1996 Lexus LS 400 Review (continued)
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Driving Impressions

With 260 hp underhood, 10 hp more than the original LS 400, even a car that weighs 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 the Goodyear GAL all-season radials, not the best for sporty driving.

ABS is standard, traction control is optional. Both work well. The air suspension option is suggested for cruising, less desireable for enthusiastic driving.