Lexus LS 430 Review (2000 to 2006)

Quick Summary

The Lexus LS430 is a car that will appeal to those who dislike the fuddy-duddy, overstuffed image of many luxury cars. It's a car for those who appreciate attention to detail and a keen focus on the things that really matter. If our expectations had been cranked through the roof by the LS400, perhaps it was inevitable that the LS430 would find them hard to match. In the final reckoning, however, the LS430 offers a winning blend of refinement and luxury for those who just don't do German. It's no poor substitute. Track down a properly looked after example and there's no reason why it shouldn't glide effortlessly through a quarter of a million miles. The best will out, as they say.

Overall:

Models Covered: LS430: November 2000 to 2006 (4.3-litre petrol 4dr saloon)

WALKS QUIETLY, CARRIES BIG STICK

Given that a path had already been paved by its predecessor, the LS400, it would be reasonable to assume that the Lexus LS430 would have an easier time mopping up the floating voters in the luxury car market. That would be to underestimate the size of the task that faced Toyota's luxury car division at the turn of the century.A combination of the novelty wearing off a credible Japanese luxury challenge and the quantum leaps forward taken by Jaguar, Mercedes, BMW and Audi meant that the LS430 – whilst undoubtedly a better car – fared relatively poorly in comparison to its predecessor. Despite these caveats, if you've the budget and an eye for a bargain, a well looked after Lexus LS430 can make a very fine acquisition.
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History of the LS 430

The LS430 arrived on these shores in November 2000, building on the solid foundations laid by the LS400. With a more powerful engine and a bigger body, the LS430 was an imposing package. Arriving nearly two years after Mercedes' benchmark sixth-generation S-Class, it was hoped that the LS430 would move the game on in much the same way, but those expecting a big leap forward were disappointed by the car's incremental improvements.Part of the problem was that the apart from the front lights and grille, the LS430 closely resembled the rather unloved fifth-generation S-Class and this caused an incorrect impression amongst many buyers that the LS430 was a step behind its contemporaries. Only one model was initially listed on the price lists, but an optional Premium Pack proved so popular that you may well find cars being referred to as LS430 Premiums. The new LS460 arrived late in 2006 replacing this model.
Used Lexus LS 430 for sale

Lexus LS 430 Road Test

This Lexus comes up trumps here with a 4.3-litre V8 whose peak power output of some 290bhp – whilst the same as that which was offered from the old LS400's 4.0-litre unit – is a more muscular performer, the clever VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) system swelling torque levels from 300lb ft up to 320lb ft. That has reduced the 0-60mph sprint time from 6.7s to 6.3s but more significantly, makes the car feel much more responsive in everyday motoring.Equal effort was put into improving the handling, another area of criticism for the original LS400. Limp, lifeless steering has been replaced by a set-up with much more feel. Gone too was the marshmallow ride that pleased the chauffeurs but disappointed the driving enthusiasts who owned the old car. This was a luxury saloon that could hold any of its £50,000 rivals in sight around a twisting country road.Much of the credit for this must go to the changes made in the suspension, a double-wishbone design with higher-mounted upper arms for extra spring travel. This not only made the LS430 much more of a driver's car, it also improved still further on the already exemplary standards of ride pioneered by the original model. Despite stiffer springs, this Lexus is, if anything, even better at coping with poor road surfaces and undulations, thanks to clever valving in the dampers. A thicker rear anti-roll bar also controls cornering roll.The overall result was a level of comfort that's difficult for any rival to match. The combination of that sleek body and the whisper-quiet engine mean that nothing in the class at the time was more refined: at idling speeds, you have to look twice at the instruments to see if the engine is actually running. Equally impressive is the silky-smooth five-speed automatic gearbox, programmed to be more intuitive than before. Hit the brakes and it changes down automatically: head downhill and it holds on to lower gears for you.
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Buying a Lexus LS 430

There is, amazingly, almost nothing to report. Toyota were determined to make these cars as faultless and long-lasting as possible and it seems they've succeeded. The main worry with a Lexus will be accident damage or mileage clocking. If you can, check the car's service records and cross-reference mileage with the dealers who carried out the scheduled maintenance. That way, you'll have peace of mind that the immaculate, low-mileage car you're looking at really is just that. Any car imported privately or unofficially from Japan will give you grounds for serious negotiation on price.
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Lexus LS 430 Typical Pricing

Prices start from around £22,500 for the first of the 2000 X plate cars, with a 2001 51 plated example being priced at just over £26,500. Considering that car cost £53,770 new, that's quite a fair saving on a car that's barely run in. Insurance for all LS430s is Group 19.
Used Lexus LS 430 for sale

Lexus LS 430 Parts

(approx based on '00 LS430) A new radiator is around £850. An alternator should be close to £710, a starter motor around £450 and rear brake pads would be around £65.A headlamp will be around £340, and expect to pay close to £970 for a full exhaust system (inc Catalyst).
Used Lexus LS 430 for sale