I'm in the decision making process for a 4WD sedan. Will be making purchase in the next 3 months. I'm on the fence between the RL, and GS300 AWD. I have never owned any Japanese vehicles but they offer much more value over the European counter parts.

I would like any comments from experiences, similar situations, or suggestions. I have read and research the 2 vehicles but only can find minor differences. It does seem the RL is the best value adn the GS offer some additional gadgets. Its more of a coin-toss for me right now.

Thanks for any input.

 

I do not like the GS at all. Besides the bland styling it offers poor value (MSRP is $8000 above Invoice!! - you do pay for that Lexus name!!). Most trade publications have panned the GS (e.g. Consumer Reports gave it a poor review relative to its competition).

I am on the fence between an '06 RL or an '06 M35, but I dismissed the GS very quickly.

 

You do know of course that asking this on an RL forum WILL result in an RL recommendation? Ditto if you go post this question on a Lexus board. I recommend much research and many test drives.

 

Agreed. Personally I like the RL better than the GS. It had everything I wanted and more. The quality is top notch and the maint. costs will be MUCH lower than lexus. Oil changes at acura = $30. Oil changes (at our lexus dealer - we have an rx300) = $98. 30k mile service at acura = 300 and same at lexus = $568.

Aside from maint costs, the RL's AWD system is above and beyond what lexus offers. Personally I like the exterior looks of the GS over the RL - but thats all subjective.

 

Thanks for the replies. I'm looking more for opinions and personal experience. The research on the web can only tell so much. Right now, I am leaning towards the RL for the value. Although the GS and M35/45 does have some nice additonal "gadgets".

Please continue to post any comments that would hep in the decision process.

 

M3chi,
I see you have omitted the Infiniti M35x from your selection.
I found it to be very difficult to choose between the RL & the M.
Curious as to why you eliminated it as a choice!

 

Typo on my part, I have looked at the M35X/M45 as well but am not too excited by the exterior. The G35 is the Nissan Altima andt he m35x/45 is the Maxima.

I wanted to look for something that did not have similar model in the regular brand.

 

Both the RL and GS are excellent cars. I ruled out the Lexus because I didn't like the styling (just my personal preference). I didn't try the AWD version of the GS, but I don't think that you should equate the two AWD systems. The RL's SH-AWD is an amazing technology that makes a huge difference in handling EVEN ON DRY ROADS. I believe that this is a large reason why the RL is the better handling of the two cars. The GS probably would give a slightly quieter ride, although if you replace the stock tires on the RL, this difference is diminished. The Lexus definitely has the upper hand in brand prestige and in resale value, but you will pay a large premium for this at time of purchase. I'll close with the same advice that I give everyone - drive both and buy the one you like. That is exactly what I did and I love my RL.