Good evening,

Woo hoo! Some new wheels have arrived at Chez Humphries. The criteria for this vehicle were: a decent boot for my golf clubs and electric buggy, a comfy rear seat to ‘chauffeur’ my Dad around, and an easy drive and a smooth ride to soothe me in my declining years.

The options considered included the new Falcon, in both G6E Turbo and GT-P guises, the Mercedes-Benz E320 or E500 and Lexus GS, either 430 or Hybrid. All had their strengths and not many weaknesses but there can only be one winner. A one year old, Lexus GS430 came out on top, based on perceived value, impressive features & options, cosseting and luxurious drive, generous warranty and superior dealer attention & support (thanks Peter Cheung @ Lexus of Blackburn).

(‘Lex’ and proud owner at Lexus of Blackburn - July 2008)

After a couple of months, I have no reason to doubt or question the decision. It is a superb vehicle. I especially like the integrated Sat Nav / Bluetooth phone / iPod connectivity / trip computer for it’s clarity, ease of use and functionality. I wasn’t looking for an overly sporting drive (luckily I have other vehicles for that) but the sweet revving quad cam V8 and ultra-smooth six speed electronic gearbox (with sequential shift) and Sports settings for the suspension makes for rapid progress when the need arises. But otherwise the most attractive element of the car is it’s deafeningly quiet drive train and ride. It is eerily quiet. As for fuel consumption of the 4.3 litre V8, I am achieving the advertised combined average 11 litres / 100 kilometres.

(Lexus GS430 in driveway - July 2008)

Any quibbles? Well, it does have a bit of the ‘nanny state’ about the plethora of on-screen warnings and audible alarms that blare out if you don’t do everything the car expects in the right sequence or at the right time. The cabin lighting is a bit too much mood lighting and not bright enough for my ageing eyes.

Not everyone is in love with the styling, particularly the rear 3/4 view, but it is at least individualistic and looks stunning from other angles, including directly side on. It has great road presence overall I reckon.

(Cosy Interior - Charcoal & Walnut)

Bye for now, BomberBoy