But the very-German, all-black center stack lacks the flair of cars such as the Lexus IS.

How is this "German"?

Also, I've said it before, the interior of the Lexus IS is overrated IMO. It's a good interior, but it's not all that it's made out to be. IMHO the Audi A4 is the best in this class hands down and has the edge over the Lexus.

And how does the Lexus interior have "flair"? It looks like your typical Japanese high-tech interior, kind of cool, but at the same time bland and uncreative. The Lexus GS has the best interior design from the Lexus brand, IMO.