1999 Lexus GS300 S from UK and Ireland - Comments

Absolutely nothing.

After buying a 2000 Mercedes E-240 Elegance Auto last year with 30k on the clock my experience vas far from happy one. Some cars you feel happy with immediately some will never feel right which was the case with this Merc. Cheap upholstery materials, appalling gearbox, uncomfortable leather seats etc, etc.

Looking around to replace this lemon decided to test drive a Lexus 1999 GS300. I was very impressed and bought the car. What a difference, silky smooth gearbox one of the best I have ever experienced, quiet effortless engine even at 100mph plus (bad boy), plush comfortable seats, well laid out instruments, all the switches feel like they will last for ever. Even the spare wheel is a proper alloy, not a cheap pressed steel you get with the Merc. The sound system so good you will have to hear it to believe, including a 6+6 CD changer. Combined with an excellent climate control system makes driving a pleasure even on the longest trips.

The GS300 is not a sports car, but no slouch by any means 0-60 at around 8 sec. you can have some fun at the traffic lights with the boy racers. Petrol consumption is about average for a car this size, on the whole not too bad.

Another thing worth mentioning is the first class service at the Lexus dealers although a bit on the expensive side. I suppose you get what you pay for.

To sum up if you are not too worried about your street cred by not driving a car with the three pointed star on the bonnet I would try a Lexus and see the difference I don't think you will be disappointed.

Great Write!

I have to agree with you completely. Benz and Bmw have it coming for them; the best Japanese have to offer- Lexus!

Unfortunately Lexus have to work quite hard to earn the trust and reputation from the "B squared" buyers and enthusiasts. Lexus has the bulletproof Toyota dependability and quality - something the European vehicles only could dream of having. Personally I have owed a older 5 series and now am more than content with my 2001 GS 300. Great job Lexus (dream vehicle LS460 L- when I get the money!)