My dad wants to purchase an RX400h. He is in no hurry, however, our local dealership tells us each Lexus dealership will only receive 1-2 RX400h's per month.

First, when will the RX400h become available for sale? Our dealership claims it will become available this fall and we must put down a deposit NOW. However, I've read elsewhere that it will not be available till next spring.

Second, will all RX400h's come ONLY fully loaded as rumored? My dad does not care for the rearview camera/NAV/ML and would rather save the money.

And finally, is it true that only 1-2 RX400h's will be delivered to dealerships initially? If so, how to go about purchasing one? Would a deposit be necessary and will there potenially be an MSRP markup?

Sorry for all the questions, but I trust CL more than anywhere place else for answers,

thanks

 

I bet all will be loaded with options and going for full sticker versus good discounts on the 330's. You will never save enough in gas to compensate for differences in the selling price of the 400 vs 330. Your dad has to decide how much being "cutting edge" is worth to him.

 

You might have your dad talk to the dealer about factory order. This is how I bought my last 2 Lex (the current GS430 and the previous SC300 5 spd); the wait is ordinarily 3 months from order, you get the car you want, the order is considered seperate from the dealer's allotment (so it doesn't decrease the number of 400h models he gets), and you'll (possibly) be able to negotiate a little.

But since the 400h will likely be in demand for quite awhile, you can bet they'll be heavily optioned and that there'll be NO discounts (that supply and demand thing). At least there's not likely to be any price gouging/markups (though I wouldn't be surprised if someone who comes to the dealer and waves a few thousand extra in his face might not move up the waiting list). And a deposit will certainly be necessary to get on the waiting list (though these are almost always refundable, unlike "earnest money").

 

I received a Lexus newsletter that indicated the RX400h would be out by December. But you'd probably have to be on a list to get any of the initial 400's.

 

The official word is that the RX400h will be available "late 2004." Whatever that means.

True, since the RX400h will be available in limited quantity, each dealership will only get a certain number of allotment. Its allotment is based its past sales volume and elite status.

Therefore, if your dad wants to get one in reasonable time, it's better to put down a deposit now to get a spot in the waiting list. Chances are RX400h will come fully-loaded and sell at MSRP or higher at first. I believe your dad can always get the deposit back should he changes his mind, but be sure to ask.

For grins and giggles, all 2004 Toyota Prius hybrids are sold out. Toyota dealers are taking orders for 2005 Prius.