Skip advert
Advertisement

Hi-tech

We try hi-tech newcomers from Honda and Lexus to see which gives the best vision of the future

In 1960, the height of motoring luxury was the Cadillac DeVille. With air-con, electric seats and air-suspension, the US saloon was a vision of the future. Things have moved on, though, and what was cutting edge nearly 50 years ago is now commonplace. So what’s hi-tech today? We’ve put two of the world’s most advanced cars head-to-head to find out.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Honda Legend comes laden with gadgets, including technology that keeps the car a set distance from the one in front. Then there’s the Lexus GS450h petrol-electric hybrid, which also boasts adaptive headlights and a pre-crash safety system. But which one offers the best glimpse of tomorrow’s motoring today?

Verdict

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!

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,362 off RRP*Used from £11,990
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,464 off RRP*Used from £10,695
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £4,614 off RRP*Used from £9,591
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,038 off RRP*Used from £13,172
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!
Skoda Octavia vRS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!

A three-time Auto Express Family Car of the Year winner, paired with Golf GTI power, is our Deal of the Day for 6 July
News
6 Jul 2025