The standard Hi Performance Lease program that has been out for two months was $399/month for 39 months, 12k mi/yr, almost loaded, with a $1,075 cap cost reduction (down payment), and $2,374 due at signing before Tax, Title, Registration. Since this is for $5,000 down payment and $299/month, the difference of ~$4,000 works out to ~$100/month, same lease deal with different numbers. Considering that you are paying it up front, it is a bit worse (for many people)...I guess those of us who have leased already don't have to feel so bad.
Lexus300, when you go in for battle/negotiations again, try to negotiate the capitalized cost, (see post - "Just got a quote from Lexus Dealer: Feedback pls." by arc300), then figure out the monthly depreciation and monthly financing amounts to arrive at your target monthly price. Good luck.
[ May 15, 2001: Message edited by: GSXR600 ]