Luxury is one of those intangibles that often exist as much in the mind of the beholder as it does in a basic automotive design. However while each of out fab five four-doors embraces its own variation on the upscale theme, they do share a host of common premium standards. Prime among that list are dual power tilt/telescoping steering column, front and front/side airbags, power windows/locks/mirrors, keyless remote entry, high-end audio package, anti-theft system, retained accessory power features, and electrochrochromatic rearviewmirror.
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Audi’s flagship and bright work in favor of more businesslike character. Offering good room and comfort in all seating positions, the A8 claims best overall ventilation system. But when fitted with the cold weather package, it alone send heat to rim of its leather-swathed steering wheel, as well to the seats themselves. |
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Cadillac STS is the top American offering of a basic look and feel of its high-quality interior with several GM design cues that tend to mitigate at least some of its international affectations. It also has the largest total interior volume, edging out Lexus by 2.2cubic feet. With extra-cost adaptive seating feature (it automatically readjusts small air bladders in the cushion to help reduce fatigue on long trip) as more of a gimmick than a must –have item. |
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The Infiniti Q45’s interior nonetheless drew fire for lacking certain creature features that are simply important in the category today. Praised for it’s well formed seats, and finally for ’99 a retained power feature that allows operation of the radio, etc. after shutting off the ignition. It is also best know for its dual-zone climate control and the flagrant presence of the aforementioned faux wood accent trim. |
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British representative Jaguar XJ8L, tops the chart in rear legroom. However, its sleek roofline does impinge a bit on useable head room. Despite steady ergonomic improvements, several questionably place switches, no dual-zone climate controls. Even so, there’s not nearly enough wrong to keep the company from going to the top. Its superb use of top quality Connolly leather and hand laminated rich burled walnut. |
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Lexus is an elegantly low key passenger compartment represents the pinnacle of pure class and for good reason. With windows up and its V-* ticking over at just under 2000rpm and 60 mph, a near vault-like silence pervades this roomy well executed, and wildly welcoming domain. It also has an optional multifunction computer navigator system. |
