Hi RX guys!

I’ve been member of Club Lexus for some time (not very active one though) lurking on Lexus forum searching for useful information now and then. Thanks to a forum, I found a lot of good staff here.
Now came time that I need to make a move and buy new RX. I wonder is somebody can help me to decide on couple possible options here: RX350FWD vs. RX350AWD and 2007 new vs. 2008 new. Money is an object and I would like to spend it wisely. Since we plan to keep the vehicle for 6-7 years (possibly/hopefully more?), it seems logical to get 2007 model, if available. What is your take on this?
Also, I wonder if somebody can suggest what is good price for either 2007 or 2008 models with Premium plus package, heated seats with HID and NAV in Chicago area? AWD and FWD, if numbers are available.

Thank you all.

 

Well, what is your max that you want to spend?? I live in NY and AWD is a must.

 

I am trying to find the best deal possible and did not think about it as “max”. I’ve red posts from CA people where they mentioned about getting this car for $1K-$1.5K under invoice. I’m not sure if it is CA deal, or what is the trick here, but it is tempting.

In regards of AWD vs. FWD: I’ve been driving FWD for years and never felt that AWD is a must. My wife’s current 2000RX has AWD and I did not huge difference in a snow. I’m not sure if she does. I think that with VSC AWD does not/may not play that huge of the role. But this is my opinion only.

 

since your keeping the car for 6 years+...ever think about a 2009 RX?

i dont have prices but if i were you, i would get awd just to be on the safe side. and if you want a really good deal, buy your RX in april-ish when the 2009 comes out.

 

Well I would say 07, because my friend recently bought a 07 camry and got a much lower price then the 08. Since they had to get rid of the 07's.

Waiting for the 09's is an option, but all depends on your situation. If you live in a snowy climate, definitely go with the AWD.

 

I'd consider 09, but I think it will go for MSRP for awhile, and that is above what I think I should pay for a car.

 

Basically, 2007 & 2008 are identical except few cosmetic update which shows for 2008 model;

1. Grille
2. Chrome handles
3. New 7 spoke wheels
4. Rear view mirror's seen a little diffent

These are what I have noticed different between my 2007 model vs Inspire (club lexus member as well as my friend) 2007 model. I might miss other changes as well.

 

if you can save a good amount of money why get an 08?

 

The big change will be most likely in the spring of 2009 as a 2010 model. I think your working off of old info, but then again, it's hard to be sure.

 

There is little difference between the 07 and the 08. Both have a pretty good 4WD system, so I would say go for the 4wd. The 08 should be going for around invoice now, $41000-$42000 with the option you describe I believe. If can find a 07 thats at least $2000 cheaper, I would go for that.

 

Thank you. Make sense to go for 07 for less. Unfortunately, upon checking, I found none is available. There are some CPO 07s with 10-15K miles on them, but they would go for about $35K. What do you think about this? Is it worth to go for CPO vehicle?

 

A CPO at a great price wins! Let somebody take the hit for depreciation! Take note, a good price needs a lot of work. New or used, it depends on how good you are with negotiation! Polish your strategy and go! Good luck.

 

A CPO is great when you get a good car, but anytime you buy a used car, you are taking a chance CPO or not. Everybody will have a diff. opinion on this subject. My opinion is that, go for the 08. It doesnt make sense to spend that much money on a used car.

 

make sure it wasnt a dealer demo car, if you get a used car

 

Thank you all fellows for input. As I mentioned, I was on the fence between 07 and 08. Yesterday I jumped the fence and purchased 08, AWD. The difference between 07 model w/NAV and 08 w/NAV happened to be not so great to justify 07. Also, I had an offer for 08 that I couldn’t decline.
So, here we go:
Brand spanking new 2008 RX350 AWD with options below:
- Premium Plus package (long list of components in it)
- Gen 5 voice activated NAV w/Bluetooth and camera
- Multi-stage headed seats with rain sensing wipers and headlamps’ washers
- HID with adaptive lightning system
- Illuminated entry system
- Towing prep package
- Wheel locks
- Cargo mat
- 18” liquid graphite 7 spoke wheels
- Lexus rubber mats

Everything for $40,700 + tax + documentation + license plates transfer. I don’t think I would make that move without you, folks offering convincing arguments.