My wife and I looked at both 2002 models and I was noticing the TL-s seats look smaller and more uncoforatable. I have driven a TL (2001) and found the seats comforatable. Anyone with my size (6' 3" 235 lbs) who have experienced both cars , advise on the comfort of these seats as the TL-s seats look smaller, although I have not sat in a TL-s. BTW my wife hated the bowling ball trim and I don't mind it, but prefer the brown. Also don't like the TL mags, love the TL-s mags.

Thanks.

 

Well, the TL-S got a more sporty seat. It might look smaller but it feels better when you do some hard corning... as it gives you better support...

I would get the Type-S without a second thought. Seriously man... Beside, the Type-S has a better traction control system (VSA). So, it's better for the winter!!!

Now, for a tall guy like you, you should go sit in the TL again, and make sure that you are comfortable with the knee room. I am only 5'10 but I fould that I don't get enough knee room. My knee always hit the buttom of the console or something!

If you don't like the bowling ball trim. I will be gald to swap my brown trim with you. If they will fit that is...

 

I just test drove both the tl-p (again) and the type-s for the first time. I would get the type S for the seats and rims alone. the seats are narrower than tl seats, but that's just the side bolstering meant to hold you in place while cornering. You should definitely test drive a type S to see how the seat fits you, I'm pretty sure you'll be blown away w/ how much nicer the type s seats are.

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- Nick, still shopping for an 02, w/ or w/out nav

 

I am 6'2", 260 #. The TL-S seats work fine for me. I just raise the front part of the seat up a bit. I would go with the Type-S if possible. The added safety features and 260 hp make it nice.

 

Stop!!
You guys are making me want a Type-S pretty bad now. Type-S is definitely a much better car than the Premium, considering it's just another four thousand dollars( I mean you are buying a $40,000 car already right?). However, it looks like you are really struggling between the two. You don't really have to get that bowling ball trim if choose another color. Also just another thought: It sounds the wife doesn't really like the idea of extra dough for more hourse power and luxry eh! Well, I mean you are buying a new car right, enjoy urself and WELCOME to the family.

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2002 Anthracite TL



Pix of my TL

 

Just wait a couple of months, the new ES will be coming out and u know when Lexus has a "debut" it is something else.....

 

I noted the same about the TLS seats and am just now getting used to them after two weeks. I'm 6"2" and around 215, and wish the seats were about an inch longer. One other annoyance is that the back of the seat bottom doesn't feel right, feels like I'm sitting at the end of a cushion. I'm still playing around, but I had the same problem in my Grand Cherokee before I spent 15 minutes fiddling with the seats to find a right position :-)

 

I just test drove a 2001 TL versus a 2002 TL. The 2001 seems to offer a more comfortable ride over bumps and seems to give a more cushy ride. But I was told they have the same suspension etc. It doesn't seem that way during the test drive. Then of course - the TL-S is a very stiff ride.
Why would the 2001 ride feel much nicer?
What are the differences? I keep getting assured that they are the same suspensions.
(I checked - and same tires..) It was noticibly more luxury in the 2001

 

I never drove a TLS, but have driven a CLS so I assume it's about the same. I love the CLS seats, and that's the only difference I know. Oh, except for the fact that the CLS/TLS will be a bit quicker. Never got to test the VSA, but trust me on this one, the TL TCS is a joke. The TL did feel a bit softer too.

 

I wouldn't get the TL-S because of the harsher ride (can feel every bump). In a luxury car - I'm sorry - but if I have to choose between more acceleration (at 2k more cost) but have a stiffer ride - I'd rather have the more the adequate acceleration of the TL with the smoother ride. It seems they made the 2002 TL stiffer than the 2001 TL - based on my test drive. I could get a Navi 2001 for the same price as the 2002 TL - so it will be a tough choice.. I guess I'll get the 2002 though - since it has the seat memory, tilt right mirror, and cooler looking front end, and 6 CD vs. 1 CD in front. I don't like the stiffer ride though.

 

Maybe you should go and test drive again. I don't think the 2002 is stiffer... Oh and for just 2k more... I would honestly take the type-S in a heartbeat... You won't regret....

If you want you can always sell the rim which makes the ride stiffer, and I believe that many TL owners in your area are willing to swap TL-P suspension with your TL-S suspension...

Now, for the engine, I think it's hard to be the value you are getting with the type-S. You can get pulley, header, and AEM CAI. I say the type-S will still pull on the TL with those mods...