2002 Lexus GS 430

Driving any path to glory is seldom an easy task, even if you're Lexus. For a number of years, the GS series languished in its own quiet corner of the luxury netherworld. Tastefully styled by Giugiaro, the original version of this midsize, rear-drive sedan boasted an admittedly striking visual presence, but comparatively lackluster straight-line performance.

Aggressive bodylines make the GS a visual standout. Optional 17-inch tires/wheels and rear spoiler add an extra measure of means-business attitude.

Things are considerably different today. While the entry-level GS 300 still carries a respectable but far-from-riveting 220 horsepower DOHC I-6, the top-gun GS 430 brandishes a considerably more formidable motivational stick in the form of a 300-horse twincam V-8 that also churns out 325 lb.-ft. of torque.


The GS first got serious in 1998, when the V-8-powered GS 400 joined the original GS 300 as the line underwent its initial generational changeover. Then as now, the senior partner of the GS line shared its all-aluminum DOHC engine with the primo Lexus sedan, the LS 400. For 2001, the numeric portion of the designations on both changed to "430" in recognition of a displacement bump from 4.0 to 4.3 liters. Although this upsized engine still made an even 300 horsepower, torque was increased from 310 to 325 lb.-ft.

The GS shares its V-8 power with the flagship LS 430 sedan. This all-aluminum engine is packed with high-tech advances that provide the optimal balance between performance, economy and emissions.

Fitted with VVT-i, Toyota's continuously variable valve timing with intelligence on the intake valves, as well as the Acoustic Control Induction System that optimizes intake-runner length to match engine rpm, this sophisticated V-8 also boasts a drive-by-wire throttle and a computer-controlled ignition with separate knock sensor for each cylinder bank. Although those nifty E-shift buttons on its mandatory 5-speed automatic are now only offered on the GS 300, even with a conventional gated-lever layout, Lexus claims the GS 430 will still sprint from 0-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds.


Rounding out the performance picture of this flashy four-door is a chassis custom tailored to match the formidable capabilities of the GS 430's powertrain. It starts with front and rear double-wishbones fitted with gas-pressure shocks and trimmed fore and aft with anti-roll bars. This hardware is affixed to the GS 430's exceptionally stout unibody via subframes that employ fluid-filled mounts to help isolate its generously proportioned passenger compartment from noise and vibration.