Again showing confidence in the outgoing LS, Lexus restrained its exterior designers from stretching their creative legs. The most recent facelift shows subtle modifications to the front and rear fascias, simplifying its appearance while adding more sport to its character.

The LS 430 was the most problem-free vehicle according to J.D. Power and Associates' 2003 Initial Quality Study for the seventh consecutive year. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

Reshaped LED taillights have been added while the rear decklid has been restyled too. Twin tailpipes are also now exposed in an aggressive manner - all minor but effective alterations on the proven LS theme.

That theme includes problem free driving. As previously stated all anybody need do to validate concerns about reliability is read the many reports heaping unabashed praise on the full-size Lexus. The model was the most problem-free vehicle according to J.D. Power and Associates' 2003 Initial Quality Study for the seventh consecutive year. It also can boast nine consecutive years of number one problem-free status after three years of ownership.

The LS 430 is not only the quintessential Lexus, but one of the best flagship sedans in the world. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

But in the end the deepest cut the LS 430 inflicts on its European competitors is to its price. While hardly cheap the LS starts at a comparatively reasonable $83,200. Only the Infiniti Q45 is less expensive at $74,900. The next up the graduated scale is the Jaguar XJ8 at $87,500, Mercedes-Benz S430 at $96,600, BMW 745i at $96,800 and finally, the Audi A8 L at $97,750. Even if the LS 430 gets loaded to the T's with all the options its $102,740 sticker is just barely higher than the base prices of its competitors, and believe me these can increase exponentially.