Did you recently take on (or consider) a loan of 84 months or longer on a car purchase?
A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/22 for details.
Options

Lexus GS 450h

135

Comments

  • drfilldrfill Member Posts: 2,484
    Ah, yes. Mr. 460, how are you doin'?

    Problem with an aux port like the IS is you have to take out the radio and redesign it, and maybe the center console as well, as the GS300/430 shares the same radio. Since it is not an option on the others, I wouldn't expect it to be standard fare here. I would expect the radio to be upgraded as part of the GS mid-gen facelift in 2008.

    One more ting. My new understanding is Lexus will not make many of these cars. Expect less than 5000 to be made this year, so getting a discount may be next to impossible.

    DrFill
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    Maybe we need a new topic: "How much can you fit into 8 CU Feet of trunk space in a vehicle that costs $55K?"
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    Maybe we need a new topic: "How much can you fit into 8 CU Feet of trunk space in a vehicle that costs $55K?"

    The 450 has an additional gear set behind the normal one used in the Prius. It is also rear drive, a first for Toyota Hybrids.

    http://tinyurl.com/kv3jv
  • drfilldrfill Member Posts: 2,484
    It's 9.9 cu. ft., to be exact.

    And the build rate is 6000 this year, 2000 to the US.

    DrFill
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    "It's 9.9 cu. ft., to be exact. "

    I was quoting from the article I linked to...
  • n5garn5gar Member Posts: 1
    So what is the Break Even Point - for the cost of a hybrid? In other words, when does the additional cost of a hybrid (both initial and maintenance/repair) make the consumer come out ahead of choosing a vehicle that runs 100% on regular unleaded gas?
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    If you believe this month's Consumer Reports, you will never come out ahead. They use statistics that show that hybrids will depreciate faster than regular vehicles and therefore you will always be in the hole. As an example, for the 400h vs the 330, they projected a cost of ownership of the 400h to be about $13,000 more than the 330, even taking into account the $2200 tax credit and the fuel savings. Perhaps the intial costs of the hybrids will eventually come down, but probably not by a lot since you are getting everything required for the regular car, plus all the electric components. Perhaps there are non monetary benefits such as reduced pollution and saving energy useage that should be considered. :shades:
  • gagricegagrice Member Posts: 31,450
    To put it simply. When the gas savings equals the premium for the hybrid. In the case of the RX330 vs RX400h, you start off with about an $8000 difference in TMV price. At today's gas price of $2.50 per gallon getting 21 MPG in the RX330, you can drive over 67,000 miles on the initial savings. If you keep the car for 3 years as most in that income bracket, and drive the average 15k miles per year. There is no a break even point. It looks like the break even point would be about 76k miles per year for 3 years. Take into consideration you will have to drive conservatively in the hybrid to maintain a 26 MPG average.

    As for the GS450h. Do you really care if there is a break even point? This car will be so limited that you will almost have to be a Hollywood star to score one.

    For example. I watched Regis with Whoopie Goldberg a few months back. She was in NY to buy an SUV. She liked the BMW then checked out the Lexus. She ended up with the RX400h. She did not know what a hybrid was till she walked into the dealership. The selling point was she liked the seats.

    The high end hybrids are not being targeted at budget minded buyers. They are there for those that money is no object and image is everything. If you can afford the GS450h don't even think about breaking even. As our resident salesman would say if you like it, buy it....
  • tackrowtentackrowten Member Posts: 2
    I was just at my dealership last night, and they said that they are getting their in April. The allotment is still only one per month, though.
  • tackrowtentackrowten Member Posts: 2
    So if you look at just in hard $$$, the breakeven point may be difficult to achieve. However, I'm looking at a GS450h for other soft benefits that have an inherent value to me. For example:

    Easier commuting. Ability to always ride in the HOV lane (here in GA), even if there's only one passenger. That can equal at least an hour every day reclaimed from sitting in traffic.
    Tax benefits. This will be a business vehicle, so savings are achieved through more than just gas costs.
    Generation 5 hybrid. This isn't a hybrid like the Prius to achieve 50-60 MPG. Instead, it's meant to give you 4 cylinder mileage with 8 cylinder power. Basically the benefits of a hybrid without sacrificing power.

    Yes, you are paying a premium for some great technology; but, at least for drivers like me, you're getting a lot of value for it.

    Just my 2 cents...
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    April would be great. The GM at my dealership said the official release date is May 6, but that the Neiman Marcus editions might be as much as a month sooner.

    If the base price of the 450h is 55K, that is only about 3K more than the base of the 430 and then there is the tax credit (granted, you can get deals on the 430 and not the 450h), but for the extra power, fuel savings, cleaner air and related benefits, it seems well worth the extra cost. :shades:
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    "Easier commuting. Ability to always ride in the HOV lane (here in GA), even if there's only one passenger. That can equal at least an hour every day reclaimed from sitting in traffic."

    Just a note for CA - to qualify for the HOV lane the hybrid has to make 45 MPG combined. I don't think the GS will make that.
  • gagricegagrice Member Posts: 31,450
    to qualify for the HOV lane the hybrid has to make 45 MPG combined. I don't think the GS will make that.

    Georgia just says the car has to get 1.5 times the combined MPG of the 2002 mileage for that class of car. If the class average in 2002 was 25 MPG the GS450h would have to get a combined 37.5 MPG to use the HOV lanes.
  • hendjazhendjaz Member Posts: 155
    "The colors will be either white, black or silver."

    Anyone know if this is true as we are now a bit closer to delivery of the 450h? Local dealer indicates that they will only be getting the black/black combination and the implication was that this was all that was going to be available initially, not that they chose that combination but perhaps I misunderstood. What do you hear now from your dealers or otherwise on color availability?

    I was also advised they would be coming in fully loaded (including Nav and upgrade audio) and with msrp at about $60K. Hearing anything different on this? Thx.
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    $60K sounds a bit on the low side if the base is $55K and the upgraded audio and Nav on the 430 is about $7500 more. The MSRP on the Neiman Marcus editon is $65K. Its color is Crystalline Ice, but that color is limited to that version only.
  • gs400lexusgs400lexus Member Posts: 4
    Other than the GS450h, does anyone know if Lexus is releasing any new GS models this spring?
  • navigator89navigator89 Member Posts: 1,080
    Review
  • jej60jej60 Member Posts: 2
    Well, I agree with your post gagrice. I'm no. 11 on my dealers list. Specified either silver or black with black interior so that probably will push me further down. Anyway, this is a big change for me so it'll be interesting to see how it works out.

    Very strange that custom paint and custom interior trim is not offered at a premium price. Lexus probably ought to reconsider that.

    And yes, performance and bragging rights are the motivator, not price.
  • mikegillermikegiller Member Posts: 602
    No doubt that I agree.

    Why Lexus does not offer more interior colour choices, I don't know. Cherry, and a nice brown should be offered, not just on very limited production models of the limited production SC.
  • jej60jej60 Member Posts: 2
    Those would be good choices indeed. Lexus should recruit an interior designer from Bentley, Aston or Jaguar.

    Regardless, I like new technology so I'm signed on. Might be fun.
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    This info is for the limited edition Neiman Marcus version, but except for the items with *, similar features and options should be available for all other GS 450h models.

    Neiman Marcus GS 450h Hybrid Specifications
    * Exclusive Exterior Color: Crystalline Ice
    Interior Trim: Regency Black Leather with Red Walnut Accents
    * Neiman Marcus Badge on center console (sequentially numbered 1-75)
    * Car Cover with Neiman Marcus embroidered logo
    * Floormats with Neiman Marcus embroidered logo (2 sets)
    Generation 5 Voice-Activated DVD Navigation System with Bluetooth technology, integrated Backup Camera with wide-image color display
    Mark Levinson 330-watt Surround Sound with 14 speakers and 7.1 Channel Architecture, six-disc CD/DVD auto-changer
    Run-flat All-Season Tires
    18-inch Alloy Wheels
    Rear Lip Spoiler
    3.5 -liter Direct Injection V6 engine with High Output Electric Motor
    Lexus Hybrid System with 339 Horsepower Combined Output
    Rear-Wheel Drive
    Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS)
    Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System (VDIM)
    High Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlamps with Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS)
    Headlamp Washers
    Power Moonroof and Power Rear Sunshade
    Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
    Rear Side Airbags
    Intuitive Parking Assist
    Estimated Fuel Economy: City: 25 mpg / Highway: 28 mpg / Combined: 26 mpg

    Pricing
    MSRP Retail Base Price: $54,900.00
    *MSRP Neiman Marcus Special Edition: $ 9,405.00
    Freight & Handling: $ 695.00
    MSRP Total Price: $65,000.00
    :)
  • thedon1thedon1 Member Posts: 15
    So what happened to post#125 that stated the arrival date of the NM Edition to be on April 15th? Is this no longer the case? What source provided you with this info. Your reply is great appreciated and anxiously awaited. I'm one of the luck 75 and haven't heard ANYTHING except for my dealer telling me that it won't be here until June.
  • rknapp5rknapp5 Member Posts: 2
    I am one of the lucky 75 to get a Neiman Marcus Edition based on conversation with Lexus and my dealer this morning here is the latest information

    My Neiman Marcus edition has a VIN number.
    It is in production or just completed.
    The shipping port date is 9999 which means it has not shipped yet.
    From the shipping date to the dealer delivery date is approximately two weeks.
    The estimated delivery date from Lexus order form is April 20 to May 1.
    I asked what options are listed on the order and my dealer says it just says Neiman Marcus edition with no individual options listed.
    My dealer also said there were no other GS450H cars on their to receive listing for April or May.

    My dealer said he would call me when a shipping date is listed
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    Based upon the information I have been provided, it appears the you should have your NM version this month, unless there are unforeseen delays. You will also get a nice gift sent to you separately (even nicer than the silver bowl you already received).
    If you are considering XM or Sirius, you should order it from your dealer now because it is about half the price if it is installed at the port vs by the dealer. It does not appear that the audio system will have an iPod port so you will need to get a SoundLinQ (SLI) - Auxiliary Input Adapter with Apple® iPod™ interface from Vais (http://www.vaistech.com/home.html) if you want to get good sound from your iPod.
    :shades:
  • thedon1thedon1 Member Posts: 15
    I just read on another forum that the Lexus Dealer in GUAM has the first regular GS450h in stock and ready for its new owner. Where's my Neiman Marcus Edition? If regular 450h's are trickling in, shouldn't my NM Edition be in by now? I can't wait any longer!!!!! :shades:
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    NM buyers will get their GS 450h before anyone else gets theirs in the USA. :D
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    "NM buyers will get their GS 450h before anyone else gets theirs in the USA. "

    No, it's my understanding that only Santa Fe gets the GS 450h early... :P
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    "No, it's my understanding that only Santa Fe gets the GS 450h early... "

    All I know is that seneral NM GS 450h vehicle will be at the dock in Newark this week and my dealer will have mine early next week. :blush:
  • thedon1thedon1 Member Posts: 15
    How do you know this information? Your dealer? Does he have a shipping bill or any written proof that the NM Edition is arriving in Newark this week? Also, you stated "SEVERAL" are arriving. Why not all? If, in fact, several are arriving, how does your dealer know that YOURS is one of them? Please advise. Thanks! :D
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    Yes, this is information I received from my dealer. I don't know how many are coming into Newark. I assume that it is all of the NM Editions that would otherwise come into that port. I have no idea what other ports they use. He was supplied a VIN number and I assume that is how he knows mine is on that shipment. When it is actually here, I will let you know. :shades:
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    "Yes, this is information I received from my dealer. I don't know how many are coming into Newark. I assume that it is all of the NM Editions that would otherwise come into that port. I have no idea what other ports they use. He was supplied a VIN number and I assume that is how he knows mine is on that shipment. When it is actually here, I will let you know."

    OK, that teaches me to make a joke. "NM" could also mean "New Mexico", and the folks around Sante Fe are known for being environmentally conscious. Hence the joke about them getting gs450h before everyone else.

    Man, I hate having to explain jokes... :blush:
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    Thank you for the the helpful insights on this. I did not make the Sante Fe/ NM connection. I see from Google that NM also means Natural Medicine, National Monument, New Maintainer, Nanometre, and New Male. I have no information on whether special versions of the GS 450h will be available for New Mexico, Natural Medicine, National Monument, New Maintainer, Nanometre, or New Male.
    I do know that the Monroney labels were finalized 10 days ago for the Neiman Marcus versions. :surprise:
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    "I did not make the Sante Fe/ NM connection. I see from Google that NM also means Natural Medicine, National Monument, New Maintainer, Nanometre, and New Male"

    Oh dear, I hope they spell out "Nieman Marcus" on the back of the GS450h, or people may jump to conclusions... ;)
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    "Oh dear, I hope they spell out "Nieman Marcus" on the back of the GS450h, or people may jump to conclusions..."

    If they put "Nieman Marcus", on my car I will be very upset, as will Carrie Marcus, and her husband Al Neiman. Al really does not like it when people misspell his name, especially when their agreement with Neiman Marcus stipulates these cars say "Neiman Marcus" :blush:
  • michael2003michael2003 Member Posts: 144
    While sorry to hear that you can't wait any longer, I would be willing to take advantage and wait in your stead. ;)
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    "
    If they put "Nieman Marcus", on my car I will be very upset, as will Carrie Marcus, and her husband Al Neiman. Al really does not like it when people misspell his name, especially when their agreement with Neiman Marcus stipulates these cars say "Neiman Marcus""

    Wouldn't know, I don't shop there. Is there a GS450h "WM" (Wal-Mart) edition?
  • gagricegagrice Member Posts: 31,450
    Wouldn't know, I don't shop there. Is there a GS450h "WM" (Wal-Mart) edition?

    That's a great one. I always thought Lexus was going Wal-Mart with the GS series anyway. Give me the older LS or SC 400, those were fine cars.
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    "Is there a GS450h "WM" (Wal-Mart) edition?"

    I was at Wal-Mart last week and asked them if they had any fuel efficient low emission rocket ships and they said they did not and had no plans to carry them. If you want a nice family car, the new LS 600h will be great...the new long wheel base LS can even serve as a mobile home. However, if you want to fly, the GS 450h liftoff will soon be forthcoming. :shades:
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    The first production versions of the GS 450h have now arrived at the port in Newark and will soon be enroute to the dealers. I belive that this first shipment is the Neiman Marcus versions. Whoever gets their first should post a picture and a review. :):D;) :shades:
  • thedon1thedon1 Member Posts: 15
    Since I'm in California, I was told that my NM Edition will be arriving in Long Beach. How do I confirm if MY EAGLE has landed? Please advise. :confuse: :shades: :D
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    Contact your dealer. If he/she does not know, suggest she/he contact the Lexus Vehicle Merchandising Manager for your region. :surprise:
  • thedon1thedon1 Member Posts: 15
    My dealer says my car is being held at the Long Beach port but he hasn't received the VIN yet. He had to call Lexus corporate for the VIN. He said he hopes to have the VIN from the port by the beginning of next week and to expect my car within the next 2-4 weeks after. What's the hold up? Anyone have any light to shed?
  • hoppy5454hoppy5454 Member Posts: 6
    dealer should have VIN. Mine has been shipped from Portland and will be here 21st-27th. can hardly wait. Spoke to someone who drove one and they say it is unbelievable.
  • thedon1thedon1 Member Posts: 15
    I can only guess that they're holding mine in the Long Beach port because the other NM versions have to get close to their dealers if being shipped by train. I'm guessing that NM wants all 75 cars to be delivered to us owners on the exact same day.
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    You may be right, but 2-4 weeks seems excessive. I have my VIN and am expecting the car this week :D
    Remember, first to get theirs needs to post some pictures!     :shades:
  • thedon1thedon1 Member Posts: 15
    Just checking in to see if any other future NM Edition owners have any new news about our delivery date. What are they waiting for?
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    I spoke with my dealer this morning and he suspects that Lexus is holding the release of the 75 Neiman Marcus Edition vehicles until all 75 are in the dealer's hands. Thank being said, he still thinks they will be released this week. :confuse:
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    Very, very soon! (Perhaps today?) ;)
  • thedon1thedon1 Member Posts: 15
    Thanks for your post and pic! Please post more! There's a very resourceful site dedicated to Lexus Owners where you can upload larger photos, get and share info, etc.. You may want to check it out if you haven't already.

    I still have no news on when my vehicle will be sent from the Long Beach port to Oakland. I'll just continue being patient. ANXIOUS!!! but patient. :shades:
  • gs450hgs450h Member Posts: 49
    "There's a very resourceful site dedicated to Lexus Owners where you can upload larger photos, get and share info, etc.. "

    What is the link to that site?
Sign In or Register to comment.

Helpful Tools

Most popular vehicles