Lexus RX 330 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

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Comments

  • lexluthorlexluthor Member Posts: 48
    Hi,

    I've decided on the RX330 and now just need to negotiate the best deal.

    It seems as if pretty much the only thing you can get here in the Northeast is the $41,938 MSRP model with the prem plus w/accessories package. I wish I could get it at least without those $1,200 of accessories, none of which really excite me too much.

    So far, from the internet email/phone responses, I've got $38,000 from Massapequa, $38,050 from Rallye an $38,738 from Ray Catena. Others have said they've received good deals from Ray Catena, but not me, I guess.

    I also got a price of $38,938 from a salesperson in Smithtown.

    I'm pretty flexible on color and ready for immediate delivery (or can wait a bit too).

    It doesn't sound like there's going to be much movement below $38,000. I'm still waiting for a couple of other quotes though.

    What's the best way to leverage all these guys against each other to get my price down? I still think $37,500 is a reasonable/fair price to pay for the car yet and I'd love to get down to that number. Should I just pick out dealers one by one and say, "I'll come in tonight if you do it for $37,500, no hidden fees, do we have a deal?" If $37,500 isn't possible/fair, they'll all say no, but if it's a legit #, someone should agree.

    Any suggestions?

    Thanks!
  • whitrx330whitrx330 Member Posts: 28
    All,

    Thank you. My wife and I just picked up our 2004 RX 330 (Breakwater Blue, Prem Package; 18' Wheels, Tow Package' Power Lift Gate' Wood Steering Wheel and gear Shift, rain Sensor, and Sun roof, and ALL) over the weekend. No dealer fees, or add on fees! Price $34,999..$36, 282 out the door! If anyone wants the contact info, please email me.

    Again, Thanks Slvajones!!!

    Whit
  • sangsang Member Posts: 1
    Looking for RX330 FWD with PM package. The best quote I have so far is $36800 with PM-FT-RS-PL-WU-TO-C1-WL. I read the posts here and I know this is not the best deal. Does anyone got better deal around the area? Thanks!!
  • gilbogilbo Member Posts: 3
    Anyone in the bay area recently purchase a 330? Looking for recommended sales/finance folk to deal with before I head out there. Please email me.

    Thanks!
  • shap1shap1 Member Posts: 77
    Congrats on your new RX, Whit. Did I recall you got it at Countyline Lexus? And that you live outside Florida? Or do I have you confused with someone else? Just wondering if your out the door price included tax assuming you live outside Fla. I got mine(exact configuration you have) at Countyline for same price, but "out the door" was a little higher.
  • thumper1221thumper1221 Member Posts: 32
    Has anyone here purchased an RX with chrome rims?

    As I understand from Lexus, chrome rims are a dealer installation. Should I expect to pay for my preference of chrome rims? If so, how much are they listed at on the sticker?
  • slvajonesslvajones Member Posts: 14
    I imagine that whit's out the door price is lower because he didn't have local Florida taxes added on. When my in-laws came down to Florida to purchase a vehicle, they were not charged local taxes, but were expected to pay it when they returned to New York and registered their vehicle.

    Regarding invoice: One thing some people here may not be aware of is that unlike other manufacturers, Toyota/Lexus dealer invoice differs from region to region because Toyota sells through regional distributors to dealers; and in many states (like Florida), this adds on an additional layer of pricing.

    At first thought these fees were bogus, but with a little research, I learned that they are indeed real. As a matter a fact the entire southeast region (several states including Florida) of the US is controlled by one distributor, who charges the all Toyota dealers a several hundred dollar distribution fee for each vehicle. Edmunds does not include these regional fees in their invoice cost, but they do mention that they exist.

    Not to promote Carsdirect, but I found they are a good place to research the dealer invoice, because they include these regional fees. So if you plug in a Florida zip code, at Carsdirect, you'll the dealer invoice is slightly different than say Las Angeles or other areas of this country; if you click on their pricing explanation, they also explain these fees.

    Ironically, despite the $539 regional fee tacked onto to the dealer invoice, it seems like Florida is one of the best places to purchase the RX 330, second to Las Angeles. Hope this is helpful.
  • whitrx330whitrx330 Member Posts: 28
    Slvajones is correct. My out the door RX 330 cost after adding the 3% Virginia..(Smile!!) Sales tax was $36,282. I still managed to save approximately $5,000 compared to the price the Virginia Dealers were asking. Again, the specific location of the dealer has a great deal to do with the final cost of the vehicle. All I had to do for the deal is take my wife on an early vacation to Disney World! What a deal.
  • whitrx330whitrx330 Member Posts: 28
    Shap1,

    Thank you. You are correct, I reside in Virginia and purchased the vehicle in Florida at Countyline Lexus. My final out the door cost after adding my 3% Virginia tax (paid to dealer) and florida title fee was $36,282. No additional dealer fees or advertising cost. I saved several (5K) thousand on the deal. All I had to do was take my wife on a Vacation to Disney World. You got a good deal as well!
  • lexluthorlexluthor Member Posts: 48
    Well, I just closed my deal over the phone.

    Best I could do here in NYC area is $37,900 for the one that retails at $41,982. Most came back with prices of $38,000 via email. I think even a $37,750 counter appeared to be unreasonable.

    I think I did as good as possible. It was from the nearest dealer too, so that's worth a little as well.

    Thanks all.
  • SylviaSylvia Member Posts: 1,636
    A reporter is interested in hearing from anyone who really exhaustively debated between this car and a competitor, weighed all the pros and cons,
    etc. Please respond to sbreckenridge@hearst.com or jfallon@edmunds.com with a few details and your contact information no later than Wednesday, July 21, 2004.

    Thanks for your consideration.

    Jeannine Fallon
    PR Director
    Edmunds.com
  • thumper1221thumper1221 Member Posts: 32
    Compare your deal with Lexus of Austin and Sewell in Dallas. They seem to offer better deals than the Houston area dealers. Although, I hear Lexus of Clear Lake is reasonable. I have seen a few complaints about Sterling McCall on this board.

    Hope this helps.
  • yqinyqin Member Posts: 3
    04 RX300 AWD premium plus package + towing package + 18" Alloy wheel + heated seats w/ rain sensing wipers, cargo mat and wheel locks. MSRP 41938. Quoted $36517 after some bargains. The dealer told me Lexus will stop shipping 04 models in a few weeks. Is it a good deal? I live in Northern California.
  • prasadperiprasadperi Member Posts: 40
    04 RX300 AWD premium plus package + towing package + 18" Alloy wheel + heated seats w/ rain sensing wipers, cargo mat and wheel locks. MSRP 41938. Quoted $36517. Sounds to be a good bargain. Any such offers in the Washington DC area?

    I have been quoted 41,300 to 41,500 for this package in the DC area.

    Was quoted 40,200 in Florida for all this + Navigation.

    All for a base invoice of of 33080 (base for AWD) and 3400 (Premium + package).

    All prices exclude Taxes and other fees. I guess Acura MDX with most of the above features is a bargain now at most dealerships.

    Prasad
  • silvereagle2silvereagle2 Member Posts: 23
    I've got a price from 2 dealers here in south FL fro an 04 RX 330 with Navigtion, premium plus package and 18" wheels for $38K even
  • lexluthorlexluthor Member Posts: 48
    Must be cheap in California. I just bought the 04 AWD RX330 with the 41,938 MSRP for $37,900. Also got the dealer down to 4.15%, 60 months (Eloan is at 4.49% now).

    I'm on Long Island.

    I don't think the car could have been had for much cheaper here, at this time, based on my experience.
  • prasadperiprasadperi Member Posts: 40
    Are the 2 quotes you have for AWD vehicles or FW Drives? I would appreciate if you could send me some details.

    Thanks
    Prasad
  • slvajonesslvajones Member Posts: 14
    Can someone recommend a good Lexus dealer and sales person in California. I'm trying to help my sister buy a Lexus (different model, ES 330). Don't mean to go off topic, but I posted this question in the Lexus ES discussion and no one has responded. Anyway, she live in the Sacramento area, but would also be willing to travel a few hours for a good price. Naturally, she's hoping to pay at invoice or less. Since we're not suppose to mention names, please email me the information. Thanks for any help. :-)
  • silvereagle2silvereagle2 Member Posts: 23
    the 2 quotes are for FWD -walk out the door ,but you have to pay the tax
  • rx3304usrx3304us Member Posts: 1
    I am in the process of obtaining a lease on a 04 RX 330. Best price so far is $37,281. This is with Nav/camera and the premium plus package. This is in So. Cal. Does this sound like a good deal or do I continue to shop. Thanks in Advance.
  • prasadperiprasadperi Member Posts: 40
    Hello Silvereagle2

    Can you share with me the names of the dealers? I would like to get them to quote me for the AWD with the premium plus package.

    My email address is in my profile.

    Thanks
    Prasad
  • ptc1ptc1 Member Posts: 2
    What's wrong with Nalley? I am in the midst of negotiating and have a quote with them and I'd like to know what experience you had.
    They've quoted me $38,970 for the RX330 FWD Premium Plus package with navigation system. I have another dealer who has offered $37,941 plus tax, tag, and title. Anyone gotten a better deal?
  • kk912kk912 Member Posts: 1
    Where is Northern California can you get a quote of $36517? Can you share the dealership name? I am getting close to $37500 in Bay Area thru Internet.
  • ptc1ptc1 Member Posts: 2
    I'm in GA and the best I've been quoted is $37,941 for this same car. I'm still hoping for a little more off the price.
  • silvereagle2silvereagle2 Member Posts: 23
    Hi, try Countyline Lexus and Lexus of Palm Beach
  • a420a420 Member Posts: 2
    Looking to buy a RX330 in Texas no nav with Perf Package. The dealer offers about 3500 off MRSP for a 2004. Is this a good deal or should I wait and get a 2005. Not sure if I'll get a similar discount some time after the 2005 is available. Thanks in advance
  • whitrx330whitrx330 Member Posts: 28
    Silvereagle2,

    You are correct! Countyline Lexus beat all my previous offers. Prasadperi, I can send you the info.
  • slvajonesslvajones Member Posts: 14
    whitrx330 - Hi, I believe you mentioned once you knew of a Lexus dealer in California. If so, can you email me the information. I'm trying to help my sister purchase a Lexus; she lives in Northern California. Thanks. :-)
  • prasadperiprasadperi Member Posts: 40
    Hello WhitRX330 and Silvereagle,

    Thanks for the information. I have a quote from Countyline Lexus for 40,200 for an AWD with premium plus and Navigation. I have to decide if Navigation is necessary. Based on the prices paid by you, for a FWD Premium package plus for $34,999+Taxes, I thought that the AWD with Nav quote is still high.

    I was also told by folks that the car distributed in the North is treated differently in terms of undercoat. I am not sure if this is true or not. Any thoughts.

    I am yet to contact the other dealer Silvereagle mentioned.

    Prasad
  • whitrx330whitrx330 Member Posts: 28
    Slvajones,

    Its in your mail box.

    P.S. My RX 330 is nice!

    Whit
  • whitrx330whitrx330 Member Posts: 28
    Yelp,

    The dealers don't like to wiggle on the NAV system too much. The Nav is nice, but not as nice as the $34,999. I'm not sure I understand your question concerning undercoat. Question: is undercoat another name for $4.00 can of coating?

    Whit
  • silvereagle2silvereagle2 Member Posts: 23
    Hi, I'd like to see your information and compare it to mine.
  • silvereagle2silvereagle2 Member Posts: 23
    I have the navigation system on my 2001 RX 300 and we liked it so much that we bought 2001 GS 300. My wife will not by another Lexus without it!
  • prasadperiprasadperi Member Posts: 40
    Hello Whit,

    I was told the rust protection coating for the cars sold in the north is different and the same under coat can add up to $300-700 treatment. Where these numbers come (quotes from several dealers) and how much this coating is effective, I don't know.

    I am yet to hear a quote for a RX with Premium plus and AWD at Countyline. Hopefully will hear that soon. Lexus of Palm Beach was nice to offer a quick response for $38,500. Seems like this is the rate going on in the DC area from several dealers (Silver Spring/Annapolis).

    Congrats on the RX330 on a fantastic price. Will post soon, the price quote for a AWD.

    Prasad
  • whitrx330whitrx330 Member Posts: 28
    Silvereagle2,

    I can fax you the window sticker tomorrow (22 July 2004) or scan it in and email it to you. Let me know.

    Whit
  • whitrx330whitrx330 Member Posts: 28
    Prasad,

    Are you dealing with the contact name I provided you? I will be more than happy to send an email his way to further address your wishes. I don't know if it will help, but an email won't hurt. Just want to ensure I provided you with a good contact resource.

    Whit
  • prasadperiprasadperi Member Posts: 40
    Hello Whit,

    You gave me the correct information. I did communicate with him and he gave me a quote for the AWD/Nav/Prem Plus for 40,200.
    I requested one for the one without Nav recently and am awaiting his email. Can you also email/fax me the window sticker with itemized details that you have from your car only if you are doing it for Silvereagle2 also. Don't want to give you too much trouble.

    Thanks

    Thanks Again.
    Prasad
  • lsouterlsouter Member Posts: 13
    Quote form Orlando Lexus:

    "I have about 30 Rx330 that fit the description that you sent. The truck that you are after is known as a premium package vehicle, that will have all the options that listed plus a few more. The msrp on that truck is 39,483, I am running a July special to the end of the month on that unit for 35,900 plus tax and tag work. The navigation system on that car will bring the price up to 39,788 "

    this is what I asked for:
    2004 RX330 with the following options:

    -Premium Package

    - Leather Interior

    - Wood Steering Wheel and Gear Shift

    - Sunroof

    - 6 disc CD Changer

    - 18' Wheels

    - Rain Sensor

    - Power Rear Door

    I have a trade to try and get rid of before I buy, so I hope this helps someone.

    If you want dealer info, please email me.

    LaKeisha
  • prasadperiprasadperi Member Posts: 40
    This quote looks like the one for a FWD.
    I would like an AWD.

    Thanks for the help.
  • slvajonesslvajones Member Posts: 14
    lsouter - Are you the person that sent me an email? If so, did you talk to the sales person I suggested? Your quote seems a little high. Of course I realize things may change, given the time of the month and availability of the vehicle.
  • slvajonesslvajones Member Posts: 14
    PS: I did not make my final deal with their internet sales staff; their final quote much higher than other quotes I received in this state. I had much better luck with a sales person I met in their show room. Good luck.
  • lsouterlsouter Member Posts: 13
    Yes! Thanks for your info. I didn't contact the person you mentioned, I was doing a mass email to get quotes quickly (although I only heard from Orlando - no countyline or Palm Beach quotes as of yet - maybe I'm doing something wrong). Nevertheless; I will call your contact ASAP. I live in MD so I can't physically go to the showroom until I find a good deal!
  • slvajonesslvajones Member Posts: 14
    Well it certainly doesn't hurt to get quick internet quotes, but keep in mind at any given dealership, there are different deals going on every day. Therefore, contacting the individual sales person and letting them know how you found them (mentioning the price they gave this other person on the same vehicle...) might save you a lot of time in negotiating. My own experience.
  • oxfordoxford Member Posts: 1
    Hello to everyone,

    Please,any help would be highly appreciated. I am looking for RX330 with Performance package close to Invoice price in San Diego area.

    Do not mind to travel a few hundered miles around LA area for a good deal. Color is not very important.

    Also, I like another car, ES330, looking with Nav/M. L. audio close to invoice as well.

    I know the guestion is really an unprofessional kind but what would you like to get RX or ES and why. My husband like ES, I like RX

    Thanks for any info. I have one car I would not mind to trade in. Would you recommend it?

    Thanks, Have a good weakend
  • drewngdrewng Member Posts: 3
    Hi All,
    Finally picked up my RX330 right before the 4th after a year of contemplation, I think I got a great deal thank to all of you that posted your purchased exp. What I did was took the best purchased price posted here and told them this is what I want to pay. And I got it. I've paid 37,200 + 210 (doc) + 7% tax = 39638 OTD. It's an AWD + Premium Plus + Preferred Pack. No Nav. I'm in Philly but picked mine in North Jersey. I've gave the local a chance to match but weren't willing. It's a 2hr drive but worth every penny.

    If I can be any assistance please email me at drewng_19146@yahoo.com
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    You might want to check with the folks who have hands on experience in the Lexus RX 330 and Lexus ES 300/ES 330 discussions. It might help you make up your mind.

    I know the guestion is really an unprofessional kind ...

    All are welcome here! Most are not professionals and the Town Hall is a great place to get information, opinions and advice on both prospective vehicle purchases and the joys of ownership!

    Good luck!

    tidester, host
  • doklexusdoklexus Member Posts: 1
    went to the only dealer in state, quoted 2500 off MSRP(45,708) for 2004 2wd, rear entertainment system, premium plus pkg, nav + mark levinson radio system,18" wheels, heated front and rain sensing wiper, towing package, cargo mats and wheel locks.

    been reading several posts here, and above offer seemed a ripped off. please advise. is 4k below MSRP a common thing? willing to get from neighboring states if that what it takes to get a deal. is that package from the fighting chance website effective? thanks in advance.
  • danetdanet Member Posts: 3
    Sounds like a good deal to me. Here in the NW they don't seem to deal at all. Am looking for the same package. Can you provide me with the Dealer name and who to contact? thanks.
  • danetdanet Member Posts: 3
    Looking for an AWD with Premium plus. Can you provide me with the dealer and salesman who quoted you as I will be in S. cal in the next few weeks and would like to buy and drive home. Thanks
  • nicolosi1nicolosi1 Member Posts: 14
    Sorry I did not get back on sooner, I had the offer of 37,900 from Bay Ridge went in to sit down with them to close the deal for the price I wanted which is 40,256 OTD. They could not even come close, I got this figure from Alex8 who just purchased the vehicle from Ray Catena. I sent them an e-mail with the figures and am still waiting a response. The manager called and confirmed receipt and said a salesman will be in touch, they are now coming to the end of the year for these models so I believe I can get my price by taking what they have on the lot.

    What dealership did you end up buying from? Enjoy your new vehicle.
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