2006 Lexus GS GS300 front.JPG

Lexus' new midsize GS series arrived in March of 2005 to face off with Infiniti's M cars, but Lexus shows up packing less firepower. The base engine makes a switch (some would say downgrade) from inline 6 to V6. Luckily, power is up to 245 horsepower, but strangely, Lexus is giving it a 3.0 V6 instead of the 3.3 found on its downmarket cousin, the ES330, or the 3.5 in the Avalon. The 300-horsepower 4.3 V8 is the same as before and shared with the flagship LS430. Transmission will be a 6-speed manumatic, and all-wheel-drive will be optional with the V6. Styling is more sensual, and such niceties as rain-sensing wipers, HID lights, 10-speaker sound system, and adaptive variable suspension keep things interesting. Airbags for the front, sides, and knees keep occupants safe.