drink300

Hello. I am a huge lexus fan, and have finally decided to get a 2003 LS430. I like the regular suspension, but have heard that the Air Suspension is remarkable in ride quality. Is it REALLY, THAT much better, that I should throw and extra $10,000 at the car to get the Ultra Lux package with the Air Suspension? I don't need the rear seat stuff, but I want a smooth and quiet ride.

Thanks!

drink300
New Mexico, USA

Gojirra99

I am an SC430 owner, but I have test driven both the regular and the air suspension LS430 back to back, and thought the difference is minimal. I suggest you do the same and decide for yourself.
The air suspension is very expensive to fix when things go wrong. This may be another consideration if you plan to keep it beyond any warranty period.

Horta

I just test drove both a regular LS430 and a Ultra last weekend. The air suspension alone is not worth the extr $10k. Now add together some of the otherUltra features and its a neice package if you have the extra cash. At the same time the Custom Luxury pakage is a great deal.

Also I cant stand the Black wood in the Ultra package. If I was given the car I would love it, but I can see paying all that money for Black wood.

The Air suspension was smooth but like said earlier NOT a night and day difference. I would bet to say that on a long drive the Air would be much more confortable and smooth. At the same time the LS430 is already one of the smoothest cars out there.

Either way you will NOT be dissapointed.

Jerry

LS007

Of course the 'black wood' is dictated by your interior color/leather selection. As for the air suspension, it was just the icing on the road for all the other ultra luxury features. Of all the UL features the most useful (IMHO) are the laser cruise control and the motorized door closures.

Ecru

2002 LS430. I decided not to get the UL with air suspension for 2 reasons. First, ride difference is minimal for that additional $$$.
second, I would not be able to change the springs and lower it if i have the air suspension. Now, after i changed a springs and installed new wider tires and wheels, it looks much better (less wheel gap especially fronts), handles much better and steers much better. About the other options , the laser cruise control is very cool for long distance driving, soft closing doors prevents slamming (except when inlaws slam it very hard), seat AC useful during hot days. My next project will probably be the Blitz full kit.

drink300

Thanks for the help and tips!

I like the comments about the air suspension, but especially like what you say about the wood. I finally decided today that I am willing to give up the extra features, because I can't stand to sit in the drivers seat staring at black wood for 3 years. I decided to get the NAV/LEV package instead so I can have a decent looking interior.

As far as the air suspension goes, I asked the question, because here in New Mexico, there have only ever been 4 Ultras sold, and they have none on the lot to test drive.

drink300
New Mexico, USA