I special ordered my 2004 RX330 back in April and took delivery of the vehicle the first week of July 2003. I was able to order the vehicle equipped exactly the way I wanted it. Specs. as follows:
RX330 FWD NAV System w/backup camera ML Stereo System 18" Wheels with Michelins Automatic W/S Wiper System Laser Cruise Control Heated Front Seats Premium Package Sun Roof Leather Interior
I did not have to order the RES in order to get the ML Stereo System.
Price paid was 6% under sticker price for cash deal with no trade.
If you are willing to wait approx. 90 days to get what you want Lexus will be happy to order the vehicle for you. I had no hassels in the entire transaction.
Great vehicle and the ML Stereo System is simply amazing. Well worth the extra dollars spent to get it. Also, the laser cruise control system is a marvel of technology. A "must have" if you are considering a fully loaded RX330.
... is the BEST! I'm practically night-blind... as such, I would've hit a deer that crossed in front of me if I were using regular head lamps. But since I was using the HID's, I saw it and was able to stop in time.
It's not blinding because of the auto-focus/tilt feature that comes standard. To sum it up - I would never buy another vehicle that doesn't have HID on it. The feds ought to make this standard!
I agree that ML is worth the extra bucks. Once I go order my RX I will get it. If you look at the spec. it seems like the standard 6-disc is the same JBL 6-disc in the Toyota Highlander. Both have the same amount of speakers and it makes sense for Lexus to save costs, not to mention both vehicles share many parts. That stereo only got a "7" rating by Edmunds and I agree that it sounds a little bit too bright since my aunt owns a Highlander. Everything else being equal, getting an ML only adds about $700 bucks. Hey, I'm spending around 40 grand for a vehicle and to me it doesn't make sense not to get one, especially since ML is exclusive to Lexus and not available on any other brand.
You'll be disappointed if you order ML without testing it first. I was totally impressed about this before I bought my car. On the test drive day for my RX330, I brought along my favorite CD and tried it on both ML and basic (Pioneer) sound system. I did not hear much of difference between the two. I decided not to look for ML. My advice is bring your own favorite CD, test it on both ML and non-ML back-to-back, and you'll decide. It would not be too late.
When I ordered my RX, ML wasn't available. Does anyone know if this could by installed post-delivery - either by a Lexus Dealership or aftermarket? How much would that cost?
I agree that you should bring one of your favorite CD's with you to test both the standard Pioneer system and the ML system out. I have the ML and simply am amazed at the clarity of the mid, highs and bass. However, I listen mainly to light jazz and light rock stations on the FM radio as well as on CD's. The ML simply shines in this arena. There is simply no comparison when playing this type of venue on the ML. If you listen mostly to hard rock, oldies or rap then you should stay with the Pioneer standard system as the bass, although booming, is much louder then that produced by the ML. The ML system provides a much tighter and natural sounding bass as well as clean, clear mid and high levels of sound. The type of music you prefer should dictate which system you choose.
There were rumors that the Japanese manufacturers would be doing more with newer formats like MP3s and DVD-Audio or SACD.
Would be nice to see that, as CDs are quickly becoming passe and giving way to MP3 players (can't beat the idea of having all your music with you in one place).
Does all RX 330 comes with a traction control (TRAC) button under the steering wheel? I only see the Tire-pressure monitor button but not the traction control button.
I have 500 miles on new RX which I purchased 3 weeks ago. Well satisfied with RX. It is the right size for me and especially my wife, well put together, attention to detail, plenty of power and lots of goodies. Average ride and noise level. I think I payed a little for the Lexus name and If I get it serviced at Lexus dealer I will pay probably twice the amount I payed at GM dealers. I have had Buicks, Cadillacs, Yukons, and Tahoes in recent years and liked them just as well and had good service at GM dealers. Lets see if I get the famous Lexus resell value after a few years and If I do I probably will stick with Lexus.
How did you find the reliability on those other vehicles in recent years? My experiences with Dodges and Chevys years ago was Not Good but that's a long time in automobile years...
All of my new cars until the RX330 have been GM products. The only problem I had was with a transmission on a 77 Cadillac at 50000 miles. My last was a 2003 Tahoe LT. and the only thing I did to it was change oil and rotate tires. We are getting on in years (67) and the Tahoe was getting hard for my wife (5'0") and our friends to enter and exit,otherwise I loved it.
Today's email from Lexus indicates the RX hybrid will have 270HP, 40HP additional suppled by a SINGLE electric motor. I'm very much afraid that will mean no AWD, like the coming Ford Escape hydrid using Toyota's hybrid design.
Hi, I have TSB services done on my dashboard and rear headliner. After driving it for two weeks, the ticking noise from the dashboard still there but not constantly. Has anyone with this service done to their RX continue to hear this noise? Also, I have a rattle/noise from the tailgate and dealer can't find where to insulate this rattle. If anyone has experienced this problem and found a fix, please help! I really think the quality on this RX is extremely poor. This is my second Lexus and could be my last.
I had the headliner fixed but in mine the noise was right behind the drivers head. I also had a tailgate noise. You may want to check the license plate holder because many people claim that is the source of the noise. Mine was not that. The dealer removed the rear spoiler and insulated around the clips. The rattle is gone.
I understand your email from Lexus concerning a single electric motor is recent. I went to the Lexus website, and I could find no reference to a single electric motor for their hybrid. There is a press release dated January 6, 2003, "The hybrid RX operates with front and rear electric motors and a front internal combustion engine. The front and rear electric drive provides the benefits of all-wheel drive in a lighter and more compact package." I guess time will tell. Seasons greetings!
When Lexus announced a new luxury hybrid vehicle, it naturally raised a lot of questions. Not just from people in the automotive industry, but from interested drivers like you. You'll find your top 10 queries listed below, along with many surprising answers.
Can a hybrid vehicle truly be luxurious?
Undeniably, yes. Remember, this isn't just another hybrid vehicle. It's a Lexus. So rest assured, the Lexus hybrid will feature everything you've come to expect and appreciate in our current luxury vehicles.
Aren't hybrids slower than conventional vehicles?
Not the Lexus hybrid. In fact, it's been engineered to be more powerful than similar vehicles with conventional engines. The electric motor increases the overall horsepower from 230 hp to 270 hp. So in addition to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, you can also look forward to a noticeably faster 0-60 acceleration.
Aren't most hybrids still in the experimental stage?
The Lexus hybrid certainly is not. Our parent company, Toyota, has had hybrid vehicles in real-world use since 1997, and they've been just as reliable as their gas-driven counterparts. The new Lexus hybrid will feature the same proven hybrid technology.
Aren't hybrid vehicles just a fad?
Hybrid vehicles are definitely not a fad. They're the latest advancement in automotive technology. Vehicles with hybrid engines have been on the road for more than six years. And, since that time, the popularity of these cars has only increased. No wonder so many major auto manufacturers are racing to get their own hybrid vehicles into the showrooms. People appreciate the power, fuel economy, reduced emissions and convenience that a hybrid offers. And soon they'll have even more to appreciate: when Lexus introduces the first luxury hybrid vehicle in history.
How do hybrid vehicles work?
Hybrids are equipped with both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Depending how much power the vehicle requires at any given time, the system selects the most appropriate power source for the job. The electric motor is usually more than adequate for city driving. While the extra power of the gasoline engine helps out on freeway on-ramps and steep inclines. What's more, the entire process is so seamless, you probably won't even realize it's happening.
Will it really be safe?
Absolutely. It may be a hybrid vehicle. But first, it's a Lexus. Which means, the Lexus hybrid is required to meet the same exacting safety standards as our conventional vehicles. Ensuring you a comfortable ride, as well as peace of mind.
How long do the batteries last?
The batteries in the Lexus hybrid are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and require no additional maintenance. You won't even need to recharge them, since the gasoline engine takes care of that during normal use.
Are there specific maintenance issues with hybrid vehicles?
The Lexus hybrid will require no special maintenance. Just the same routine service appointments as our conventional vehicles.
Are hybrids really that fuel efficient?
Hybrids are actually quite fuel efficient. While they're equipped with a full-size gas tank, they use less fuel because the electric motor does so much of the work. For instance, when the Lexus hybrid comes to a stop, it may switch from the gasoline-powered engine to the electric motor and then switch back once the extra power is needed. What does all this mean for you? Fewer visits to the pump.
Are hybrids truly better for the environment?
Hybrids are definitely better for the environment. They use their gasoline engines less, so they burn less fuel, and subsequently emit fewer pollutants into our atmosphere. In addition, the electric motors operate in silence, so even noise pollution is reduced.
For more information about Lexus vehicles, sign up for our monthly e-mail newsletter Lexus Pursuit or visit lexus.com.
You are receiving this e-mail because you signed up to receive e-mail from Lexus Marketing through a prior Lexus communication. This e-mail is one of a series of multiple hybrid mailings. Lexus Marketing may send you other Lexus news, or you can simply unsubscribe.
To unsubscribe from future e-mail from Lexus Marketing, please click here or reply to this message with UNSUBSCRIBE as the first word in the subject line.
Please note, this e-mail address is to UNSUBSCRIBE from receiving future e-mail from Lexus Marketing only and is not monitored for comments. To contact Lexus Customer Service, please call 1-800-255-3987, prompt #4.
The information you provide is used by Lexus and its business partners to improve the services we render and to provide you with information about Lexus. It is never provided to any other company for that company's independent use. Lexus will never sell your information to any other company. Must be 18 years or older to provide information.
Has anyone had XM satellite radio installed in their RX330? If so where did they install the antanna? How did the install look. I sure wish the factory audio system in the RX330 came XM ready. A friend just bought a new 2004 Honda Accord and it came XM ready. Thanks
is supposed to get 35-40 mpg in city driving when it hits the streets in fall 2004 according to an article in a past Consumers Reports issue and Edmunds "Future Car 2005" write-up.
The original plan was for Ford to use the Escape with the 2.0L I4 engine with its 127 hp and city epa rating of 23 mpg. So, assuming the middle of the mpg hybrid range of 37, that's an improvement of 61%. This is a FWD gas vehicle that shows a weight of 3065 lbs without the hybrid add-on.
The RX330 FWD weighs 3860 with an epa city mpg of 20 - so if it gets the same improvement of 61%, that's about 32 mpg in the city. Unlikely with the additional weight over the Escape but the RX is more aerodynamic so who knows.
Forget the 12.5 yr payback and start thinkin' 15 years...but you will have More Power to get to the supermarket.
At higher freeway speeds I would imagine the gas engine is in charge and there's little if any on/off switching so the mpg might be less, the opposite of what we have in conventional vehicles.
I too am interested in installing satelite radio. However, I am going with sirius. They just signed a deal with the NFL and they are comercial free where as xm is not. Has anyone installed one yet. Where did you mount the unit and antenna. How does it look? How does it sound. Any info would be apreciated as I am looking to install real soon.
Any ideas when the hybrid will be available. I will be in the market for a new car in 4 months and I was thinking of the 330, so I am better off waiting for the 400H.
The OEM tires on my RX330 (Goodyear Eagle RA 235-55-19) are not wearing well. At 1100 miles, the wear is very apparent. Tires balanced and 33 lbs/sq. in. pressure. No cupping or edge feathering, but just even wear. I estimate that I won't get more than 20,000 mi. on these tires. Anyone have recommendations as to replacement tires? I have looked on the net and all I can find is Goodyear supplying this size. Comment please.
The other OEM tire is a Michelin but I don't know if Lexus supplies that in a 19"; mine are the 18". Perhaps by the time you're down to the wear strips there will be additional choices.
While at the Lexus new owners meeting the service manager told us that 18" tires on RX330 if rotated properly would probably need replacing at 20,000 to 25000 miles. That was a surprise as I am used to at least double that.
I know of no 19' wheels and tires that are supplied by Lexus for the RX330. If they are add ons by the dealer, then they are not OEM. Enlighten me please. The standard wheels are 17x6.5 with 225/65SR17 tires. The optional wheels are 18x7.0 with 235/55HR18 tires. The performance package wheels are graphite alloys 18x7.0 with 235/55HR18 tires. No 19' wheels or tires!!!
Sorry, folks, I made a typo error in my original message. My OEM tires are 235-55-18. Thanks for all your help and info, though. I really appreciate it. I too am surprised and disappointed that I may be looking at tire replacement at the 20 to 25 K mark. Hope more manufacturers get in the act so we have a better selection. Thanls again.
I just purchased an AWD, premium plus with other goodies, and HID, I think. Anyway, driving down the St. Helena Mts. I found that the HID's did'nt light the road ahead far enough. Since I was going downhill on extremely windy roads, the low beams weren't aimed high enough to warn me of upcoming bends. I was forced to go slower than I used to when I drove my Explorer! The alternative was to throw on the high beams, something I never had to do on the Explorer, and something I'd never care to do going down steep, windy roads at night because it necessitates taking my left hand or at least most of my fingers of the steering wheel. It also means that I must take some concentration off the road to watch for oncoming headlights so that I can turn down the high beams in a timely fashion. Has anyone out there had a similar experience? Are there some fixes or could it be that my HID's are turned down too low? Help please!
I have the same problem with the HIDs. I drive in a dark neighborhood where people walk and jog along the side of the road (no shoulder). I don't use high beams for fear of blinding them. With the HIDs, I don't see them until the last second. What's worse, it only lights up to their knees or waist so sometimes its hard to tell that it's a person in the road. The other issue I have is that the HIDs don't illuminate the road signs - only the poles about half way up. I plan to ask at my 5000 mile service if there's anything they can do.
They blind oncoming drivers. Maybe that's why they were pointed down so low. When they are pointed up at eye level, people complain about the glare and are at risk of crashing their car from the disorientation.
Hey guys, thanks so much for the advice. Wwest, your point is well taken. S852, thanks for the explanation. Kcr2, thanks for sharing. That's exactly what happenned to me coming back from Clear Lake, over the St. Helena Mts. I missed a right turn at a T-intersection because I missed the road sign in the dark since the HID's only illuminate half way up the poles, just like you described. Ended up driving all the way to Calistoga and adding almost a half hour to my trip. Thanks for the response guys and happy holidays to y'all!
Just curious if you might have the performance pkg which includes the swiveling headlights. On those curvy mountain roads they would certainly help illuminate the road as you take those turns. We have them on ours and it does seem to help.
Also kcr2 to help with those night time joggers you might want to switch on the fog lights. They help widen the light which might help make them more visable.
I don't have the performance package with the swiveling headlights. I know they swivel when they sense the steering wheel turning. However, I wish I could see the bend earlier so I can turn in the first place. Thanks for the tip on the foglights. I'll try them the next time I'm driving on a dark, windy road.
beam pattern is intentionally low(er than LB HID) and "close in". Not likely to help seeing further out than the LB HID and will actually interfere with your night vision due to useless close in brightness from the fogs.
I'll try to keep this short as a lot happened. There's much craziness here. We're near Atlanta. All stores are Lexus dealerships. I really want to hear opinions on what we should do.
We were shopping for a used RX300 or a new 330 at a Marietta store. On Friday night we looked at a 2000 RX300 with 37,000 miles for $27,000. The next day we find an ad at the Roswell sister store 30 minutes from the Marietta store for a 2000 RX300 4x4 with 24720 miles for $25,995. As we are 1 1/2 hours from Roswell I called and made sure they had the car. The salesman said they did, and we took off. When we get there, the salesman says that although he was *looking at the car* as he spoke to me on the phone, in the 1 1/2 hours it took us to travel there, the car had been transferred to the Marietta store we had shopped the night before. He was very curt. He didn't offer to show us anything else. Just "sorry." We left, and headed to the Marietta store as it was on the way home. We explain to the saleswoman there that the car we wanted had been transferred to her store only hours before. She checks the VIN number and it turns out that the car we wanted had been there since Friday and that it was the one we had looked at on Friday night! It had never been in Roswell. The only difference was it had now aged 12,000 miles to 37,000 miles and the higher price!
Here's what they offered to do:
* Sell us the used car at the advertised lower price. When we pointed out that the car was actually 12,000 miles over the advertised mileage of 24270, they came down to $25,345.
* Sell us a new RX330 for $36,000. It has premium pkg., auto back door, alloy wheels, wood-n-leather int.
They offered 3.9% financing on both. This offer good only until Dec. 31.
They never could explain to our satisfaction why the used car was 12,000 miles over what was advertised.
Should we:
Call the manager at Roswell, report the lying salesman, and see if we can get a better deal on new or used there.
Take one of the Marietta deals and write letters to the Roswell manager and Lexus about the lying salesman.
Take one of the deals and shut up.
Buy nothing. (My choice. At this moment, I never want to see the uppity insides of one of those dealerships ever again, much less one of their lying, fashion-plate salesbots. But I don't want to be rash. I'm still mad.)
Thanks for any and all help-advice-criticism. I could really use it.
My inclination would be to keep checking around, as neither offer seems particularly attractive. Assuming the new one is the 2WD model and has just the Premium Pkg and 18 inch wheels, with no other options, the $36,000 price is right about MRSP. The 3.7% financing is no special bargain either as it's being offered countrywide to qualified borrowers until 1/2/04.
You could try writing the letter but I suspect that their sales practices start at the top, and it probably won't get you too much more in the way of a price break. It may be worth a try, though, as you don't have anything much to lose (except the time and frustration that you've already experienced). An alternative might be to contact Lexus of America and see if that might "help" the dealer into giving you a better deal. But still my instinct would be to look elsewhere, and not reward what appears to be unscrupulous sales practices.
I just bought a new RX 330. The manual recommends 87 or higher gas, but the dealer said that we should put at least 89. What do most people put? Has anyone seen any degradation with 87 gas?
We have put in several tanks of 87 octane without any noticeable degradation. When we first purchased our RX330, my orignal intention was to alternate between 87 and 89/91 octane levels every other tank, but I think my Better Half (it's her car!) tends to fill up with 87 octane fuel the majority of the time.
I noticed issues with our '01 Acura MDX when we used 89 octane (owner's manual said 91 octane was required), but I haven't noticed anything with 87 octane on our RX330.
Comments
RX330 FWD
NAV System w/backup camera
ML Stereo System
18" Wheels with Michelins
Automatic W/S Wiper System
Laser Cruise Control
Heated Front Seats
Premium Package
Sun Roof
Leather Interior
I did not have to order the RES in order to get the ML Stereo System.
Price paid was 6% under sticker price for cash deal with no trade.
If you are willing to wait approx. 90 days to get what you want Lexus will be happy to order the vehicle for you. I had no hassels in the entire transaction.
Great vehicle and the ML Stereo System is simply amazing. Well worth the extra dollars spent to get it. Also, the laser cruise control system is a marvel of technology. A "must have" if you are considering a fully loaded RX330.
It's not blinding because of the auto-focus/tilt feature that comes standard. To sum it up - I would never buy another vehicle that doesn't have HID on it. The feds ought to make this standard!
Good luck.
Would be nice to see that, as CDs are quickly becoming passe and giving way to MP3 players (can't beat the idea of having all your music with you in one place).
I only see the Tire-pressure monitor button but not the traction control button.
ML = pure waste of money.
I think I payed a little for the Lexus name and If I get it serviced at Lexus dealer I will pay probably twice the amount I payed at GM dealers.
I have had Buicks, Cadillacs, Yukons, and Tahoes in recent years and liked them just as well and had good service at GM dealers. Lets see if I get the famous Lexus resell value after a few years and If I do I probably will stick with Lexus.
thanks!
Tony
Maybe the single electrical motor is the first iteration and then they'd have a more pricey AWD model later.
However, if the first model is not AWD and it runs what, say mid-40s sticker, then an AWD model would be what, 50k sticker?
They may price themselves out of whatever advantage an SUV hybrid offers, especially in comparison to competing models.
Can a hybrid vehicle truly be luxurious?
Undeniably, yes. Remember, this isn't just another hybrid vehicle. It's a Lexus. So rest assured, the Lexus hybrid will feature everything you've come to expect and appreciate in our current luxury vehicles.
Aren't hybrids slower than conventional vehicles?
Not the Lexus hybrid. In fact, it's been engineered to be more powerful than similar vehicles with conventional engines. The electric motor increases the overall horsepower from 230 hp to 270 hp. So in addition to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, you can also look forward to a noticeably faster 0-60 acceleration.
Aren't most hybrids still in the experimental stage?
The Lexus hybrid certainly is not. Our parent company, Toyota, has had hybrid vehicles in real-world use since 1997, and they've been just as reliable as their gas-driven counterparts. The new Lexus hybrid will feature the same proven hybrid technology.
Aren't hybrid vehicles just a fad?
Hybrid vehicles are definitely not a fad. They're the latest advancement in automotive technology. Vehicles with hybrid engines have been on the road for more than six years. And, since that time, the popularity of these cars has only increased. No wonder so many major auto manufacturers are racing to get their own hybrid vehicles into the showrooms. People appreciate the power, fuel economy, reduced emissions and convenience that a hybrid offers. And soon they'll have even more to appreciate: when Lexus introduces the first luxury hybrid vehicle in history.
How do hybrid vehicles work?
Hybrids are equipped with both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Depending how much power the vehicle requires at any given time, the system selects the most appropriate power source for the job. The electric motor is usually more than adequate for city driving. While the extra power of the gasoline engine helps out on freeway on-ramps and steep inclines. What's more, the entire process is so seamless, you probably won't even realize it's happening.
Will it really be safe?
Absolutely. It may be a hybrid vehicle. But first, it's a Lexus. Which means, the Lexus hybrid is required to meet the same exacting safety standards as our conventional vehicles. Ensuring you a comfortable ride, as well as peace of mind.
How long do the batteries last?
The batteries in the Lexus hybrid are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and require no additional maintenance. You won't even need to recharge them, since the gasoline engine takes care of that during normal use.
Are there specific maintenance issues with hybrid vehicles?
The Lexus hybrid will require no special maintenance. Just the same routine service appointments as our conventional vehicles.
Are hybrids really that fuel efficient?
Hybrids are actually quite fuel efficient. While they're equipped with a full-size gas tank, they use less fuel because the electric motor does so much of the work. For instance, when the Lexus hybrid comes to a stop, it may switch from the gasoline-powered engine to the electric motor and then switch back once the extra power is needed. What does all this mean for you? Fewer visits to the pump.
Are hybrids truly better for the environment?
Hybrids are definitely better for the environment. They use their gasoline engines less, so they burn less fuel, and subsequently emit fewer pollutants into our atmosphere. In addition, the electric motors operate in silence, so even noise pollution is reduced.
For more information about Lexus vehicles,
sign up for our monthly e-mail newsletter
Lexus Pursuit or visit lexus.com.
Lexus reminds you to wear seatbelts, secure children in rear seat, obey all traffic laws and drive responsibly. For more information, call 800-USA-LEXUS (800-872-5398) or visit us at lexus.com. ©2003 Lexus.
You are receiving this e-mail because you signed up to receive e-mail from Lexus Marketing through a prior Lexus communication. This e-mail is one of a series of multiple hybrid mailings. Lexus Marketing may send you other Lexus news, or you can simply unsubscribe.
To unsubscribe from future e-mail from Lexus Marketing, please click here or reply to this message with UNSUBSCRIBE as the first word in the subject line.
Please note, this e-mail address is to UNSUBSCRIBE from receiving future e-mail from Lexus Marketing only and is not monitored for comments. To contact Lexus Customer Service, please call 1-800-255-3987, prompt #4.
The information you provide is used by Lexus and its business partners to improve the services we render and to provide you with information about Lexus. It is never provided to any other company for that company's independent use. Lexus will never sell your information to any other company. Must be 18 years or older to provide information.
Marketing.
Thanks
The original plan was for Ford to use the Escape with the 2.0L I4 engine with its 127 hp and city epa rating of 23 mpg. So, assuming the middle of the mpg hybrid range of 37, that's an improvement of 61%. This is a FWD gas vehicle that shows a weight of 3065 lbs without the hybrid add-on.
The RX330 FWD weighs 3860 with an epa city mpg of 20 - so if it gets the same improvement of 61%, that's about 32 mpg in the city. Unlikely with the additional weight over the Escape but the RX is more aerodynamic so who knows.
Forget the 12.5 yr payback and start thinkin' 15 years...but you will have More Power to get to the supermarket.
At higher freeway speeds I would imagine the gas engine is in charge and there's little if any on/off switching so the mpg might be less, the opposite of what we have in conventional vehicles.
Has anyone out there had a similar experience? Are there some fixes or could it be that my HID's are turned down too low? Help please!
Also kcr2 to help with those night time joggers you might want to switch on the fog lights. They help widen the light which might help make them more visable.
We were shopping for a used RX300 or a new 330 at a Marietta store. On Friday night we looked at a 2000 RX300 with 37,000 miles for $27,000. The next day we find an ad at the Roswell sister store 30 minutes from the Marietta store for a 2000 RX300 4x4 with 24720 miles for $25,995. As we are 1 1/2 hours from Roswell I called and made sure they had the car. The salesman said they did, and we took off. When we get there, the salesman says that although he was *looking at the car* as he spoke to me on the phone, in the 1 1/2 hours it took us to travel there, the car had been transferred to the Marietta store we had shopped the night before. He was very curt. He didn't offer to show us anything else. Just "sorry." We left, and headed to the Marietta store as it was on the way home. We explain to the saleswoman there that the car we wanted had been transferred to her store only hours before. She checks the VIN number and it turns out that the car we wanted had been there since Friday and that it was the one we had looked at on Friday night! It had never been in Roswell. The only difference was it had now aged 12,000 miles to 37,000 miles and the higher price!
Here's what they offered to do:
* Sell us the used car at the advertised lower price. When we pointed out that the car was actually 12,000 miles over the advertised mileage of 24270, they came down to $25,345.
* Sell us a new RX330 for $36,000. It has premium pkg., auto back door, alloy wheels, wood-n-leather int.
They offered 3.9% financing on both. This offer good only until Dec. 31.
They never could explain to our satisfaction why the used car was 12,000 miles over what was advertised.
Should we:
Call the manager at Roswell, report the lying salesman, and see if we can get a better deal on new or used there.
Take one of the Marietta deals and write letters to the Roswell manager and Lexus about the lying salesman.
Take one of the deals and shut up.
Buy nothing. (My choice. At this moment, I never want to see the uppity insides of one of those dealerships ever again, much less one of their lying, fashion-plate salesbots. But I don't want to be rash. I'm still mad.)
Thanks for any and all help-advice-criticism. I could really use it.
You could try writing the letter but I suspect that their sales practices start at the top, and it probably won't get you too much more in the way of a price break. It may be worth a try, though, as you don't have anything much to lose (except the time and frustration that you've already experienced). An alternative might be to contact Lexus of America and see if that might "help" the dealer into giving you a better deal. But still my instinct would be to look elsewhere, and not reward what appears to be unscrupulous sales practices.
I just bought a new RX 330. The manual recommends 87 or higher gas, but the dealer said that we should put at least 89. What do most people put? Has anyone seen any degradation with 87 gas?
Thanks
I noticed issues with our '01 Acura MDX when we used 89 octane (owner's manual said 91 octane was required), but I haven't noticed anything with 87 octane on our RX330.
thanks!