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Lexus LS 400/LS 430

8465 messages,  Last post on Jun 13, 2013 at 12:06 PM

You are in the Lexus LS 400/LS 430 Forum.

What is this discussion about? Lexus LS 400, Lexus LS 430, Sedan

Messages Page 259 of 847

#2579 of 8465 2003 Changes by dewayne1982

Mar 17, 2002 (5:01 pm)

If there is any hint of veracity to the rumors, why would Lexus make changes to the LS 430 so early? The car is still a formidable competitor to the S-Class, 7-series and Q45. I'm thinking that Lexus would wait until the fourth model year of the generation, probably fall 2004, to make any dramatic changes.
 
Lexus probably has the legacy of the LS already planned. Starting with the second-generation, Lexus already had the third-generation in concept stages and gave us a hint at the future styling with the 1998 update. The rumored restyling of the third-generation, possible increase in horsepower and improved cabin, will possibly give us a clue to the styling of the fourth-generation model.

#2580 of 8465 changes by ljflx

Mar 17, 2002 (5:23 pm)

I would bet that the S will re-do at least moderately in 2004. Lexus has a lot of lease renewals in that year from the big year in 2001. So rather than sit back and wait a year to the 2005 model year, and risk losing any of the business they gained, they may very well match the S in its redesign year. They know they won a decent amount of business in 2001 from would be or forner S owners. Time to up the ante and get more aggressive. If I had their cash rich position, and past year success I'd certainly go that route. It would also silence some of the critics who always complain that Lexus waits until MB has committed - though I doubt Lexus is concerned about them. Plus the Yen remains in such a favorable position for them vs. their German competition.

#2581 of 8465 Changes by dewayne1982

Mar 17, 2002 (6:11 pm)

So, what will the next redesigned be called? Will this still be the third-generation of models or generation 3.5?

#2582 of 8465 LS500 by ljflx

Mar 17, 2002 (6:25 pm)

I think it's definitely an LS500. Is the re-do a complete body re-do, maybe lengthened 3 inches or so, and potentially will it havea v-12 as an option? Could be.

#2583 of 8465 Changes by tdo123

Mar 17, 2002 (7:09 pm)

I struggle to think that Lexus would go the the extreme of a V12, but I sure hope you are right. As for the idea of a 500 series, you could be right on. MB just changed the E430 to an E500 for this summer debut. Maybe Lexus will go that route.
 
I agree that a major change is 2 years or so off, but is there anything that they may tweak for 2003? The 430 today is a great car, but there are many things that I think could be improved.

#2584 of 8465 Lexus has been..... by toyotas1

Mar 17, 2002 (7:25 pm)

considering a redo ever since the car was released to very negative press in Europe in early 2000. Lexus has long been against the need or implimentation of the Century's V12. When Lexus decides to break the 5 meter barrier and make a car that competes in size with the Germans, then the V12 will be implimented, but not before. I have ot heard ANYTHING on a 5L V8! Lexus can tune the 4.3 to 350HP+ if necessary with Vvti-i and a higher compression ratio. Power with THIS engine was never a question. Sales have been over the 25k they predicted, so WHATEVER the Lexus plan was for the next five years, it hasn't changed for poor sales. The buzz is the change will come THIS fall, but you make valid points for it not coming so soon. I'm sure Lexus feels the same way. If raising horsepower to.....320, and giving the exterior a major facelift does come around, it should be NEXT fall. If it is super successful, the redesign may be pushed back to 2007......

#2585 of 8465 Change in Tire Size by allan441

Mar 18, 2002 (9:00 am)

The 16 inch standard tires on my 2001 LS 430 will need to be replaced soon. Does any one have any experience with Michelin MXV4 Plus? I want to upgrade to 17 inch tires. Would 225/77/R17 or 235/55/R17 be better? I was told that the 235/55 has a larger "foot print". Will this influence the ride? Currently the ride is excellent, but again I was told that the increase in tire size will give me better handling, without comprimising the ride.
 
Any help would be appreciated.

#2586 of 8465 Tire switch by hage45

Mar 18, 2002 (1:49 pm)

I currently have "summer tires" Dunlop SP Sport 225/55HR-17 and I am thinking of replacing them with all season Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 225/55 W-17. I assume this will enhance handling, but was will be the impact on ride quality and/or noise? Any ideas would be appreciated.

#2588 of 8465 Tires by barry5

Mar 20, 2002 (2:54 pm)

I am also thinking of removing my summer tires as I believe they are unsafe in snow. I have been considering the
Michelin Energy MXV4 Plus Tire H-Speed Rated. Does anyone have experience with this tire. Is it Quiet, how does it do in snow?

Messages Page 259 of 847

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