530xi vs LS430

Reply » 530xi vs LS430

In view of your questions, buy the Lexus.

Quote:

Reply » 530xi vs LS430

I'm sure you'll get lots of viewpoints, but here's what I've heard on these boards...(see below)

Quote:

I currently drive a 2003 Lexus LS430, which is a great car, but I REALLY miss a manual transmission, and, living in Maine, need AWD.

Also, I'd like driving to be more fun than just transportation.

I've decided to trade the LS430 in next year for a 530xi, which I'll purchase on the European Delivery plan.

I have a few questions:

1. The voice recongition system of the Lexus is worthless. It almost never understands what I'm saying. I'm thinking that I may use the voice recognition system on the 530xi more (to minimize the use of the I-Drive). How is the voice recognition system on the 5 series?

Mixed reviews on this, but it seems that most people aren't overly impressed w/ BMWs voice recog either.

2. The LS430 is a very quiet car. How quiet is the 530xi when just cruising on the highway?

The LS430 is the poster child for 'quiet car'. the BMW will likely be noiser; but some feel that its a good thing. You'll feel a bit more connected. and you'll hear a bit more exhaust and tire noise.

3. I've heard that the active steering is not desirable. Does it affect driving in winter weather?

Active steering debates go back and forth. The general consensus seems to be that most people find it annoying most of the time. the second gen system on the 3 series is supposedly better.

4. The LS430 laser cruise control is excellent. I use it all the time. How's the radar cruise control on the 5 series?

I haven't seen many reports of this yet. I'd imagine that a radar based system works better in foggy conditinos though. BMW charges a steep price for this option though; not sure if it was std on the Lexus.

5. This is my 2nd Lexus, and have NEVER had to take it to the dealer for anything but routine servicing. Does the 5 series have a good reliability record?

You'll get different points of view on this. But, its highly unliekly that your BMW will be as trouble free as your Lexus. Its also unlikely that your BMW dealer will exhibit the same level of customer service as a Lexus dealer when things do go wrong. On a positive note, if you only plan on keeping the car for the duration of the warratny, everything (including regular service) is covered. With Lexus, you have to pay for regular service, and I hear it can be expensive at times.

Thanks!

HBH

Reply » 530xi vs LS430

Why not test drive the 530xi, to see for yourself what BMW is all about. Almost all of the people I know that drive a BMW LOVE IT, it drives like no other. How they achieve this is by not making it like a lexus in a lot of different aspects. Smooth like butter isnt always the best ride, or quiet like a sound proof room, makes for a very boring vehicle. This doesnt mean that the BMW has a rough ride or is noisy. Its all tuned perfectly together to give you the ULTIMATE DRIVING EXPEIRIENCE. The active steering for me is one of the best options offered on the car, Ive had it for 2200 miles. The voice activation is probablly as good as lexus, but dont be intimidated by I-Drive. For me it was very simple to use, and after one week comes second nature, much better than having a million small buttons, alot of vehicles are starting to use similar systems, a few years too late. TEST DRIVE and you will understand. Let us know what you decide. GOOD LUCK!!!

Reply » 530xi vs LS430

I think Chuck is right - sounds like you are looking for a quiet, comfy, highway cruiser. The 5er is more of a "driving" car - (hope you understand what I'm trying to say). Its a car that makes you want to exit off the highway and take the back way home simply to enjoy to the drive itself.

Yes - it has issues - but they are minor and all covered by warranty. As a suggestion you could PM plocjim who drove different MB and Lexus models and chose the 530 and find out what he liked.

I hope you'll get the bimmer - but the Lexus may make more sense.

Be well.

Reply » 530xi vs LS430

Correct, by the very nature of the questions asked, I would stay away from a BMW.

Note not one question with regard to brakes, handling, overall performance, etc.

I think you will be very disappointed with a BMW since your questions are more about luxury cars in general.

Lexus is a wonderful car, but it is not a BMW. Two different vehicles for two different personalities.

Quote:

Page 1 of 3