Why do I want the Premium Package?

The one feature that I use constantly - literally every time I park - are the 360 cameras. But apparently those are not premium (are they on the 1958?) - they are the only thing I would miss on my car of the "fancy" stuff.

The Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM) was one of the two big reasons I got the LC trim instead of 1958. (The other big reason was simply the color options, I needed that classic two-tone blue or yellow!). It is not available on the 1958 trim.

I use it almost every time I park now. You get used to it so quickly. Whenever I park our Rav4 now, i'm just like "I'm flying blind here!"
 
Java interior was a major factor for me. I'm tired of black interiors. For me brown really shows off well in the brown/black trim.

I didn't intend to buy Underground, but it was available with Java so I went for it. I don't like Toyota more colorful exterior colors compared to the choices from Land Rover, Ford, Ineos and probably most manufacturers.
 
No easy answer, you have to pick what resonates the most for you and your needs.

Economic and Prestige Argument
The premium package is a great value especially when compared to the GX or other premium brands like the Land Rover. It will maintain the highest resale value and an equivalent configuration in a different brand would cost $25K+ more. Cumulatively having almost every feature Toyota makes, it is a showcase that impresses riders and observers.

Features and Comfort Argument
The premium package does add incremental safety (MTM, FCTA, LCA, entry lights), comfort (slightly better seats, JBL speakers, cool box, sunroof), and Technology (HUD, Digital rearview mirror, wireless charging). Although not essential, none of them are frivolous and have some benefit even if only used occasionally. They add to the enjoyment of the vehicle and keep interest over time as there is always something to play with.

Practical Argument
$4600 is still a lot to pay if you don't value or need the features. They are also just more things that can break and are expensive to fix or replace. Losing the SBD as part of the package diminishes the value. Even if resale is better, depreciation is worse because it is a smaller percentage off a bigger number. Same with insurance and registration.

Personally, I like and use all the features to some extent so it was a good choice for me.
 
I see many people stating resale value for the premium package. This is counter to everything I have ever read regarding resale value. That adding options and packages or higher model grades is mostly a total loss on resale. So at least historically, the 1958 and the LC with no options are likely to retain their resale value the best. Perhaps the FE and other special editions will hold their value the best.
 
No easy answer, you have to pick what resonates the most for you and your needs.

Economic and Prestige Argument
The premium package is a great value especially when compared to the GX or other premium brands like the Land Rover. It will maintain the highest resale value and an equivalent configuration in a different brand would cost $25K+ more. Cumulatively having almost every feature Toyota makes, it is a showcase that impresses riders and observers.

Features and Comfort Argument
The premium package does add incremental safety (MTM, FCTA, LCA, entry lights), comfort (slightly better seats, JBL speakers, cool box, sunroof), and Technology (HUD, Digital rearview mirror, wireless charging). Although not essential, none of them are frivolous and have some benefit even if only used occasionally. They add to the enjoyment of the vehicle and keep interest over time as there is always something to play with.

Practical Argument
$4600 is still a lot to pay if you don't value or need the features. They are also just more things that can break and are expensive to fix or replace. Losing the SBD as part of the package diminishes the value. Even if resale is better, depreciation is worse because it is a smaller percentage off a bigger number. Same with insurance and registration.

Personally, I like and use all the features to some extent so it was a good choice for me.

I see many people stating resale value for the premium package. This is counter to everything I have ever read regarding resale value. That adding options and packages or higher model grades is mostly a total loss on resale. So at least historically, the 1958 and the LC with no options are likely to retain their resale value the best. Perhaps the FE and other special editions will hold their value the best.
You topically get less than half of option msrps for resale . So you are correct. Barebone models have the highest resale relative to msrp
 
You topically get less than half of option msrps for resale . So you are correct. Barebone models have the highest resale relative to msrp
Can't disagree about getting a higher return on your investment, however at resale the desirability of a prem LC over a non-prem should result in a quicker sale, although not at the price point you invested in it. Same holds true with aftermarket additions,
 
I see many people stating resale value for the premium package. This is counter to everything I have ever read regarding resale value. That adding options and packages or higher model grades is mostly a total loss on resale. So at least historically, the 1958 and the LC with no options are likely to retain their resale value the best. Perhaps the FE and other special editions will hold their value the best.
I agree. But every version of the 250 is a luxury purchase. Not an investnemt. Not a necessary transportation expense.

If value is the primary buying criteria then a used Camry is the choice.
 
Personally, and that's what it comes down to, I love all the amenities of the Premium Package (except the mandatory cool box; this would be cool, if you could remove it). Memory seats are prime for me as I share with my wife and have the seats, mirrors and steering wheel adjust at the push of a button is key. And I'll never buy another vehicle that is without a sunroof in what's left of my time here on this planet. So great to be able to feel the sun on those sub-freezing days (winter survival tip #1).

As far as wheels, I was also not fond of the 20" but I found a used set of the 18" on FB Marketplace for what I thought was a pretty good deal at $500. I'm still in the market for the tires to go with them, but I'm resolving the 20" wheel issue by having another full set. Now, where to store them is another question entirely!
 
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