Moving From A Mk2 Gs430 To A Gs450H

[Supradave]

I currently own a MK2 GS430 which I have had for a couple of years and am considering changing it for a GS450h. I am looking to spend about 10k/11k and have a few questions.

I love the refinement, performance and the audio system of the 430 but have never been that impressed by the ride, particularly at high speed. .

Is the ride and handling of the 450h any better in that respect?

I would be interested to hear of anyone making the same move and your thoughts on the 450h.

As I am sure is the usually the case I am also worried about issues with the Batteries on a 450h. The amount I am looking to spend seems to mean that I will be buying either privately or from a non lexus garage. I am wondering about taking out a third party warranty through Warranty Direct or one of the similar companies. Does anyone know if these type of warranties usually cover the batteries or the hybrid system of the 450h?

At the current time I am not sure whether to go for the Lexus or play safe and go for an x350 XJ6.

[wendle]

Hi

I have not owned a GS 430, so I can’t comment on the difference
in ride quality.

I did have a MK 3 450h and I would think you would notice
very little difference in performance, however there would be more engine noise
from the 450h because of the transmission difference.

If you buy one with ML audio I don’t think you will be disappointed
with the 14 speaker system.

As you are upgrading from a MK2 to a MK3 I would think you
would find a improvement in the ride and handling, but as I mentioned I haven’t
owned a MK1 or a MK2, GS. I would take one out for a spin and make up your own
mind.

I wouldn’t worry to much about the Hybrid system or
batteries, I havent herd of any major problems from this system from here or
from the US, and the few minor problems that have come up, Lexus have been
quick to put then right, the last thing they want is problems with the hybrid
and batteries, this system in now in all the Lexus range.

There is also a member on this site with a GS450h that has
covered over 150k miles, without any problems.

Be very careful about taking out any warranty, make 100%
sure it covers the hybrid and batteries, I don’t think they do.

As for your choice of car, is you are happy with Lexus then I
would stick with them, don’t let the 450h put you off.