A mid-size Lexus SUV looks like a variant of the LX 470, only in reduced scale. It also carries the big Lexus V8 for 235 hp and connects to a five-speed automatic with uphill and downhill shift logic. There are three tiers of seats in the spacious passenger compartment, with trimmings in leather and fine hardwoods. The 4WD system, permanently engaged, has a center differential with limited-slip. More Lexus innovations aboard extend to active traction control (ATC), adaptable variable suspension (AVS) and downhill assist control (DAC). In addition, options include an exclusive Mark Levinson premium audio system and a nighttime Lexus vision enhancement system called Night View.

A new Sport model shows up with smoked bezel headlamps on the prow and dark graphite finish for 17-inch alloy wheels and the roof rack. Inside, the cabin adds black bird's eye maple wood trim. GX Sport also stocks a new variable suspension labeled Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), with Bluetooth wireless connection available for the add-on navigation system.

The 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 4.3-liter aluminum V8 linked to a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift feature. 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.

As the only Lexus sedan oriented to front-wheel-drive (FWD) format, ES 330 returns for 2005 as an elegant mid-size model featuring fresh exterior styling and new trim and appointments in the cabin. The sleek form of the ES reveals a sculpted hood defined by bold triangular headlamp clusters and a severely raked windshield offset by flat flanks and gracefully curved windows. It looks aggressive but streamlined and stylish -- and downright expensive.

Climb inside to discover a luxurious compartment trimmed in fine leathers and wood. 2005 editions contain new golden bird's eye maple or burled walnut wood trim inside with options for a six-disc CD changer, a navigation system with voice activation and a bumper camera that displays images of the vehicle's reverse-moving view on a dashboard video screen. Power comes from the Lexus 3.3-liter V6 rated at 225 hp with a five-speed electronic automatic transmission. Many safety features go into the ES 330, including side curtain air bags above side front and rear windows plus frontal and seat-mounted side air bags. A vehicle skid control system (VSC) is available, plus an adaptive suspension. (CONTINUED...)