The Q45 is a troublemaker at my house. Every year I test it, my wife flatly proclaims that it is without doubt her favorite car and when are we going to get one? Soon, dear, someday soon. The 2002 edition has an all-new 4.5-liter V8 engine tuned to produce 340 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. Of course you will have to pay close attention as you accelerate because the engine is very very quiet and the transmission is very very smooth. The speed-sensitive steering is another big plus for around-town driving.

The interior continues ooze elegance as the blonde wood grain melts into the tucked soft beige leather. It's roomy and comfy and a perfect environment to enjoy the superb Bose sound system with its eight speakers and noise compensation. We enjoyed the hands-free voice-activation system that lets you change climate control, audio, and navigation. Rear seat room has been improved quite a bit over previous models. Let's hear it for class and comfort and design. Let's hear it for the new Q45.

- Editor

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