Lexus GS

Photo: Lexus

Torrance, CA - The thrill quotient in the mid-luxury ranks moves up a notch as Lexus announces the 2001 GS 430. The GS 430 features a 300-horsepower 4.3-liter V8 with 325 lb.-ft. of torque that will propel the car from 0-60 in 5.8 seconds. Also for 2001, the GS sedan's exterior is revised and standard side curtain airbag supplemental restraint systems for the driver and front passenger have been added.  

Pricing for the GS 430 has been set at $47,355, an increase of $1,050 over the 2000 GS 400. On a comparably equipped basis, the increase is 0.3 percent over the previous generation GS.  

Lexus more than a decade ago introduced the notion that luxury and value needn't be mutually exclusive. The GS 430 sedan continues Lexus luxury value leadership by pricing for thousands of dollars less than competitive models without skimping on technology, performance or comfort.  

The new high-performance V8 engine in the GS 430 meets the federal Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV) certification and uses no more fuel than the smaller-displacement engine it replaces.  

With the boost in torque, the GS 430 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds (compared to 6.0 seconds for the 2000 GS 400) and can cover the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds. The engine performs as if it had another half-liter of displacement, due in large part to Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). This innovative system optimizes valve overlap throughout the engine's speed range (not just at one or two set speeds) and in all operating conditions, eliminating the traditional compromise between low-end torque and high-rpm horsepower.  

Dramatic design has set the GS apart from the mid-luxury crowd since its introduction. For 2001, Lexus freshened its distinct appearance with revised front and rear styling details. High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, which enhance visibility for night driving, are newly standard on the GS 430. New six-spoke alloy wheels give the car a more rakish profile, and the taillights feature a simplified design.  

Safety From the Inside Out  

In the GS 430 safety starts with front and rear energy-managing crumple-zone body construction, a strong passenger compartment and three-point seatbelts for all five seating positions. The Supplemental Restraint Systems includes dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and, new for 2001, side curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger. The front seatbelts incorporate pretensioners, force limiters, and height-adjustable anchors. All five seating positions include a height-adjustable headrest. The GS 430 features impact dissipating upper interior trim and child restraint seat (CRS) top tether brackets. Daytime running lights help make the GS more visible to other drivers under diverse lighting and weather conditions.  

Standard Equipment Highlights  

• Dual-zone automatic climate control with "smog" sensor
• 10-way power front seats
• Memory system for driver's seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors
• One-touch up/down power windows
• Power tilt/telescope steering wheel with automatic tilt-away for easy exit
• Seven-speaker premium audio system
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio system controls
• Auto-dimming rearview and driver's side view mirrors
• Heated outside mirrors
• Homelink® programmable garage door opener
• Outside temperature gauge
• Remote keyless entry (also controls windows and optional moonroof)
• Immobilizer anti-theft system
• Electric trunk and fuel filler door releases
• Individual front and rear reading lamps
• UV-absorbing tinted glass
• Genuine California walnut wood trim

(August 14, 2000)