Lexus raises the bar once again with a mid-cycle freshening of its third-generation LS430 flagship sedan for 2004, after just three years in the market. A boldly restyled front and rear fascia give the LS430 a more substantial, more aggressive appearance. Under the restyled sheetmetal, Lexus has introduced a new six-speed automatic transmission, additional safety features, suspension refinements, advanced technology and more luxury amenities.
The 2004 LS430 cuts a more striking profile than before. The front end has been redesigned, while the rear is distinguished by a new trunk lid, a new bumper and light design, plus new LED brake lights and license plate garnish. The newly exposed dual exhaust tailpipes convey the available performance from this V8 luxury sedan.
"The LS430 is the pinnacle of Lexus luxury and technology," said Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager Denny Clements. "The design and content changes for 2004 make the LS430 even more enjoyable to own and drive, and also raise the bar once again for luxury and quality in this competitive segment. In addition, our quality continues to lead the industry, and new advanced technology further underscores our commitment to passenger safety."
Responsive handling makes the LS430 engaging to drive, yet ride quality remains a benchmark of smoothness. The front and rear double wishbone suspension paired with new monotube shock absorbers contribute to flatter cornering responses and provide an even smoother ride. The standard 17-inch wheels have been redesigned, and 18-inch wheels are available for the first time featuring 245/45R18 low-profile tires for sharpened handling response. The LS430 stops with four-wheel disc brakes with a four-sensor, four channel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). An Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) feature optimizes braking pressure at each wheel to ensure stability during hard braking and cornering.
The LS430 is powered by a 4.3-liter double overhead-cam V8 engine that produces 290 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 320 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,400 rpm. Continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) ensures excellent low- and mid-range power for easy highway merging.
A new six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission replaces the five-speed unit for 2004, enhancing both performance and shifting smoothness. The six-speed transmission makes it possible to use a lower first gear ratio, which provides quicker off-the-line acceleration and response. The 2004 Lexus LS430 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds, compared to 6.3 seconds for the 2003 model with a five-speed automatic transmission. Shift Logic Control responds to road grade and acceleration/deceleration activity, holding gears or downshifting on hills to help provide better engine power or braking. A Sequential Shift feature allows the driver to enjoy a more involved driving experience by controlling gearshifts manually when desired.
The introduction of the thoroughly revised Lexus flagship sedan follows the report that the LS430 was the most problem-free vehicle by J.D. Power and Associates' 2003 Initial Quality Study - a position it has achieved for seven consecutive years, even with growing competition in the premium luxury segment. In fact, Lexus set a new record with an overall performance of only 76 problems per 100 vehicles. Just as significant, the Lexus flagship sedan was reported to be the most problem-free car after three years of ownership for the ninth consecutive year. The LS 400 (predecessor to the LS430) had the fewest problems per 100 vehicles of any car in the J.D. Power and Associates 2003 Vehicle Dependability Study.
The LS430 for 2004 is the first Lexus model equipped with the new Pre-Collision System (PCS), which can help reduce collision injury and damage (available January 2004). This advanced new system uses a millimeter-wave radar sensor to detect obstacles in front of the car and a pre-collision system computer with vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate inputs that help to determine in advance whether a collision is unavoidable. If the system determines that a collision is not avoidable, it can preemptively activate the Pre-Collision seatbelt to retract the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts. PCS also prepares the Brake Assist which, after the driver applies the brakes, automatically applies increased braking force to help reduce collision speed.
In addition, the 2004 LS430 gains new knee airbags for the driver and front passenger as standard equipment. Also standard is an Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), which helps illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it.
A new Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) can detect if a tire is significantly under-inflated and alert the driver with an indicator light on the instrument panel to a condition that could potentially lead to uneven tire wear or a loss of control (available January 2004).
In the LS430, safety starts with a strong body structure with front and rear crumple zone structures to help protect a strong passenger cell. Lexus optimized the structure for crash-compatibility with other passenger vehicles, as well. The Supplemental Restraint Systems in the LS430 include variable-force front airbags. Sensors determine the severity of the accident and in turn the force with which to deploy the front airbags, helping to provide an appropriate level of occupant restraint performance.
The front seat-mounted 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. Front and rear side curtain airbags help provide protection in certain severe side impacts.
Four-channel, four sensor Anti-lock Brakes help maintain steering control during panic stops, and the Brake Assist system can help the driver take full advantage of the ABS in emergency situations. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped hard enough on the brake pedal to activate the anti-lock brake system, it applies maximum braking pressure until pedal pressure is released.
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) helps control side skids under demanding conditions by detecting and helping to correct loss of lateral traction during cornering. The VSC system integrates traction control (TRAC) to help limit rear wheel spin on slippery road surfaces. For optimal visibility, the LS430 includes as standard daytime running lights, rain-sensing windshield wiper operation and High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with auto-levelers.
The Lexus LS sedans have a tradition of infusing luxury with value, and for 2004 the LS430 provides additional luxury content. The power moonroof and power rear sunshade, as well as the rear seat vanity mirrors are now standard features that show the brand's renowned attention to occupant comfort and convenience.
A new rear backup camera provides an extra margin of confidence when reversing the vehicle. Available in conjunction with the optional navigation system, it automatically projects an image of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in the reverse gear.
New options for 2004 further enhance the luxurious feeling of the LS430. Rear climate control seats are newly available as an option for models equipped with the Ultra Luxury package, which includes front climate control seats. The available rear air conditioner now features an optical deodorizer in addition to the particle filter. The unit uses a catalyst-coated filter and an ultraviolet light to kill mold and bacteria and break down other odor-causing elements.
Lexus has added a new Antique Walnut Wood trim finish choice, as well as three new leather interior colors - Cashmere, Ash and Saddle.
The available SmartAccess feature allows the driver to unlock and start the car simply by touching the door handle (with key fob in pocket) and then turning the ignition switch. The SmartAccess key fob transmits a radio signal to onboard antennas, authorizing the security system to unlock the car and permit engine starting. By simply carrying the SmartAccess key fob in a pocket, the driver does not need to fumble for the car keys in the dark or rain or cold weather, and can enter the car easily even with hands full. The system includes a SmartAccess key wallet card that allows the driver to unlock and start the car if the main key fob is lost.
The optional Lexus Navigation System now integrates Bluetooth wireless technology. When combined with a Bluetooth equipped phone, this global wireless technology allows the driver to transfer personal phone books to the navigation system and make hands-free phone calls through the navigation system's touch-screen control panel. Customers can place a hands-free call in different ways depending on their preference. To help avoid driver distraction, the one-touch dial feature is the only dialing function that a customer can access when the vehicle is in motion. The system can store up to 18 one-touch dial numbers. Some Bluetooth functions are disabled when the vehicle is in motion, and the customer can use steering wheel controls to answer and end calls as well as adjust call volume.
XM Satellite Radio is also a new option, providing the LS430 owner with CD-quality sound and a wide selection of music and news/talk stations coast-to-coast. The subscription service, offered at an additional cost, features 71 music channels and 29 news/talk and entertainment channels, with about half of all stations broadcasting commercial-free. With this option, the driver no longer needs to reset stations when driving long-distance, because the selected station remains available in all regions.
The LS430 provides more front leg- and headroom than the externally larger Mercedes-Benz S-Class, as well as more cabin volume (107.2 cu. ft. vs. 105.0 cu. ft.) and a larger trunk (20.2 cu. ft. or 17.5 cu. ft. with the rear air conditioner vs. 15.4 cu. ft. for the S-Class). The LS430 is among the most aerodynamically "slippery" cars in the world, nearly eliminating wind noise with an ultra-low 0.26 coefficient of drag (Cd) with its standard suspension and a 0.25 Cd with the available air suspension.
For the ultimate in ride comfort, the Ultra Luxury Selection option package equips the LS430 with the air suspension system and height control. Alternatively, customers can order the Euro-tuned sport suspension package with 18-inch wheels for even quicker handling reflexes and enhanced road feel.
The LS430 hosts a 4.3-liter 290-horsepower V8 engine and it was one of the first vehicles with a gasoline-powered V8 to be certified as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV). Seeking smoothness in every nuance of driving, Lexus equipped the LS430 with a system called Intuitive Powertrain Control. Working with the electronic throttle control (drive by wire), the system helps to smooth out acceleration from a standing start by very slightly delaying throttle opening when the driver steps on the accelerator pedal.
The LS430 exceeds expectations for advanced luxury features, yet keeps controls simple and easy to learn and use. Adjustments for the front seats include dual lumbar controls and adjustable cushion length for more comfortable thigh support for the driver, as well as a single lumbar control for the passenger. The climate control system uses temperature and sun-sensing intelligent swing registers. If sunlight is concentrated on one side of the car, the registers automatically deliver more cooling air to that side.
The standard wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel features easy-to-use controls for the audio system, which includes a standard in-dash, single-feed six-disc CD changer, and a 15-function information display with a trip computer with compass.
The available DVD-based Lexus Navigation System offers faster performance and far greater map data capacity than CD-ROM systems (one DVD disc covers the contiguous United States and several areas in Canada), and its voice-command feature allows hands-free use. The system displays maps and route instructions on a seven-inch touch screen.
Improved for 2004, the navigation system features easier-to-understand graphics and new functions, including phone number-based address location and building footprint display. Additionally, the navigation system is linked to the optional Lexus Dual Mode Mobile Phone. For example, if a point of interest is called up on the navigation screen, a push of a button will dial the location directly.
The available Dynamic Laser Cruise Control system is designed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle traveling in front. (Models equipped with the Pre-Collision System after January 2004 will instead use radar-based dynamic cruise control.) When parking, the available Intuitive Parking Assist system uses ultrasonic sensors to alert the driver to obstacles at the front, rear and corners of the vehicle.
The LS430 is one of several Lexus models to offer a high-end Mark Levinson premium audio system. All occupants enjoy optimal sound quality, no matter where they're sitting. Speaker placement has been modified for 2004 for even better sound imaging. The Custom Luxury Selection and Ultra Luxury Selection option packages include the above features, plus other amenities that can make the LS430 a suitable chauffer-driven vehicle. Highlights of both packages include:
- DVD-based Lexus Navigation System with seven-inch screen and voice-command control
- Front climate control seats with heating and cooling controls
- Power door closers and headlamp washers
- Rear audio controls and rear climate controls
As with all Lexus vehicles, the LS430 comes with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.