The 4.3-liter engine generates 290 horsepower and, more importantly, 320 foot-pounds of torque. That's enough to propel the big Lexus from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.7 seconds, according to Car and Driver magazine, and past the quarter-mile mark in about 15.3 seconds. That is quite quick. That means the Lexus LS 430 leaves the Acura RL in the dust. It's not as quick as a BMW 540i, Mercedes E430, or Jaguar S-Type 4.0, however. Top speed of the LS 430 is electronically limited at 131 mph.

Lexus builds one of the quietest cars available. The LS 430's engine is barely audible. Mechanical and road vibration is damped out as well. No other automaker does a better job than Lexus in creating such a serene and rattle-free zone for riders.

Technology helps ensure the driver keeps the LS 430 on the road in an emergency handling situation. Its Intuitive Powertrain Control module analyzes throttle position, vehicle speed and engine load before allocating torque to the rear wheels.

With power directed to the rear wheels and independent suspension all around, the LS 430 provides a classic chassis layout for driver control. Anti-lift and anti-squat suspension geometry reduces body pitch when accelerating or braking. Lateral roll, or body lean, is held to a minimum in hard corners. The Ultra Luxury Package includes adaptive suspension damping to further isolate the passenger compartment from uncertain road conditions.

A no-cost optional Euro-style touring suspension brings firmer shock settings for more sporting manners.

Another high-tech option puts a laser to work with the cruise control to maintain a pre-set distance between the Lexus and the vehicle in front of it. The smart system removes the last vestige of work associated with automatic cruise control, because it can detect a vehicle ahead and modulate speed to maintain a safe distance.