I am delighted to learn about the Connectline! I already use the streamer for the TV, it is wonderful. I will call my audiologist tomorrow and find out if my HMO sells them and how much --Amazon has one for $259 (but not prime).
And the dynamat and the autodecibal sites are great–though surprised at how loud the cars are in general.
Thanks!
Lexus owner here. If you can afford it go for the luxuries in your car/SUV. I had a Volvo 850 wagon before my Lexus RX330 and liked the Lexus so much better for comfort among other features. Since then have gone to the Lexus ES350- done with as much hauling and carrying now that son is done with college. The biggest change that I dislike in the newest RX is the analog instead of digital clock I have seen in showrooms. Gas mileage is better in a car and my model year and more recently the ES now uses regular instead of premium fuel. Tires do make a difference- H went with noisier tires on his older ES350 while I just got Michelins. I like the automatic windshield wipers- they sense the amount of rain and start/stop go slower/faster without needing adjustments. You need to test drive models that interest you- I did instead of just defaulting to the ES 350 H has.
Pay attention to the gps unit as well- love Lexus version while the screen I saw on an MB was gray and not as easy to follow. Of course you want that- didn’t have it on my RX and now so glad to have it when travelling.
Sedans are more comfortable than SUVs but you may prefer to be higher despite the mpg. Being able to spend less on regular gas is great. With only two people we find plenty of room between the back seat and trunk for two week’s worth of clothes, picnic, beach…gear.
btw- we often do oil changes at other places, plus Toyota has many parts such as key batteries at a cheaper price.
Consider reliability- we have had good luck (H kept his LS400 for too long as a third car, they upsized it to be too big, plus rear wheel drive).
About a year ago we bought a used Lexus RX 400 H (a hybrid) and love this car. I don’t think they make the 400 H any more but would highly recommend the current model – I think it’s the RX 450 H. There are a few of them within a block of us and every owner I’ve talked to is really happy with the car. It’s comfortable, smooth, and very quiet.
We’ve previously purchased new cars but this time went to a dealer that specializes in used high-end cars, with the goal of making you and your family customers for life. They stand behind the cars and their salespeople don’t work on commission. The price was non-negotiable but fair. A neighbor has been purchasing from them for years. I heartily endorse this business model!