JDBlueAudiS4

I am thinking one of those are going to fit me best for now just trying to narrow it down. I havent driven the lexus 330 in a while and havent driven the 400h ever so I need to go drive both. Anyone have any opinions?

Also trying to decide if I want to keep the S once they get it fixed finally.... or should I really just wash my hands of it.....

Aidan's Daddy

haven't test driven it either (test drove the RX330 though). I have the brochure at home. It's a few grand more for the 400h, but seems to be well worth it. The thing I liked about the RX series is that it drives like a car, not like a big truck. It's the only suv I'd buy (and I'm not an suv person).

RKA

His wife drives the MDX, and he drives the RX330 when the weather doesn't allow for his toy to be driven. He described the RX330 as "feminine". That pretty much sums it up. It is a nice car, but.... The MDX isn't quite comfortable for him (he's a big guy), so he really doesn't drive it, and when he does for more than 3 hours, he'll complain about it. Never really heard him gripe about the Lexus though (with exception to the remark above).

Hybrids are too expensive imho. I heard a rumor that the tax laws might change (in the consumers favor) in 2006 for these types of cars. Presently you're allowed a $2K deduction. That might change considerably. I haven't verified anything though...so check on it. At the very least, if you go this route, wait until 1/1, so if there are new laws put into place, you can take advantage of them. My other concern with hybrids is what it may cost to maintain them down the road. Not that your Audi is cheap, but it's still rather conventional. Hybrids are going to be the domain of the dealers for a while. Even if it is a Lexus, I'm still leary.

On a more general note, my feeling about Honda vs. Toyota is as follows. Honda gives you a little more driver involvement and road feel, while Toyotas tend to isolate you from the road. This observation seems to hold true across their entire model line ups, including their luxury brands. So based on what you're looking for, I would let your preferences direct you to one brand and go from there.

Blau Flash

too bad that it looks like a soccer mom's car

Aidan's Daddy

I have relatives who owns an H2, ML430 & Aviator. I've test driven them all and they all feel like big trucks. But looks more masculine like they're gonna monster truck over traffic (especially the H2).

RKA

not sure if a change in standard equipment offsets that price difference. But $8K is a substantial difference when looking at a $40K car.

Aidan's Daddy

So, is it better to buy hybrids next yr. due to some law change? I vaguely remember hybrid owners getting some kind of tax break, but don't know all the details. Like you mentioned, I guess it's $2K. But who knows how much these will cost in repairs down the road. I'm assuming it won't be cheap. But for these cars, even the RX330 won't be either.

S4iowa

high upfront cost and make it worth while. And either way maintenance will eat you if you go the many years path.

ESFO

You want the MDX. It is the one vehicle that without fail falls from your lips everytime you think about a new vehic. And you should keep your car. That's your baby. And once it's really, really, really fixed, it'll inspire those old, good sentiments again. Face it J, you're an Audi guy. )

Just my $0.02.... Oh, and I got your email. Car is going in for a few things tomorrow. I'll respond further when I get it back.

Sia Bani

So if the MDX is too small cuz he's a big guy, wtf is he doing in the feminine rx?