PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

If you try to order the two packages together, there will be a "conflict" because of overlapping and conflicting options within the package. All cars have option/package lists, along with "restrictions" that will not allow certain packages to be offered.

For example, the Sport Package (and X-Package) specifically supplies the aluminum trim, and Luxury specifically supplies the wood trim. Combining both packages would have conflicting trim options, therefore cannot be done.

Another example are conflicting wheel options for the IS250 and IS250 AWD. You can try to order the 18" wheels for the IS250, but that option/package is unavailable/conflicting with the IS250 AWD.

Cliffj

PhilipMST - thanks for the response. I also edited my previous post to add a question about the Mark Levinson radio. If you order the Mark Levinson without navigation, can you play DVD audio?

Thanks.

Technique

Good luck finding "official documentation" from Lexus on any of this...

The following are facts (trust me, I am 100% correct):

1) You can get either X-Package, Sport Package, or Luxury Package. Those 3 cannot be combined in any way, shape or form. Sorry.
2) The only way to get wood interior trim with sport suspension from the factory is X-Package + Premium Package
3) Non-ML will not play DVD anything (i.e. - Non-ML = CD Changer; ML = CD/DVD Changer)

Hope this helps.

PS - I hate the wood trim

socalJD

Ah, a newbie - we were all once newbies, the innocent enthusiasm for a new Lexus, if only we could turn back the clock (but I regress).

Don't take a printed brochure as absolute gospel, and don't completely trust every word uttered by a salesman, ever. The '06 IS brochure proclaimed that Sirius satellite radio and an HKS hi perf exhaust would be available options, both didn't happen and only recently became available in 2007.

As for the bundling of options, refer to Technique's post above (also checkout his website in his sig, he's done some great mods to the IS).

As for ML w/out Nav, it will be the standard 6 disc CD changer, so No it cannot play Dvds of any sort, but you can play Mp3 . . .

j|michael

I think that the ML is well worth the money. And that is coming from someone who has always had aftermarket systems with 3000 watts +. With a more mature car I've decided to stay away from the overpowered system, but still enjoy some good bass and overall power. The ML, though not very high powered, does have a good broad range, and very decent bass. As mentioned, it is also under warranty! In fact my sub blew out (i wasn't sure what it could actually handle...) and Lexus warrantied it, no questions asked.

Cliffj

Thanks for the response guys. It looks like I will favor a sport package/ML/XM/rear spoiler. Probably looking at Tungsten/black.

I would like to have Bluetooth, but don't want to pay 2K to get bluetooth bundled with Nav. I know I am also giving up the DVD capability. I'll have to think about that one.....

Cliffj

DropTopGal

Thanks for the pics Evitzee! Gee, the non-wood interior looks sharp! The front, side, and rear ground effects looks great also, I'll certainly check that box.
Now the next big question, Lexus HKS exhaust or aftermarket HKS, Greedy or Tanabe. LOL No drone and not raspy, a deep note exhaust seems to fit this car best. Oh, and the wheel decision... LOL

All of your feedback is wonderful! Thanks so much.

j|michael

The ML with nav should come standard with bluetooth. mine does. correct me if i'm wrong but i think it's just part of the package, just like DVD capability is.

Technique

ML+NAV is the greatest option ever... It is the #1 option that people regret not getting with their IS... Think twice before you do this, you'll most likely regret it...

windfall12

ML system is 5.1 surround, this does not make any sense if all you can play is lame 2.0 CD and MP3. I can't believe it.

Also, ML website does not mention anywhere that system has to be coupled with Nav to play DVD:
http://www.marklevinsonlexus.com/overview.asp?model=is

Cliffj

j|michael - I believe you are right. What I am saying is that I don't think you can get bluetooth as a standalone item. You must order navigation to get the bluetooth. It would be nice, if you did not want the navigation, to be able to just add bluetooth as an option. This just became available as a standalone option on the BMW 335i for about $500 (which also is bundled with BMW's version of Onstar called BMW Assist).

j|michael

After I posted I realized that you were considering the ML without the Nav.

Keep in mind that aside from the obvious DVD and bluetooth capability, the nav option also consolidates all of the controls into a beautiful visual display. Everything from the climate control to the stereo display to the many added features such as calander, maintanance timeline.

I'm in a loaner ES350 right now because they're replacing a bad HID ballast on my car, the the difference between standard dash with the cluttered assortment of displays and controls and the sleek design of the touch screen is astounding. To me, just the aesthetics of the option is worth the 2 grand! The car feels more alive. okay, maybe i'm going a little too far

Cliffj

windfall - I hope you are correct. I would like to play DVD's audio without having to get the navigation.

One of the reason's I am not real interested in having the built in navigation is that I plan on getting the Nuvi 370 or 670 (wider screen). They both have the European maps included beside the US and Canada, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. I travel to all those places, except Canada, fairly regulary. I can then just throw the nav unit in my suitcase and use it when I am traveling. My daughter has the Nuvi 360 and it is great. I can also use it in any of our cars. The after market Nav units have gotten really good, and can be programmed while moving.

Also, it is only about $500 on the internet now (including bluetooth), and I can toss it in a few years when the technology takes another leap forward and not be out a lot of money.

Cliffj

jdanon

I don't think you can get ML without Nav. ML uses the Nav screen, it's not a Nav system + screen, it's all one unit. The audio system is plug and play, however. If you take apart the whole thing you will see that the audio system is not attached to the screen/nav system.

Technique

So many wrong answers being posted here... Let me clear things up:

Yes, you can get NAV by itself.
Yes, you can get ML by itself.
Yes, you can get NAV+ML <-- And this is the ONLY way to get DVD capabilities. The option code is "VN".

I am 100% correct here. Believe it.