Why I love the '06 GS

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

03-31-05, 02:47 PM

#16

lexguynj

Lexus Test Driver

Join Date: Jun 2001

Location: CA

Posts: 1,423

Likes: 0

Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Quote:

Originally Posted by DrexLex

I don't look at the 450h as a linear step up from the 430. It's a whole different ball game, a different experience, whereas the 460 would be the "more power otherwise similar to 430" extension. Comparing a V8 to a hybrid is like saying you don't need an iPod because you have XM radio. They both deliver music, but the user experience is completely different. Sorry it is not a more apporopriate analogy, but I for one do not look at the 430 being superceded/replaced by the 450h. It is a supplement to the product line-up, to broaden the appeal of the GS to attract more customers to the Lexus badge, such as those who want some green with their sport, rather than divert the CL faithful away from traditional power plants.

As for the 460, yes, that's where the 430 becomes a closed book, but that's 1.5 years away. Plenty of time to enjoy the 430 before then--and well after!

I have to disagree with you & say that a GS450h is a step up, just like the RX400h is a step up from the RX330 and Lexus lists it as the Premium / Top of the Line RX model. More overall power / HP, and everything else pretty similar is step up within this model.

Now if the there is an advantage or reason to stay with the Non-Hybrid GS430 version as opposed to the GS450h, then it's different, but I don't see any advantage at all of a GS430 over a GS450h.

Last edited by lexguynj; 03-31-05 at 04:57 PM.

Reply Like

03-31-05, 06:43 PM

#17

DrexLex

Intermediate

Join Date: Jan 2005

Location: ID

Posts: 425

Likes: 0

Received 8 Likes on 7 Posts

Quote:

Originally Posted by lexguynj

The 450h has more power some of the time, and less power at other times. The gas engine has consistent power as long as there's a drop of fuel in the tank. The electric motors only have power when the batteries have charge. They have a Wattmeter to show you it is not always there on tap. My point is that as much as Lexus wants to make the hybrid drive like a gas car, it will differ. There are those among us who will revel in the difference a hybrid makes in the driving experience, and there will be those who prefer the traditional experience. I don't begrudge anyone their opinion or preference. But to automatically declare the 450h as superior to the 430 may be inappropriate.

Reply Like

04-01-05, 05:50 AM

#18

jwaters

Pole Position

Thread Starter

Join Date: Sep 2001

Location: Reno, NV

Posts: 243

Likes: 0

Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Could you guys please discuss this in a different thread and stop hijacking mine?

Thanks!

Reply Like

04-01-05, 06:38 AM

#19

Raz

Driver School Candidate

Join Date: Mar 2005

Location: MA

Posts: 15

Likes: 0

Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Jwaters...

As I sit in my office gazing out the window at my GS300 AWD Blue Onyx Pearl / Cashmere Interior I can't tell how thrilled I am to be back in the Lexus family. I took a 3 year hiatus and drove a G35 and a FX35 from Infinity....Hands down the Lexus is the King of styling, ride, and creature comforts. I'll admit I got sucked in by the marketing...But when I test drove the GS it was like coming home for me. I picked it last Saturday and there was a M35 parked right beside it...No comparison...The wood trim interior of the M looked like contact paper and what's with the ****???? It may be quicker...rides stiffer...but no style points as far as I'm concerned...

The GS has been gawked at my Mercedes, BMW, and Acura owners and they've all searched me out and want a ride...The exterior styling has definetly snapped a few heads.

Couldn't be happier...and if I ever figure out how to get photos on the message board the pics are ready to roll...

Raz