2006 Lexus GS Road Test

As previously mentioned, all-wheel and rear-wheel drive GS 300s feature Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) for added control

Switchgear tolerances are top-notch, much better than the new Audi A6, for instance, and plastics quality is extremely high-grade, besting Mercedes-Benz's E-Class, among others. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

and resultantly, safety. All GS models come equipped with traction control, hill start assist control, antilock brakes with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist.

The GS also features dynamic radar cruise control as an option. It uses radar to slow the car down if approaching a slower moving vehicle, and automatically returns to the preset speed when the vehicle is passed.

All the controls inside the cabin are well laid out, in a clean and uncluttered manner. In this respect the GS is unique in its class, emitting the warmth of character normally associated with Lexus cars but almost minimalist in going about its duty. Switchgear tolerances are top-notch, much better than the new Audi A6, for instance, and plastics quality are extremely high-grade, besting Mercedes-Benz's E-Class, among others. The authentic wood trim is richly finished and aluminum accents beautifully detailed, mirroring the leather seat and trim quality.

The GS adds interior room over the outgoing model, but it's still not attempting to encroach on the flagship LS. The rear seats are comfortable, however, ideal for whiling away the hours on a long trip or extended commute, with plenty of head, shoulder, hip and legroom. Climate

The authentic wood trim is richly finished and aluminum accents beautifully detailed. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

controlled seats can be had up front, featuring either heat or air-conditioning through the perforated leather cushions.

Another over-the-top luxury is Lexus' exclusive Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system, among the best of its kind in the industry and available in the optional Touring package. It features spatial properties via 5.1 channel surround sound, a process dubbed Digital Signal Processor (DSP) that emits 3D-like audio, while overall sound quality is as rich as can be expected inside a car. The system's position select (POS) functionality allows optimal sound in each seating position, while an automatic sound levelizer (ASL) compensates for the wind noise that comes from open windows and sunroofs, among other sources. The ML system can be actuated via steering wheel controls or vocally, both which are easy systems to operate.