

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  The Best Car Period - 2003 Lexus LS 430
  By wamjqh - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Best car Ive ever owned. The 2003 Lexus LS 430 Ultra Luxury edition is well worth the price. Great value.