Flagship for Lexus is the full-size LS 430 sedan. This is a dreamboat limousine-like hauler, stretched to provide generous space for riders and laced with luxury features, then armed with advanced mechanical systems linked to smart computer processors that can out-think and out-perform other vehicles.

The big sedan draws strength from the Lexus aluminum 4.3-liter V8 linked to a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift feature. For 2006 the engine produces 278 hp.

An optional Ultra Luxury Package adds extra equipment like a laser-guided cruise control system, sonar-based parking guide and a navigation system with DVD-based database and dashboard touch screen. Further luxury touches include an internal blower in front seats to circulate heated or cooled air, and a heat element for the rear bench with back massager and seatback power adjustments. A power-operated sunscreen stands at the rear window, with manual screens in rear doors.

The line of luxurious performance machines by Lexus, elite upscale label from Toyota of Japan, features elegant sedans, sporty coupes and rugged yet refined sport-utility vehicles. In 2006, Lexus rolls out new iterations of the IS series of wily compact-class sports sedans and recasts the GS series as perhaps the most sophisticated luxury sports sedans on our planet. The world's first gas-electric luxury vehicle also emerges badged as the RX 400h. Derived from the RX 330 crossover SUV, it packs a powerful V6 engine and multiple electric motors plus optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) traction.

Stunning high-performance rear-wheel-drive (RWD) four-door sports cars, constructed on a larger structure for 2006 and stuffed with high-tech mechanical hardware, divide into editions based on engine size.

GS 430 gets the Lexus 4.3-liter V8 with VVT-i (variable valve timing with intelligence) to make 300 hp. GS 300 totes a new 3.0-liter V6 with VVT-i for 245 hp. Both plants use a new close-ratio six-speed automatic with sequential manual shifter.

But GS 300 adds optional AWD traction for Snow Belt states. An adaptive variable suspension is aboard and more computerized controls than any other production car to-date. A key element is new VDIM -- Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management -- on GS 430.

The GS cockpit contains two bolstered bucket seats flanking a floor console, a steering wheel in wood and leather, and an instrument panel with 160-mph analog speedometer, analog tachometer and electronic digital odometer.

The line of luxurious performance machines by Lexus, elite upscale label from Toyota of Japan, features elegant sedans, sporty coupes and rugged yet refined sport-utility vehicles. In 2006, Lexus rolls out new iterations of the IS series of wily compact-class sports sedans and recasts the GS series as perhaps the most sophisticated luxury sports sedans on our planet. The world's first gas-electric luxury vehicle also emerges badged as the RX 400h. Derived from the RX 330 crossover SUV, it packs a powerful V6 engine and multiple electric motors plus optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) traction.

A crossover SUV from Lexus rises from the FWD platform of a car. It provides a luxurious five-seat passenger compartment and rear cargo bay. The cabin piles on premium gear like electroluminescent instruments in a triple-pod display, and power seats, mirrors and windows.

Many safety systems are in place, including curtain-style air bags set above front and rear side windows plus frontal air bags for front buckets and large seat-mounted side air bags to cover the rider's torso, abdomen and pelvis, even an air bag to shield the driver's knees.

RX 330 has a 3.3-liter aluminum V6 rated this year at 223 hp with a five-speed electronic automatic transaxle.

Options in packages list leather upholstery and wood trim in walnut or bird's eye maple, a navigation system and rear-view video camera, moonroof, plus a Mark Levinson audio system with six-disc CD changer and satellite radio service.

The line of luxurious performance machines by Lexus, elite upscale label from Toyota of Japan, features elegant sedans, sporty coupes and rugged yet refined sport-utility vehicles. In 2006, Lexus rolls out new iterations of the IS series of wily compact-class sports sedans and recasts the GS series as perhaps the most sophisticated luxury sports sedans on our planet. The world's first gas-electric luxury vehicle also emerges badged as the RX 400h. Derived from the RX 330 crossoverSUV, it packs a powerful V6 engine and multiple electric motors plus optionalall-wheel-drive (AWD) traction.

Lexus kicks up power numbers on the luxurious GX 470 SUV. Output for the 4.7-liter V8 engine climbs to 270 hp in 2005 issues.

And GX also gets a new Sport Package coupled to the Lexus high-tech Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).

With wheels at corners and the body marked by flat flanks with a stubby prow and tail leaving scant overhangs, the Lexus IS series of compact-class sports sedans resembles high-strung rally cars and acts like road-hugging German touring sedans. Designs are new in 2006 for the second generation with a longer and broader platform cast in the squatty stance of a sports car.

Two new V6 engines define models. The 2.5-liter V6 with 204 hp drops into IS 250, with options for RWD or AWD traction. The 3.5-liter version goes to IS 350 and nets 306 hp. A new six-speed manual transmission works on IS 250 only, or optional six-speed sequential-shift automatic with paddle-shifters on the steering wheel. A VSC device is stock for IS 250, but IS 350 scores the advanced VDIM equipment.

Optional 18-inch alloy wheels employ tires of 225/40R18 front and 255/40R18 rear.

The line of luxurious performance machines by Lexus, elite upscale label from Toyota of Japan, features elegant sedans, sporty coupes and rugged yet refined sport-utility vehicles. In 2006, Lexus rolls out new iterations of the IS series of wily compact-class sports sedans and recasts the GS series as perhaps the most sophisticated luxury sports sedans on our planet. The world's first gas-electric luxury vehicle also emerges badged as the RX 400h. Derived from the RX 330 crossover SUV, it packs a powerful V6 engine and multiple electric motors plus optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) traction.