The GS 430 is living proof that Japan can build a legitimate sport sedan. Yet, a few bits of critical DNA are missing. While the powertrain is outstanding in every way, the rest of the package doesn't feel as balanced or "in the zone." The aggressive rolling stock is there, yet the GS' ride and handling qualities give it a larger, softer persona than the others, in spite of impressive test track numbers. It just doesn't feel as on-its-feet as the German cars. Inside, the cabin is beautifully trimmed, but lacks sporty character. Perhaps if Lexus were to fiddle with shock/spring/bushing rates, add in some sportier interior trimmings and seats, make its E-Shift sequential transmission control standard, and otherwise balance out the rest of the package for a little more edge, the GS 430 would be a more formidable challenger to the Teutonic sport-sedan set.
Mercedes' E430 and Audi's A6 4.2 both appeal tremendously, but for slightly different reasons. The V-8-powered A6 is the designer's choice. It's aggressively elegant from a styling and finish standpoint, at least midpack-quick in all the performance categories, and scores value points as the least expensive player of the group. This is a fairly low-volume model for Audi, and some will consider that bit of exclusivity an advantage. The same goes for its all-wheel-drive system-the only one of the bunch so equipped, and something not to be ignored if you live in snowy climes. The suspension tuning is a little overly, or artificially, harsh, and the Tiptronic trans doesn't offer the control of Mercedes and BMW systems, but these are nits. This is a wonderful machine.
The E430 is the oldest platform among this group, and aging well. But there's an incongruity in its performance: It serves up the second quickest acceleration, yet the least capable handling. We know that this chassis is more than up to the job, due to our extensive rubber-burning experience with the almighty E55 AMG. But Mercedes should go a little further with the E430's Sport Package suspension tuning. The E's HVAC and audio controls take some time to master, yet its sport seats will keep your backside planted and happy for days on end, making this a simply outstanding high-speed freeway cruiser. Overall, we scored the E430 Sport in second place and the Audi A6 4.2 in third-but can make just as much of a case for calling it the other way around, especially when you factor in the Audi's better price/value quotient.
"Cohesive." "Balanced." "Communicative." "Zen-like." These are among the plateload of complimentary adjectives that kept coming up with reference to the 540i Sport. There's something about it that just feels "so together" (there's another one). It posted the best handling performance of the group, yet rides beautifully. The interior is businesslike and luxurious, and its fabulous sport seats grip and support you no matter how, or how far, you drive. Its many safety systems offer reassurance under any driving condition, yet most can be switched off, giving the driver a chance to play. And if you want a faster one still, order up the six-speed manual trans, as the 540i is the only one to offer you the choice of a stick. Yes, it's the costliest ride of this particular group, but the addition or deletion of an expensive option or two would have easily remixed the price order.
If you're in search of a satisfying, performance-flavored do-it-all sport sedan, any or all of these four belong on your shopping list. And so far, the BMW 540i Sport remains at the top of ours.
A6 4.2 quattroWhat's HotGreat design, inside and outGood value for this market segmentStandard all-wheel drive
What's NotRide a little harshNot as quick as the restTiptronic should offer more control
540i SportWhat's HotSports-car-like handling with great rideUltra-supportive seatsSteptronic trans really works
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