I have an '03 LS430 Custom. Previously, I had a '99 LS400.
As the head of a software department for an eCommerce company, I found that our customers were by far my richest source of ideas for product improvement.
As a Lexus owner, I have yet to be asked by Lexus for my opinions on the car, or what changes I'd like to see.
I find that quite puzzling. If asked, my response would be:
Pros:
- VERY comfortable and quiet. All of the controls are in just the right place and are easy to use.
- Except for the reluctance to downshift, a quick car, which I enjoy.
- The turning radius is wonderfully small.
- The laser cruise control is the one "Gadget" that I use all the time. I wish it would work in inclement weather though.
- Some owners don't seem to like the partial wood steering wheel. I really like it.
- The navigation system (My wife calles her "Molly") is excellent and easy to use. When my wife tells me where to go, Molly tells me how to get there.
Cons:
- Far to aggressive climate control system. I'm often manually setting the fan speed down from high. The new Chrysler 300C has a selection for High auto or Low auto. Something like that would help.
- The relutance to downshift under moderate to heavy throttle. This has caused me to abruptly abort merging attempts several times. I consider this a safety issue.
- The external styling of the LS430 isn't as gracefull as the LS400.
- I know you shouldn't, but sometimes it sure would be nice to be able to set the navigation system without stopping.
Suggestions:
- If they had an AWD version, I'd trade my '03 right now.
- Add that climate control maximum fan speed switch.
- Lose the voice activation system for navigation and climage control. It only seems to understand me about 10% of the time and who can remember those 200+ commands?
- PLEASE stop nagging me every time I start the car about my Lexus Link system being active. Only tell me when it ISN'T active (Which I understand will be all the time in a year or so...)
HBH