New LS430 blends luxury, performance
This week, we’re behind the wheel of the luxurious 2005 Lexus LS430, the latest in the three generations of Lexus LS sedans. Still respected as the apex of Lexus luxury and technology, the new LS430 merges classic luxury with performance and reliability.
Powered by a 4.3-liter DOHC V-8 engine that produces 290 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 320 foot-pounds of torque, the LS430 offers excellent low- and mid-range power for merging and passing. And while it can accelerate from zero to 60 in 5.9 seconds, the rear-wheel-drive LS430 still produces good EPA numbers, averaging 18-mpg city and 25-mpg highway.
The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Shift Logic Control that responds to road grade and acceleration/deceleration. A Sequential Shift feature also allows the driver to control gearshifts manually, if desired.
As for ride and handling, Lexus excels thanks to front and rear double wishbone suspension that features monotube shock absorbers. The result is excellent handling and a smooth, luxury-style ride. Our tester featured optional 18-inch alloy wheels mated to 245/45R18 low-profile tires.
Although these tires aren’t good in the snow, they offer added performance when the roads are dry.
A high-tech Pre-Collision System is built into every LS430. If its millimeter-wave radar system determines that a collision is imminent, it retracts the driver and front-passenger seatbelts. PCS also prepares the Brake Assist system, which, after the driver applies the brakes, automatically applies increased braking force to help reduce collision speed.
Also notable is a Supplemental Restraint System that features variable-force front airbags. The side airbags have been redesigned to provide a greater coverage area, and the body structure has been strengthened to meet the latest side-impact standards, which take into account higher-riding vehicles such as SUVs. The LS 430 also features knee airbags for the driver and front passenger as standard equipment.
Few cars on the market today feature so much safety as standard equipment.
We loved the four-channel, four-sensor anti-lock brake system. When we tested it in a 70-mph panic stop, the car stopped straight and true. Your Lexus dealer can explain this high-tech brake system in detail, along with the Vehicle Stability Control that helps control side skids.
Inside, power front seats include lumbar controls and adjustable-length cushions for more comfortable thigh support. A wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel features controls for the audio system, which includes a standard in-dash, single-feed six-disc CD changer. The climate control system is excellent, while a power moonroof and power rear sunshade are also standard.
Our tester also included a $5,935 Custom Luxury option, featuring a single-DVD-based Navigation System that covers the contiguous United States and parts of Canada. Also included is a dynamic laser cruise control that keeps the correct distance from the car in front of you; rear camera; voice command; front heated and cooled seats; headlamp washers and laminated side glass. Don’t miss adding this option. It’s great.
We could go on and on about this car, but let’s sum it up by saying this is indeed one of the finest cars available today.
Important numbers include a wheelbase of 115.2 inches, curb weight of 3,990 pounds, a generous 20.2 cubic-feet of cargo space and a 22.2-gallon fuel tank for 91-octane premium fuel.
We rate this new LS430 a 9.5 on a scale of one to 10.