Ummm. I have the nav and camera but I also have a Tahoe without any backup system. I've never backed into anything and it has worse rear vision than the RX.
A car manufacturer cannot take responsibility for human error.
lexuscamera, I am sorry you have had a bad experience.
I do not have the navigation system (and thus the rear camera) on my RX... too much money for something that I personally think is a potential distraction.
But, as I reviewed all of the options before I purchased my RX, a number of reviews indicated the back-up camera basically only showed what was immediately behind the RX. I was left with the impression the camera doesn't give you a good "side" perspective. Plus, given the location of the camera, it is reasonable to assume even a small amount of dust and/or dirt will impair the view of the lens.
If I'm wrong on this, someone please correct me. But even if I am wrong, the camera cannot be a substitute for the human eye.
As for the potential blind spots...I am the first to admit that I had a hard time adjusting to the RX the first few weeks I owned it. But, now that I am used to the vehicle, I don't think there are any more blind spots than in any other vehicle I have owned. I will say that I do triple check before I back out of a parking space.... mainly because I dropped roughly $40,000 on a vehicle and I want to do everything I can to protect it.
Finally...I agree with the person who stated they wished the RX had a rear sensor system. I would personally find THAT much more useful than a rear camera.
I have not noticed any quality degradation of the video as the lens gets dirty - and everything has been covered with a thick yellow pollen for about a month now in Atlanta.
As far as the picture it gives, it can take a while to get use to but what I find it really usefull for is paralell parking. You can see your bumper as well as the car behind you and this aids in getting closer than most people would ever go alone.
I also wish the car had sensors. I've had them on a car before and they work great to warn you of close things.
Although I love the RX I have to wonder why Lexus has let it fall so far behind it's other vehicles in Technology and quality.
Please give us your ideas regarding what SUV's etc. that are so far ahead of the RX in these areas. My understanding RX still has very high ratings when compared to other SUV's in its class.
They have the rear camera AND sensors on the LS. Cadillac has sensors for both the SRX and the Escalade. Quite honestly, I feel that on any high end vehicle they should, at the very least, be an option.
Other things that I wish they offered: Smart entry/start. This is available on the LS as well as on the $20k Prius!
What is with the passenger seat? Why is seat height control conspicuously deleted on the RX? Every other Lexus has the full 8 way controls.
Automatic recirculation mode. This has been available on all of the other models (don't know about IS) for a couple years now. Why not the RX?
Hello everyone! I would like someone's opinion. I live in Oregon and have been in touch with a Lexus dealership. I have been negotiating to buy a Lexus rx330 with Nav. and all wheel drive.
The dealership has taken 2000 dollars off of the MSRP. I have a 2000 ML to trade. It is a V8 and loaded. I suggested a price that I thought was fair. I know they need to make a profit.
They came back and quoted a much lower price based on the Manheim auctions. I understand wanting to make a profit, but the wholesale auction price to dealers is a whole lot lower than I anticipated. What do you think about this?
Since I had never drive a larger vehicle, when I first began driving my RX I had a very difficult time backing up. I purchased from Autotoys.com backup sensors. They were very easy to install and have helped me greatly. I high recommend them.
The "talk" to me and tell mehow far away I am from any object when backing up.
Try to tell them the trade in value of your ML would determine your decision on getting the RX. It worked for us when we traded in my wife's bimmer a year ago even the RX330 was just came out. BTW I am in N. California
My 01 RX300 automatically goes into recirculation mode at startup on a hot or BRIGHT day.
But that's a FLAWED design feature.
It is those times that the interior air is typically HOTTER than the outside air. Putting it automatically in recirculate forces the A/C to work a lot harder than it would if FRESH were used along with high blower to force the HOT cabin air out the exhauster while the A/C cools the already cooler outside incoming airflow.
Going into recirc mode AFTER the cabin air temperature is below the outside temperature would make a LOT more sense.
It can be extremely hazardous to use recirc during cooler weather when the windshield is more prone to fogging over.
The base problem is really that Lexus' (NipponDenso, Denso USA) HVAC design engineers cannot understand the physics concerning human comfort nor the physics of humidity and cool or cold windshield surfaces.
Coming soon to a car of european manuafacture is a climate control system that uses an MRT (Mean Radiant Temperature) sensor along with an air temperature sensor to determine the proper/best climate control mode, heating vs cooling, AND when to supply heated airflow to the interior windshield surface to prevent that surface from declining to, or close to, dewpoint.
Eliminate the RX's GPS/nav as an option, or as a minimum don't force us to use the nav touch screen to control and view other more critical functions.
Do not automatically switch the climate control system to cooling mode. Or develop a sensor system that can determine when the human body is subject, predominantly, to radiant cooling (lack of sufficient radiant heating from the surrounding landscape).
Provide a separate climate control airflow path/source for maintaining the windshield interior surface above dewpoint.
Provide a POWERED exhauster port so that non-climatically caused high humidity excursions can be quickly exhausted from the cabin. (Just picked up two wet and sweaty snow skiiers or the A/C just went automatically off-line.)
Provide an electronic noise cancelation system to reduce the cabin ambient noise level below 70db so those that are sucker enough to purchase upscale audio systems can sorta appreciate them.
Provide enough suspension clearance at the rear wheels so one can use snowchains safely.
And finally.....
Provide a majority of the engine torque, natively, to the rear wheels or in the alternative at least 50% of the engine torque to the rear.
I drove the RX300 for four years and thought it was close to a perfect vehicle. Now, with my RX330, it's a lot closer. I'm reading these picky things about the car and it's mostly garbage. Nothing about the superb braking system, balanced steering system, superb balance on the road. Much improved transmission and drive system.
Complaining about not having a camera system or why auto air recyling system turns on. I can only deduce that these people know very little about cars and driving. Those people need to get a GM car with all the little gadgets and devices. Never mind the build quality or safety aspects.
I just love it, someone who never had a backing-up accident, has two, and loudly (very loudly) complains that it's the RX's fault. Give me a break and everyone else that has brains enough to appreciate this fine vehicle.
I could not agree with WWest more. For years, when I get into a hot car I do not recirculate the air, but recirc it when the car cools off.Many manufacturers do this and it does not make sense to me. Winter is a different story.
In either case, the backup camera or sensors are designed to warn the driver of objects directly behind the vehicle, out of sight below the tailgate window. They are not a substitute for actually turning your head and looking where you are going.
Problems with the lens being covered with dirt, pollen, or rainwater can be quickly resolved with a quick wipe of the thumb as you enter/exit the car – if you can remember to do it.
You mentioned that you traded in your bimmer for the RX330. That's what I'm trying to decide on, whether to turn in my BMW 530 manual for the RX. Does your wife have any regrets? BTW, we're in northern CA also. Where did you purchase yours, and was it a good experience, relatively speaking?
the outside temperature is 85F and the sun is shinning brightly and the vehicle has been setting, completely closed up, in that hot sun for several hours so the interior is at +100F and ALL of the interior surfaces are elevated above 90F
Bringing in the 85F outside air through the A/C to cool it down by 40F(??) whilest exhausting the +100F cabin air is a lot more efficient than trapping (recirc) and cooling the cabin airflow.
Additionally its also a good idea to keep the system in "Fresh" until the interior surfaces have cooled somewhat.
Use your body comfort sense to tell you when the interior surfaces have cooled enough to convert to Recirc.
She had a 2000 323ci coupe and all the sudden she wanted more room so she picked the then brand new RX330. We bought the car from Steven Creek Lexus. The price for the RX was settled through email and one phone call. We didn't mention anything about the bimmer trade-in until we go to sign the paper. I think we offered them the bimmer based on the average between the blue book (which is low) and the price from Edmund (which is high), we finally agreed on $20K. It is hard to sell a high priced used car through private sale so we were going to take the blue book value anyway...fortunately, we were able to squeeze more $ out of the trade-in.
On the"Info" screen, with the RX300, the mpgs were calculated either constantly, as you drove, or as an average for all the miles you drove, until you reset it.
On the RX330, I believe the calculator resets every time you turn off the engine. If that's not true, somebody please let me know. If it is true, it's of no use in checking your mileage on long trips unless you always keep your engine running.
The power antenna was replaced in my RX about a year ago. It is now starting to make noises again. I felt it when it was up and it was very dry. Does anyone have any suggestions for a lubricant? I asked the Toyota dealer when I was there a week ago and they suggested "Teflon Lubricant" but when I checked at Auto Zone they had none so I don't even really know if such a thing exists. Thanks
Since my wife and I have both an RX330 and a 5-series sedan, I thought I could chime in with a couple opinions. My 5-series is one year older than yours; a 2000 528i Sport.
Personally, I wouldn't be too anxious to trade your 530i for the RX330 unless you are growing tired of having to always shift your own gears; your 530i has been unreliable; or if you need more storage capacity. Don't get me wrong -- we really like our RX330. It's reasonably quiet; very smooth; it has a luxurious interior; it handles very nimbly for an SUV; and it runs on 87 octane gas with reasonable gas mileage. It's also nice to have a little higher view of the highway up ahead.
On the other hand, it leans quite a bit in turns (if that matters to you), the transmission is not nearly as responsive as my BMW's 5sp automatic, fuel economy doesn't come close to our BMW, and the seats are not as comfortable. (The 5-series seats probably tie with the Audi A6 as being the most comfortable seats we've ever owned.)
I am not an expert, but I believe the mileage calculation is not reset until you add more gas to the tank. Our RX330 seems to keep a good memory when we power down the car, as long as we don't fill up with new gas.
My wife has a 2002 BMW 330Ci convertible and I have a 1997 Mercedes 420E sedan and we take turns to drive them to Florida during winter and find the seats in BOTH cars not very comfortable after long journeys. We are considering replacing the Mercedes with the RX330.
I am interested in your comments about the seats in the RX not being comfortable. Can you elaborate on that? Are the seats too firm or soft, or lack of lumbar support? Thanks. Jason
Thanks for your input. Actually, the seat comfort is one of the reasons I was considering switching cars. My BMW also has the sport package, which includes the sport seats. I feel they're a bit too firm for my taste. Many like the firm feel to better feel the road. They certainly aren't uncomfortable. BTW, the most comfortable seats I've ever had were in my Volvo S70 T5, which is what I had before my BMW. The BMW has been a great car. Maybe I'm just ready for something new and looking for a more plush interior. The BMW is rather spartan. Plus, being an at-home mom, hauling the kids around, it would be nice for them to just throw their backpacks, jackets, etc. behind their seats, also cupholders!! The BMW doesn't have any in back. But I would miss my stick shift!
My husband drives a Mercedes C230 Sport sedan and I drive the RX330. I love both vehicles but by far, the RX330 has a MUCH nicer ride. And it is not just the difference in the suspension. The seats in the RX are far more comfortable than the Benz.
In fact, I never would have purchased the Benz if I was going to be the primary driver of it... because I thought the seats weren't all that comfortable when we test drove the car.
I think you're right, it resets itself when you refill the tank. So, you can reliably measure your gas consumption on a trip that is 300 miles or so. That's better than the RX300 system, which would go on and on until you reset it.
Had my 1000 mile checkup today and no flaws. Had them reset the locking system so the remote will unlock all the doors with one click. That'll work for us.
Saw my RX300 on the lot. With 53,000 miles on it, they're asking $26,000; lots more than they paid me, but then, I'm not in the car selling business.
Needless to say, seat comfort can sometimes be a subjective matter. I personally like seats that are slightly on the "firm" side. However, I find the Sport seats within the BMW 3-series to be a little too firm. In fact, my ideal 3-series would be the base 330i sedan, which has the sport supsension without the sport seats. Come to think of it, that is exactly the combination I have with my 528i. (Duh!) I have never owned a Volvo, but I understand they have a reputation for providing extremely comfortable seats.
Jason, cadrvr: I never intended my remarks to be a strike against the RX330 seats. For the most part, I do not have any complaints against them. I just don't rank them among the most comfortable seats I've owned. If I rated the RX330 seats on my own personal seat comfort scale, I would rate them a 7+ or 8- out of 10. I find them slightly on the "soft" side, but they do not lack support. From what you are saying, you might find these seats to be nearly ideal for you.
On the plus side, I like the RX330's power adjustable lumbar support, as well as the soft leather. On the negative side, I wish the passenger seat had more than just a 4-way adjustment! (No seat height, lower cushion angle, or lumbar adjustment for the passenger.) I also wish the front seats had a slightly longer lower seat cushion.
I find the "standard" seats in my 528i to be nearly perfect for myself. They seem to fit me like a glove, without being too firm. They lack lumbar adjustment, but I find the fixed lumbar support to be ideal for my body.
cadrvr: Doesn't your 530i have fold-out cup holders behind the center console, next to the rear A/C vents? I agree they aren't very useful, except for small drinks and soda cans. They also tend to break too easily! Regarding how you might miss driving a stick shift, you may really grow to appreciate an automatic transmission. Just in case, you might want to consider the Performance Package. If I remember correctly, this package includes a clutchless manual shift ("manumatic") mode. It's not as fun as a stick, but at least it provides some compromise, so that you don't have to go completely "cold turkey"!
I'm bringing my RX330 in tomorrow for the one month service call. They'll check it and wash it.
A friend of mine, who also owns a Lexus, says he always tips his service guy. I've never heard of this? Is he loony? Is this a Lexus thing? Please advise - do I tip the guy tomorrow? Frankly, I think I've already paid enough $$ for this vehicle, service should be free. Am I a cheapo??
I don't think you will actually see the person who works on your car. You probably will only talk to the reception and the service manager who writes up the paper work...at least this is what happened to me during my visits. So unless you want to tip the service manager for his paper work...
In New York, you will have to tip everyone who touches your car.
My RX300 had 54000 miles and I received $19,000 in trade-in. That didn't seem far off from the Kelley price. I have no idea why they expect $26,000, but it gives them a lot of room for adjustment. When I debate a new car price, I only want the bottom line, including a trade-in. I'll sell a low priced car, but not a Lexus via ads.
Thank you, cotmc, for your detailed response. Yes, we do prefer seats on the "soft" side but with good support. But you were right - seat comfort is very subjective. Jason
Thanks for the responses. I didn't want get off on the wrong foot with my service guy by not tipping if that's the norm. My friend, "the tipper", is a bit out there and tips everyone he meets (and yes, he has northeastern roots), so I wasn't sure what to make of the situation.
Guess I'll go in empty handed today and see what happens.
After 4 weeks of wait, I just picked up my RX330 AWD Flint/Ebony yesterday. It is amazingly smooth for the 200 miles I have put on it.
Things I like so far: Power tail gate Adjustable rear seats The ability to watch DVD with the RES in the front when in park/emg brake The sound system sounds is very clear Reverse camera
What I didn’t like: The NAV is not as intuitive as I thought. Where is there any place to hold coins? When I move my driver seat as low as possible, I can’t use the front tilt of the seat? I will have to get use to the parking brake
I am doing a 600 mile trip this weekend; I will post another update at after the trip.
Cotmc, thanks for your input. I just test drove the RX330, one AWD with the performance pkg., and one FWD without the perf. pkg. I took such a short drive that I really couldn't notice the perf. pkg. difference. I was surprised at the difference btwn. the AWD and FWD! The FWD was much quicker off the line. As far as seats, I was a little disappointed. You're right about the short length of the lower seat cushion. It just didn't give me the support I like. I got back into my BMW and realized just how comfortable my seats are! Realizing I don't know if I can go with an SUV for daily driving. I'm too much of a lead foot and like to go too quickly around corners.
Forgot to add: No, my car does not have cup holders in the back, unfortunately. Also, my husband's car, a Lincoln LSE, has that clutchless shifting. It just doesn't do it for me. Not as much fun. Maybe a sport wagon is what would work best for me.
If you and your husband are willing to trade cars with each other occasionally (as my spouse and I sometimes do), I recommend asking him to trade his Lincoln sedan for a wagon or SUV (such as an RX330, FX35, Volvo, etc), and keep your 530i. That way you two would enjoy having both a roomy vehicle for family hauling as well as a fun sporty sedan with a useable back seat. I'm sure he'll see the logic in that! ;>)
Stick shifts are difficult to find in mid-sized sedans these days, but much more scarce within wagons or SUVs (at least here in the U.S.) Even the very sporty Infiniti FX SUV or the smaller Lexus IS300 sport wagon do not have a stick shift option. (Grrr!)
I live in Vancouver B.C. and was considering buying a 2004 RX330 with the premium package. The MSRP for this car in Canada is $55,090. What kind of prices or how much off MSRP are people getting in Canada for the 2004 RX 330?
3tom stated you talk to the service manager and a receptionist. This may be the case at a very small dealership, but it has always been my experience that I speak to a service "writer" Question- What experience is required to be a service writer? Possible Answer- I have a friend who manages the parts department of a large dealership. He told me the dealership once tried having an experienced mechanic take the job of service writer. It did not last long, as this service writer nee mechanic had the lowest service "sales" of all of the writers. Why might that be? Hint-service writers get a commission on every service performed.
hmm...maybe I didn't have the correct title for that particular person. But anyway, he or she is the one who types in the service I want to be done or any comment (complain) I have about the car into his/her computer. I got a copy of the print out and I guess the mechanic who actual works on the car get another copy. When the service is done, that person will again come to look for me and tell me the car is ready. Then the car will be at the front door in about 5 mins. By the way, I go to Steven Creek Lexus.
Comments
I miss the park assist of the LS430. I think that "parktronic" and the rear-camera are great aids.
So that must mean they are building them again.
A car manufacturer cannot take responsibility for human error.
I do not have the navigation system (and thus the rear camera) on my RX... too much money for something that I personally think is a potential distraction.
But, as I reviewed all of the options before I purchased my RX, a number of reviews indicated the back-up camera basically only showed what was immediately behind the RX. I was left with the impression the camera doesn't give you a good "side" perspective. Plus, given the location of the camera, it is reasonable to assume even a small amount of dust and/or dirt will impair the view of the lens.
If I'm wrong on this, someone please correct me. But even if I am wrong, the camera cannot be a substitute for the human eye.
As for the potential blind spots...I am the first to admit that I had a hard time adjusting to the RX the first few weeks I owned it. But, now that I am used to the vehicle, I don't think there are any more blind spots than in any other vehicle I have owned. I will say that I do triple check before I back out of a parking space.... mainly because I dropped roughly $40,000 on a vehicle and I want to do everything I can to protect it.
Finally...I agree with the person who stated they wished the RX had a rear sensor system. I would personally find THAT much more useful than a rear camera.
As far as the picture it gives, it can take a while to get use to but what I find it really usefull for is paralell parking. You can see your bumper as well as the car behind you and this aids in getting closer than most people would ever go alone.
I also wish the car had sensors. I've had them on a car before and they work great to warn you of close things.
Although I love the RX I have to wonder why Lexus has let it fall so far behind it's other vehicles in Technology and quality.
Other things that I wish they offered: Smart entry/start. This is available on the LS as well as on the $20k Prius!
What is with the passenger seat? Why is seat height control conspicuously deleted on the RX? Every other Lexus has the full 8 way controls.
Automatic recirculation mode. This has been available on all of the other models (don't know about IS) for a couple years now. Why not the RX?
Just questions that baffle me.
The dealership has taken 2000 dollars off of the MSRP. I have a 2000 ML to trade. It is a V8 and loaded. I suggested a price that I thought was fair. I know they need to make a profit.
They came back and quoted a much lower price based on the Manheim auctions. I understand wanting to make a profit, but the wholesale auction price to dealers is a whole lot lower than I anticipated. What do you think about this?
The "talk" to me and tell mehow far away I am from any object when backing up.
Don't forget the details (miles, color, etc. Read back a page or two in there to see what info to post).
Steve, Host
Steve, Host
But that's a FLAWED design feature.
It is those times that the interior air is typically HOTTER than the outside air. Putting it automatically in recirculate forces the A/C to work a lot harder than it would if FRESH were used along with high blower to force the HOT cabin air out the exhauster while the A/C cools the already cooler outside incoming airflow.
Going into recirc mode AFTER the cabin air temperature is below the outside temperature would make a LOT more sense.
It can be extremely hazardous to use recirc during cooler weather when the windshield is more prone to fogging over.
The base problem is really that Lexus' (NipponDenso, Denso USA) HVAC design engineers cannot understand the physics concerning human comfort nor the physics of humidity and cool or cold windshield surfaces.
Coming soon to a car of european manuafacture is a climate control system that uses an MRT (Mean Radiant Temperature) sensor along with an air temperature sensor to determine the proper/best climate control mode, heating vs cooling, AND when to supply heated airflow to the interior windshield surface to prevent that surface from declining to, or close to, dewpoint.
Do not automatically switch the climate control system to cooling mode. Or develop a sensor system that can determine when the human body is subject, predominantly, to radiant cooling (lack of sufficient radiant heating from the surrounding landscape).
Provide a separate climate control airflow path/source for maintaining the windshield interior surface above dewpoint.
Provide a POWERED exhauster port so that non-climatically caused high humidity excursions can be quickly exhausted from the cabin. (Just picked up two wet and sweaty snow skiiers or the A/C just went automatically off-line.)
Provide an electronic noise cancelation system to reduce the cabin ambient noise level below 70db so those that are sucker enough to purchase upscale audio systems can sorta appreciate them.
Provide enough suspension clearance at the rear wheels so one can use snowchains safely.
And finally.....
Provide a majority of the engine torque, natively, to the rear wheels or in the alternative at least 50% of the engine torque to the rear.
Complaining about not having a camera system or why auto air recyling system turns on. I can only deduce that these people know very little about cars and driving. Those people need to get a GM car with all the little gadgets and devices. Never mind the build quality or safety aspects.
I just love it, someone who never had a backing-up accident, has two, and loudly (very loudly) complains that it's the RX's fault. Give me a break and everyone else that has brains enough to appreciate this fine vehicle.
Problems with the lens being covered with dirt, pollen, or rainwater can be quickly resolved with a quick wipe of the thumb as you enter/exit the car – if you can remember to do it.
Bringing in the 85F outside air through the A/C to cool it down by 40F(??) whilest exhausting the +100F cabin air is a lot more efficient than trapping (recirc) and cooling the cabin airflow.
Additionally its also a good idea to keep the system in "Fresh" until the interior surfaces have cooled somewhat.
Use your body comfort sense to tell you when the interior surfaces have cooled enough to convert to Recirc.
- turn ignition off and then place in park
- place in park and then turn off ignition
I was always told the first was better, or does it make any difference?
While pressing on the brake, apply the Parking Brake
Shift into Park
Turn vehicle off.
The ignition key cannot be fully turned off while the shift lever is anywhere but Park or Neutral.
On the RX330, I believe the calculator resets every time you turn off the engine. If that's not true, somebody please let me know. If it is true, it's of no use in checking your mileage on long trips unless you always keep your engine running.
Thanks
Personally, I wouldn't be too anxious to trade your 530i for the RX330 unless you are growing tired of having to always shift your own gears; your 530i has been unreliable; or if you need more storage capacity. Don't get me wrong -- we really like our RX330. It's reasonably quiet; very smooth; it has a luxurious interior; it handles very nimbly for an SUV; and it runs on 87 octane gas with reasonable gas mileage. It's also nice to have a little higher view of the highway up ahead.
On the other hand, it leans quite a bit in turns (if that matters to you), the transmission is not nearly as responsive as my BMW's 5sp automatic, fuel economy doesn't come close to our BMW, and the seats are not as comfortable. (The 5-series seats probably tie with the Audi A6 as being the most comfortable seats we've ever owned.)
I am interested in your comments about the seats in the RX not being comfortable. Can you elaborate on that? Are the seats too firm or soft, or lack of lumbar support? Thanks. Jason
In fact, I never would have purchased the Benz if I was going to be the primary driver of it... because I thought the seats weren't all that comfortable when we test drove the car.
Had my 1000 mile checkup today and no flaws. Had them reset the locking system so the remote will unlock all the doors with one click. That'll work for us.
Saw my RX300 on the lot. With 53,000 miles on it, they're asking $26,000; lots more than they paid me, but then, I'm not in the car selling business.
Thanks
Jason, cadrvr: I never intended my remarks to be a strike against the RX330 seats. For the most part, I do not have any complaints against them. I just don't rank them among the most comfortable seats I've owned. If I rated the RX330 seats on my own personal seat comfort scale, I would rate them a 7+ or 8- out of 10. I find them slightly on the "soft" side, but they do not lack support. From what you are saying, you might find these seats to be nearly ideal for you.
On the plus side, I like the RX330's power adjustable lumbar support, as well as the soft leather. On the negative side, I wish the passenger seat had more than just a 4-way adjustment! (No seat height, lower cushion angle, or lumbar adjustment for the passenger.) I also wish the front seats had a slightly longer lower seat cushion.
I find the "standard" seats in my 528i to be nearly perfect for myself. They seem to fit me like a glove, without being too firm. They lack lumbar adjustment, but I find the fixed lumbar support to be ideal for my body.
cadrvr: Doesn't your 530i have fold-out cup holders behind the center console, next to the rear A/C vents? I agree they aren't very useful, except for small drinks and soda cans. They also tend to break too easily! Regarding how you might miss driving a stick shift, you may really grow to appreciate an automatic transmission. Just in case, you might want to consider the Performance Package. If I remember correctly, this package includes a clutchless manual shift ("manumatic") mode. It's not as fun as a stick, but at least it provides some compromise, so that you don't have to go completely "cold turkey"!
I'm bringing my RX330 in tomorrow for the one month service call. They'll check it and wash it.
A friend of mine, who also owns a Lexus, says he always tips his service guy. I've never heard of this? Is he loony? Is this a Lexus thing? Please advise - do I tip the guy tomorrow? Frankly, I think I've already paid enough $$ for this vehicle, service should be free. Am I a cheapo??
I personally wouldn't do it at a dealer, but I've been known to hand out donuts or candy bars for non-food service.
Steve, Host
In New York, you will have to tip everyone who touches your car.
Guess I'll go in empty handed today and see what happens.
Things I like so far:
Power tail gate
Adjustable rear seats
The ability to watch DVD with the RES in the front when in park/emg brake
The sound system sounds is very clear
Reverse camera
What I didn’t like:
The NAV is not as intuitive as I thought.
Where is there any place to hold coins?
When I move my driver seat as low as possible, I can’t use the front tilt of the seat?
I will have to get use to the parking brake
I am doing a 600 mile trip this weekend; I will post another update at after the trip.
Stick shifts are difficult to find in mid-sized sedans these days, but much more scarce within wagons or SUVs (at least here in the U.S.) Even the very sporty Infiniti FX SUV or the smaller Lexus IS300 sport wagon do not have a stick shift option. (Grrr!)
Question- What experience is required to be a service writer?
Possible Answer- I have a friend who manages the parts department of a large dealership. He told me the dealership once tried having an experienced mechanic take the job of service writer. It did not last long, as this service writer nee mechanic had the lowest service "sales" of all of the writers. Why might that be? Hint-service writers get a commission on every service performed.