Honda Legend 3.5 EX v Lexus GS450 h SE-L

Automotive technology is advancing faster than ever – and it’s Japanese marques who are leading the way. Ten years ago, the thought of being able to buy a car that could automatically cruise a set distance behind the one in front was far-fetched – but now, that technology is available in top production machines.

And it won’t be long before it filters down to mainstream models. Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist System already appears on the Accord, while the GS’s hi-tech gadgets will doubtless make their way into Toyotas.

But which of these two cars is the real vision of future motoring? It has to be the hybrid Lexus. The GS shows how emissions can be cut in a realistic way, particularly in town. It operates smoothly and unobtrusively with very few drawbacks. Thanks to its driver-focused gadgetry, the Honda isn’t far behind, but the LKAS system needs to be refined further before it can be fully trustworthy.

We’ve come a long way since the Cadillac DeVille nearly half a century ago. Just imagine the advances that are set to take place over the next 50 years!