Devi2

Thank you all for your valuable input; every suggestion was greatly appreciated and weighed. All I had ever wanted was reliable, safe transportation, with a touch of luxury, and my two Lexus ES 300s fit that mold perfectly. Never had I considered that driving could be fun, too. I'm a grandma, after all! Then I drove a BMW X3 35i. Can't really explain why I enjoyed it so much, just knew I didn't want to get out! Yes, Woodbadger, those run flats were almost a deal breaker, but I don't have the grueling trek that you do (my 13 y/o Lexus had under 75,000 miles). LexBob, the Audi was an unknown, as is the Genesis, Peter. Must it be a sedan? I was dead set against SUVs until I drove the RX and the X3. Now, I love the elevated driving position and extra cargo space, with no sacrifice of luxury. LexBob, I may run into you on the BMW forums! Dev Goodbye, Old Friend! ("In my life, I love you more")

Woodbadger, Thank you for such a thoughtful reply. Just in time for tomorrow's test drive of the 2015 ES. The Infiniti was never in the running, but details of the BMW and MB are greatly appreciated. Most telling: your choice of the ES for such a long haul every month. Be safe in your travels! Regards, Dev

There is a similar post about an ES model on this forum. Saw it yesterday.

I will be test driving the 2015 ES this weekend. Thank you all for the informative discussion. Just the tips I have been looking for.

That is one beautiful car, Ian! Please post your impressions on its performance. Hope you are enjoying it, Dev

Thank you, Bob. Looked into the 328i today. Technology is impressive--head on display, nav & driver assist features--but based on hubby's experience with his 545i, not sure if I could get 13 worry-free years from it. The ES was truly exceptional. I cannot remember a repair bill over $300, except for the recommended maintenance and service. As you suggested, a trek to the Lexus dealer is planned this weekend!

Hello, all! After 13 wonderful years, it is time to part with my beloved 2002 ES 300. This is, without a doubt, the best vehicle that I or anyone in my family has ever owned. But, I have serious concerns that the 2015 ES 350 can fill its shoes. Can someone who has transitioned from an older model to the current ES generation give me an idea on what to expect should I choose to go with yet another (would be my third) ES. I have prized above all its reliability (nearest dealer is 50 mi. away), beautiful interior (nothing cheap here) and silent, smooth ride. Concerns I have are going from the Camry to Avalon base, don't like the "wide mouth bass" grille, heard about inferior interior furnishings. Other options would be the BMW 335i and Mercedes C400 (but starting at $49k probably a pipe dream). Any thoughts would be appreciated. Dev