Lexus SC 430's V8, in addition to its ample power, is a paragon of smoothness and graceful response. Continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) helps eliminate the compromise between low-end torque and high-rpm horsepower by optimizing valve overlap throughout the engine's speed range. The Intuitive Powertrain Control works with the Electronic Throttle Control to help smooth out acceleration from a standing start.

The six-speed automatic transmission employs Shift Logic Control to respond to road grade and acceleration/deceleration activity, holding gears or downshifting on hills to help provide optimal engine power or a braking effect. The sequential-shift feature allows the driver to enjoy a more involved driving experience by controlling gearshifts manually when desired.


Lexus Safety and Security

Lexus SC 430 matches its performance capability with the brand's renowned attention to safety and security. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes dual front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags. A front-passenger-seat weight detection sensor and a seatbelt tension sensor help determine when the passenger airbag should be deployed. The newly added front-knee airbags for 2007 help provide further injury-reduction potential in Lexus SC 430.

An array of dynamic handling aids helps give Lexus SC 430 driver the tools for optimal vehicle control: a four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); Brake Assist, and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC). EBD monitors all four wheels during braking and varies brake pressure according to the load on each wheel. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking, and if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage ABS, it applies increased braking power until pedal pressure is released.

VSC helps control lateral traction while cornering on slippery or dry road surfaces by using a combination of throttle intervention and applying individual wheel braking to help control any discrepancy between where the driver is steering and where the vehicle is heading. Integrated with VSC, TRAC is designed to help limit rear-wheel spin on slippery road surfaces.


Seeing Around Corners

The Lexus safety portfolio includes a number of technologies designed to enhance driver visibility. Lexus SC 430 was among the first Lexus models to gain the advanced Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) that helps to enhance nighttime visibility in turns and curves. In Lexus SC 430, a central controller calculates the optimum lighting direction based on input from vehicle speed and steering angle and swivels the right and left headlights independently. A self-leveling feature (similar to HID) automatically levels the lights of SC 430 depending on road conditions. An AFS on/off switch allows the driver to disengage the system at any time.

Other SC 430 safety and visibility features include the new uniblade windshield wiper, daytime-running lights, standard fog lamps and projector High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with auto levelers.


Definitive Luxury

Lexus SC 430's ultra-luxurious interior, with its plush combination of natural materials including leather and wood trim, took inspiration from high-end, custom-made yachts.

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