swfla

iTrader: (1)

I've had an ES 300, an RX 330 and currently an '09 ES 350 still under CPO warranty. All have been CPO and very dependable. But the grass sometimes looks greener on the other side of the fence. So, I spent the last few weeks researching and test driving CPO versions of Mercedes E Class, BMW 528i, Audi A6, Infiniti Q 50 and Lexus GS 350. All considered a step up from my current ES 350. All drove well and had impressive technology improvements compared to an '09. All were in the range of about $35k, a nice savings from new and all CPO warrantied. In my mind better than new because of similar warranties and because luxury vehicles are generally well cared for as to appear near new. I also got a couple of appraisals on my car from a dealer and Carmax, needless to say I was very disappointed with their offers. I also researched on Cargurus looking at similar ES 350s for sale. Apparently it's a soft market now with cars sitting on dealers lots for several months. So, on my last 2 hr drive home from road testing some Audis, I realized that my car was comfortable, quiet, economical, yet capable of performance and most importantly, paid for. None of the other cars stood out enough for me to spend $20k+. I will say that the GS 350 was the nicest car out of the bunch as well as a best value. I guess I'm a Lexus kind of guy with a wad of cash still secure in my bank

xanderES

iTrader: (8)

Though I have since moved on from the ES I still have to say that it was a very reliable car and was extremely comfortable. As opposed to German Manufacturers there is no contest to having a Japanese Import.

Though I care less about comfort than I once did (since I'm quite young compared to the avg age of ES owners) I still miss the interior that can accommodate 6'5" friends and what was once in my ES a soft and cushioned ride.

12jimmyjam

After my 07 es got totalled from being rear ended on the way to the beach last year, I bought a 09 accord. Huge mistake! The car was like a go cart and terrible on gas. I just traded it in for a new to me 07 es. I haven't been happier in the last year. Feels like a Bentley.

John U

swfla,
Well played!
Now give your ES a good wash/wax and see how much better it shines!

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for the nice replies