2001
- Introduction of the completely redesigned Third Generation LS430.
- Basically the third gen LS even better...slightly more powerful and a new design all around. Since it was completely redesigned pretty much everything looks different on both the interior and exterior. Take a look at the pictures above to note these changes. I will list some less visible differences below....
- Intelligent front air conditioning swing register vents.
- A solar sensor for rear air conditioning control was available as an option. A cool box in the back of the rear center armrest came with this option, it used cool air from the rear A/C.
- The audio system included a tape player and a in-dash 6-disc CD changer under the head unit as standard equipment.
- For the first time, the Mark Levinson audio system was available as an option. It was possible to include this option with the navigation system (optional).
- The navigation system (optional) was improved.
- The adaptive laser cruise control system was available as an option.
- A park assist system was available as an option.
- The outer rear view mirrors are linked to a number of systems and include outer foot lights.
- Automatic wiper system.
- A door closer system is available as an option.
- Power trunk closer.
- Automatic door look control system. All doors lock at once when the shifter is moved out of P.
- Rear sunshade is standard for Canadian models and an option for US models. Rear door window manual sunshades were available as an option.
- 4-link hinges are used on the trunk door to provide more cargo room.
- Lexus Link was available as an option.
- The 3UZ-FE 4.3 liter Four-Cam, 32-valve V8 engine was now used.
- Side front and rear curtain SRS airbags.
- Front and rear seat belts now have pretensioners with force limiters.
- Laminated door glass was available as an option. This prevents shattering in the event of an accident and also reducing UV rays by 100% which helps preserve the leather interior.
- Improved safety characteristics of the body.
- Rear brake calipers are now 2 piston.
- Front and rear seat heater system available.
- Phosphorescent emergency trunk release handle
- Plenty of other changes too...
- Top speed = 130 mph; 0-60 mph = 6.3 seconds; 0-400m = 14.7 seconds.

2002
- The one-motion open function was added to the passenger's side.
- A dual stage SRS airbag system was adopted for the driver's airbag.
- A compass display was added in the inner rear view mirror on Canadian models without GPS voice navigation systems.
- A GPS voice navigation system was added to Canadian models as optional equipment.
- A voice recognition system was added in the audio system to enable the radio, tape player, and CD changer.
- Top speed = 130 mph; 0-60 mph = 6.3 seconds; 0-400m = 14.7 seconds.

2003
- 17" wheels became standard equipment.
- The front stabilizer bar was changed from the solid type to the hollow type.
- Top speed = 130 mph; 0-60 mph = 6.3 seconds; 0-400m = 14.7 seconds.

2004
- The LS430 Series II debuts with many changes.
- Redesigned front bumper, grille, hood, fenders, headlights, and fog lights.
- Redesigned rear bumper, trunk door, license plate garnish, and brake lights. An exhaust baffle was added.
- The 5-speed transmission was replaced by a new 6-speed transmission.
- The differential was improved.
- SRS front driver and passenger side knee airbags added.
- Smart key system.
- Tire pressure warning system.
- Climate control system for the rear seat.
- Top speed = 130 mph; 0-60 mph = 6.2 seconds; 0-400m = 14.5 seconds.