2001 Lexus GS430 review

Lexus GS430 review:

Lexus shook up the ranks of the mid-luxury segment with the GS 300 and GS 400 sedans in 1998, and for 2001 turned up the competitive heat with enhanced performance, new safety technology and refinements to the styling and luxury content. For 2001 the GS430 received standard side curtain airbag supplemental restraint systems for the driver and front passenger.

For 2001, the V8 member of the GS series evolved from the GS 400 to the GS 430 courtesy of a 4.3-liter engine replacing the previous year's 4.0-liter engine. The larger V8 is rated at the same 300 peak horsepower as the 4.0-liter, but torque has increased to 325 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm from 310 lb.-ft. at the same speed. The high-performance V8 meets the federal Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV) certification and uses no more fuel than the smaller-displacement engine it replaces.

The 4.3 liter engine performs as if it had another half-liter of displacement, due in large part to Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). This innovative system optimizes valve overlap throughout the engine's speed range (not just at one or two set speeds) and in all operating conditions, eliminating the traditional compromise between low-end torque and high-rpm horsepower.

The GS 430 features a five-speed automatic transmission called E-Shift. E-Shift allows the driver to let the transmission shift automatically, or, for a more engaging driving experience, control gear shifting with the buttons.

Dramatic design has set the GS sedans apart from the mid-luxury crowd since their introduction. For 2001, Lexus freshened the GS's distinct appearance with revised front and rear styling details. High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, which enhance visibility for night driving, are newly standard on the GS 430. New six-spoke alloy wheels give the cars a more rakish profile, and the taillights feature a simplified design.

New luxury details for the GS430 include a standard leather wrapped steering wheel with controls for the audio system, an electronic compass, water-repellent front door glass, and additional interior wood trim. A new available touch-screen navigation system employs DVD-based map data, replacing a system that stored map data on a computer hard drive. The system's LCD display also provides control functions for the audio and automatic climate control systems and the trip computer.

The GS430 was designed as a performance sedan from the start – it's not just a luxury car with stiffened suspension and big tires. The performance-optimized platform features double wishbone front and rear suspension, large-diameter four-wheel disc brakes, and 16 x 7.5 inch alloy wheels with low-profile 225/55R16 Michelin Pilot HX MXM tires. End of Lexus GS430 review.