Lexus - GS

There's a lot to recommend GS to executive-class drivers. Firstly, it's built by Toyota's Lexus division, which is a very good thing. The quality of the construction is obvious and that means excellent long-term reliability.
Lexus spoils the buyer with a list of standard equipment which makes German rivals look poor value. And GS is certainly quietly potent. The powerful engines and smooth automatic gearboxes push this big saloon along at a rapid but always refined pace.
If you want comfort and luxury, then here it is. If you're looking for an engaging driving experience like BMW offers, then this Lexus is the wrong car. It also looks a bit bland, not quite impressive enough to play the luxury car part.
But for owners who want to be understated and a bit different, the GS may be perfect provided you can afford the high fuel bills and servicing costs.