With wide price ranges and numerous body configurations, this diverse segment has two clear Best Buy choices--the refined Lexus LS 430 and the unique Audi A6. The LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at around $55,000, while the A6 earns Best Buy status for its blend of space, performance, design sophistication, powertrain choices, and workmanship at prices below those of most rivals.

We Recommend the Acura RL--a steal at around $45,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. If you are looking for something a bit more sporting, we Recommend BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the roomy Cadillac DeVille.

The SC 430 launched in spring 2001 as an early '02, so it's technically just two years young. Being so new, and as a low-volume image model, it shouldn't see any big changes for the next few years.

Lexus first pegged U.S. SC 430 sales at 10,000 a year, then upped the figure to 12,000 when initial demand proved stronger than expected. Actual sales were over 14,000 through the end of calendar 2001, and were fractionally higher in 2002 after being well down most of the year.