2004 Lexus LS 430 Performance Motor Trend

The LS doesn't trumpet spectacular specifications. Its 32-valve, 4.3-liter V-8 puts out 290 horsepower, second-least in this group, and curb weight is 4227 pounds -- about midpack. Yet thanks in part to a robust 320 pound-feet of torque and an astutely geared six-speed automatic, the Lexus cracked off the group's second-best acceleration times, reaching 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds and running the quarter mile in 14.7 at 95 mph. Said one editor: "Engine is extremely quiet on the highway -- you can hardly hear it -- but it pulls hard when asked and makes great sounds as it nears its redline." The Lexus also returned the best fuel-economy average (20.2 mpg) during our comparison testing.

Only one thing upsets the LS 430's otherwise serene and unflappable demeanor: hard cornering. Unlike the Jag and the German entries, which clearly carry a healthy dose of sport in their DNA, the Lexus would rather stroll through the twisties, thank you very much. Not only does the handling feel greasy when pushed, this car won't even let you drive it to the limit. On two separate occasions, we had barely hurled the Lexus into the first tight corner of our handling loop when the standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system stepped in and cut the power. This isn't a mild trimming of the throttle, mind you. No, push too hard and the VSC hits the brakes and cuts the power. At the same time, bells ring, whistles go off, sirens blare (well, there's a lot of electronic screaming, anyway). One of our drivers even activated the car's precollision system. "When I powered into the first tight turn, the VSC intervened hard and the presafe thing scrunched me into the seat with the seatbelts."

If your idea of a good time is briefcase-spilling cornering gs, better shop elsewhere. Everyone else, though, will find a lot to like in this Lexus. "Drives easily, capably, and sweetly," wrote one editor. "No funny business. An extremely appealing luxury sedan for the vast majority of drivers."