rolloman

In the market for 09-10 LS SWB. What are the main improvements/changes between the 09 and 10 model years? Are they worth taking the depreciation hit?

JFNash

1) 6th gen nav system
2) Slight changes on the exterior body (grill, headlamps(?), tail lamps, trunk, ???)
3) More color options
4) Some options became standard features (can't recall what they are but probably the comfort pkg and trunk closer).

Apart from that, nothing significant. I like the look of the new nav system.

One thing I think is worth mentioning is that there was an issue with the steering wheel in the '10 model if I remember correctly. I think there was a recall to fix the column or something like that. You may want to check on that as well if that concerns you.

Good luck and welcome to the best piece of engineering world.

rolloman

Thanks JF. Looking forward to stepping up to a real automobile!

patgilm

To be a little more specific, the front bumper is different, headlight washers are in the bumper instead of in the headlights, tailights have amber in them, turn signals in side mirrors, the center instrument panel is slightly different along with new nav system. There may be a couple other minor changes.

rolloman

So are the new upgrades and changes in the 2010 worth the extra $$ from the 09...in your opinion?

nolimitguj

Depends on how much the price difference is. I mean, I really could care less about where the headlamp washers are, or if there is amber in my lights. And just get the current maps for the NAV and it works just fine. If its only a few $k difference, get the '10, any more and I wouldnt bother. But thats just my opinion.

cheez80

iTrader: (1)

i've used the new 6th gen nav and it's a LOT nicer than the gen 5. a lot of stuff you'd have to take to the dealer to configure on the gen 5 is configurable through your nav interface in the gen 6, and the voice recognition works better, the interface makes more sense, etc., etc.

rolloman

Thanks. Big help. Leaning towards '10 if price is right and I can find one. Apparently many are on lease. We'll see.

patgilm

I agree, if the price is not much different, get the 2010. Plus you will have the factory warranty for probably a year more depending on when the vehicle was first registered. All the cosmetic changes to the car are very minor. Although I personally can't stand amber in my tailights, on the LS it is so minor you can't really tell they are there.

j three

I think there is memory for the front passenger seat as well.

cheez80

iTrader: (1)

i think that was added in 09, if i'm not mistaken

patgilm

I think you are correct, my 09 has memory passenger seat.

rolloman

Thanks Pat and all. I'm having tough time finding a '10 with SWB, Black on Tan Leather, with Levinson and low miles (15-20k). I can wait....but not too long!!

j three

Yeah you're right 09. Take your time and get the newest for the best price.