Bluesman

Yup, been a GM man all my life. I currently own (3) GM products. Even worked as a mechanic for (2) different GM dealers in the 80's. My next new car will be a 2007 Toyota Avalon Touring......... To answer the initial question on this thread, I'm told the new 6 speed trans. is a "definite" for 2007 and possibly an 18 inch wheel.

Lexus just built a better Buick....... The new ES 350. http://www.lexus.com/2007es_preview/index.html http://pressroom.toyota.com/Releases/View?...YT2006020714731

J-Lo is attractive!?!? Perhaps in an interstate off ramp sort of way....

Hey guys, here's the first full shots of the new ES350. http://www.carspyshots.net/zerothread?id=14998&page=11

I think you need to consider the perspective there. Those responses are from Lexus owners across all production years, meaning there may be some really old cars lumped into that informal survey. I guess if someone asked me to list all the problems I've had over the last 10 years and 230,300 miles on my 96' Chevy Lumina, then I'd have a long list of problems as well..... Light bulbs Brakes Ball joints Tie rod ends Water pump Alternator belt tensioner & pulley Intake gasket Rear exhaust manifold Turn signal switch Cruise control servo IAC valve Throttle position sensor Both cup holders Fuel pump Plus regular maintenance items.... I think it's safe to assume that most of the posters in that forum are younger people with older Leuxs cars, i.e. they'll have more problems to report as the vehicles age.

There are whole forums dedicated to the dreaded Lexus 5 speed transmission problem.... Check out the Edmunds forums for Lexus. It's not the just the ES, the used the same tranny in the Camry and I think the Sienna. That's why all the Lexus enthusiasts are so damned happy to see that new 6 speed show up!

Yes, that's what I'm talking about. There seems to be this double standard that only applies to foreign brands who are experiencing well deserved growth. Where do you think Toyota learned this platform sharing technique!? So if we can all agree that the luxury makes all have similar characteristics between models, and they're all executing the same strategy, then this really becomes a non-argument...... Doesn't it?

I appreciate that Sal and thanks for backing me up. I rather enjoy making what I believe to be a sensible counter point here. I'm a deeply rooted GM fan but I can't stand by and idly watch the pot call the kettle black..... I don't know how anyone can honestly look at the (4) Lexus sedans and say they all look the same, and then not give equal scrutiny to Cadillac, BMW or Benz models. I think Cadillac is getting it right but yes, the CTS and STS look very similar to me.

Actually it did make the news: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/04345/424551.stm Yes, it's planned for late in 2006.

Yea, but even Chevy is starting to do it!! I can't tell a Malibu from a new Impala coming at me from down the road!! They both look alike till you get close enough and can judge size and markings... I can tell the difference between an IS, GS, LS and ES pretty easily.

Just to play devil's advocate....Isn't Cadillac, BMW and Mercedes doing the same? I mean those makes all share a common look and theme, why does Lexus get hammered for it and those brands don't? If they can capture a look, make it their own and expand upon it, isn't that brand building like we all talk about?? I think they're hitting the nail on the head....

Not to mention ugly in the face...

Make that (3) problems - They had a rash of complaints and problems with the 5 speed transmission...

All I can say is I'm very excited about this car, I think it will be the first foreign car I buy after many years of holding GM products close to my heart....

It's FWD based on the MC platform, which is the same as the Camry.