Extra Special

They may not be red-hot Italian roadsters or imported custom pickups with polka dots, but special-edition versions of high-end vehicles can turn heads discreetly and without breaking the bank. Three distinctive models for 2005 include the Limited Edition ES SportDesign sedan from Lexus, the X-Type VDP Edition compact sedan from Jaguar, and the ML500 Special Edition SUV from Mercedes-Benz. All premium luxury flagships, they come equipped with an extra touch of class that sets them a step above the standard versions.

The $32,950 Lexus ES SportDesign is a five-passenger, four-door car with lots of oomph under the hood. Lexus ensures exclusivity with one of its paint colors, Thundercloud Metallic, and an interior of black bird's-eye maple accents with light charcoal or black leather seats and trim. Standard is a 225-horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 engine, five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, and room for 14.5 cubic feet of cargo in the trunk. Cruise control, audio and computer buttons are steering-wheel mounted, and the moon roof is powered to tilt and slide.