Acura RL
Highlights: Two new trim packages. Technology package adds navigation, AcuraLink, rearview camera, active front lighting and improved wood interior trim. Tech package plus PAX run-flat tires receive the Collision Mitigation System. De-contented versions also available.
Base price: $46,450
What’s next: Minor changes next year, followed by a redesign in 2010 or 2011 with possible V10 power.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: The lack of V8 power does not deter us from the perfect mix of luxury and performance found in Acura’s flagship.
Cadillac STS
Highlights: New six-speed automatic transmission for V8 and STS-V models.
Base price: $42,590
What’s next: Next year sees a re-skin, followed by a redesign in 2010.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: Proof that America has what it takes to compete with the best of the world.
Lexus GS 350/430/450h
Highlights: GS 300 is replaced by the GS 350 to symbolize the 3.5-liter, 306-hp power plant, which also benefits from high-performance brakes and available 18-inch rims for RWD models. GS 430 now equipped with stability control system cutoff switch. The hybrid GS 450h, available since May, became the world’s first luxury hybrid sedan.
Base price: $44,845
What’s next: Awaits the arrival of the new 4.6-liter V8.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: The hidden control panel is annoying in this otherwise handsome and top-notch luxury sedan.
Lexus LS 460/460 L/600 hL
Highlights: All new, offers a long-wheelbase model for the first time, along with the world’s first eight-speed automatic transmission. Also, first-ever full-hybrid V8 powering the LS 600 hL. LS 460 has a 4.6-liter V8 available with rear- and all-wheel drive. To raise its luxury game, the LS offers power rear reclining seats, power leg rests with massage functions and body-heat sensors.
Base price: $59,000 (est.)
What’s next: All new now.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: The new LS raises the benchmark for luxury sedans that much higher.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Highlights: New ninth-generation S-Class engine choices include a 382-hp V8 and two V12s, a 510-hp version and 604-hp in the S65 AMG.
Base price: $86,175
What’s next: All-wheel drive by year’s end, diesel coming.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: Back on top of the luxury sedan heap.
Volvo S80
Highlights: The S80 arrives all-new with a larger 3.2-liter straight-six and a 4.4-liter, 315-hp V8 option to do battle with German rivals. The S80 has adaptive cruise control, advanced head restraints, side-impact airbags and Personal Car Communicator, a key fob that can detect the heartbeat of would-be assaulters hiding in the back seat. The new car is wider and taller than its predecessor to improve interior space.
Base price: $39,995 (est.)
What’s next: New model.
AutoWeek‘s opinion: A lower-cost alternative to the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series, the S80 won’t drive you mad with driver-interfaced electronic knobs and doodads.
Also to consider
Audi A6, A8; BMW 5- and 7-Series; Cadillac DTS; Infiniti M35, M45; Jaguar S-Type and XJ; Lincoln Town Car; Mercedes-Benz S-Class
