2004 Lexus GS 430

Bracketed by the IS 300 sports sedan and the LS 430 luxury sedan, the Lexus GS Series is engineered to strike a fine balance between performance demands and hedonistic desires. With two different models to choose from—GS 300 and GS 430—Lexus lets you fine-tune the balance further still. You can opt for the smooth refinement of the GS 300's sweet in-line six or step up to the GS 430 tested here, with its all-aluminum DOHC V-8. With this formidable powerplant providing the motivation, the GS 430 functions impressively well as a both a sport and luxury sedan.

The Lexus GS Series is designed to strike a fine balance between performance demands and hedonistic desires.

With 300 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque, the GS 430 has the same powerplant that motivates the Lexus flagship LS 430. Just about every trick in the Lexus powerplant book is in evidence, including VVT-I (Lexus'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 system with a separate knock sensor for each cylinder bank. With the help of the quick-shifting standard five-speed automatic transmission, the GS 430 sprints from 0-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds.


An overachieving powertrain like this can put substantial demands on a vehicle's chassis; luckily no corners were cut in developing the GS 430's running gear. The GS 430 rides on front and rear double-wishbones fitted with gas-pressurized shocks. Fore and aft anti-roll bars help keep the body flat and stable in the turns. This hardware is affixed to the GS 430's exceptionally robust unibody via subframes that feature fluid-filled mounts to help isolate the passenger compartment from noise and vibration.


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. The standard VSC is switchable on the GS 430 and is calibrated to permit a surprisingly high level of aggressive motoring. More important are its safety advantages since VSC helps the driver maintain control during difficult driving situations like icy roads.

Despite its serious performance credentials, the GS 430 sacrifices virtually nothing in the way of legitimate luxury trappings.

In base form, 225/55VR16 all-season tires on cast-aluminum wheels maintain solid traction. For drivers with a more sporting orientation, available Z-rated 235/45 summer-performance tires on 17-inch rims (as on our test car) provide added grip and give the GS a more aggressive look. The net effect of this well-engineered chassis: The GS 430 is remarkably capable on challenging twisty roads, with precise responses to your steering inputs and a secure composure that builds driver confidence. Press it into a corner and the Lexus tracks cleanly up to its considerable cornering limits before finally giving way to progressive understeer. In keeping with its Lexus bloodlines, however, freeway cruising is smooth and near silent in the GS 430.