No more RL - Now have a new Lexus GS350.

A couple years ago when I bought the RL, when compared to the GS300 (old 6 cylinder engine w/ 17" wheels), the RL was head and shoulders more responsive. I found the ergonomics for the RL a little better also. Two years later, I still find the ergonomics of the RL a little better but I give the nod for everything else to the GS350 w/ the 18"wheels. For me, the car feels more solid. Other preferences had me wanting to drop the RL and go with the GS350 of which all at one time or another have been discussed (value, cache, dealer service, etc.). The only initial downside I have so far is tire noise (which is a known issue). Lexus said to give the tires 1 - 2,000 miles of tread use. If the noise continues, they will replace them with Michelins (currently have Yokohamas).

One must compromise with any new car. My compromise is the learning curve for understanding the nav system and related options. But like anything else, once I master its use, it will become intuitive.

I'll still peruse the boards but for now I'll end this post by saying (as I have over and over again),... drive your car into the ground. That's the only way you'll get the full value of the car (and it is a value). After all, resale value stinks.

 

Congrats and good luck with you new car. A nice choice. As regards the NAV system, does it still prevent changes while on the go?

 

If you think you have tire noise now, wait'll you get michelins...you'll think there's a truck next to you.

 

Interesting. I have driven a GS300 and aside from the increased power I do not know of anything for the 350 that has changed. Anyway, I found the RL superior to the GS in almost every way.

To each their own though.

Oh and the RL with performance 18" rubber offers crazy handling and response. Anyone who wishes their RL to handle/feel more solid should just swap out the tires.

 

The GS350 is not a bad car and you won't go wrong with it. My main quibbles are the teeny-tiny trunk--smaller than the RL's, and the nannymobile navi, not allowing your passenger to make changes for you on the fly.

 

Congrats on the new ride. Did you trade in the RL or sell it ?. What did you get for the RL ?

 

I sold the RL via an auto broker (Matt) who works in my office building (dealer did not want the car!). To make a looong story short, after two years and 15,300 miles, I got $32.4K. Tried selling at the usual places but no takers. I did get one nibble with a $28,000 low ball offer from a retired vet (or so he said). I also had Carmax appraise the RL. They offered $31.5K. Matt said they would re-sell the car at a $37K price point (and take no less then $34.5K).

 

I looked at the GS at the auto show and couldn't stand the bulge the transmission tunnel created on driver leg space. For me, that's a total deal-breaker. But congrats to you, anyway. Hope you enjoy your new ride. It is a sweet looking car.

 

That sucks why didn't the dealer want the car?

 

So long, farewell . . . .

 

An acura dealer would have given you about $36K and sold it for $39K.