Yeah, that was one thing that always got me as part of GCF of whatever flavour. There was a certain exclusivity that made the vast majority of forum members have a predilection for German cars over others.

I for one would have welcomed a more inclusive forum name, but that's just me.

Anyhow, Mr. Mercedes, glad you've got an open mind and have really been impressed by the Lexus! I'm also of the opinion that they should be excellent cars, and yes, the Japanese and Toyota do really well on quality control. In the era of economic rationalism, there could well be some Toyotas that are more 'mortal' in their quality control.. but I'm confident they'd put their best feet forwards with the flagship brand.

German cars might be more desirable for driving involvement, but I'm not sure how many people would actually make the use of the difference between them. For many, IMHO it's mostly in the mind - that you buy something that reflects your preferences, regardless of what you actually use it for. At this level, the differences wouldn't be that earth shatteringly great.

One more thing, the Lexus does have lots of equipment. But IMO, if they were the market leaders, they'd do the same things as the Germans - charge massive premiums for 'extra' equipment. Whatever they can do to make money, they'd likely do. How is it possible that keyless go can cost $2000? That's ridiculous. For all the money they charge for the cars, I'd call that gouging. But they give you a discount on the purchase price and make their money back by selling you 'options'. Oh well. At the moment, the Germans are doing it, and I hope that Lexus challenges them enough that they will be forced to change their ways.

Plus, I'm still looking forward to your impressions of the IS, once it arrives