Sorry if this has been asked before. I did my best searching around and couldn't find any threads that would answer my question. Thanks in advance!

Question: Are there any significant changes between the 2001 and 2005 GS430?

 

Not really, most changes were added for 2003, including perforated leather and 7-spoke wheels. Navigation generations changed once or twice, but it doesn't really matter as it's all outdated anyway.

 

As mentioned above, it's nothing significant.

"updated" wheels (which are arguably less desirable than the previous)

"updated" perforated seats (which are arguably less desirable than the previous)

"updated" Nav (which was pretty crappy from 01-05 all around).

There is also a TSB out for 01-02 GS Mark Levinson Amplifiers being faulty. You can search for more info.

Point is, don't pass on an 01 thinking there are any major benefits of holding out for a newer model (other than the amp which is swap-able with the 03-05 model). I'd try to pick up the cleanest 01-05 you can find.

 

The Nav graphics are outdated looking but not crappy function wise. I still found it very useful when I had my 2005 GS430. If I wanted a 2GS again I'd actually prefer one without Nav so I can easily add an updated aftermarket unit to it.