Lexus Announces Prices on Four 2003 Models

TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 22 -- Lexus announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the 2003 LS 430 and ES 300 luxury sedans, the SC 430 hardtop convertible, and the LX 470 premium luxury utility vehicle, which receives new features and revised styling for the new model year.

The LX 470 has been given several enhancements for 2003 including a horsepower increase from 230 to 235, a new five speed automatic transmission with a gated shifter and an updated steering system. The new Variable Gear Ratio Steering system can vary both the rack-and-pinion steering ratio and power assist boost to improve maneuverability and road feel.

Freshened front styling of the LX 470 is highlighted by a new grille and bumper, and independent four-beam projector headlights with green tint lenses like those on the LS 430 luxury sedan. Lexus also revised the rear combination lamps, center dashboard cluster and instrument gauges as well as the optional roof rack and rear spoiler for 2003. For driver convenience, audio controls have been added to the restyled steering wheel.

LX 470 value also is enhanced with additional new standard features such as seat-mounted side airbags and side front and rear curtain airbags, 18-inch alloy wheels with 275/60 mud and snow tires, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a rear-seat audio system with separate controls, and a voice command feature on the navigation system.

Lexus Link and Night View systems are offered as optional equipment on the 2003 LX 470, as well as a rear seat DVD entertainment system that includes two sets of wireless headphones.

The all-new Night View system uses near-infrared technology to help enhance nighttime driving visibility. The system projects near-infrared beams from two lamps in the lower grille. The near-infrared light reflects from objects ahead back to a Charged Coupled Device (CCD) camera mounted inside at the top of the windshield. A dedicated computer processes the resulting natural-looking images, which are then projected onto the lower section of the windshield in the driver's field of vision, resulting in a picture similar to that on a black and white television.

The MSRP for the 2003 LX 470 is $63,125. The MSRP, including enhanced equipment levels, has increased by $1,270, or 2.1 percent over last year's prices.

For 2003 the Lexus LS 430 premium luxury sedan receives as standard 17-inch wheels and a new optional 17-inch all-season tire. The base MSRP for the LS 430 increases 1.0 percent, to $54,925, a difference of $520.

The ES 300 sedan offers available power adjustable accelerator and brake pedals for the new model year while carrying a 2003 MSRP of $31,625, a 0.4 percent increase.

Lexus Link is offered on the SC 430 for 2003. Base pricing on the luxury marque's hardtop convertible is $62,025, up 1.6 percent or $970.