Lexus GS300

As an alternative to executive offerings such as the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes E-Class, Lexus' GS300 never caught the eye of image-conscious motorists. However, second-hand buyers can cash in on this, because steep depreciation has made it one of the best value luxury cruisers available.

The GS300's main asset is that all the kit you could want is fitted as standard - leather, cruise control, air-conditioning, twin airbags, plus stability and traction control on models since 1998. Build quality is sublime, so they rarely go wrong, but watch for clocked cars by checking the mileage matches the service record.

However tempting the price, it would be a mistake to buy an import. Their history is invariably unfathomable, so you could unwittingly buy a dog.

Checklist
* Electrics: the GS300 has more gadgets than Dixons, so check everything works as it should, as problems such as faulty window motors or air-con can be costly to fix.
* Engine: the six-cylinder motor is generally bombproof, but the cambelt needs replacing every 63,000 miles/five years (£300) to avoid costly engine rebuilds.
* Brakes: problems with the ABS actuator can be potentially ruinous to fix at £1,500. Check the ABS light comes on with the ignition and goes out soon after.
* Suspension: the GS is a heavy car, so steering and suspension components can take a hammering. Lower ball joints frequently need replacing, so listen for knocks and clunks over lowered kerbs.
* Wheels & tyres: excessive tyre wear is common, and the GS300 will get through brake pads and discs quickly, so check their condition and negotiate the price accordingly.

Driving Impressions
The Lexus can feel out of its depth on twisty A-roads, where the steering becomes vague, but there's plenty of grunt from the punchy powerplant, and the auto gearchanges are seamless. Sound intrusion is low, but big alloys on Sport models create more resonance, and the firm ride doesn't help matters.

Glass's View
Although the GS300 is getting long in the tooth, it still appeals to those wishing to own a luxury car, but wanting to try something different from the usual top-end Mercedes or BMWs. They offer better value for money than German rivals, while superb reliability, build quality and engineering mean high-mileage examples will last the distance. Preferred over the thirstier 430 version, 300 SE auto models are the favourite variant, so used examples are thin on the ground. Jeff Paterson, senior editor, Glass's Guide

Life With A Lexus GS300
I was irritated by the fact you have to spend so much for a BMW 5-Series or Audi A6 with the right spec, whereas the GS has all the options you need as standard. Servicing costs are high, however. Lee Smethwick, Rickmansworth, Herts

My 2000 GS300 feels like it will last forever. I looked for one with sat-nav because cars like this are difficult to sell if they haven't got it. Graham Stewart, Norwich, Norfolk

Verdict

While the engineers at Lexus have striven hard to make the GS range ride and handle as well as its European rivals, it falls a little short of the sharpness of BMW's saloons. However the Lexus feels solid and assured, with well weighted steering and precise handling. Body roll through the corners is kept to a minimum, while the ride is acceptable. Inside, the cabin is ergonomically sound and flawlessly built. Overall it makes an attractive alternative to the mainstream.