2004 Lexus LS 430 New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 Lexus LS 430?
Lexus gives the LS 430 a modest makeover for 2004. Styling has been massaged front and rear to distinguish the 2004 Lexus LS 430 from the previous model, and Lexus has upgraded the brakes and steering. A new six-speed automatic transmission is charged with transferring the LS 430’s 300 horsepower to the rear wheels. Safety is enhanced with knee airbags for the front passengers, adaptive headlamps that illuminate curves as the car turns, a tire pressure monitor and a new technology called a Pre-Collision System (PCS) that debuts after the first of the year. PCS readies the LS 430’s on-board safety equipment when it senses an unavoidable collision. Newly standard are a power moonroof, a power rear sunshade and rear vanity mirrors. New options available for 2004 include rear climate-control seats on Lexus LS 430s equipped with the Ultra Luxury package, a rear backup camera with in-dash monitor, XM satellite radio and a SmartAccess feature that lets you power the door locks and start the car without using a key. A sport-suspension package with 18-inch wheels is available, and there’s a new antique wood trim finish if you desire. New colors inside and out summarize the changes to the 2004 Lexus LS 430.

Advantages of the 2004 Lexus LS 430:

• Extravagantly trimmed interior
• Flawless powertrain
• Paragon of refinement
• Superb occupant comfort

Objections to the 2004 Lexus LS 430:

• Fussy navigation system ergonomics
• Rather dull in character

Editor's Advice:
The 2004 Lexus LS 430 is the definitive mainstream premium-luxury sedan, perfect for consumers more interested in true luxury than making a statement of wealth or ripping along twisty roads. The exterior exudes understated elegance, at once blending in with the background yet commanding attention. Inside, the finest materials available are used in the construction of the nearly silent cabin, with generous amounts of gorgeous wood and creamy leather coating interior surfaces. Hardware – such as the engine, transmission, steering, brakes and suspension – operates with flawless fluidity and unwavering dependability. Comfort and simplicity, the cornerstones of true luxury, guide the design of the Lexus LS 430. So competent and compelling is the LS that we have difficulty faulting the car. Enthusiasts looking for performance will want to examine the BMW 7-Series or the Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG, and the flashy Jaguar XJ8 better serves those wishing to proclaim their wealth to the world. The Lexus is neither a sports sedan nor a garish reward for achieving success. Simply, it is the purest luxury car you can buy for less than $100,000.