LexusfanVA

iTrader: (1)

For what it's worth(probably nothing) someone who put a deposit for an IS500 on the RCF pages said his dealer verbally quoted him around $75k for the launch edition.

ISBuzzman

You're correct, it's worth nothing. My dealer's Sales Mgr. told me today that they have no idea about pricing and probably won't know till Fall. So, that comment you referenced was probably a guess, at best.

flipside909

Like I had mentioned previously, pricing will not come out until we get close to production. My guess is August/September.

ISBuzzman

Well, I have decided not to purchase the IS 500 Launch Edition. I was able to see one in person at the Lexus Experience in Scottsdale the day it opened a couple of weeks ago. Sadly, I was left underwhelmed. The Incognito color was not as "special" as I expected. I have seen similar executions on any number of vehicles driving around town. Lexus missed a real opportunity to make a 500 unit limited edition vehicle appear truly limited. The yellow LC 500 convertible sitting across from the IS 500, now that looked special. And, sitting in the car did not leave me feeling there was enough of an upgrade from my current IS 200t to warrant the premium price for an engine upgrade and an improved interior. So I have instead turned my attention to a Mercedes E Class or Lexus LC 500 convertible.

gbouton

The cosmetics of the LE have zero appeal
to me, so I can related to your decision in that respect. But did you get a chance to drive it at that event?

ISBuzzman

No, the vehicles were not available to be driven. I am sure the driving experience is great, but visually, it did not scream "limited" to me. Having seen the vehicle in person now, if I wanted to obtain an IS500 I would choose the "premium" option in Ultrasonic Blue Mica or Infrared and save the $7K premium required for the LE.

flipside909

I dig the Launch Edition for it's exclusivity. I'm very happy Lexus listened to us and made more of the special Launch Edition.