znod

Thanks for the nice write up. I don't have any significant comments. As I understand things, you have L7 no matter what. It's just a matter of how you set it. I get my best results by turning off the canned venues and using the equalizer. When I start up, I hit accept ASAP, squash the PDC next (depending on where I am), and pull back briefly on the joystick. Then, most of the time the display will go back to where I left it--my last used entertainment choice. Most of the time it is cost prohibitive, IMO, to retrofit things, but, well, maybe rear seats would be different (I doubt it though). I don't know if there is a downside to split rear seats. Personally, I have never missed them. And, maybe we are better off without them (e.g., speculation--maybe the package area behind the seats rattles worse if you have split rears). I agree about the cost of comfort access. But, I decided that I would get it anyway if there is a next time around. I thought that your lawyer screen would go away automatically if you waited a short while. If not, then you may need a software fix. But, I'd hit accept ASAP regardless to get on with things. Welcome, and enjoy your car and the fourms.

CVTBenhogan

Glad your happy with the E60.

I agree with all your points. That new inline 6 is quite nice. Yes, the price for comfort access is a complete hose job. Is Sirius really worth it?

I'm threatening to write my own review having had the car for six months now. Just waiting for some damn problem to pop up because I hate writing gushing posts again and again. Damn it.

I will say my E60 has Lexus like reliability thus far and its no knock-off either. Just a nice Bangle job that drives like a complete stud. Save one minor software bug for Active Steer, its been peerless.

CVT Benhogan

Ah, more damn gush.

EBMCS03

What? that means something broke!!! Dude... My Lexus IS 350 has 3600 miles and my 6 disc slot CD changer is dead. 10K miles on the 545 and not one mechnical problem... Its been reliable! Transmission slam early in its days but that was only when I was using Auto Mode which I dont really use... and since everything has been working... *knock on wood*

znod

But, the IS350 is fast. Who cares about a CD changer?

CVTBenhogan

Well, we all know how consumer reports, JD Power and etc spooge all over themselves about Lexus. I don't mind going to the dealer 2 or 3 times a year. Just give me a good loaner and I enjoy looking at new cars in the showroom. In fact, I like to educate some of sales people about the cars their selling.

Which car do you prefer the 545 or IS 350?

Come to think of it, my disk changer didn't show some disks my wife put in. Hum. Maybe its not pushed in right and this must be checked. I might be going to the dealer. So what.

CVT Benhogan

CVTBenhogan

Try a different wax product or exterior color? I keep staring at Jet Black E60s. They look so good. However, overall dark colors are a pain in #$%*. Didn't I warn you about the MB?

CVT Benhogan

EBMCS03

YA neither do I... few time a year with a loner is ok... but in my case... loner isnt available til Aug 30th... thats too long. No more than a weeks wait is ok. more is a hassel.

I prefer the 545 by all means. much better car all around IMO. the IS is faster and more "luxurious" but so is the E60. just not as many bells and whistles. But I like the drive of the Bimmer more. and the E60 crowd is 1000X better than Lexus Crowd... fits me more.

CVTBenhogan

IS feels much faster? Really?

How do the seats and driving position compare?

I think the E60 is pretty darn luxurious and completely original. The Lexus is sharp, but I've seen that look many times before. Just hope BMW stays, lets just say, spocket like or German in its approach to design and style.

Lexus cars are very sharp and have improved tons. I think the GS430 w/ 18s is second best looking sports sedan next to a E60 sport. I'd like to have these in my garage for a long term comparison.

CVT Benhogan

ccmun

Hmmm,I was wondering about that. I have a 2007 and my idrive warning does not go off by itself.

VIIV

I like the look, too, and they have nice interiors, more gadgets, are rock solid reliable and are cheaper than BMW. They even had an very low mileage (second thoughts) trade in when I was looking. But then I drove the e60. Game over! No need for a long term comparison. But I can see why they are very popular.