AndrewP

What does the Neiman Marcus edition have that is different from normal configurations/options? Also, could not view pics.

Firstly, I should have typed GS430, not GS450, so my apologies. Next, what is an "NM" edition? Is it the same as a launch model used by MB, Audi? Finally, what suspension/handling features/options will be available on the GS450h?

I am new to this forum and potentially to Lexus. I went to the NY Auto Show this week to see the car on which I have had a deposit since last Sept and to listen to its Bang & Olufsen sound system, the 2007 Audi S8. I went to the Lexus display to see the LS600h, which was beautiful. I do not want to wait for a year for the LS600. As I prefer AWD, particularly Quattro, I had not considered any RWD Lexus until I saw the new LS 450 and GS450h. My reservations about Lexus relate to the driving characteristics relative to MB's, Audi's and BMW's and of course Porsche's, with which I have recent ownership experience. I am told that the new GS is different from other Lexus's in handling. As unique, safe and roadworthy as the Audi's are, and the S8 should be quite good, I am concerned about their reliability, as they seem prone to all types of problems based on the discussion forum reports and my own esperience with an A6 4.2. My questions are: How does the 2006 GS450 handle in wet and/or snowy/icy conditions? Have there been recalls and or technical bulletins that have caused downtime (that could not be remedied during normal mantainence interval visits)? In a number of reviews of the GS450 and GS450h the acceleration times have been a lot lower than Lexus claims. Typically, the German manufactures are very conservative on their performance figures. Were the differences in the reviewers' times compared to factory claims systemic for Lexus or perhaps due to other factors? I will drive a GS450 this weekend, so can get some idea of the handling characteristics, although I understand that the GS450h will have enough extra power to more than offset the extra 389 lbs, so is apparently noticably quicker than the V8, version.