cdog

I've owned two GS350's (2007 and current 2009) and have never had an issue with cross winds, including driving over the Golden Gate Bridge is serious wind conditions. Keep in mind, the GS350 is not what I would call a sports car. It has sporty handling, but does not have the heavier/sportier handling of the IS series. Personally, I love the handling as it is the best of both worlds...sports and comfort, but thats just my HO.

I am considering replacing my expiring lease Infiniti M35 Sport with a GS 350. My M35 is very crisp with 245-19-40 tires and sports suspension (also rides very rough and noisy) I once had a 98 ES which was terrible about crabbing and wandering back and forth in strong crosswinds. I know the GS is different suspension and tires but the 2010 GS steering has that same kind of vague feeling that my old ES did. I had an overnight test drive but there was no wind. I hate to buy this GS and trade it in too soon re this last question because I love everything else about it.

Can anybody please commment on GS handling in crosswinds?

Bottom line, don't do it. Live with the interior color or go for something else. Yes, you can replace the dash, seat covers, door panels, etc., but you have to ask yourself is it really worth it. Why potentally mess up a clean low milage car just for ashthetics.

so i'm thinking about upgrading to a gs350/430 (currently own a turbo IS300) figured i'd go for a used one since you can usually score a better deal on those. went to my local lexus dealer here in hawaii, turns out they have just one fully loaded '07 GS350 w/20k miles. only problem is...the interior is light gray, which is pretty much a huge turn off for me (would really prefer black). but i'm thinking if i can get a really good deal on it, maybe $34,000-$35,000 OTD i might was well do it. i'm just curious as far as what i can do about the interior (if any of you guys did a full swap or have painted before). i know the obvious answer would be to just do a full swap, but i've noticed that over the recent years, interior and upholstery shops are becoming more and more skillful with their work. just wondering what my options would be as well as get your input on what you think would be the best course of action. any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks in advance!

I have a 2009 GS350, not an AWD, and have had no issues with the ride. The car has low profile tires. I previously had a 2007 non-AWD GS 350 with standard tires, and again had no issues with the ride. The same can't be said for the IS series, a stiffer ride. I have had no rattle issues with either of my GS350's. I honestly don't know if either car had/has a suspension mode switch. Guess I never checked it out, as I never felt the need to do so.

I have a 2007 AWD GS 350 with 22k miles. When I first got the car the first thing I did was get rid of the Dunlop run flats, they are excellent for handling but suck for ride comfort. I put on a set of Bridgestone seinities and they are much better. My cmplaint is, the car just has a harsh ride. I know it is suppossed to be sporty suspension but this just seems a little to much, its not a corvette but yet it seems they want it to be. I am wondering if anyone has the new 350 or a 460 that has the suspension mode switch, and if so, can you tell the difference. I would like to put Goodyear tripple treads on and go up a size in the sidewall but the dealer said the sensors would always be on and the speedo would be off. They should be able to compensate for this in the computer somewhere. How about if I put ES 350 shocks on it?

Does anyone else think the cars ride is a little harsh, or do I just need to get used to it? The car is also a rattle trap. I took it in to the dealer and they did both front and rear windows and a couple of other things and it still rattles up by the defrost vent and a couple of other places. I have had cars with 250k + on them that ride and don't rattle like this thing. I am ready to go try out the new Buick.

Thanks for listening. The car is just not fun, I am always picking it apart while driving. It is the only body style I like by Lexus right now and can't afford the LS 460 yet.

Thanks for any advice.

Dave

Hello, and welcome, what color did you get? How long does it take to go from open to close? and from close to open?

The color is smoky granite mica. It takes approximately 20 seconds to open and 20 seconds to close. Looks neat, something like the transformers. I'd post pictures but I haven't quite figured out how to do it.

Just wanted to say hello to everyone. I've been a viewer for awhile, but as I just purchased a new IS350C (traded in a GS350...just wanted a convertible), figured I might was well say hi. A beautiful car. The convertible top is way cool and you actually have enough room for a couple of overnight duffle bags (or a set of golf clubs) with the top down. With the top up the trunk is almost as big as the one on my old GS350. Only thing I've done to the car is replace the OEM tires (Bridgestone Turanza) with Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Plus. For those who are familiar with both tires, no further explanation is necessary :) .