2007 Lexus LS 460

"Auto Parking will take some getting used to," says tech editor Reynolds. "The first time I tried it [parallel parking], it worked perfectly. Since then, however, I've tried it twice more, and it's either scared me or just refused to work at all. Undoubtedly, I need to learn more about the system."

As Reynolds discovers, though, the LS at least drives like a dream. "After journeying to Phoenix and back, I have to say that this is one fantastic machine for long-distance driving. My mileage for the round trip was 25 mpg, and the range is simply extraordinary-it appears to be about 530 miles on the highway." At 5000 miles, the LS made its first service stop (complimentary oil change and inspection) and also had its cracked windshield replaced for a whopping $2262.88-reason enough to not tailgate.

OTHER MT VOICES:

My wife likes to make fun of big, luxury sedans, calls them rolling couches. The LS is quite possibly the ultimate expression of that, only, it's an ungodly expensive, leather swathed sectional that's the centerpiece of a soundproofed luxury condo wired with the latest in sound technology and hip, techno gadgets. Oh, and it drives pretty well too. This is the ultimate car is for the point A to B crowd. Isolated and quiet with a ride that literally lunches on buckled pavement. There's more than enough power to get you in and out of any sticky situation. Its handling is right in a sweet spot, not too tight, not to loose. Inside is a delight, with arguably the most comfortable seats I have ever planted my butt on. Build quality is among the best I've seen in any vehicle I've driven. Controls are generally easy to deal with. One of these days I'm going to try that goofy park assist. If I was going on a vacation, there isn't a ride in the fleet I'd rather have. Kim said it got 25 mpg and some 500-miles in range on his trip; that is outstanding for a car in this class. Is this an enthusiast's car, a true driver's car? Of course not, but it's about the coolest rolling couch you can buy. -MIKE FLOYD

I noticed a light grinding/knocking noise coming from the left-front brake when applying the brakes. Sounds like something in the rotor, possibly. There's no grinding or rubbing feel coming through the pedal, though, so I don't think it's anything that needs to be addressed before the next service at 10,000 miles. I'm really, really impressed by this new LS. It is so quiet and smooth (Lexus hallmarks) but it is also now very quick--the velvety V-8 and super-slick eight-speed auto are perfect partners. Better yet, fuel economy is outstanding for a full-size V-8 luxury sedan. The interior and build-quality are outstanding--everything moves with precision and fluidity. Seats are so comfy but also supportive, making fatigue a non-issue. Mark Levinson stereo is unbelievable--arguably the best factory unit out there. I think a big reason why the stereo sounds so great is that the LS itself is so well-built--makes those subwoofers and speakers sound that much better. At $71K, this car ain't cheap; but, compared to its German rivals, it is a bargain. -RON KIINO