To F-Sport or Not...
#31
The pursuit of F
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^^ Me too. One of these days I'll have to test drive an F-Sport to see the difference with my RX450h Sport. My dealer had one in obsidian when I was there yesterday for service. Combined with the black interior it was definitely drool worthy. FWIW, I had a '13 RX350 loaner with 18" tires and thought that ride was a bit harsh. Couldn't wait to get back into my 450h with its firm yet smoother ride.
(from softest to harshest):
Gen 3 RX - 2010 to 2012
Gen 3 RX - Sport package 2010 - 2012
Gen 3 RX - 2013
Gen 3 RX - 2013 F-Sport
What's interesting is the 2010 Sport Package has similar hardware (at least on paper) as does the F-Sport minus the "lateral performance damper system" mentioned on the F-Sport. 19X9in. wheels wrapped with 235/55R19in. all-season radial tires, firmer springs, struts, gas-charged shocks and a thicker front stabilizer bar, plus a re-calibrated VDIM.
So ultimately, Anita, to unravel the mystery, we need your feedback on a test drive of the F-Sport to compare with yours (make sure PSIs are the same!)
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#32
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The number one concern I would have is $$$!!!
Is it worth the $$$?
lol Usually people take a loss somehow regardless of how it works out. it just the way it with cars period. but i dont know your exact situation but hey if you have the $ do what makes you happy=)
Is it worth the $$$?
lol Usually people take a loss somehow regardless of how it works out. it just the way it with cars period. but i dont know your exact situation but hey if you have the $ do what makes you happy=)
#33
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I'm shopping for an RX as well and both my wife and I test drove an RX F 350 and both hated the 8 speed. It was constantly hunting for the right gear and when you had to floor it, the transmission would hesitate as it was trying to find the right gear to be in. Both of us were both disappointed in the 8 speed. I didn't notice this issue with the 450H - is this because it is a 6 speed?
#34
The pursuit of F
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I'm shopping for an RX as well and both my wife and I test drove an RX F 350 and both hated the 8 speed. It was constantly hunting for the right gear and when you had to floor it, the transmission would hesitate as it was trying to find the right gear to be in. Both of us were both disappointed in the 8 speed. I didn't notice this issue with the 450H - is this because it is a 6 speed?
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Ahh, the 450h is CVT. That would make sense. When driving the RX350 F 8 speed compared to the Audi Q5 8 speed, there was no comparison. IMO the Audi 8 speed was dialed in. The Lexus 8 speed needs a lot of work. That said I love the looks of the RX350 F and I think this 450H with special appearance package maybe my final choice.
#36
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From the 2010 brochure, the Sport Package added:
"19-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels (RX350) or 19-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels (RX450h) with Superchrome finish and 235/55VR19 all-season tires, Sport-tuned suspension, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) with cutoff switch."
I'm not sure technically how much this differs from what is in the 2013 F-Sport.
Personally, I find that the 2010 Sport Package RX has a bit of a harsh ride and the handling is still not great, and as an aside the turning circle is really terrible. Maybe the new "lateral performance damper system" makes a difference? For reference, my regular vehicle is a 2000 Mercedes CLK which drives very differently (as it should).
I hope Anita tries the new F-Sport soon for a comparison!
"19-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels (RX350) or 19-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels (RX450h) with Superchrome finish and 235/55VR19 all-season tires, Sport-tuned suspension, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) with cutoff switch."
I'm not sure technically how much this differs from what is in the 2013 F-Sport.
Personally, I find that the 2010 Sport Package RX has a bit of a harsh ride and the handling is still not great, and as an aside the turning circle is really terrible. Maybe the new "lateral performance damper system" makes a difference? For reference, my regular vehicle is a 2000 Mercedes CLK which drives very differently (as it should).
I hope Anita tries the new F-Sport soon for a comparison!
Last edited by AEmgee; 11-30-12 at 11:38 PM.
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