shami

Hello everyone,

I'm new to this platform and considering to own GS350. I currently own bmw 545i but you guys can tell why i'm thinking about Lexus now. BMW has been pain in the butt for past 2 years. Also spent like $3000.00 for fixing problems but those problems aren't stop yet. So i'm thinking of trade in with 2008 to 2009 GS350. I need advice and things to look out If i decided to go with GS? I have seen people commenting about ES, RX, and LS all the time but very few people say anything about GS and i wounder why? So that being said, I just wanted to be sure as I plan to keep the car for 5 to 6 years. Please advice me and help me make my decision. Well not to mention we have 97 ES300 which has 300000 miles lol and still running but i need to get ride of the bmw. GS will be my daily use car and will be driven 50 + miles every day. Do you guys think should I consider GS for daily use or should i look into different lexus model? I don't really like ES350 as it looks little small compare to GS350. My budget will be 40k and i'm hoping to find pre-certified GS. I really appreciate your time and will look forward considering your advices. Thanks,

lkapimp216

iTrader: (2)

If you want to modify the car the AWD sits very high almost suv like and those that have lowered them have vibration issues. I would suggest get a RWD I have had my car for three years with very limited issues and none that Lexus didn t take car of I love my car!

*Batman*

GS is an excellent car. One thing you will notice is that it holds its value much better than the 5 series. I was at carmax the other day and a 2008 550i goes for $31k, while a 2008 GS460 goes for $39k with similar mileage.

If you're coming from a 545i I would get the GS460 or the GS450h. You shd be able to get a 2008 with CPO warranty for $40k. There is no difference between 08s and 09s. 10s and 11s have updated nav and bluetooth stereo.

The advantage of the 460 and 450h is they handle much better due to active suspension, and have more performance like a BMW V8. The 460 handles the best because it is 400lbs lighter than the 450h.

cowsgomoo

iTrader: (2)

I purchased my 06 gs430 last december. If I could go back and rethink my decision between the 545 i was looking at the time...I would have hands down got a GS450H.

I love the GS, best car i've owned in many ways. Only thing I really don't like is the gas mileage I get. If got 25mpg versus 15 on average i'd be saving a lot of money on the daily commute with nearly the same power.

However if you really truely need that extra power the 460 is the way to go.

As already mentioned...if you plan to mod the car, you'll have more options and less problems with the RWD.

MelYW

Not much chatter on the GS as it has much lower production volumes.

If you are looking for a car that is bigger than the ES, GS may not suit your needs.

The GS is a very nice machine. Very strong and smooth engine...and you get more features for the dollar with the GS compared to the BMW 5's.

Ice350

iTrader: (1)

I have 2 GS cars and have no complaints about problems.
Lots of people complain about dash rattles but I don't have those problems.
With my 06, 5 times the check engine light has come on and nothing was wrong.
With my 07, it has not been to the shop for anything other than maintenance.
Stock height they are kinda soft and squishy. I couldn't own this car car without lowering it. Most of us use Tanabe NF210 springs which offer a mild drop and near-stock ride. When this car becomes a play toy, I'll switch to coilovers but the springs are perfect for daily driving.
I like the GS because it is often imitated but still has that unique look that is unattractive to some but admired by all.
With a nice set of wheels to go with that drop, the car goes to another level.
Yes, this is a Lexus forum and it's expected we would advise you to get one. Personally, it will admit it has faults but overall, I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Hey, I have 2....a his and hers! That says it all.

ESU1909

I love my 07' GS350 RWD.....and I wouldn't have it any other way.

shami

Thank you, everyone for the feedback and i'm really looking forward to buy GS. I live in VA and dealerships around my area are selling AWD due to weather condition. I will not modify my car if i decided to buy, and would like to keep it original. See what are your thoughts on that, found white 2008 GS with 28,604 mi for $35,880 and its AWD. I will loose nearly $ 3 to $4 gz for trade in, so how much you think I can offer them? Also is there any problems with trany on AWD compare to RWD? Keep in mind i will keep this car for next 5 to 6 years. This is my main concered at this point. BMW already made me visit shops 5 times in past two years ownership. Thanks again guys..!!!