2002 Lexus GS 430

A vehicle-speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering system provides directional control while powerful 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel/4-sensor ABS and Brake Assist ensure superb stopping capabilities. The final touch is an integrated Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) system that can be selectively engaged/disengaged to match the enthusiasm levels of given driver. In base form, firm grip on Mother Earth is maintained by 225/55VR16 all-season tires wrapped around cast-aluminum wheels. Our test car had the optional upgrade, which substitutes stickier Z-rated 235/45 summer-performance tires on 17-inch rims.


Even though the GS 430 consciously sacrifices a bit of absolute handling edge in favor of exceptional refinement, it remains remarkably engaging on challenging twisties. Frankly, no hardcore, string-back wearing street-stormer is going to bail on a BMW 540i in favor of this slightly less lusty Lexus. However, those who demand a more generous dollop of personal pampering in the day-to-day part of the driving deal will judge the GS 430 a hands-down winner.

Standard content includes dual-zone climate control, 10-way power seats, power windows/locks/mirrors, keyless remote entry, leather upholstery and California walnut accent trim.

In keeping with the tenets of its corporate character, freeway cruising is smooth and near silent. Press it into a corner, and this slick sedan tracks cleanly up to its considerable cornering limits before finally giving way to benign understeer. Unlike some products in the Lexus stable, the VSC is switchable on the GS 430. More important, it's calibrated to permit a surprisingly high level of aggressive motoring. Roughhousing the car will elicit a bit of pitch and twitch, but the general control-to-comfort dynamic merits kudos no matter how you choose to define the criteria.


Despite its serious performance credentials, the GS 430 sacrifices virtually nothing in the way of legitimate luxury trappings. All of the slick noise- and vibration-attenuation tricks that have become a hallmark of the brand are found here as well, making the GS 430 one of the most refined high-performers on the market today. Price of entry starts at $47,045 plus $575 in destination, $8,800 more than its six-cylinder platform-mate.


However, that figure brings an even longer list of comfort and convenience standards, headed by dual-zone climate control with automatic smog-sensing circuitry, Optitron electroluminscent instrumentation, dual 10-way power seats, power windows/locks/mirrors, keyless remote entry with anti-theft system, leather upholstery with California walnut accent trim, power tilt/telescoping steering column, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, Homelink programmable garage door opener, and an AM/FM/cassette sound system. On the safety front, the GS 430 comes with dual front and front/side airbags; front side-curtain bags, 3-point seatbelts throughout with pretensioners and force-limiters on the front units, and HID headlamps.