WK: Lexus is starting to understand that design is key. Quality cars sell. Quality cars that look great sell even
better. The new IS 250/350 looked great on the stand and as long as the driving dynamics are excellent, could really
put up a fight against the 3-Series. Lexus also showed the GS 450h luxury hybrid that focuses on performance as well as
low emissions and higher mileage in a stealthy package. I’m curious on how much the 300+ hp IS 350 is going to set you
back.
Grade: B+
DT: It looks like Lexus is entering a vital part of their history. For the first time
Infiniti is catching up to their Toyota rival in terms of design, power and luxury and Lexus seemed to be resting on
its laurels with aging designs. Now everything is changing and every Lexus model is getting revamped! Wow. The IS, GS
and GS hybrid are huge steps in the company’s needed evolution and promise to offer better performance from the brand
known just for reliability and comfort. The looks aren’t overwhelming, but they are a lot better than anything
previously seen. And the powerplant offerings aren’t anything to sneeze at either. The company is straddling that line
of keeping old buyers happy while enticing new enthusiasts to the showroom. That is not easy to do.
Grade: A