I compare my 2006 M45 to the 2007 Lexus GS450h hybrid

[carbuff]

I compare my 2006 M45 to the 2007 Lexus GS450h ________________________________________In previous posts I mentioned that I had been approached by a Lexus dealership regarding the purchase of a GS450h hybrid. To learn what owners of the GS450h thought about their car, I read posts by them on three Lexus internet discussion forums. Afterwards, I posted a thread on those Lexus forums telling of my evaluation of the GS450h. I post it here so that you who drive the Infiniti M might have the benefit of my comparison of these two cars.================================================== =========I have decided not to buy a 2007 Lexus GS450h hybrid to replace my 2006 Infiniti M45. Nevertheless, I consider the GS450h to be an exceptional automobile.

My visual impression of this car is that it is quite exquisite. It has a stunning exterior design that conveys to me a fluid motion even when the car is at a standstill.

I find the interior rich and luxurious. Appointments are tasteful and sedate. Leather seats are comfortable and supportive. All dashboard controls are quite visible and easy to operate.

My test drive of this hybrid was a mixed experience. The car is superbly powerful and fast. It takes off quickly, accelerates with spirit and easily reaches high speeds. The power of this Lexus hybrid equaled or surpassed every luxury car I have ever owned.

I was however, unimpressed with the GS450h handling. Its steering did not feel as responsive to my touch as I desire. I want an immediate and intense feeling of control when I steer a car. I did not get this sensation with this car. Instead, it seemed to take corners on its own, flat and yacht-like.

Another disappointment to me was the very small trunk capacity. It is simply too small for my needs. I live in Arizona. Perishable food spoils quickly when placed in a hot trunk. To prevent spoilage, I transport food from market to home in a cooler unit stored in the trunk. With a cooler there, no room would exist along side it to store the quantity of other goods I usually buy. ================================================== =========Note: The capacity of the GS450h trunk is 7.5CU vis 15.5CU for the M.================================================== =========The car I tested was equipped with technical features very much like my M. It had all of the bells and whistles I so enjoy in a car. What the Lexus had that the M45 does not have is the hybrid electric-gas engine power plant. All other things being equal, this alone is not a great enough inducement for me to dispose of the M45 in favor of the GS450h. Besides this factor, my feeling about the GS handling and its small trunk capacity finalized my decision to pass on the Lexus.================================================== ==========In response to post by a Lexus owner, I said in another post, my phraseology “flat and yacht-like” might be too broad of a statement. I do not mean that the GS450h floated around curves like the 1994 Buick Park Avenue Ultra I once had. Perhaps, a better description would be, the sensation I felt driving it was very different than the precision I am accustomed to with my M45.================================================== ===========For you who drive the M I will state without hesitation that the M, in my opinion is the better of the two vehicles in every way except mpg. It is every bit as rich in appointments, has better navigation, absolutely drives better than the GS450h, has more interior and trunk space and costs a lot less. Besides, I love the look of my M45 and thrill to its growl.

There is no question in my mind that dollar for dollar, the M is the best buy of the two.

[mazz]

i understand your feeling on the lexus steering and handlingIn 1990 i went to lexus dealer to see the ls400 and infiniti to see the q45 i drove both and bought the q45 .I have purchased 6 more infinitis since but before each one i test the lexus angry about the resale value on my qbut i just can not deal with the buick float those lexus havehopefully my m35 will hold some value