Acura brand name VS Lexus

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 02-06-2001, 10:34 AM
  #1  
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
 
MafiosoTL's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2000
Location: East Brunswick,NJ
Posts: 1,018
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post Acura brand name VS Lexus

What does Lexus have that Acura doesn't?? I feel that people seem to short change Acura cause of its mediocre years after the legend. I mean I hear this mumbo jumbo shit about how Lexus quality is better cause its built in Japan, how so? Wasn't there a consumer report somewhere that rated Acura higher than Lexus in manufacture defects or something of the sort. And as far as options go Acura give you everything a fully loaded Lexus has except its all standard (ie. sunroof, leather, power seats,etc...) As far as the cars go, ES300/IS300 IMO can't compete with a TL or the CL. The new'03 V8 RL should give the LX a run for the money, The MDX is much better looking than the RX. The only advantage I see is that lexus has a bigger selection of car with the bigger SUV, a sports coupe (SC430), and the mid luxery GS400. And its not like Toyota is better than Honda either, would you rather get a corolla or civic? Camry or the 4 door accord, solora or the accord coupe, mr-2 or the s2000? nuff said. Sorry for the long post but i'm just tired of people always saying damn I have all these problems I wish i had a lexus or something. I'm happy with what i got, no regrets P-e-r-i-o-d

------------------
'99 Acura 3.2TL Satin Silver
Old 02-06-2001, 10:41 AM
  #2  
Banned
 
Join Date: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,142
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Arrow

If only the morons at Acura didn't drop the naming convention and stock to the Legends and etc. Acura would've been up there with the Lexus.
Just think if Lexus would all of a sudden rename their cars... they'd be a mess... because people come to recognize LS, GS, RX and etc.. But for some reason not everyone knows what the hell TL or RL's are.
Acura has great cars... but bad marketing department...

------------------
Just my 2 cents...
Old 02-06-2001, 10:57 AM
  #3  
Racer
 
JYOO's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Posts: 371
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Well, look on the bright side if acura had the big name we probably would have to pay the big prices.
Old 02-06-2001, 01:20 PM
  #4  
Drifting
 
SL1200MK4's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: Toronto Ont Canada
Posts: 3,277
Received 9 Likes on 7 Posts
Post

If your is like the one I got, and you are dealing with those ppl at dealers in Toronto.

YOU WILL BE SINGING A DIFFERENT TONE....

Downtown Acura sucks...

The one at Yonge & Steels ain't that good either. Their sales dept. sucks big time for sure.

Downtown Acura gave me loaner cars before, and the one at Yonge & steels told me that I am under 21 so can't do!

Well... there're just too much for me to say... You will understand if you are in my shoe.
Old 02-06-2001, 01:23 PM
  #5  
Drifting
 
SL1200MK4's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: Toronto Ont Canada
Posts: 3,277
Received 9 Likes on 7 Posts
Post

Oh and just want to say that Lexus dealers ain't that good either. My friend is not happy about their services as well.

But don't qoute him/me. I think he got rust on his exthust, and they told him that it's normal. Well he said that it's not so normal for a CA$ 55k car... He got an IS300 BTW...
Old 02-06-2001, 03:29 PM
  #6  
Acuras Only in
 
shooter's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2000
Location: San Jose, CA
Posts: 1,788
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Lexus reminds me a luxury car & Acura strikes up a performance/sports car image, just my 2c ..
Old 02-06-2001, 04:19 PM
  #7  
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
 
MafiosoTL's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2000
Location: East Brunswick,NJ
Posts: 1,018
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Originally posted by AcuraJoe:
If you go to Toronto Ontario and check out the Acura dealers yourself... you will see why Lexus is better know than Acura..

CUSTOMER SERVICE!!!!!
its not acura that has bad customer service its the dealer. it depends on what dealer you go to. with my area ocean of acura had phenominal CS where as brunswick acura just plain sucked. so its not fair to blame acura for some idiots working at the dealership



------------------
'99 Acura 3.2TL Satin Silver
Old 02-06-2001, 04:47 PM
  #8  
Pro
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Posts: 724
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

MafiosoTL:


I know what your talking about. My point is that because Acura has bad dealers working for them causing many of their customers to seek other brand names that will give them the service they need. I am sure there are many Great Dealers out there, Including the one I go to, Kingston Honda, but that does not change the fact that the Bad VS good dealer ratio is bad.


I know what your talking about and you made a great point...I just hope that all dealers can be as good as the ones that both you and I go to.


joe

<FONT COLOR="#800080" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">[This message has been edited by AcuraJoe on February 06, 2001 @ ]</font>
Old 02-06-2001, 05:18 PM
  #9  
Pro
 
TorontoTL's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2000
Location: Toronto
Posts: 621
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

I have to agree with you guys with respect to dealership service. Overall my experience with the Acura service departments has not been very good. I deal with Downtown Acura in Toronto. People I know who have Audi's, Mercedes and Lexus cars all seem to get better service than I do at the Acura dealership. They could do a lot for their brand name by making their dealerships better.
Old 02-06-2001, 05:26 PM
  #10  
Burning Brakes
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Posts: 761
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Originally posted by MafiosoTL:
What does Lexus have that Acura doesn't?? I feel that people seem to short change Acura cause of its mediocre years after the legend. I mean I hear this mumbo jumbo shit about how Lexus quality is better cause its built in Japan, how so? Wasn't there a consumer report somewhere that rated Acura higher than Lexus in manufacture defects or something of the sort. And as far as options go Acura give you everything a fully loaded Lexus has except its all standard (ie. sunroof, leather, power seats,etc...) As far as the cars go, ES300/IS300 IMO can't compete with a TL or the CL. The new'03 V8 RL should give the LX a run for the money, The MDX is much better looking than the RX. The only advantage I see is that lexus has a bigger selection of car with the bigger SUV, a sports coupe (SC430), and the mid luxery GS400. And its not like Toyota is better than Honda either, would you rather get a corolla or civic? Camry or the 4 door accord, solora or the accord coupe, mr-2 or the s2000? nuff said. Sorry for the long post but i'm just tired of people always saying damn I have all these problems I wish i had a lexus or something. I'm happy with what i got, no regrets P-e-r-i-o-d

here's from a perspective of an acura/lexus owner. i have never thought of acura or lexus being superior to one another. but from my past experience all of my lexuses have been more reliable than my acura, maybe its just because my luck. as for your comparison, an IS300 will out perform a TL and CL anyday, looking at its braking, lateral g, handling, and rwd advantage. the engine in the IS300 is very well supported by aftermarket tuners. as for the new RL, dont you mean compared the the LS? if you have driven in the LS430, youll noe that its a totally transformed car, i have test driven all, LS430, 740, and s500, to me the LS430 was the best feeling and the cheapest. as for your opinion on the MDX, to each his own. although u have to know that the RX300 appeal to alot of people and is lexus's best selling vehicle. although it is fair to compare the solora to an accord coupe (solora out performs it might i add), why would u compare an mr-2 to an s2000. that's not a fair comparison, hp, weight distribution, price, etc. as for services, lexus takes very good care of me, but i cannot say the same for acura. i am not trying to be biased, but this is a result of my past experience. do understand that acuras are great cars, and probable the best bang for the buck. but its a matter of preference also.



------------------
'01 Lexus IS300
'91 Acura NSX
'95 Nissan Maxima
Old 02-06-2001, 06:43 PM
  #11  
Drifting
 
SL1200MK4's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: Toronto Ont Canada
Posts: 3,277
Received 9 Likes on 7 Posts
Post

Originally posted by Lexus_IS300:
here's from a perspective of an acura/lexus owner. i have never thought of acura or lexus being superior to one another. but from my past experience all of my lexuses have been more reliable than my acura, maybe its just because my luck. as for your comparison, an IS300 will out perform a TL and CL anyday, looking at its braking, lateral g, handling, and rwd advantage. the engine in the IS300 is very well supported by aftermarket tuners. as for the new RL, dont you mean compared the the LS? if you have driven in the LS430, youll noe that its a totally transformed car, i have test driven all, LS430, 740, and s500, to me the LS430 was the best feeling and the cheapest. as for your opinion on the MDX, to each his own. although u have to know that the RX300 appeal to alot of people and is lexus's best selling vehicle. although it is fair to compare the solora to an accord coupe (solora out performs it might i add), why would u compare an mr-2 to an s2000. that's not a fair comparison, hp, weight distribution, price, etc. as for services, lexus takes very good care of me, but i cannot say the same for acura. i am not trying to be biased, but this is a result of my past experience. do understand that acuras are great cars, and probable the best bang for the buck. but its a matter of preference also.

Well, then why are you comparing the IS300 to the TL? Shouldn't you compare it to the ES300?

I don't think the IS300 will out perform the TL in a drag race. But braking, handling... no comparsion... It's the IS300 hands down.

But seriously, we don't want another flame war rite? Personally I might get rid of my TL and get a new car. I am looking at the Volvo S60 T5, IS300, and the Bimmer 330. All I can say is that they are all good cars. But Lexus does have a better image to me. At lesat after all those troubles with my Acura dealerS (yes more than one of them...)
Old 02-06-2001, 06:59 PM
  #12  
Pro
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Posts: 698
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

One word guys...MARKETING!

Lexus came out with a goal to BE the Japanese Luxury leader. Acura came out as Japan's introduction to the Luxury segment. Acura has not targetted themselves properly nor has their ads reflected such. The TL and CL (and now the MDX) are what Acura is trying to sell, and they are doing so by targetting the mid luxury segment (aka the upgrade from Honda group) It is not appealing to the "older" crowd and thus has not been equated to a premium luxury car like the Benz and BMW's.

I see the"luxury segment" as truly an "older" car, and thus I personally like the Acura lineup...even the Integra (and new RSX) because of its image and performance. If Acura truly wants to pump up its Luxury image, they need to upgrade the RL and market the heck out of it. Even if they don't sell that many, they will sell more TL's, and even some TL's and MDX's b/c of this "luxury image"

(Honda is benefitting from all the press and advertising for their S2000 even though the ads won't sell any more S2000's. Instead, it is promoting a HONDA brand image. This is what Acura also needs to do.)

Just my 2 cents.

------------------
1999 Satin Silver TL Dunlop SP9000 215-45/17-mounted on CL-S 17" Rims
H&R Springs-Axiss MetalMasterPads-Crossdrilled Rotors
-Inspire Tailights-20/30/40 tint

Y2k S2K Honda Roadster
- Mingster Aeroscreen, Smokin Front mesh Grill, Clear Sidemarkers...

<FONT COLOR="#800080" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">[This message has been edited by yu888 on February 06, 2001 @ ]</font>
Old 02-06-2001, 07:01 PM
  #13  
Burning Brakes
 
acuraguynj's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Posts: 813
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

This is a topic that has me torn. As an Acura TL owner that loves his car, the LEXUS name is better and we all know this deep down inside ;-) Both car makers are very good, but Lexus has really built a name for themselves from the entry level luxury car to the high end.

Although the Lexus brand is often attributed to the older crowd, hell I would love a GS430 anyday. The TL is the clear choice out of the IS300 & ES300, but anything above that it's all LEXUS! Once Lexus comes out with a 4Runner Type SUV, then the line is complete.

Eventually as we all get older, us TL Owners will buy Lexus. Hopefully we will all have the money then too!
Old 02-06-2001, 07:09 PM
  #14  
Suzuka Master
 
bdimc2001's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: West Orange, NJ, USA
Age: 45
Posts: 8,974
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Originally posted by AcuraJoe:
If you go to Toronto Ontario and check out the Acura dealers yourself... you will see why Lexus is better know than Acura..

CUSTOMER SERVICE!!!!!
You can bet your TL's on that. Man, I had a not so good experience at my dealership today. I felt a bit conned out of my free oil changes.

Well, here's the story. I went into my dealership Paragon Acura in Queens, NY at about 2pm. The lady was very nice and looked at my car and asked what i needed done. I told her an oil change, please. Then she told me I had to pay, I said no prob, the manager will take care of the bill, I just bought the car a few months ago. I had the Acura Survey that the dealerships kill to get a good rating on and went to the manager, he said to give it to my salesman and so I did. After that they insisted that I pay for the oil change, even though the manager promised me free oil changes in return for the survey. Then after arguing with the service dept for 1/2 hour, the manager finally gave in. I was not at all happy. I did get a free car wash and oil change.

When I left it started to rain. Damn the free car wash. sorry for the long post. Just needed to vent a little. Service sucks. If it was Lexus or BMW, they wouldn't even dare argue with me.

------------------
2001 Acura 3.2TL w/ Navi Black ext. Ebony int., Sunroof Visor,
35% Smoke Metallic Tint, Burlwood Shiftknob, Alpine CHM-S620 6-disc cd-changer and more to come!

Not installed yet, building custom sub box,
JL Audio 12w6 Sub. & Audiobahn A1800E Amp.
Old 02-06-2001, 08:18 PM
  #15  
Drifting
 
SL1200MK4's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: Toronto Ont Canada
Posts: 3,277
Received 9 Likes on 7 Posts
Post

I know that BMW covers all your services in Canada. You don't pay a penny until 3 years/60K I think. Lexus doesn't. So if you compare the IS300 to the Bimmer. The price is higher on the bimmer, but I am willing to pay for it. At least I can get auto dim mirrow, multi-function steering wheel and free services. I don't mean to start a flame war and each car have their own pros and cons.

But I'm just trying to say that the Service sucks with the Acura for sure. At least in Toronto.
Old 02-06-2001, 08:33 PM
  #16  
Guest
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Post

I couldn't care less about brand name recognition. In fact, I'm proud to turn people on to Acura who otherwise may not have considered purchasing one!

It never entered my mind whether to consider brand name recognition when purchasing my vehicle. I bought what I thought was the best machine for the money -- PERIOD!

------------------
2001 3.2 TL w/Nav
White Diamond Pearl
Alpine CD Changer
Burlwood Shift Knob
Escort Passport 8500
15 Year Financing at 22%
Old 02-06-2001, 08:43 PM
  #17  
Drifting
 
SL1200MK4's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: Toronto Ont Canada
Posts: 3,277
Received 9 Likes on 7 Posts
Post

Originally posted by Diamond White Scotty:
I couldn't care less about brand name recognition. In fact, I'm proud to turn people on to Acura who otherwise may not have considered purchasing one!

It never entered my mind whether to consider brand name recognition when purchasing my vehicle. I bought what I thought was the best machine for the money -- PERIOD!

Damn right, and out TL is the one of the best value out there in my book. I was talking to a friend of mine. I said that I wanna get rid of my baby because the services that I am getting. So she said that it's the problem with my baby (my car), but the dealers...

I love the car, but hate the fact that my dealers sucks...
Old 02-06-2001, 09:13 PM
  #18  
Sporty X type
 
Lrpba300's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2000
Location: Colo. Spgs. CO
Posts: 854
Received 8 Likes on 4 Posts
Cool

I agree w/ most everything that's said here, but another thought came 2 mind. I remember another post in here that complained about driving a car that "so many" people were driving the same car,(TL) and didn't want 2 drive the same car (TL). If Acura did a better job of marketing & dealer service/ PR work, MORE people would drive the Great value, Luxury car that "WE" all know about, called a TL!!!
As long as Acura makes a great car & doesn't want to market any better, I'm happy

------------------
2000 3.2 TL Laguna Green
29% window tint, Clear bra, no nav
225/50/16 Aqua-Flow GTW's on OEM wheels
[URL=http://photos.yahoo.com/bc/lrpba300?d&.flabel=fld3&.src=ph[/URL]
Old 02-06-2001, 09:19 PM
  #19  
Instructor
 
Join Date: Dec 2000
Posts: 231
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS THAT I LOVE MY ACURA 3.2TL. LEXUS IS PLAYED OUT!! ALMOST EVERYBODY IN NYC HAS A GS400 GS300 IS300 AND THE ES 300 AND THE LS 400 IS PLAYED OUT ALSO. I HARDLEY SEE ANYBODY WITH A TL. AND I ALSO GET THAT REPLY IS THAT A 2000 ACURA LEDGEND.. I DONT TRY TO EXPLAINE IT I JUST AGREE AND SAY YEAH ITS A 2000 LEDGEND LOL...
Old 02-06-2001, 09:21 PM
  #20  
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
 
MafiosoTL's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2000
Location: East Brunswick,NJ
Posts: 1,018
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Originally posted by acuraguynj:
This is a topic that has me torn. As an Acura TL owner that loves his car, the LEXUS name is better and we all know this deep down inside ;-) Both car makers are very good, but Lexus has really built a name for themselves from the entry level luxury car to the high end.

Although the Lexus brand is often attributed to the older crowd, hell I would love a GS430 anyday. The TL is the clear choice out of the IS300 & ES300, but anything above that it's all LEXUS! Once Lexus comes out with a 4Runner Type SUV, then the line is complete.

Eventually as we all get older, us TL Owners will buy Lexus. Hopefully we will all have the money then too!
I agree, Lexus has made a name for itself and yes it is more respected for the older crowd, but that doesn't make it better. If you guys remember in a not so distant past, Acura was bigger than Lexus and up in the ranks with the germans. Nobody could beat the legend in looks and performance. Acura shot itself in the foot with cutting the legend flagship and changing to the name RL, and the marketing of the 1st gen TL's and the Vigor. Those two cars were too expensive, not luxerious to compete in its class and not sporty enough. it was stuck inbetween and acuras downfall started then. Oh yeah I won't even mention that friggen ugly ass trooper with a acura logo on it.
And no when i get older i will not get a lexus, shiiit i can afford a lexus right now but chose not to. But the thing is you see, Acura is on the rise, TL's are outselling the top selling Lexus (ES300) 2 to 1 right now, MDX is getting there, and i dunno how sales of the IS300 are but you know the IS300 is a faze right now and the craze will die as soon as the looks become common. I forsee acuras future being bright and might take over the japan market soon or later. And people talking about the bland looks of acuras, well look at the CL,RSX, the MDX, new TL and TL-S. I say their on their way out of the doghouse on that too.



------------------
'99 Acura 3.2TL Satin Silver
Old 02-06-2001, 09:28 PM
  #21  
Instructor
 
Join Date: Dec 2000
Posts: 231
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

I AGREE WITH YOU MAFIOSO TL... BUT TO BEHONEST WITH YOU.FUC@#@K LEXUS.. ILL JUST GET A BMW M5.. OR A E55 MERCEDES BENZ AMG OR JUST TO KILL IT.... MERCEDES S55 AMG.LOL.
BUT I LOVE MY ACURA TL....AND ITS MY FIRST CAR. ALL MY FRIENDS HAVE HOOPTIESS LOL..
MAFIOSO I DO HAVE TO AGREE WITH YOU ABOUT UR FIRST SUBJECT ABOUT THE LEXUS. RX 300 IS UGLYYYYYYYYY MDX IS WAY BETTER.. AND I WOULD TAKE HONDA OVER TOYOTA!
Old 02-06-2001, 09:32 PM
  #22  
Drifting
 
Red Hot TL's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2000
Posts: 2,480
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

most of the Lexus are truly better than Acura. they use COACH leather, NAKAMICHI sound system (optional, but...) and they're quieter. I personally like their gauges, always light up, it's easier to read. Acura has great value, and the quality is about the same as Lexus. But since they have great value, if one wants to spend $60,000 on a car, like sedan, Acura doesn't even have a choice for that. Some brand names are known because the product are so expensive. at least I know there are some people like that.

------------------
2000 Red Hot TL w/o nav
Burlwood Trim and Shift Knob
Wood Trim Set
Gutter Guard Grill
Photos Of My RED HOT TL
I DON'T HAVE A LIFE
Old 02-06-2001, 09:47 PM
  #23  
Guest
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Post

I really think its the Integra factor bringing acura down. I don't mind the Integra, but i honestly believe it can not compare with the TL, RL, MDX, and NSX.
Old 02-06-2001, 10:13 PM
  #24  
Burning Brakes
 
Gomez's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Posts: 815
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

#1 - Integra is not good for Acura if they want a luxury image. Sure, the teg is a nice car but still it sells for less than an Accord coupe. Plus, they're everywhere. If Mercedes sold inexpensive cars in the US then the nameplate would be less prestigious, just like it is in Europe already.

#2 - As far as luxury goes, Lexus has the upper hand on Acura in the NVH department, i.e. their cars are quieter and smoother riding. That is the main thing that older folks seem to like about expensive cars, that they ride all quiet and smooth and you can't feel the tranny shift.

#3 - I think Acura should stay where they are: kinda between Lexus and BMW in the overall approach of combination sport/luxury. Otherwise, Acura would suffer the fate of Infiniti if they tried to make the cars more luxo (a'la Lexus), and if they tried to go more sporty then they'd be head-to-head against BMW and that's a battle that'd be really tough to win.

------------------
'01 White Diamond Pearl 3.2TL
-Wing, tint, burlwood shift, Whistler 6-band
'88 White RX-7 Convertible (SOLD)
-Permanent tinitus courtesy of Rockford-Fosgate
Old 02-06-2001, 10:50 PM
  #25  
Senior Moderator
 
Shoofin's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2000
Location: Brooklyn, NY USA
Age: 47
Posts: 17,085
Received 740 Likes on 309 Posts
Post


Ed

------------------
Acura-TL.com - Forum Moderator

'99 TL Satin Silver/Ebony, Non/Nav, Comptech lowered, Comptech Air Filter Element, Inspire Tails, AEM Brake Pads all around, Comptech Axle Back Exhaust, "Guy Smiley" doll on the dash as my Co-driver...

Pics of my TL
Pics of my Miata! Wadya think?
Old 02-06-2001, 11:01 PM
  #26  
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
 
MafiosoTL's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2000
Location: East Brunswick,NJ
Posts: 1,018
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Originally posted by JYOO:
Well, look on the bright side if acura had the big name we probably would have to pay the big prices.
i don't think so, acuras whole marketing plan was to make their cars luxurious yet affordable, i think even when they do get the BIG NAME recognition, they're still be competitive with their pricing and basically beat out the market

------------------
'99 Acura 3.2TL Satin Silver
Old 02-06-2001, 11:02 PM
  #27  
Pro
 
TLwiz's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: MA
Posts: 570
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Case in point:

My mother's best friend said to me the other day (a 55 year old woman):
"Is that a Legend that you drive?" I tried to explain, but it was useless. People do remember the old names. And I am tired of the #and letter crap that many manufacturers are using. What the hell is wrong with giving a car a name!?!
Old 02-06-2001, 11:08 PM
  #28  
Three Wheelin'
 
oracion's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Dallas
Posts: 1,780
Received 8 Likes on 7 Posts
Lightbulb

Originally posted by MafiosoTL:
i don't think so, acuras whole marketing plan was to make their cars luxurious yet affordable, i think even when they do get the BIG NAME recognition, they're still be competitive with their pricing and basically beat out the market
I agree. With that $30K price tag, it more affordable than, for example, the BMW. A loaded new C costs close to $40K.
Old 02-06-2001, 11:19 PM
  #29  
Guest
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Smile

I think it has to do with the styling. I had someone refer to my car as a nice honda the other day. The fronts are not that different - granted the back is distinctive though. Look at the Lexus cars and their siblings in Toyota - very different looking. My two cents.

Old 02-06-2001, 11:23 PM
  #30  
Burning Brakes
 
Join Date: Sep 2000
Posts: 814
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

funny.. i wonder what people's reactions will be once the integra's name is changed to RS or RS-X or whatever it is...
(i read this somewhere) actually the reason why toyota and lexus sells more cars than honda and acura is becuase the toyotas are well known to be reliable and family-oriented for the baby boomers (this is what most of the car critics are, btw) but most of the "younger" generations are more keen towards the hondas because it is more performance oriented... toyota is actually considering a third brand in order to satisfy the younger generations once the baby boomers move away from buying cars...
Old 02-06-2001, 11:28 PM
  #31  
Burning Brakes
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Posts: 761
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Originally posted by SL1200MK4:
Well, then why are you comparing the IS300 to the TL? Shouldn't you compare it to the ES300?

I don't think the IS300 will out perform the TL in a drag race. But braking, handling... no comparsion... It's the IS300 hands down.

But seriously, we don't want another flame war rite? Personally I might get rid of my TL and get a new car. I am looking at the Volvo S60 T5, IS300, and the Bimmer 330. All I can say is that they are all good cars. But Lexus does have a better image to me. At lesat after all those troubles with my Acura dealerS (yes more than one of them...)

no, no flame wars. i like the volvo s60, ALOT. but i just really love the styling of the is300. as for the 330i, steering feel doesnt quite match the 328 and suspension is a little softer, and it costs about 8k more than my IS300. not worth it if you ask me. as an ex owner of a bmw ('99 m3), i have been treated like sh*t from day one. services are are free, but not at all friendly. and if something goes wrong, and its your fault, the cost is outrageous. i will never own another bmw again, unless i become a multi millinaire (M5!!), but than i would rather have a modena 360=]

i feel acura have alot to offer people, but like yu888 says, their marketing techniques are very weak, when i sit inside a TL and an ES300....for sure the TL felt better, and i would noway in hell buy an ES300 not even if its $5k cheaper!

as for people thinking that IS300 is a fad, or hating the car. i just have to tell you guys, its a car either you love or hate. i love the car and its styling. the handling is also very good (almost matches the 330 and about 7k cheaper). its a very different crowd of car.

redhottl: nakamichi is standard in lexus=]

another thing, infinity will be bringin it back soon, and alot of you out there prob doesnt like the brand, but they are truely good cars. and im sure they got something good to offer as always, and it might be a threat to the other two japanese luxury division.

------------------
'01 Lexus IS300
'91 Acura NSX
'95 Nissan Maxima
Old 02-06-2001, 11:33 PM
  #32  
Pro
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Posts: 724
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

If you go to Toronto Ontario and check out the Acura dealers yourself... you will see why Lexus is better know than Acura..

CUSTOMER SERVICE!!!!!
Old 02-06-2001, 11:36 PM
  #33  
Burning Brakes
 
Join Date: Sep 2000
Posts: 814
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

Originally posted by AcuraJoe:
If you go to Toronto Ontario and check out the Acura dealers yourself... you will see why Lexus is better know than Acura..

CUSTOMER SERVICE!!!!!
true true... all i can say is courtesy car!!

Old 02-07-2001, 08:43 AM
  #34  
Pro
 
Turboara's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Bayside, NY
Posts: 505
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Smile

bdimc2001:
Paragon Acura and Honda are the WORST dealers in NYC. I've gotten nothing but attitude from them. They dealers in long island and westchester are much better.

Being that I have neither lexus nor acura yet, I could say I have a totaly unbiased opinion.

I think Lexus has a better brand name and reputation, and with the exception of the es300 has superior cars. If the IS 300 was just a bit larger and looked less like a honda civic it would be my front runner for a car right now.
BUT, with all those features, 225hp vtec, decent styling, and great interior the TL cannot be beat at its price. Like people above said, if acura was a better brand maybe the TL would be alot more money.

------------------
- Nick, shopping for an 01 or 02, w/ or w/out nav
Old 02-07-2001, 08:49 AM
  #35  
Senior Moderator
 
Shoofin's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2000
Location: Brooklyn, NY USA
Age: 47
Posts: 17,085
Received 740 Likes on 309 Posts
Post

Originally posted by Turboara:
bdimc2001:
Paragon Acura and Honda are the WORST dealers in NYC. I've gotten nothing but attitude from them. They dealers in long island and westchester are much better.
I'll agree partially with you on that one...To get my warranty items fixed was a real pain in the a$$, once I went to the manager, he really took care of me. The way he treated me was the way anyone should be treated by a dealer...He even gave me a loaner car to use for the half day that my car was in for service.. There's a guy in Paragon Acura named "PAT", he's a real a$$hole, I brought my car in 3 times with him handling the paperwork until he got frustrated with me and told me to speak to the manager, which was when the Mgr took care of everything..I think he came from heaven... He took care of me really good, then the next day I called to thank him, and the chick tells me "he no longer works here"..Go figure..
Ed


------------------
Acura-TL.com - Forum Moderator

'99 TL Satin Silver/Ebony, Non/Nav, Comptech lowered, Comptech Air Filter Element, Inspire Tails, AEM Brake Pads all around, Comptech Axle Back Exhaust, "Guy Smiley" doll on the dash as my Co-driver...

Pics of my TL
Pics of my Miata! Wadya think?
Old 02-07-2001, 09:09 AM
  #36  
Banned
 
Join Date: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,142
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Wink

Originally posted by Shoofin'TL:
I'll agree partially with you on that one...To get my warranty items fixed was a real pain in the a$$, once I went to the manager, he really took care of me. The way he treated me was the way anyone should be treated by a dealer...He even gave me a loaner car to use for the half day that my car was in for service.. There's a guy in Paragon Acura named "PAT", he's a real a$$hole, I brought my car in 3 times with him handling the paperwork until he got frustrated with me and told me to speak to the manager, which was when the Mgr took care of everything..I think he came from heaven... He took care of me really good, then the next day I called to thank him, and the chick tells me "he no longer works here"..Go figure..
Ed
I guess he was too good to you... they had to get rid of him to save all the money he was giving away to you...

------------------
Just my 2 cents...
Old 02-07-2001, 09:14 AM
  #37  
Banned
 
Join Date: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,142
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Cool

Originally posted by Gomez:
#2 - As far as luxury goes, Lexus has the upper hand on Acura in the NVH department, i.e. their cars are quieter and smoother riding. That is the main thing that older folks seem to like about expensive cars, that they ride all quiet and smooth and you can't feel the tranny shift.
I'd have to disagree with you on this one... show me someone who doesn't like the quite and smooth ride... show me someone who'd prefer a shitty tranny to a smooth shifting one... I don't think it's an older folks thing, I think it's a better quality thing...

------------------
Just my 2 cents...
Old 02-07-2001, 09:22 AM
  #38  
Banned
 
Join Date: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,142
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Arrow

Originally posted by Red Hot TL:
most of the Lexus are truly better than Acura. they use COACH leather, NAKAMICHI sound system (optional, but...) and they're quieter. I personally like their gauges, always light up, it's easier to read. Acura has great value, and the quality is about the same as Lexus. But since they have great value, if one wants to spend $60,000 on a car, like sedan, Acura doesn't even have a choice for that. Some brand names are known because the product are so expensive. at least I know there are some people like that.
As for the gauges being always light up is not such a good thing... a friend of mine got a ticket in the LS400 because he forgot to turn on the lights... he thought they were on because the gauges were on...

------------------
Just my 2 cents...
Old 02-07-2001, 09:36 AM
  #39  
Guest
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
Lightbulb

IMO, it’s all about IMAGE! You better believe that Acura wants the prestigious image that comes with a Lexus.

Consider this: Isn’t it cool to have someone comment about how nice your car is? After all, not everyone can afford a TL. Just like how not everyone can afford a “Lexus”. What’s the least you’d look to spend on a Lexus, $30k? Note that I didn’t say, “not everyone can afford an ‘Acura’”. Because the Civi- err, INTEGRA can be had CHEAPER than a loaded Pontiac Gran Prix or any other common domestic make!

With the overcrowding entry luxury market, the Integra is holding back Acura’s “prestige”. I truly believe that. I have nothing against Integras, but if Acura wants its name to be recognized as prestigious, luxurious, etc. they must DROP the Integra line (maybe badge it over to Honda, i.e. Civic Del Sol, Civic CRX, Civic Integra…). It must then shift its marketing focus and performance improvements on its new entry level Acura, the CL. If the least you could spend on a new Acura is $30k, you can bet that people will begin to notice the NAME “Acura”.
Old 02-07-2001, 10:20 AM
  #40  
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
 
MafiosoTL's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2000
Location: East Brunswick,NJ
Posts: 1,018
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Post

i agree with the Tegs but they sell pretty good so i doubt acura is gonna drop that name

------------------
'99 Acura 3.2TL Satin Silver


Quick Reply: Acura brand name VS Lexus



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 01:21 PM.