1999 Lexus GS300 and GS400...Continued

Even though it is larger, it actually weighs about 50 lbs. less. There is the full complement of trim, comfort, convenience and sound systems. It is actually larger inside than the LS400 in some dimensions.

A bold four-light layout front and rear give the car a distinctive and slightly aggressive look. In order to provide owners distinctive separating visual features, the V8 version comes with a spoiler on the rear deck.

Best of all, the price of the six-cylinder went down almost $9000 to $37,305 and the new V8 GS400 starts at $45,505.

This V8 shares some features with the LS powerplant, but is specially tuned for the extra degree of performance mid-size auto drivers want. The new electronically-controlled five-speed automatic is well matched to this car. You can get the GS400 with a selectable shift controlled by buttons on the steering wheel. Unlike some German cars which use up/down paddles or switches which can get confusing when the steering wheel is turned, Lexus uses buttons on the front of the wheel to shift down, and on the rear to shift up. Don't be surprised to see this on the GS300 in the future. That engine is a real smooth, high torquing powerplant, and would be my choice, even if the price were the same.

Going along with the luxury performance philosophy, no manual transmission is offered. In a full day of driving around twisting mountain roads and a race course handling track, I never found a need for a manual. The automatic always had the gears I wanted, and shifted quickly and crisply enough to make me feel like a pro.

Both models are standard with 16" wheels and wide Bridgestone Potenzas, while there is an optional 17" wheel for the GS400.

Lexus has developed their own skid control which uses independent braking action and throttle control to help if the car gets slightly out of shape. It will not save us from stupidity, but when the unexpected patches of slick pavement come along, it will easily save the poorest driver from making the situation worse.

To save us from meandering aimlessly through strange areas, there is now a $2150 navigation computer which is about the best I've seen to date. They keep getting better, and this uses the most natural selection process and covers almost all the country.

The engines feature Toyota's Acoustic Control Induction System, which varies the effective length of the intake manifold according to the demand from the engine. This results in improved torque throughout the speed range.

Lexus now has over 400,000 cars on the road. They are offering a "Lexus Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle Program" to buyers who may want the cost saving of a used Lexus, but don't want to give up the peace of mind associated with a new car warranty. Selected cars are put through an extensive mechanical and appearance check.

Once they pass, they are given a warranty and enrolled in the roadside assistance program. Cars less than five years old with under 58,000 miles qualify for a six-year, 70,000 mile warranty. Certified vehicles also qualify for new car financing rates and lease options from Lexus.