that's not cost cutting. Cost cutting is when the manufacturer skimps and uses cheaper material instead of quality ones (e.g., hard, shiny plastic for the dash or generic tires). Not having HID standard is "price controlling"--even a lot of MB's and BMW's still make HID optional (though standalone). Making HID standard doesn't make it free, just makes the base price higher (even for people who don't even know what HID is). I understand people's frustration that Lexus requires either the Sport or Lux Plus package to get HID. They will probably make it standart in a few years to "sweeten" the deal.

Hmmmm, sounds like a mod could be in the works here. Either hook up another interior style LED which is positioned over the two switches to work with the foot well LEDs, or hooked up to the main over head interior light! Lexus, are you listening?

I agree that those buttons don't need to be illuminated.. I mean it's not likely that you want to use them while driving.. Plus i haven't seen them light up on a car yet...

plus if you want to use them... probably with your car door open and the car stopped, the overhead lights should turn on.. so it shouldn't be a problem to see...

and the cost cutting.. i mean if you have a keyless starter.. then i would think that you have HID's standard.. i mean.. HID's would be more useful than a keyless starter IMHO :uh:

keyless entry'start is the trend for the future (I wasn't particularly impressed by the idea when I tested the car, but I've come to appreciate its usefulness). It would be more difficult to fabricate two dash molds: one keyed, the other keyless, unless you do a half-ass, keyless-but-turn-the-switch ignition thing like the current LS. HID, on the other hand, can simply be installed as a module during assembly. I think it'll become standard during the 3rd year update.