Okay - some more detailed thoughts on the R-Spec.
Did I mention it was fast? I mean, it's packing 70hp more than the 4.6 in the LS (AWD models are detuned to 354hp). But the difference feels greater. There's probably not more than a full second separating them in the 0-60 run, but the difference feels greater. And that applies to part-throttle response and highway passing as well.
Part of that is down to how well the big Lexus disguises the way it builds speed - silently and effortlessly - like a magneto-propelled train. But there is no question that the R-Spec is the clear hotrod of the group. And at full throttle that big V8 sounds amazing!! I don't doubt that the Lexus would sound just as nice if only the engineers would let it. There are bunch of YouTube clips featuring the R-Spec on full throttle runs. Give a listen - it's pretty sweet.
And then there's the handling. My butt-o-meter says the GS is the winner here, but the R-Spec is a clear and close second. Very flat cornering. Feels more nimble than the LS. Not an M5 alternative but very far from a fast sofa. I wouldn't even hang that label on the LS. Now the ES - there' your sofa. What WOULD have been even more surprising had I not rear then re-read James' review I how impressively quiet the R-Spec is at all times OTHER THAN full throttle. At idle and when cruising I can't pick a winner between it and the LS. Seriously. A sound meter could tell the difference I'm sure, but my ears couldn't.
Exterior design is wholly subjective, but I would put the LS first, followed by the R-Spec then the GS. Interestingly, both the LS and the R-Spec came in a stunning shade of silver that seemed to be glowing all the time. Like how Audi used to do it. Both designs I would call handsome and conservative. They look like quality automobiles - the Lexus just moreso.
To be continued...