ahxks1

I've been reading up on the LS430 package distinctions between ML, CL, and UL, following largely a thread from 6/1/09 from thequicklad titled Model Lineup. There's no mention of thicker glass as an option or part of a package, though I have read it elsewhere on here (but cannot find that thread). Does anyone know if thicker side glass / windshield came with the CL or UL? Also, the above mentioned Model Lineup thread mentions keyless ignition as part of the UL package, but I have seen it on lesser packages, so I'm not certain that thread it is completely accurate.

Johnhav430

Believe that the CL and UL have laminated side glass, which the ML and below do not have.

I wanted it badly (sometimes we just want what we want, and then I notice my wife's car has it, and thought dang we've already had it 6 years lol)

ahxks1

So do you notice a difference between the two in sound? and does anybody know of any Lexus literature online that describes the packages in detail?

jayclapp

The reason for the laminated glass is because it helps suppress sound. They are thicker than the standard glass. Consequently, you cannot install laminated glass is the standard glass car. It is easy to see, if you roll the glass down and look at the top of the glass. I have no idea how much noise reduction it provides, as I have not ridden in a non-laminated LS430. Trust that the Lexus designer did not do it just for fun, as it is more costly.

toddmorr

yes, it makes a difference, I can clearly hear my '05 UL is quieter than my ML '02, quieter in terms of engine noise for sure. Not huge, but you would notice it.

TriC

My 2006 LS sales brochure only describes it as "[l]aminated side glass."

jayclapp

People can either do a google research on auto acoustic auto glass for a good answer, or choose whatever you choose to believe. One cannot merely speak the truth into existence.

05ls430518

iTrader: (1)

I heard that if you look through the laminated glass just right it shows you a hidden path were you can see a live unicorn playing a banjo I havnt witnessed it myself but heard its intense

Satchmo

I have a 2004 UL and I have witnessed the unicorn thing but never really noticed it being any quieter?

ibrahim83

i Have an 05 ML and my coworker has an 02 UL. The laminated glass on his is only on the rear. Discovered that yesterday. I always thought it was all side glass.

Piece101

My 05UL got laminate front and sides and tempered rear. I haven't seen a laminate rear on LS 430

StanVanDam

Yes, UL has thicker glass - double-paned with an intermediate layer. From the 2002 Canadian brochure, "Door windows are fitted with strong, two-layer laminated glass to prevent shards of glass from showering passengers".

From the Lexus publication on the LS430's New Car Features (vs LS400):

ahxks1

thank you Stan. Another member suggested that it was an option on both the CL and UL. Anyone know if double laminate is on the CL?

jayclapp

Laminated glass is a standard feature on the UL. There are virtually no options (other than wheels) that were available on the UL, it just included all options as basic and then some.

TriC

Yes, laminated side glass was a feature of both the Custom Luxury and Ultra Luxury option packages.