Lexus GS 350

The hybrid is powered by both a 3.5-liter engine and an electric motor, for a total system output of 340 hp. The 350 comes with a standard 6-speed transmission, but the 460 comes with eight ratios. The 450h is in a drivetrain class of its own, with an electronic continuously variable transmission. All three models can reach 60 mph from a standstill in just over 5 seconds.

The GS has a lot of high-tech goodies, such as the SmartAccess sensor system, which allows the car to be unlocked by touching the door handle or trunk, and then started with the push of a button. Holding the unlock button on the key fob as you approach the car rolls down all the windows. Available parking assist provides alerts to objects in the way and dynamic radar cruise control maintains a safe distance from the car in front while cruising on the highway.

Safety systems are state-of-the-art, too. Direct tire pressure monitoring, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, a 10-airbag setup, traction control and rain-sensing windshield wipers are standard. The Vehicle Dynamics Integrate Management system prevents a loss of traction using individual-wheel braking and throttle activation. On the 460, it works with the variable gear-ratio steering to maintain control. The available adaptive headlights that help drivers see around bends in the road are standard on the 450h. New this year on both 350 and 460 models is a standard brake override system. When the brake is applied, the system cuts engine power even if the accelerator pedal is also applied, allowing the car to be safely slowed and stopped.

Lexus IS 250

Lexus IS 250 Both engines come with variable valve timing for responsiveness as well as fuel efficiency-the Lexus IS 250 is quite economical with EPA ratings of up to 21 mpg city and 29 highway. While the Lexus IS 250 comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, with a 6-speed automatic (and steering-wheel paddle-shifters) optional, all IS 350 models come with the automatic.

In all Lexus IS models, a double-wishbone suspension design in front and a multi-link rear setup help reduce weight and increase responsiveness. The suspension in the IS is tuned to be quite firm, yet there's enough give to maintain enough ride comfort for most.

The Lexus IS 250 has rather compact exterior proportions, which means that backseat space is tight for the tallest adults, especially in IS C convertibles. However it's quite comfortable in front. Leather upholstery is standard, with new black-metallic accents in the sedan and the IS sedan has a reasonably large trunk.