17 of 17 people found this review helpful
By new2lexus2 on 01/30/11 18:52 PM (PST)
Vehicle
2004 Lexus LS 430 4dr Sedan (4.3L 8cyl 6A)
Review
Finally decided to treat ourselves to some luxury and research led us to the Lexus LS...test driving lead us to the 2004 LS430 we recently purchased.
At 92,500 miles, and timing belt service just done, we felt this was a bargain luxury vehicle.
Initial driving impression has been WoW!
Car does have the often reported passenger side-view mirror problem, but that is easily worked around.
We opted for the base model with some extras as opposed to the luxury model (we did test drive one).
Since our desire was for a vacation and special occasion road car (instead of our 2001 RX300), we wanted the larger trunk.
Still plenty of amenities to make it a true pleasure to drive and ride thus far.
Read the full review
By impressive on 07/13/10 13:33 PM (PDT)
Vehicle
Review
Bought a 2004 LS 430 used. BEST car I've ever driven, PERIOD. the engine is smooth, the ride is effortless and getting over 28 mpg on the highway with power to spare. Could not be any happier with this car.
By Murphy 2010 on 07/09/10 07:07 AM (PDT)
Vehicle
Review
I have owned and driven many cars in my life from cheap to expensive and I can honestly say that the 2004 Lexus LS430 that I currently have surpasses them all. The car is big but it handles very well and it is very quiet and luxurious and unlike other expensive cars like BMW and Mercedes the Lexus is very reliable so you are not constantly in the shop getting things repaired. The car also is not bad on gas when you compare it to other V-8's and even some V-6's. I also like the fact that although the car is very luxurious it is not ostentatious(flashy)because I am conservative and do not like a lot of attention. Lastly I had heard that Lexus Customer service was outstanding and it is.
By C. H. E. on 12/24/09 15:08 PM (PST)
Vehicle
Review
I have owned Mercedes and several BMWs and am a big fan of the latter. None, however, are as pleasurable to drive as the LS 430. The design is not as dazzling as some others but the car is a work or art in its functional perfection. Everything is designed with a purpose and everything fits and functions flawlessly.It is designed and executed to enhance driving comfort and experience without unnecessary complexity. Almost everything in its operation is intuitive. That is what intelligent design is all about. Once you experience the LS Lexus everything else is just a car. I will move up the LS 460 in the future but the change will be merely evolutionary.
By Toan Tran on 08/24/09 13:15 PM (PDT)
Vehicle
Review
Bought Vehicle with 84k miles on it. Regular oil change from Lexus, 93 Octane gas when filling up. Car drives very smooth. Vehicle has a lot of power and fuel economy is very good for this big vehicle. The driver seat is very comfy. Problems with the car, the subwoofer is rattling when there is bass, windshield makes high pitch noise above 75mph, my front left door actuator door lock does not lock anymore. I have to lock it manually. Vehicle has the Modern Package.
By Mister C on 07/18/09 06:47 AM (PDT)
Vehicle
Review
After 9mos. of ownership, I'm still amazed how a 2004 can still outrank & perform 2009 Mercedes, Audi, BMW, & Infiniti. The LS430 is the car to own (Period). Good on gas, handles swell for a big car, instant acceleration when the light turns green, great on braking, awesome reliability like no other; even though in Chicago winter snow tires could help... although u may do fine without. This car is very quiet, comfortable, quality is a 10-of-10. Mark Levinson sound system-"The Best", Navigation is easy to work with. Privacy rear shade, heated-and cooled seats (front and rear). Dual Climate Control, nearly 300hp, HID lights, LED rear lights. Very low wind noise at 70mph. Also holds its value.
By JW on 03/04/09 21:16 PM (PST)
Vehicle
Review
We bought this LS430 with 6000 miles on it. The car has been flawless ever since. All we have to do is the standard maintenance and that is it. Fuel economy is good for a large car with up to 26 mpg on trips. Ride quality and comfort are excellent for a large sedan. The powertrain is powerful and quiet.
By WilliamR on 11/20/08 16:30 PM (PST)
Vehicle
Review
Everything one would expect from Lexus: the cabin is quiet and surrounds one in understated by unmistakable luxury. Very quick at all speeds and excellent braking. Cornering is OK, but this is not a "driver's" car. It is, however, outstanding on the freeway and on long trips and comfortable and capable if not exciting around town. GREAT highway passing ability. My actual highway mileage is 25+ mpg -- and I don't drive 55. In town, expect 15-17 depending on mix and how heavy one's foot is. The Mark Levinson sound system is magnificent. Back seat comfort is arguably better than the front seat. The shifter is extremely nice and can enhance driving experience and reduce brake wear.
By mob4life on 11/17/08 12:44 PM (PST)
Vehicle
Review
After thoroughly evaluating and test driving the BMW 745, the S500 and the LS 430, the Lexus LS is pound per pound the best car ever built. The interior of this vehicle is 2nd to none. There is no other car manufacturer that can beat Lexus in this category. The exterior is beautiful as well. Many people want to claim that the exterior is subdued, but I disagree. I get plenty of compliments when I drive the Lex. And third, and most importantly, is the reliability. Lexus sets the standard in this category.
By MSH on 09/08/08 19:45 PM (PDT)
Vehicle
Review
I had to make this post because the last review was over two years ago. I burn through cars being a sales rep. I try to purchase them at least 2 years old so that I don't take the depreciation hit so hard. Looking for reliability after two BMWs, I bumped into this car on a MB lot. I felt foolish for not knowing that a car could be that much better. If you are thinking about purchasing this car do it! I am 6'6" and enjoy getting out of bed in the morning knowing I have a hour of alone time with my 430. Sometimes you become lulled into such a comfortable trance. I have found myself in my driveway on the phone with my laptop out. Never mind the office. Ultra package is great.