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Saloon

In the same way that Infiniti acts as Nissan’s premium arm, Lexus has a similar tie-in with Toyota. And since most of Toyota’s models are offered as hybrids, it’s no surprise to see the same from Lexus, although there are some traditional petrol engines, too.

The brand focuses heavily on SUVs – namely the NX and RX – but also has the CT hatchback, ES executive saloon and LS luxury car among its portfolio. More small and large SUVs are expected in the future.

Like Toyota, Lexus has built a very strong reputation for reliability and regularly finishes very close to the top of our annual Reliability Survey.

LEXUS

A spacious luxury saloon lacking in soul

Used Lexus GS Saloon 1997 - 2005

No matter how hard Lexus tried, and despite the car's many strengths, the GS just isn't as desirable as an Audi A6 or a BMW 5-Series. However, leaving that aside, the GS does have its merits. For a start, its prices are lower than those of its German rivals and, while the Lexus may not have the badge appeal, it is better equipped than a more expensive A6 or 5-Series.

The six-cylinder car sits in insurance group 15, while the V8 is two groups higher, but that's the biggest difference in cost between the two. Their fuel economy is very similar, with the 3.0-litre returning an official 24mpg and the 4.3 V8 managing 23mpg.

Both engines require servicing every 9000 miles and although Lexus dealerships do not charge as much as their Jaguar or Mercedes-Benz counterparts, they are still expensive. Independent experts aren't particularly cheap, either. So while a GS may be cheap to buy, don't expect it to be cheap to run.

Lexus's standard equipment is staggeringly good. Even if you buy a very early entry-level S version, you'll still have alloy wheels, climate control, electric rake- and reach-adjustable power steering, electric seats and a CD multi-changer. SE trim adds desirables such as traction control and leather seats.

At launch there was just one engine and it does a more than adequate job. It's a 3.0-litre, straight six, 216bhp unit, mated to a smooth five-speed automatic gearbox. Find a car with this engine and SE trim, and it's the best GS you can buy.

A sharper-handling Sport version was introduced in January 1999. However it produced no more power than the standard car.

The GS range was face-lifted in October 2000. At the same time a 280bhp V8 engine arrived, available in SE trim only. Although the outgoing Sport was dropped in 2000, a new version arrived in summer 2003 with retuned suspension, 18in alloy wheels and a body kit. But, none of these are good enough to change our mind that the 3.0 SE is the best combination.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes.

Executive

Provided the person selling the car has bitten the bullet and had it serviced, you shouldn't have too much to worry about. Anything less than a top three position in customer satisfaction surveys is regarded as failure within Lexus, and the Japanese company's reliability record is second to none.

That doesn't mean you just smile and hand the cheque over, because there are still problems to look out for. There have been reports of suspension faults, for instance, so listen carefully for knocking or clonking noises. If the car has clocked up over 60,000 miles make sure that the cambelt has been replaced.

Ask for proof of when the brake pads were replaced, too, as the GS tends to get through them rather quickly. Also check that the anti-lock brake warning light comes on with the ignition and goes out afterwards.

While the styling may not be to everyone's taste, there's no arguing with the huge amount of space inside the GS. When this model was introduced in 1998, Lexus used a longer wheelbase than on the previous model, and that meant plenty of lounging room for all.

As you'd only expect, getting a good position behind the steering wheel is easy. In fact, every seat is comfortable and the overall feel is of a modern car with plenty of technology at your fingertips. Boot space is generous, too.

Even the mechanical parts are just as impressiev. The V8 engine, for example, idles so smoothly you almost have to rev it to check it's running, and the straight six is impressive, too.

Sadly, the chassis is not so good. The steering is slightly vague and turn-in to corners is not as crisp as it should be. While the chassis rides motorways well enough, things aren't so settled on twistier roads.

Used Lexus GS Saloon 1997 - 2005 reliability

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Used Lexus GS Saloon 1997 - 2005 review

Provided the person selling the car has bitten the bullet and had it serviced, you shouldn't have too much to worry about. Anything less than a top three position in customer satisfaction surveys is regarded as failure within Lexus, and the Japanese company's reliability record is second to none.,That doesn't mean you just smile and hand the cheque over, because there are still problems to look out for. There have been reports of suspension faults, for instance, so listen carefully for knocking or clonking noises. If the car has clocked up over 60,000 miles make sure that the cambelt has been replaced.,Ask for proof of when the brake pads were replaced, too, as the GS tends to get through them rather quickly. Also check that the anti-lock brake warning light comes on with the ignition and goes out afterwards.

What to look for when buying a Lexus GS 1997 - 2005, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability.

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Used Lexus GS Saloon 1997 - 2005 reliability

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