It's pleasant inside a GS400 and we found ourselves just parked at times, listening to the sound system
and enjoying the surroundings. Lots of leather, thick carpeting and tasteful design add to the ambiance.
This interior manages to feel roomy and cozy at the same time.
The GS 400 instrument panel and dashboard is a refreshing departure from other designs from Japan. Turn
on the ignition and a black panel illuminates to reveal gauges with black markings on white faces lighted
from the rear. The intensity of the backlighting automatically varies with ambient light. The gauges are a
handsome, creative design and they are easy to read.
To the right are the usual controls for climate and sound, logically laid out and easy to use. There are
separate controls for driver and passenger heating and cooling. A hydrocarbon air pollution sensor
automatically switches to the recirculation mode when contamination is detected.
Order the optional $2,250 navigation system and an information screen fills the center of the dash, moving
stereo and climate controls to the top and bottom of the display.
Controls for power windows and moonroof are one-touch open and close. A sensor stops the window or moonroof
and warns the driver when anything--such as the head of a child or pet--is blocking its path. The supplied
keyless remote can be used to operate the windows and moonroof. An electric garage door opener hidden in
the front map lamp can be programmed for nearly all garage door frequencies.
The view out the front of the GS 400 is excellent, but the rear view is restricted somewhat by the rear headrests and wide C-pillars. Both GS models have seat-mounted side-impact air bags.
With all that horsepower, right-foot gratification is instantaneous and substantial. In fact, drivers
inexperienced with high horsepower ratings may find themselves intimidated the first few times they apply
full throttle. The GS 400 practically leaps off the road when given full throttle. There is plenty of engine
noise, but it is a mechanical business sound rather than the angry noise of a Corvette's V8. However, the
force pulling you back into the seat is very Corvette like.
Under normal driving conditions, the GS 400 is a perfect gentleman. Its sedate and effortless with just the
right amount of steering effort to instill a firm feeling of control often missing in luxury cars.
The GS 400 rides more like a BMW than a Cadillac. The suspension absorbs road variations, while providing
reassurance in tight turns and fast sweepers.
The high-intensity headlamps throw a wide pattern with bright, sharply defined edges. The light sometimes
appears blue/white, but is actually a very white hue in a world of yellowish headlights. We liked them, but
you'll have to decide whether seeing what's ahead of you better is worth $500 for the latest technology.