Lexus LS

Motorways, long journeys, any road with a bump in it; the LS460 can anaesthetise the lot. This is where the big Lexus gains over any other competitor whether you ride or drive; it simply glides where others chop and dive. In 'Comfort' mode, the suspension becomes the perfect foil to any sort of pothole, and you barely feel speedbumps. The LS also makes so little noise you may think you have gone partially deaf. The 4.6-litre V8 has variable valve timing and lift and various other bits of clever trickery to allow for 375bhp to drive through a remarkably smooth eight-speed auto. And yes, you did read that right - the LS460 is the first car in the world to use eight speeds. Again a tech-fest that gets lots of respect. Very popular amongst younger people who aren't as brand-snobby as old duffers, but those old duffers are the only ones with enough cash to buy the damn things. Lexus's best built bit of kit is saying something and the LS feels like it'll comfortably outlast this galaxy at least. It's fairly efficient, but that's not to say the LS is a cheap car to run. You're looking at 25.4mpg If it's visceral you're looking for, then look elsewhere - this is automotive Valium.

Recently went down to Borneo Motors to test drive it and buy the new LS600hl (i own a boring S 350). The backseats were very luxurious. The controls were all very easy to see. The navigation system works perfectly