I understand what you're saying, but Toyota and Lexus already overlap. The Camry XLE V6, Avalon, and ES330 all overlap the same general price range and target demographic. So do the 4Runner / GX470 and the Land Cruiser / LX470.

Well, we don't always agree, so we'll just leave it at that. On to another topic.

 

You raise a good point. You're right, there are overlaps between Toyota and Lexus, but they're not with Toyota's lowest end models (Corolla, Echo, Matrix, etc.) they're with Toyota's more expensive vehicles. The Acura EL is a *CIVIC*, generally viewed as a nice econobox. And the Camry XLE V6, Avalon and 4Runner all have more than 4 cylinders.

 

I've seen this too! I couldn't figure out what the heck it was! It passed me on the freeway and I couldn't get around traffic to go and inspect it. I thought I was going nuts for a minute. Glad to know that it is a real car and not just a figment of my imagination!

 

This is probably one of the best quotes about lower acura products, ever.

Another thing I wanted to mention was that no lexus has EVER come with steel wheels and wheel covers. All of them have had alloy wheels, and I woudl say all of them have looked at least "ok." Most integras I see have steel wheels with plastic covers, as well as the G20s, BMW 318s, and even some 1980s mercedes I believe.

I am very glad lexus stayed out of the low $20K, 4 cyl. class of cars. It definitely has given itself a higher reputation compared to its other japanese counterparts, and the sales definitely show it.

I still remember seeing a MB C240 and thinking "what the hell is this?"

 

I like bitkahuna a lot, but that quote is downright vapid! Why you'd feel "awkward" as a Legend buyer because there were Integras on the lot simply baffles me. Since the IS300 is underpowered and cheap on the inside do you feel awkward with your GS?

Then again, maybe I'm just taking the "cheesy Integra" comment personally since I owned a GS-R and thought it was an awesome ride. That last gen Integra is a wonderfully designed car inside and out.

 

"Vapid" - had to look that one up.

1. Lacking liveliness, animation, or interest; dull: vapid conversation.
2. Lacking taste, zest, or flavor; flat: vapid beer.

Ok then...

No I don't feel the same way about the IS, because I consider the IS several steps up from an Integra. 2.0L four cylinder vs. 3.0L six cylinder, rear wheel drive, and hmm... even the newer RSX I see has NO OPTIONS. Certainly not navigation, limited slip diff., heated seats, various wheel options, etc., etc.

I *will* say though that the interior in general on the IS is *NOT* Lexus-like. It was too obvious that they brought the Altezza as is from Europe and Asia over here.