Driving Impressions

The Lexus LS 430 sets the benchmark for smooth ride quality. This is one smooth, quiet car, and riding in it is very pleasant. The engine is barely audible. Mechanical and road vibration is damped out. No other automaker does a better job than Lexus in creating a zone of serenity for driver and passengers. The soft suspension and slow steering lead some to conclude the LS 430 doesn't handle as well as European models such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Indeed, when pushed to the limits the big Lexus does not handle as well as the big BMW. However, the LS 430 is not a sloppy luxo-barge. In fact, the LS 430 can be driven quite hard and with confidence, whereupon it reveals lots of grip and very good handling. It responds predictably when driven to the limit of the tires in corners, though it doesn't necessarily encourage you to do so the way a BMW does. The softness of the suspension results in squirmy transient response when compared with the BMW 745i. But the LS 430 does generate lots of grip and offers the responsiveness afforded by rear-wheel drive and double-wishbone suspension front and rear and it handles predictably. Its monotube shock absorbers were made larger and more technologically advanced for the 2004 model year, and this has resulted in flatter cornering response and a smoother ride. The steering system was improved at the same time, providing more road feel, more feedback, and more precision. The adaptive air suspension included in the Ultra Luxury package allows the driver to switch between two shock-damping modes (and to raise the ride height for driving in deep snow). However, the car floats a little more on the air suspension, even in the Sport mode, making it feel bigger, more boatlike. We much prefer the Sport Package, which combines a sport-tuned suspension with 18-inch wheels and summer/performance tires. This improves handling feel while maintaining a smooth, comfortable ride. While other manufacturers offer sport suspensions that result in a harsh, choppy ride, this isn't one of them; even with the sport suspension, the LS 430 rides smoothly and softly. We highly recommend it and think it's a bargain. To say the Lexus V8 is smooth and quiet is an understatement, and the six-speed automatic transmission shifts so smoothly it's almost seamless. By the SAE's new reckoning, the 4.3-liter V8 generates 278 horsepower and 312 pound-feet of torque, the latter figure contributing, along with the six-speed transmission, to the LS 430's impressive acceleration performance. Lexus says the LS 430 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. Yet the LS 430 still earns an EPA-estimated 18/25 mpg City/Highway, a benefit of its transmission's long-legged fifth and sixth gears. The driver can manually control shifting, though we prefer to put it in Drive and let the machine do its job. It does this very well. Engine and transmission are designed to favor smoothness over performance. The upside is you get silky smooth performance. The downside is do not offer the crispness of a BMW powertrain, the other end of the spectrum. Lexus' electronic throttle control (drive-by-wire) system helps smooth acceleration from a standing start by very slightly delaying throttle opening when the driver steps on the accelerator pedal. Still, the Lexus V8 and six-speed automatic are a powerful team, delivering strong acceleration performance for quick passing and freeway merging. All in all, it's a great setup. The brakes are responsive and easy to modulate for smooth stopping power. Four-channel, four-sensor ABS helps the driver maintain steering control during panic stops. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking; if the driver has not stepped hard enough on the brake pedal to activate the anti-lock brake system, Brake Assist applies maximum braking pressure until pedal pressure is released. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)

Final Word

The Lexus LS 430 excels as a luxury sedan with a cabin that's quiet, comfortable, and luxurious. It is a meticulously crafted car that offers every luxury amenity imaginable, plus a few we would not have imagined. Its construction quality is the best in the industry. Everything about its operation is smooth. Its powerful V8 and six-speed automatic are a smooth, silent team. Its ride is silky, its steering is smooth and precise, its brakes allow easy modulation for smooth stops. If you want a premium luxury sedan that delivers no-hassle smooth, luxurious sailing, the Lexus LS 430 should be at the top of your list. New Car Test Drive editor Mitch McCullough filed this report from Laguna Beach, California.