2001 Lexus LS Reviews, Pricing & Specs

In 2001, Lexus introduced the the third generation of their flagship LS sedan. The totally redesigned LS 430 featured a larger engine, a more spacious interior, and a sleeker looking body. The heavily raked windshield and hood also offered a much needed improvement to the LS's overall aerodynamics. The LS interior continued its high-tech evolution, adding options like keyless Lexus SmartAccess, distance-aware cruise control, and Bluetooth capability throughout the third generation. Also notable: in this generation, many expensive luxury packages were divided into individual options, to offer buyers an opportunity to find an LS tailored more to their specific desires. The new 4.3 liter V-8 was again boosted by Variable Valve Timing + intelligence technology, but it did not produce any additional horsepower beyond the previous 290, but torque was increased from 300 to 320 pound feet. The 0 to 60 time was trimmed slightly, down from 6.5 to 6.3 seconds, and the quarter mile mark dipped just below fifteen seconds. The electronically controlled automatic transmission would remain a 5-speed through 2003, and every LS was still only available with rear-wheel-drive. The wheelbase grew by three inches, increasing interior room beyond what even the very large Mercedes S-Class could offer. Lexus had also rethought the LS interior. Heated AND cooled seats were available for the first time, and the redesigned navigation system became DVD-capable. Three wood finishes were now available to complement the rich leather seats and trims. A new Mark Levinson sound system replaced the Nakamichi option, and a convenient touch-screen control was added to the center console.