dunnojack

i've driven the 535 and the E on extended test drives.

The E just seems heavy and slow with 268hp. The price just isn't justified. But the discount was fat. They were giving employee pricing 12.25% discount to us regular customers.

The 535i actually rides pretty good. it is no less comfortable than the GS.
sense of speed is about identical to the GS. Real leather is standard, plus 18" wheels. However, after negotiations, for an apples vs apples setup, you'd pay $7000 more for the bmw.
I was hesitant about buying the 535 because of the twin turbos. I read that those parts don't last long.

rsantiago

More competition, you've got the M35/45, a refreshed E-Class and 5 Series, GS is facing a tough battle.

I don't know, IMO I think the 3rd Gen GS isn't as unique as the 2nd Gen GS.

dseag2

For me, it came down to the GS350 or M35. Infiniti used a significantly higher residual and offered me a 2-year lease for $200 per month less than what Lexus offered on a 3-year lease. All things were equal for me... I like the exterior of the GS, but I like the interior of the M. I like the driving dynamics of the M, but I prefer the Mark Levinson system in the GS. The service from both brands (from my experience) is excellent. It was a wash, so the deal was a no brainer.

I've owned both Lexuses and Infinitis, and with few exceptions I've found Infiniti more aggressive in their dealing. I'm sure that is because Lexus has more brand awareness, but for me that's a big "who cares?"