srgonu

I registered new on this website, but I have been following up with all the posts for quite sometime. Amazing folks here with great depth of knowledge.

I need help in buying my car.
Finally I decided to go with ES300h after my multiple test drives... . This will be my first car in Luxury segment (I own 2007 Toyota Highlander). But a question remained and could not find answer on this forum too .

My question:
I know that ES300h is released August 2012. So, its already 9 months in the market. Is it good time to buy considering 2014 model will be released in another 5 to 6 months ?. I mean if I make a purchase now, my car will be a year old in 5 months. So, does this mean I will lose an year depreciation after 5 months ?. If I am correct, can someone help me understand why do people buy a new car in last 5 months (ignoring people who don't care resale value) before the release of next year model.

Thanks,

txes

Usually year end close outs result in a better deal.

John

Mike728

True, but your choices are limited. If you're not particular about things like color and options, you should definitely wait until Sept/Oct.

The 2013's will be considered a year old in Jan 2014, as far as used values go. If you drive very few miles, you're probably better off buying early. If you drive a lot, better to buy late (IMO).

ElliotB

if you plan on keeping your car for three or less years, you should probably get a 2014 model. If you plan on keeping your car for four or five years or longer, it probably doesn't matter.

Franklin5

I'm on the cusp of deciding on a 2013 300h or holding out for the 2014 model, too.

Does anyone know of any rumors on changes between the model years? Would only be minor, I suspect. Were there a lot of TSBs issued on the 2013 model (which presumably would be dealt with in the 2014 model)?

Thanks all.

Mike728

I don't know of any TSB's for the 2013.

dsw13

On that note, I've read of some great improvements in the navigation system and voice recognition in the 2014 IS. Is that at least something we should expect in the 2014 ESs, or does one typically have nothing to do with the other?

Arty101

The only TSB might be the emergency truck release handle, which may already have been corrected during the mid year production.

Improvements and features in the Nav and VC system aren't always found across the entire line of Lexus. I couldn't use the same VC on the ES found on GS.

coach1

My past experience has been.....Mileage.....determines value almost more the model year for the Lexus brand. That said, the design change for the new generation of ES class from 2012 to 2013 was the difference of me Not buying and coming back with my tail between my legs. Things have a way of working out. I will be eating a little light this year.

Arty101

So you didn't buy because of the new model change but you're eating a little lighter this year?

srgonu

Thanks for all your replies. I finally made the call. Lexus ES300H Deep sea mica with parchment interior.

jollick

Congratulations, it is a beauty.

steig

Nice color !

txes

Absolutely a nice color.

John

danolo

Lucky! I couldn't find a ES300h Deep Sea Mica in the Texas tri-state area. Had to special order.