1Phoenix

Hey guys…new to the forum...This is my first post.

I'm looking to buy a car that will be driven less than 8k a year. It will primarily be used as a daily commuter to and from work which is a 15min drive. Location is British Columbia. Budget around $30,000

I thought a 2008-2011 GS350 AWD Ultra Premium would be good choice. Unfortunately, I've been searching for 3 months and have not been able to find a clean one. There is usually no more than 5-10 3rd Gen GS cars advertised for sale at any given time in my local marketplace which makes it very challenging and frustrating.

Now, I'm wondering if I should consider a GS450h or even a a GS460. I'd love to get your opinions. If I don't find something soon, I will have to buy something else because I really need a car. Some other considerations might be a 2011 BMW 328i XDrive and if I can't find that....Accord, Camry, etc...something!

Thanks in advance

Here is a sample of how the Canadian cars were equipped and priced when new in 2009:

2009 GS 350 A.W.D. Pricing Schedule
Package A
* Includes: $56,345.00
- 303 H.P. 3.5 L V6 w/ Dual VVT-i
- 6 Speed Automatic W / Super Electronically Controlled Transmission
- Smart Key Access System
- Push Button Start
- Blue Tooth Capability
- Power Moonroof
- Full Leather & Wood Trim Interior
- Power Adjustable Front Seats w/ Memory,Heated Seats
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- 10 Speaker AM/FM/Cass./6 CD Changer
- 17” Alloy Wheels P225/50R17 Performance Tires
- Air Bags-2 Front/2 Front Side/4 Side curtain/ 2 Front knee ( 10 total )
- H.I.D. Headlight System & Washers
- Adaptive Front Lighting System
- V.S.C. ( Vehicle Stability Control )
- V.D.I.M. (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management)
- TRAC ( Traction Control )
- HAC ( Hill Start Assist Control )
- Door Mirrors with Built-in Turn Lamps
- Windshield Wiper De-icer
- Rain Sensing Wipers

Package B ( Premium Package W/ Navigation )
* Includes: Package A+ $61,395.00
- Heated & Ventilated Fan Front Seats
- Rear Seat Air Bags
- Clearance & Back-up Sensors
- Color Keyed Rear Spoiler
- Power Rear Window Sunshade
- DVD Based Navigation System w/ Back-up Camera
- Wallet Size Smart Key

Package S ( Touring Edition )
* Includes: Package B + $61,545.00
- Premium Black Leather Seating with Red Stitching (on both steering wheel & seating)
- Lexus Floor Mats with Red Lettering and Special Edition Badging
- Exclusive Exterior Colours: Mercury Metallic, Smokey Granite Mica and Obsidian

Package C ( Ultra Premium Package W/ Navigation )
*Includes Package B+ $64,895.00
- 14 Speaker Mark Levinson Audio w/ Am/Fm/Cass/Cd-Dvd Auto Changer
- Wood & Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel & Shift ****


Retail prices include Freight and Pre-delivery Inspection charge ($1895.00).
Air Condition Excise Tax ($100),Tire Fee ($25.) Battery Levy ($5), Documentation ($295),
GST, PST, will be added to retail prices above. Prices are subject to change without notice.




2009 GS 460 Pricing Schedule
Package A
* Includes: $65,745.00
- 342 H.P.@ 6400 RPM 4.6 L V8 w/ VVT-iE
- 8 –Speed Automatic w/ Super Electronically Controlled Transmission
- Smart Key Access
- Wallet Size Smart Card Key
- Push Button Start
- Bluetooth Capability
- Power Moonroof
- Full Leather & Wood Trim Interior
- Wood and Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel & Shifter ****
- Power Adjustable Front Seats w/ Memory, Heated & Ventilated Fans
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- 10 Speaker AM/FM/Cassette/ 6 CD Changer
- 18” Alloy Wheels P245/40R18 Performance Tires
- Air Bags – 2 Front/2Front Side/4 Side Curtain /2 Front Knee (10)
- Rain Sensing Wipers
- H.I.D. Headlight System & Washers
- Adaptive Front Lighting System
- V.S.C. Vehicle Stability Control
- V.D.I.M. ( Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management )
- TRAC ( Traction Control )
- HAC ( Hill Start Assist Control )
- Door Mirrors with Built in Turn Lamps
- Windshield Wiper De-icer


Package B (Premium Package W/ Navigation)
*Includes:Package A+ $68,295.00
- DVD Based Navigation System
- Rear Spoiler

Retail prices include Freight and Pre-delivery Inspection charges.($1895.00)
Air Condition Excise Tax ($100),Tire Fee ($25.)Battery Levy ($5), Documentation ($295),
GST, PST, will be added to retail prices above. Prices are subject to change without notice.



2009 GS 450 H Pricing Schedule
Package A
* Includes: $64,945.00
- 3.5 Litre (DOHC) V6 + front and rear electric motors (339 h.p.)
- Dual VVT-I Variable Valve Timing with intelligence
- Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission ( EVCT )
- Sequential Multi – Mode Shifter
- Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle ( SULEV )
- Stainless Steel Exhaust System
- Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management ( VDIM )
- Vehicle Stability Control ( VSC )
- Hill Start Assist Control ( HAC )
- Traction Control ( TRAC )
- Front and Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes with ABS
- Power Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
- Wood and Leather Steering Wheel & Shifter ****
- Smart Key Access with Push Button Start & Lock out Protection
- Wallet Size Smart Key
- Power Moonroof
- Full Leather & Wood Trim Interior
- 10 Way Power Adjustable Front Seats w/ memory , heated & ventilated fan
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control with Dust , Pollen , Deodorizing Filter
- 10 Speaker Am/Fm/Cass./6 Disc CD Changer
- MP3 / WMA Audio Capability
- Bluetooth Capability
- Steering Wheel Audio Controls
- P245/40R18 Performance Summer Radials with 18” Alloys & Tire P. Monitor
- Air Bags – 2 Front/2Front Side /4 Side Curtain / & 2 Front Knee ( 10 )
- H.I.D. Headlight with Washers & Adaptive Front Lighting System
- Rain Sensing Wipers
- Power Rear Window Sunshade
- Blue Tinted Head Lights & Tail Lights
- Door Mirrors with Built in Turn Lamps
- Windshield Wiper De-icer

Package B (Ultra Premium Package)
Includes: Package A + $71,545.00
- 14 Speaker Mark Levinson Audio w/ Am/Fm/Cass./ 6 Disc DVD/CD Changer
- Rear Seat Air Bags
- Color Keyed Rear Spoiler
- Clearance and Back-up Sensors
- DVD Navigation with Back-up Camera

Retail prices include Freight and Pre-delivery Inspection charges.($1895.00)
Air Condition Excise Tax ($100), Tire Fee ($25.) Battery Levy ($5), Documentation ($295),
GST, PST, will be added to retail prices above. Prices are subject to change without notice.

LovezLexus

Depends on your needs. Personally I own the GS450h, not because I'm an environmentalist freak, but because I love the power. It's an amazing feeling. All 3 are amazing cars, but I would say GS450h is the way to go (I'm biased though). If interested in hybrids you can message me and I can answer any questions. Might just sell my car haha.

RYKR

Good luck finding a used GS460 in BC, the used market is mostly filled with more GS350s and few GS450hs. I own a GS460, bought it solely for it's bulletproof V8 engine and 8-speed transmission. Initially I was holding out for the 4th gen GS but disappointed when Lexus decided not to offer another V8 option for the GS, so a used GS460 was the only option. I suggest to do some researching and if you can, test drive different versions to see which one suits your needs.

Ziggy716

AWD GS 350 you will not regret it. Your in BC the weather is not in your favor for RWD even with studs and chains. RWD is like 1 wheel drive when winter conditions arrive. I know first hand.

pbateson

Woah the car prices are higher than USA. Not many Lexus in Canada?

blueman26

Currently own a 2004 GS430, but serious about upgrading to a 2008+ GS460. Is there an option/package pricing schedule for US market cars similar to what 1Phoenix posted for the Canadian market?

1Phoenix

I had the GS40h on my list but I heard that the power isn't enough over the GS350. I haven't driven one yet to give my personal opinion. I've also heard people complain about the CVT transmission. Maybe you can share your first hand experience.

There was a GS450h that came up for sale last week but it sold in a few days. The ad has been removed but I think it was a 2010 with approx. 50,000 miles / 80,000 km. It had a new hybrid battery just replaced. I called and the person who answered the phone said the car was his brother's and it just sold and his brother wasn't home.... so I wasn't able to ask him any questions.

1Phoenix

The GS350 AWD has been on the top of my list and precisely for the reason you mentioned...the weather. The problem is that I can't find a GS350 anywhere and it's driving me crazy.That's why I would be more than happy to buy a GS460 if one turns up. What's the alternative? Lexus is my first choice. The IS is too small for rear passengers, I'm not interested in the RX, the LS is too big and beyond my $30,000 or so budget. The ES? I don't think that's a great option considering it's selling for similar money as the in the BC market. I need a car desperately. Should I consider a BMW 5 series, or 3 Series, a Mercedes E Class or C Class, an Audi A4 or A6? Toss in the towel and lease a Camry? I really need a car and it sucks to not be able to buy what you want. I'm willing to overpay for what I want, but it pains me to buy something I don't want at all

LovezLexus

I don't know where you heard that the 450h is lacking in power because it is more powerful than both the 350 and 460. It's 0-60 is greater, it has more torque because of the battery, and it has more horsepower than the 350 (pretty close to the 460 I think). In my opinion, the CVT is AMAZING. I don't know how I lived without it! I love how there isn't that little pause when its shifting gears. This is because the car has a high and a low gear. The 450h's are pretty rare and go by fast from what I've been seeing. I would pick it over the 350 AWD even in winters! You have to drive both to appreciate the 450h. When looking for cars exhaust all resources. Use the following websites to help you find a car:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lex...assifieds-154/
http://craigslist.com/
http://www.ebay.com/motors
http://www.autotrader.com/
http://cars.com/

LovezLexus

I sent this PM to another member a couple days ago. Thought this might be helpful.

I'd be happy to help you in any way possible. Owning this car has been fun and interesting as it's my first hybrid. It will not save you alot of money on gas, I usually average 23 MPG. Interior is very nice and updated, you can't tell it 6 years old at all. The only problem are the darn rattles! There are alot of DIYs for this, but it upsets me at points. It isn't a big deal, just a nuisance. The trunk will be way smaller, but that hasn't affected me at all. Wind and road noises aren't noticeable at all. When I bought the car I changed all struts and tires because the car would shake at high speeds. No major problems with my car at all. I've only changed spark plugs, oil, tires, and struts. I don't think electrical issues will be a problem with this car, I just can't see it. It's really reliable. It does take some time to get use to owning a hybrid. When starting the car, it won't make noise at all (but when it's cold it'll turn on to warm up the car) you have to look at the "ready" sign to know that the car is even on. Make sure that the battery has been changed because I wouldn't like that looming over my head. Even if it's out of warranty it won't cost you an arm and a leg IF you are smart about it. Make sure to read the manual(VERY HELPFUL WITH THIS CAR). Change spark plugs and water pump around 70k. Buy a car from Southern US, not from east coast/northern states because of salt on the roads and stuff. All maintenance was done by a local mechanic or me. People think this car is a space ship, but it isn't. Exactly the same as the 350 but it runs a different program and it has the battery. This car never turns off, there's always this ERRRR sound coming from under the hood. Not irritating, just scary at first. I thought something was wrong haha. Also, the engine will turn on and off by itself. When stopped at a light or in traffic, the engine turns off. When you punch it you can feel it because the battery provides instant torque. This is an amazing car, and I have loved every second. It's a good investment if technology doesn't scare you. Please read up before buying because it is a little different. DON'T buy a low mileage gs450h because the less it's driven the weaker the battery. If they've let it sit the battery would discharge and slowly weaken. Buy a car that has been driven around 10K a year. This will ensure that the battery is in good condition. 2008's are priced higher because there were less produced. 2007 was the first year and alot were produced. I wouldn't get an 07 because the 1st year always has more problems. Plus 2008 had minor cosmetic changes. Sorry for rambling on and on, but I feel that it's important. Let me know if you need anything else.

1Phoenix

Thank you for your response. I apologize, I believe you misunderstood what I meant. I wasn't suggesting that the GS450h was underpowered or not powerful, just merely sharing what I heard which was that the power "difference" wasn't great enough to warrant dismissing the GS350 as a consideration if power was the most important criteria in one's selection between models. I realize it is more powerful.

I agree with you...I'd have to drive both to give a fair opinion.

I have been searching everywhere including all the sites you've shared. Thank you

Thnaks for sharing the pm! What rattles have you experienced?

ISFjimmy

iTrader: (5)

LovezLexus really knows the GS hybrid. Pretty dead on on everything.

LovezLexus

Thanks GS-F, I try my best! As for the rattles they are everywhere. The navigation squeaks, the area where the dash and windshield meet, and rubbing between the passenger seat and seat belt. These are very minor things, and can be fixed in a short amount of time. I just haven't gotten around to do them. I've also noticed that they get worse during the winter.

1Phoenix

I just found a car for sale!

2008 GS 460 Ultra Premium Package (*look at first post in this thread to see details of package)
Mercury Metallic on Black
55,000 miles
2 owner car (all service records at dealer)
No accidents
Asking Price: $30,000 negotiable

If the car is very clean and everything checks out, what do you guys think is the most I should offer? Please keep in mind that it's near impossible to find a nice GS in my area and everything here is more expensive than anywhere else in the country.

*Update - I was just informed that the Navigation unit in it failed 3 years ago and was replaced. Cost $5800!

texbanc

You should be able to get it for about $23 to $27. But as you say they are rare and can sell quickly. I got my 09 GS 460 with 44K miles for less than $30 ( including TT &L and 100K extended warranty .