Those who read my last topic know that I'm considering a Lexus GS430 for my next new car. I am still in the process of learning about the car and the brand, and have another question for you all.

I know that Lexus sometimes offers special packages or trim levels such as "platinum", "Coach", etc. How often does this happen? How much advance notice do they give that a special edition is coming out, and how long do they offer them? If any of you have gotten these special cars, did you find the extra goodies to be worth the extra cost, or is it a pure marketing gimmick?

 

Special editions come out either between 'freshening' or new versions of a model to generate interest (and easy revenue), or near the end of a model year.

The platinum GS came out in spring of 2000, 6 months before the freshened 2001 came out. I got my 2000 in November 99 though, so (thankfully) I didn't get Platinum. I didn't care for the badging and other changes for an outrageous $1200 or so.

 

I have the platinum edition, and it has it's pros and cons.
Pros: in my opinion, it adds a level of exclusivity, and the blackpearl badging and birdseye maple look sharp, especially w/tan interior.

Cons: unfortunately, upgrading to the new 2001 grill won't work as the emblem is chrome, not blackpearl (not many would notice, but I would). Also the interior woodkit doesn't match as closely as the burlwood does, I am told. And upgrading to the OEM wood wheel won't
work either (burl), only aftermarket, which I've yet to see.

And if I remember correctly, Lexus offered 3 levels of the platinum edition, the basic w/wood and badging, sunroof, 6 disc. A second w/heated seats added, and a third w/HID, nav, the works. They ranged in price from $3k to almost $6k

btw, I think the RX300 Silversport w/brushed alum. and perforated seats looks sharp !

 

i think i actually only payed a few hundred more $$ for my platinum package and IMO the seats are much better looking. I like the preforated leather. ALso i like the wheels better then the others even though i dont have em now. ALso not to mention the $300 cash back i got from american express. Since I want the platinum card they sent me cash worth the valuem of a year or whatever.


Mike