2006 Lexus GS
 By  Greg N. Brown 
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$51,125

Meridian 34
Story by Jeanne Craig
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$247,000

As the first completely new passenger car from Toyota's luxury division since 2001, the 2006 Lexus GS is a showcase of the giant company's most advanced technology. It's not only loaded with more computer power than some third-world countries, and flush with the degree of luxury enjoyed only in the best zip codes, but the fully restyled and reengineered four-door luxury sedan makes a bold dynamic statement that says, "Watch out, BMW!"

Lexus openly admits that BMW's 5 Series sedan provided the benchmark for the new GS, in much the same way the big Lexus LS was originally targeted the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, at the time top of its class. Again going after the perceived leader of the pack, Lexus devised a crafty strategy.

First, it broadened the appeal of the GS line-up with a faster, better equipped "base" car. In fact, the rear-wheel-drive GS 300 out-measures its competitor from Munich, the BMW 530i, in horsepower, torque, the 0-60 sprint and fuel mileage, not to mention offering a far friendlier and more sybaritic cockpit.

Second, to entice those in cold climes who until now had to look elsewhere for an all-weather passenger car, Lexus is offering an all-wheel-drive option for the GS 300. More than one-third of all new GS sales are expected to be AWD models, most headed for the northwest and northeast United States.

Here’s a sedan model that proves you can live large on a midsize boat. The all-new 341 draws on the company’s experience building yachts with big interiors. In addition to an oversized salon with premium entertainment center, there are two staterooms, including a guest cabin with a berth that converts to a seat should you choose to use this area as an office. The 341 also comes with the company’s popular Docking-on-Command system. Comprised of bow and stern thrusters, it’s so easy to use it could make professional skippers obsolete. LOA: 35'11". Beam: 12'6". Weight: 18,250 lbs. Power: (2) 320-hp 6.2L engines.

With this mid-year introduction of the all-new 341 Sedan, Meridian Yachts is proving once again that it is the one builder truly dedicated to the cruising enthusiast. Like all Meridian Yachts, this model offers the perfect blend of luxurious cruising comfort and on-the-water performance. Whether standing at the helm or sitting comfortably in the spacious salon, the all-new 341 Sedan gives you a view of the world like no other boat in her class. It's a new level of cruising comfort and performance. And it's standard from Meridian.

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