DaveJ

I'm happy with my GS. Per your original question, I just listed other models I would also look at if I were to buy another model in this class.

My comment about my next model possibly being a compact or mid-size SUV has more to do with my changing personal preferences rather than anything specifically negative about the GS or pro its competition.

sonikbo0m

If I had to do it over again. I don't know if I would have gotten the GS. The little problems doesn't bother me a great deal, but it should not be happenning on a brand new car and a 50k car at that. Dash noises I got after about 2000 miles and it doesn't bother that much. The handling on the awd, I don't think is that great. Not close to great actually. It's floaty and and the steering wheel is not stiff at all (then again, it's not a german car). Any little bump on local streets would throw the wheel off center. Other than the steering wheel, the other thing that really drives me crazy is the engine noise. The 350 engine (same w/ the IS350) is just too loud for a toyota/lexus engine. The engine noise is not that loud if you're sitting in the car w/ the windows up, but it get worst if the windows are down. Now if you're standing outside, forget it. I still notice the noise from inside my house. It's just something I didn't expect from the normal quite toyota/lexus engines. Another thing is my mpg sucks. I don't know what else I would have gotten, but definitely 2nd thoughts on the GS. Oh, and I didn't test drive when I bought.

mitsuguy

iTrader: (2)

In the class that the 350's compete in, you'll find equally sporty sedans with equally prominent exhaust notes. G35's, BMW's, they all make it a point to show their sportiness by exhaust note, and rely on technology to make them quiet at cruise, windows up...

imo, if I am cruising with the windows up, it's cause its either too cold, or I am wanting to be quiet or talk on the phone... windows down, music up, exhaust tone doesn't matter... relaxed vs. fun... who could want more?

doug_999

I think he is talking about the engine noise from the direct injection.

sonikbo0m

that's right, i'm talking about the engine noise. trust me, i love the sound of a deep growl when i step on it.

GlockMan9c

I walked into the dealer and bought what I wanted less than a month ago. Just check other dealers or call Lexus.

My last two cars were bimmers (330ci and M5), I would really think twice about buying a BMW. There are much tighter in the handling dept, but you are not going to get the value or reliability of a Lexus.

Worst case... CarMax has 2006 GS430s available everyday. They ship from any dealership to any dealership.