I used to like Audi design but for the past ten years I was just not digging it. Too round and boring. And then the BIG nose came

However, I was just on their site today and the new cars have a much better appearance (even with the nose). I think that they look much sportier and I will actually consider one in the future when I am in the market again.

 

I will admit I agree. They are really going after the younger buyers. I hope Lexus is paying attention. I want to see better handling, front lips, and paddle shifters on all lexus cars

 

Their newer cars have pretty much the same grille.....it just looks smaller because it is intersected, on some models, by a big belt that effectively cuts it in half, so it doesn't have the gaping fish-mouth look.

 

First, I don't see where it is an issue of going after "younger" buyers. There was nothing "old" about the gaping fish-mouth grille to start with. I, for one, like luxury1, found the "big nose' grilles ugly myself, but that is not a matter of age.

And as far as "better handling" on Lexus cars goes, some Lexus customers would point out that the traditional ride comfort on many Lexus models has been compromised too much NOW, with stiffer suspensions and low-profile tires, in the name of handling. The new ES350 is probably the best example...it is notably stiffer than the ES330 it replaces. The IS-F is extremely stiff, especially over bumps. Even the silky LS460, while still plush-riding, is not as smooth as the LS400 and LS430 it replaced...the 45-series tires have stiffened it up a little.