Really like the 2006 GS line, however the bluetooth and nav systems are far behind competitors in ease of use and storage ability i.e.
Bluetooth, cannot tell the phone system via voice or keypad to dial a number that is not stored. My assistant contacts me constantly about new clients I need to call. Obviously it is critical that I am able to call the new "dictated" numbers without having to stop or use my actual cel phone.
Additionally the storage is so limited on the number of preprogrammed phone# entries.

BMW, ACURA, AUDI, MERCEDES all have this function in their current generation cars.

My question is this: According to my local sales rep, the new IS series incorporates a new gen nav system that addresses these issues. Do any members know if this is scheduled to be incorporated on the current 2006 GS models as a mid production change or do we have to wait for the 2007?

Secondly, Japan is already introducing the new GS350. Is this going to be the standard for the 2007 model?

Finally, on the GS300 - I am not a tree-hugger by any means, but I was shocked to see that the "all new" GS300 motor has a smog index rating of .82!!! Holy crap, that is twice the smog output of the BMW 5 series or Acura RL. What gives? Smog index is a direct reflection of the efficiency of the engine in converting fuel to power. It makes me truly wonder if this is just a 1 year motor until the new 3.5 gets introduced.

Please provide any feedback that you can. I buy all my vehicles for cash and keep them for some time. Do not want to get caught buying a new model that will be significantly upgraded soon.

Thanks for the expert help and insight.

 

Here is my take. The GS will definietly transition to the GS350, probably in September, 2006, or sooner (for the 2007 model year) I would think twice about getting the GS300 now, unless you are secure in the performance of it now and plan on keeping it many years.

On the bluetooth, I would expect Lexus to put in the next gen nav system for 07. Lexus, usually, does not do mid-year changes from what I've seen.

On the smog, well, not sure what to tell you. Here is an explanation on that rating:

California and a few other states require a smog index on the window sticker of every new car. A given model's relative pollution can be gauged with a quick look at a bar-graph rating on the window sticker. The index is simply a relative rating of compliance to the state's standards for hydrocarbons, not any other pollutants. Still, it's a good relative comparison to pay attention to when shopping. Just as with actual emissions equipment, automakers will usually include this smog index only in states where it's required.

Looks like it only relates to hydrocarbon pollution. Perhaps the engine scores poorly on this but better in other emissions? I would assume as it is a new engine it is relatively clean, overall. I don't know if you can infer efficiency just based on hydrocarbons, that seems like a narrow view of efficiency to me. To be fair you should compare emissions of CO, NOx, etc. to BMW and the others.

 

Hye Merlin,

Thanks for the reply. I was beginning to think that I wasn't going to hear from the gurus of the site. I agree with the hydrocarbon issue, and I guess the real issue would be addressed by its LEV,ULEV etc rating. It just appears to me that this is an orphaned motor i.e. not used an any other current or future lexus model. Even the new Avalon uses the new design 3.5 motor (more horsepower and better fuel mileage).
It is perplexing to me why they would introduce a 1 year motor that has less power than its direct competitor (M35) and the Avalon?. I think someone in this or another forum said that it was because the new 4.6 motor was not ready and the 300HP 3.5 would have made the GS430 irrelevant.

Anyway, I am putting my money on the sidelines until the change.

 

Why not buy now and when new becomes available...u know what to do....

Its only money....you could always make more....

 

Well, they certainly aren't worried about that in Japan. Go look at lexus.jp, they are launching both the 300hp GS430 & the 300+hp GS350 together at the same time in Japan . . .

 

I assume you are planning to upgrade to a GS350AWD for 2007 ?

 

Hey GS,
Matador/Black is the color combo for me as well. I'm more than happy to spend your money and trade it in 9 months later. Talk about an offer that I can't refuse!!

I've got 3 cars and 2 motorcycles. This is not a replacement, but an addition to my stable, so I am in no hurry to jump on a ship that is sailing in circles.