SWalters1

I'm looking for a new daily driver and I just realized that Lexus offered an AWD version of the GS (I believe the GS350?), anyway between a 5 series BMW AWD or the Lexus GS AWD, which do you think is a better choice? I'm looking at AWD because I live in Chicago and winters are not fun. Important considerations for me are tech gadgets, luxury quality, dependability and looks. Thanks.

PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

Yes, the GS350 is available with AWD.

The AWD technology of Lexus is excellent for inclement weather. Performance and handling of BMW's AWD is still superior.

PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

Yeah, definately the Lexus...

Rexus300

iTrader: (1)

I live in Southeast Michigan, and the GS300 AWD has handled beyond amazing in the snow even with my 18 inch optional wheels. The foward and rear wheel split is better than rear-wheel bias of the Xdrive on the 5 series which gave me a little more fishtailing. I would recommend the GS, but everyone is to chose what they like.

SWalters1

Thanks for the help so far guys!

LexFather

To be honest both AWD systems are good. FInding an AWD 5 is going to cost you some $$$$$ over the GS 350.
For instance the 530xi with 230hp is the same price as a 303hp GS 350 AWD (base).
The 300hp 535 xi starts at 51k

Looking at your sig, that is not an issue though!

The GS 350 will be far more reliable, have just as many gadgets (I figure BMW might have more with I-drive, since you can twist and push it for days) and IMO looks far better than the odd proportions of the 5 (get it in a dark color if you get one!).

I like the interiors of both cars, the GS is more coupe like and cozy while the 5 is more modern and has more room.







Both are superb!! Good luck!

Yang1815

iTrader: (1)

I went with the GS because a 535xi comparably equipped would've cost me about 13k more and for the same amount of money I could barely get a 530xi although it has free maintenance.

It doesn't seem like you have a budget, so go test drive both and see what you like more. The other thing is, the 5 series is getting restyled sooner than 3GS if that matters to you at all.

SWalters1

Thanks guys. I do have a budget, this will be my daily driver that I will most likely beat to hell So I don't want too spend much.

To throw in another car, how is the Mercedes C300 Sport AWD? Any experiences with that?

Heng350

ummm ok i went thur the same problem when i wanted either the 335i coupe or the gs350 but i choose lexus because the navi is a touch screen and the bmw isnt. also the gs is way sportier than the 5 series :P

CrazyMPG

iTrader: (4)

but the 335i most likely can kick the GS350's butt!!! That car is amazing...

Yang1815

iTrader: (1)

I really like the 335xi but that darn thing is so small!

As for C300, I don't think you're going to find many people with experience... Test drives at most since it just came out.

DarKnight

iTrader: (3)

Well, I don't think that statement will hold up.

Heng350

lol true true but i choose the GS because it was sportier lookin than the 5 series not the 3 series. as for the 3 series goes, i wasnt really trying to race around and wateva i was lookin for a baller's car that was still really sporty.
(i think my bro is gunna get the 3 series tho) :P

Wassa786

just remember lexus service > bmw service.... those guys are A-holes! You have to fight to get anything done at those places... At a lexus dealership, they treat you like you've just bought a LS600h....it's amazingly different...

I think that would make or break a sale imho.

memasterac

Correct me if I'm wrong. I thought BMW's free maintenance can only be used for every 15K miles so it's 3 maintenance(s) for about $1000 before it runs out? The $13K extra for the 535xi could buy GS350 owners more than 50 years free maintenance?