saab9-3

I am planning on selling my LS430 and both of my SC430's (don't need the convertibles in the winter, especially the one that I keep in Michigan) and I want to replace them with 2 cars. I would like to have at least one AWD car for the winter because my driveway is just under a mile long and it is full of hills, but I also want a very comfortable car for traveling (I don't fly) and with gas prices the way they are, I would very much like for both cars to get good gas mileage. So right now I am thinking about getting a new LS430 and an RX400h. I have always gotten great mileage with my LS's, and obviously the RX4 should do great.

I have driven the A8L, 750iL, S500 4Matic, and Vanden Plas over the past few days, and nothing seems to compare to the LS (especially priced at $20k above it!). Any other suggestions? I know I am going to get a slightly biased answer here, but I just don't think there is a more comfortable car with better gas mileage for less money... anywhere.

Oh, and comfort is obviously valued over sport. An automatic is a must because I have arthritis in my knees and ankles, which gets really aggrivated when working a clutch.

Any suggestions?
Thank you.

omaha_lex

I would suggest an Acura RL. An award-winning 4 wheel drive drivetrain with a 300hp V6 and a host of STANDARD options (navi, rear sunshade, xenon, etc, etc) sounds like it might be a good compromise. I know some people don't like Acuras at all or just don't like the looks of the RL, but all that matters is whether or not YOU like it. I would definately suggest going for a test drive in one. I can't say enough good things about my TL and the RL has my car beat in performance and luxury!

http://www.acura.com/images/rl/rl_gall_img_18.jpg

MongooseGA

iTrader: (6)

Why not just keep the current LS and trade in the SCs for the RX?

saab9-3

A nice car, to be sure, but I would be worried about getting battered on resale. The reason I love Lexus so much is because I can get one at a great price and depreciation is quite stable (knock on wood).

saab9-3

I put tons of miles on my cars and for the price I am able to buy the cars for, it is nice to upgrade before I put too many on them.

omaha_lex

If you put tons of miles on your vehicles, why would you be so worried about the depreciation on a RL?

Oh, and I know Acura's resale values aren't quite that of a Lexus, and I'm no expert on the subject, but the resale value on a RL is probably still pretty good.

encore888

WOW I would love to have both an LS 430 AND RX 400h....assuming the RX lives up to the hype. Of course, if I could wait I would look toward the coming LS 460L with even more room!

GFerg

Heh....Saab 9-3...duhh. (Sorry, I couldnt resist)

Honestly, I think you have it all figured out already. Not much more I can suggest to you. You practically tested all competitors in that price range(save the VW Phantom) and concluded that none has put a smile on your face like the LS(Though I would personally go for the A8 as that has AWD for the winters and is still a fresh design). Or you can go the more expensive route and get a Quattroporte. There is also the Infiniti Q45 and to a much lesser extent you also have the Volvo S80 AWD. The RX4 is basically the only choice right now that has outstanding fuel economy in the luxo segment.

Buy what makes you happy and will be well worth it for you. Seems to me you already know what they are.

Vladi

I know we all love Lexus here but why don't you try something outside the stable just for a change?

I know once you get used on something it's hard to change it but give a shot at Audi for an example. Check out A8 or A6 more closely. Also RL seems like a good idea too.

But if you want to stick with Lex why not wait for 2007MY and grab that LS460 long wheel base AWD. Or GS350 AWD even.

tmf2004

iTrader: (15)

IF you can wait and i guess money isn't a issue for you i would wait for the new lexus to come out in 07.. I think it'll be worth the wait.

bmgs400

Get yourself a Toyota Tundra Limited w/TRD Off-road package. Great for winter, hills..you name it and very comfortable drive on highway with 31" Michelin or BF-Goodrich All-Terrain tires. I had an 02 and drove it many times from New Hampshire to Florida...only stopping for gas..get's around 19 mpg highway. The leather interior package is nice. I had no problem ripping up & down New Hampshire hills in 2 feet of snow.

Richie

I think your idea of the LS430 and RX400h would be best.

BrickHead

I second that.