Gojirra99

If you think the options packaging in U.S. is bad, I've told you what the packaging is like in Canada for the LS starting 2009MY(RWD available in base trim ONLY), & we don't even have the Touring Package available in Canada as a choice anymore

rominl

iTrader: (4)

no kidding. i can see if they have limited packages for cost perspective, but sometimes (for example yours in canada) that's just way off

garyr

Yup...I have the Touring Package and I test drove a stock SWB Ls460...no comparison, much better handler and braking.

You have to remember they have to compete price wise within their market. 99% of the time you have to get the cars optioned or fully loaded to drive them they way the designers originally intended.

The only draw back is you could not get other options like rear climate control and others.

The car cost me almost 90k out the door, compared to a stock SWB that was starting in the low 70's. The executive pack would have priced the car a little over 100k. The 600 was not around in 2007 when I bought mine.

tommyd3

garyr:

How does your LS460L with the touring suspension handle compared to your GS? I have a GS350 and am considering the LS460L for the larger size. Dont want to step down in handling (my GS has the 18" 40 series summer tires).
Thanks.

Sorry - I misread the car (SUV) - thought it said GS450 not GL450.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

gs? Gl???

jgamze

QUESTION; If the touring version handles so much better than the nontouring version, why has one of our local dealers in Chicago only sold 3 or 4 touring versions in the last few years? He doesn't even have one in stock for me to test drive. Any feedback or suggestions, especially if I want to drive both models to compare them? Any suggestions as to whether I should get an AWD or a long base in a touring version? I want the AWD for snow, but I don't like the body lean on my current 2002 LS430, which has no variable adaptive suspension. Thanks.

Gojirra99

I think part of the problem is the way Lexus package their cars. The Touring Package is only available in one trim, they offer no choices for the customers to combine the Touring Package with other options, such as the rear-seat upgrade or Executive Package. It isn't even available with the premium leather, but just the regular.

The SWB version makes up the majority of the sales anyway, and the Touring Package is just available with the LWB.
Plus, most target customers of the LS probably care more about other luxury options than the better handling, so my guess is most opted for the other luxury options available rather than the Touring Package, and the dealers probably anticipated this, & order fewer of the Touring Package for their inventory, which makes them harder to get.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

yup, agree, touring is available only in that trim, and usually more people who get the lwb would want the rear seats upgrade.

jgamze

I live in the Chicago area. Do you think it is better to buy an AWD for the snow or a touring version in the lwb for better handling (since Lexus doesn't allow you to have both options in the same car)?

garyr

Simple more $$$$$$$

Most ES and LS Lexus buyers (perceived buy Lexus) don't care about performance and don't want to shell out the extra bucks. I think my total package was around 5-k.

To answer some other posts, the AWD does come with air suspension but with only 18 inch wheels not 19" like mine and the better brakes are not available.

Yes, that is a MB GL 450 and the LS does handle better only on hot dry pavement