Industry Report: New Lexus GS and Infiniti M Go Head to Head in Midsize Luxury Shootout

Only time will tell if the new M will pose a similar assault on 5-Series sales as Infiniti's G35 has on BMW's 3-Series, but by the

The upcoming GS and M improve the respective styling of their outgoing predecessors considerably. (Photo: Lexus/Infiniti Canada)

initial reaction of show-goers at the most recent Detroit auto show, as well as those who witnessed the car debut in New York last year, it stands a fighting chance of turning the midsize segment upside down.

The new GS should also be a strong performer for Lexus, improving the brand's sales in the hotly contested midsize luxury segment while leading the way for the Japanese brand's styling direction.

When it all comes down to it, styling is what attracts people to new cars in the first place, allowing sales people at the dealership level to inform prospective buyers about additional model and brand benefits.

The upcoming GS and M improve the respective styling of their outgoing models considerably, heating up the competition in the midsize luxury segment.