In this economy any new car screams "luxury." But if you're going to buy a new car, you might as well get one from the top brands: Lexus and Land Rover.

ENTRY-LEVEL

Lexus ES

Lexus ES350 $34,320
Occupying the entry-level slot in Lexus's line-up, the ES delivers more luxury than most brands' top models. Push-button start, water repellant glass, and an available 14-speaker Mark Levinson sound system are just some of the exclusive features. Don't miss the 272 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 that's smoother than a belt-sanded stick of butter.

LandRover LR2

Land Rover LR2 $36,150
Land Rover didn't scrimp when loading their base vehicle with all the capabilities you'd expect from the leader in high-end off-road prowess. The long-travel suspension, Permanent Intelligent AWD and Terrain Response System work together to get you through any journey, whether it's a trek along the Al-Can Highway or just a rainy drive on the 405.



SPORT

Lexus IS-F

Lexus IS F $56,610
Who said luxury has to be understated? The IS F crashes the uppercrust party with 416 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission that produce scandalous 4.6 second 0-60 times. With quad exhaust pipes and a ground-effects body kit, this car combines power and grace like a drill sergeant moonlighting as a yoga instructor.

Range Rover Sport

Range Rover Sport $59,150
Putting the "sport" in sport-utility, this vehicle packs a V8 wallop. Choose a 300 horsepower V8 or go all-in with the 390 ponies available in the supercharged version. Both can conquer the canyons one day, then tow over 7,700 pounds the next. When you can't decide between an SUV and a sports car, head to the Land Rover dealer in Encino.


LUXURY

Lexus LS

Lexus LS460 $63,675
The pinnacle of luxury sedans costs thousands less than its German competitors while delivering more physical bliss than a month of day spa visits. The options form reads like a technological wish list with four-zone climate control, full color backup camera and power door closers. Fair warning - this car will ruin you for anything else.

Range Rover

Range Rover $78,450
You could drive this vehicle for years and never know that under that polished wood and premium leather lies a rig more capable than the starting grid of the Baja 1000. The 4-Corner Air Suspension can automatically lift the vehicle if you get stuck while the triple-laminated windshield keeps the cabin quieter than a Bordeaux wine cellar.

Available at Keyes Lexus of Valencia (260-2000) and Land Rover Encino (866-GO-ROVER).