To some among us here at RTM, the Lexus GS-Series sedan is the best Lexus sedan available.

Sure, the big-momma, big-buck LS430 is more opulent, but for some, it's just too much. Sure, the IS300 is sportier, but for some, it's too hard edged. Sure, the ES300 is cushier and easier on the wallet, but for some, its more-Buick-than-BMW demeanor is off-putting. The GS, on the other hand, represents an ideal compromise of all Lexus virtues. Goldilocks, we imagine, would drive the GS.

The GS comes in two variations: the sub-$40K GS300, which is powered by a 220-hp 3.0-liter V-6, and the $9K-more-expensive GS430, which is powered by a 300-hp, 4.3-liter V-8. Both the GS300 and GS430 sedans are loaded with comfort and convenience features, but along with the extra horsepower, the 430 model also adds standard leather upholstery, memory seat and mirror positioning, heated front seats and high-intensity discharge headlights.

All GS models come with side air bags and stability control systems standard. An incredible Mark Levinson sound system is a pricey option, one that gets even more expensive if you couple it with Lexus' easy-to-use navigation system.

Cheap? No. But then again, it's a Lexus, which means that it is meticulously well-built and faultlessly reliable. And among all Lexus models, it represents the best blend of style, luxury, performance and price.