2006 Lexus GS Road Test

As Good As the Best and Better than Most

The first thing I noticed when viewing a collection of new GS 300s and 430s lined up for Lexus' ride and drive event, was how much

The new Leuxs GS 300 and 430 look much better in person than on a two dimensional magazine page. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

better each looked in the metal, off of a two dimensional magazine page. I have to say that each looked quite a bit better in the natural setting of Vancouver Island than amid the clutter of the Detroit auto show stand, where Lexus' latest was first introduced.

Actually, this is very good looking luxury sedan, combining the aggressiveness of the outgoing model with the feline grace of the Giorgetto Giugiaro designed original, into a much more attractive package than either predecessor. It doesn't use gimmicky styling to lure in the nouveau riche, like some of its rivals, but rather relies on understated elegance, mixed with a healthy dose of muscle.

I also couldn't help but appreciate just how rich the car's paint looked, and the variety of deep and delicious hues that highlighted its lithe profile. Part benign, part menacing, the GS is more than mere machinery, seeming to have scheming machinations on its mechanical mind.

The only thing evil about the new GS, mind you, is a continual tempting from its enthusiastic drivetrain and athletic undercarriage

Part benign, part menacing, the GS is more than mere machinery. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

to break the speed limit. OK, I can already hear your murmurings about Lexus driving dynamics, or lack thereof, from here. Well, you're wrong. This is probably a good time to put to rest any preconceived beliefs about Lexus brand performance characteristics being staid, boring and only capable of satisfying the Lincoln Town Car set. Nothing could be further from the truth, at least when referring to the brand's rear-drive cars. Its IS 300 can run rings around most competitors in the luxury C-segment, and its flagship LS 430 is one of the quickest in its class off the line, and as agile as most rivals when optional adjustable shocks are turned to the sport position.