I’m considering getting either a new ES350 or a used LS430. I have a couple of questions on the LS that I thought someone here could easily answer. Here goes:

At some point the navigational systems went from the 4th generation to the 5th. What model year was that? Also, what features do I gain or lose by having the 4th one vs. the 5th, or vice versa. For example, I believe that there may have been some easier modifications that could be done to enter mapping data or telephone numbers on the fly in the 4th generation that are harder to do on the 5th one, but I’m really not sure. I’d also guess that some improvements may have been made on the 5th generation (voice recognition improvements, etc??) vs. the 4th. I’m hoping someone can help me out here.

I really like the SmartAccess keyless entry system on the 350 that has a push button start and stop, and also remembers the seat and steering wheel positions automatically. What year did the LS implement the keyless access, and is it the same (push button start, memory for seats, etc.)? I thought I read it may have started in 2004, but I’m not sure it was implemented the same way then, but it may have later on.

Any other tidbits on improvements made in the last few years (2004-2006) would help too. I’m just looking for some guidance on which model year to target.

 

I was sort of in the same boat as you but was looking at a new GS350 vs an used LS430. Always nice getting a new car and the GS is indeed a good car. The nav screens are bigger and seems a bit clearer. I believe only certain new models now are running the Nav on the hard drive vs DVD disk. But after driving a 2004 LS430, there was no question. The quietness and luxurious feel comparing to the louder GS is what set it apart for me. Since I got the Ultra Lux, all the features was there. Ones you mentioned was the smartkey which I do have but instead of a push button start, its turn the ignition without the key. I specifically looked for a 2004+ as I wanted the 6 speed, slightly newer body styling and Bluetooth was a plus, though most uninformed cannot tell exterior wise what year it is (2001 to 2006).

Good luck in your quest.

 

Thanks for the reply. I'm still interested in the differences in the generations of the Nav units and when those changes occurred, as well as being curious about the SmartAccess button/memory settings, and if those ever became like the new ES350. But you also bring up another question I have:

What exactly is included in the ultra package? Also, do most folks think it's worth it?

 

I'm re-thinking "SmartKey" after reading several articles on troublesome situations. See http://autos.msn.com/advice/article....tentid=4023129

(In one case a woman leaving a hotel, got into her car and drove away, heading home. She later got out of her car, and then discovered that it wouldn't start. It seems the valet at the hotel had the smartkey in his pocket when he got out and she drove away. The hotel was an hour back, and she couldn't start her car to go get it.)

 

The valet key can start the car, just not via wirelessly. If my smartkey is out of range, the car gives me a waring letting me know. Don't know what's the deal in that MSN story as the purpose of the valet key is to just let them drive the car without access to trunk and glove compartment in most cases.

TO: JS0873, the UL has:

Air suspension (you can ride normal or high)
Lowers on freeway speed
Keyless start / door unlocking
back seat side window shades
back seat massage
reclining back seats
refridgerator
UV air filtration system

and maybe some I have forgotten. Anyone?

that the regular don't have.

 

I believe the valet story involved the regular smart key that the woman gave him, not her valet key.

 

I don't have a valet key in the LS 460. Just two remotes came with my car.
My 2002 LS 430 did not have the smart key. I don't think any LS 430 had the push button start. I might be wrong, but let me know if I am. All the LS 460's have the new remote...

I do know the 2005 LS had a different key than my 2002. I don't think it had push button start...

Craig

 

The look of the new keys is very similar to my smart key, though mine has that hammerhead shark tip while the new one doesn't. What I wonder though is that how do you operate the accessories? On the LS smartkey now, you turn it to accessories before starting the engine, how would you do that on a push button only? My S2000 is push button but you have to turn the key first then push to start.

 

You push the start button once for the acces. push twice for everything else not on the acces position. You have to put your foot on the brake pedal to start the car... The light turns green when you have your foot on the brake to start the engine...

Craig

 

Nothing against the smart key but personaly I do not like it. I had gotten loaner cars with them twice and I requested loaner w/o smart key after the second time. I think with the smart key you have all the other house keys and other key tags chained up together and you need to put them in your packet when you are sitting down in your car which is uncomfortable instead of inserted to the key hole.
I think the credit card or business card size of smart key would make more sense and it's more "smart" key than what it is now, and I would wait until such is developed. Just my thought...

 

I leave my keys in my jacket pocket so I don't have to sit on them, same with my bluetooth enable phone. Never have to take them out of my jacket on my way to work which is really nice. You hit it right on the dot, I do wish they make one in credit card size.

 

credit card key? here it is (copy of MB of course)

 

(smartkey)If you really don't want to hold your key, then put in the ignition! Smartkey is awesome, but definitely not for dumb people (no disrespect). That’s why it’s NOT called Dumbkey!  This is probably the feature I miss most on MB. It’s great for women, because they never have to take the key out of their purse.

UL also has:
Suede Headliner
Burnt Wood *option*
Dynamic Laser Cruise Control
Laminated side glass
Power door closers
Leather on door handles, glove compartment, and center consol
Rear-Seat Luxury Group:
Power slide seat adjuster with power headrest, with memory and massager
Air conditioner controls with Air Purifier
Cool box
Audio controls
Swivel-type reading lamps

Ultra is awesome!

 

You think the credit card size is backward compatible? It does seem a bit thick though.