just about two tons when full of people and luggage will get down the road quickly.

Quietly, too, unless you're pressing hard, at which point a delightful--though still

muted--V8 rumble is apparent. This is a relaxed engine most of the time, unobtrusive

and backed by a transmission that delivers butter-smooth gear changes. Long gearing

equates to decent fuel economy in cruise mode, but frequent dips into the power

reserves will use up the required premium unleaded quickly.

In most situations the Lexus takes to winding roads with the same ease it displays

covering long distances on the interstate. It's no sports car, and rolls a little more

than drivers accustomed to European-style sedans will like, but that won't be apparent

in normal driving. The steering, light and easy around town, displays some vagueness

at speed, though much of that may be due to tire choice (our tester had Goodyear GAL

all-season radials), subjectively not the best for sporty use).

ABS is standard, traction control is optional. Both work well. The air suspension

option is suggested for cruising, less desireable for enthusiastic driving.