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Comments
There was no discussion on any of the goals --- either you did or you didn't.
For another take on the "culture" thing, international airline crash summaries make interesting reads, even if some of the conclusions may not really be supportable. (WSJ)
Funny comment about pharmacists, @jayrider. I've recently noticed "quota" signs behind the pharmacy counters in several chains, listing how many flu shots were administered daily (around here the pharmacist or the pharmacy tech often gives the shots).
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
I work in a service-oriented business that sends out surveys as well. The expectation we've set with our employees is that they are NOT to mention the survey at all, as we expect them to earn high marks based upon "wowing" the customer. Employees who deliberately ignore this and are caught selling the survey have been terminated on some occasions as the integrity of results is extremely important to us.
2024 Ram 1500 Longhorn, 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2019 Ford Mustang GT Premium, 2016 Kia Optima SX, 2000 Pontiac Trans Am WS6
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
I am not suggesting they are bad cars. I am suggesting the breathlessly favorable reviews need to be taken with a large grain of salt. You do get what you pay for.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
For another metric, check out consumer reviews. You can often throw out the very glowing ones and the sour grapes ones and get a pretty good idea of how a car is treating a typical owner.
The '14 Equus is ranked slightly higher than the '14 E Class here currently, but there's only 4 Equus reviews vs 18 for the E Class.
Consumer Ratings and Reviews
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Before making my final decision about staying with the Mercedes E 400 Sport Sedan, I decided to go over to the Infiniti Dealership and take a good look at the new Q70 L (long wheel base). I did some research first to determine what options were available, colors for exterior and interior.and the pricing.
I got to the dealership at 9:00 AM this morning and I parked in front of the dealership and walked in. A greeter welcomed me and introduced me to a salesman. We shook hands and he merely said, "...follow me please...", which I did. He took me into a lounge and offered me some coffee, a bagel and cream cheese and/or a fresh donut, and we sat down at a table while having our coffee (I passed on the bagel and donut). He asked me some basic questions such as how I like the Mercedes CLS 550, what was I planning to do with the car if I bought/leased another car, what type of vehicle I was interested in, and interestingly enough, what were the 3 or 4 most important features I wanted in a new car. As I told him the answer to that question, he was jotting down a few notes. When I finished, he reiterated the features that were most important to me to make sure he got them all. They were comfort, visibility, safety, outstanding technology and ride/handling/power. He had them all.
He then mentioned to me that when coming out of a CLS 550, his recommendation was the Q70 L with the 3.7 Liter V6. As we were finishing our coffee, he started to explain to me why he thought that was the best vehicle for me - pricing, available safety features, styling, comfort for a 6'2" guy and luxury.
We walked over to a new Q70 L 3.7 L vehicle and asked me to sit in the driver's seat to test out comfort. After a few adjustments of the power seats, I got into a very comfortable position. He sat down next to me in the passenger's seat and started going over some of the technology that was available in the Deluxe Touring Package and the Technology Package. Most of what he said sounded familiar as I am used to having those features. After going over the features and answering all my questions, he said he would be back in a minute and to feel free to walk around the car and look in the trunk.
About 5 minutes later, he led me outside to a medium gray Q70 L with what he called Java Premium Leather. I walked around the car and was quite impressed with body fit and quality. We got into the car and we switched seats after leaving the dealership. I drove the car and found it to be a magnificent automobile. MSRP was just over $61,000+ which was about what my car was worth in trade. The first thing I noticed was that it felt a bit sluggish at the lower rpm ranges. It did not seem to have the acceleration I was expecting in a 330 hp engine. It had a 7 speed automatic transmission which seemed quite smooth, but after kicking the accelerator half way to the floor, it was very hesitant before revving up and accelerating. I mentioned that to him and he suggested the V8 version, but I really did not want to go back into a V8 if I could avoid it due to diminished fuel economy. Let's face it, Infiniti had never really been known for its economical vehicles (except their hybrid).
We drove over to the highway and it seemed to accelerate better from 35 mph up to 65. It was the lower rpm torque that seemed a bit lacking. The car handled well, responded to my every input (except acceleration) and the brakes were very good. Cornering was outstanding. The car drove a bit harsh - very similar to the CLS's ride in terms of stiffness. That was something I noticed about Infiniti when I worked at a dealership - their cars are fairly stiff which is great for improved handling, but not so good on road trips that last an hour or longer.
We went back to the showroom and I shared with him that I found the V6 a bit too sluggish and the ride a bit too harsh - but that I had expected that due to the fact that I was very involved in the Infiniti line several years ago. I told him that the V8 was out of the question considering the fuel economy and that I did not need 420 hp in a car. But I did explain to him that my 1 hour with him was the best experience I had ever had in a non-Mercedes dealership - he was attentive, knowledgeable and asked all the right questions. He was not pushy or aggressive - he was perfect in every conceivable way - if I was still in the business, I would offer him a job immediately without any hesitation.
So, I guess I've driven just about everything out there in the price range and size that I feel would be appropriate. I had at first thought I should drive an Acura RLX, but I noticed they only come in FWD versions, at least that's what Edmunds stated.
I imagine I will have to wait another 5+ weeks for my E400 to arrive.
Thanks all for reading through all this - hopefully it was helpful - but I know it is skewed to my needs rather than yours - so just because I found one of the cars I drove inappropriate for me doesn't mean you should not consider one of those cars for yourself.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
The interior of the Q70 is lovely, especially in lighter colors with the "powdered silver" wood trim. I am less enamored of the exterior design but it is still a very impressive vehicle. It's surprising to read of the apparent lack of punch down low.
Good review.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
fantastic buying experience. Did legwork last night/this AM with the internet guy (I started contact through the Edmunds price request piece of the iphone AP, with worked great. price crazy good too!). So just had to go in this morning to pick out the model (was debating between a leftover 2014 Turbo and the new model). Salesguy showed up both, answered questions, no pressure. We decided on the 2015, and away we went with the process. Smooth, painless, and exactly what he had told me (actually, they lowered the price, figuring out a different way to slice/dice the incentives vs. Edmunds price). Needless to say, when the manager comes over to tell you there was an issue with the price and they want to charge you less, you don't complain).
finance and delivery were well done. Everyone there was laid back and friendly professionals. Also so darned young, I felt like a dinosaur. But I got the price that I can't believe they offered, and car is amazing so far.
happy with the way the day went, and anyone in Philly area that wants a Hyundai should look at Faulkner.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
http://www.acura.com/ModelLanding.aspx?model=RLX&modelyear=2014
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Mike -- did you check out the big Lexus ?
Sounds like a great experience. Lots of luck and many, many thousands of miles of driving happiness!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
No, I did not Jayrider. I drove a 2014 earler this year and was not as impressed as I was with the 2002-2007 when it was an LS430. The LS460 does not have that outstanding ride that Lexus was famous for 10 years ago. The LS460 rides and handles more like a GS does, just a larger version.
I don't think I am ready to go back to Lexus yet after that awful experience with the 2013 GS 350.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Pano roof, so is it white? That's the color I see most often.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I guess I perceived the pressure on him to make a sale on the spot.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
like you got a great car and a great deal.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Now don't forget to update your signature line.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
The only options that add value are Navigation and Leather Seats. In some instances, a factory high end audio system with Bluetooth can add value.
In some cases, a car without a moonroof, automatic transmission, etc., can mean a decrease in ACV at trade time.
This, if you put two 3 year old Mercedes Benz E350's side by side in the same identical condition and identical mileage, but one has a special lighting package, driver assistance package, and upgraded massage seats and ventilated seats, both cars would either wholesale for the same money or sell on a dealership's used car lot for the same money.
The thing to learn here is that after 3 years, a car loaded to the gills with all sorts of options brings no more at trade-in time than a basic car with a minimum of optional equipment.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Great write up of the Q70. It's always nice to hear your perspective on a car.
Did you test drive at the dealership where you used to work?
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
And don't forget my friend who has a Maserati. He had a Fiat 500 as a day to day car, but his wife made him trade it in because it failed the safety test (I know roadburner, but he has an excuse...OCD). He bought a 2013 Genesis and loved it for about a month. Liked that it had all the extras....but he got bored of it after a month, and got rid of it after 6 months. Took a beating on the depreciation too. Now he loves his Audo R4.
That's the kind of thing ab probably means too. Reviews are great, because writers like the content for the price...but, the driving experience is lacking.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
So so how is the mileage per gallon, driver? You know that in your settings menu you have mpg since reset and current mpg since start.
My guess is that you are getting 34-35 mpg.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Edmunds Q70
I liked what they said about the competition. Note, the E Class is the gold standard, and like I am finding out, the 5 Series is more athletic.
What Are Its Closest Competitors?
BMW 5 Series: Like the Mercedes, the BMW 5 Series has a solid reputation for luxury, though with a slightly more athletic interpretation. It also comes in a variety of engine choices, including a very efficient and powerful diesel. Nothing in this class can compete with the Q70 L's rear passenger space, but the BMW can accommodate 6-footers.
Lexus GS 350: As one of the most direct competitors to the Infiniti, the GS 350 does a better job of combining a refined ride with capable handling. Lexus also offers an abundance of high-tech features, though its interface can be clumsy at times.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Representing the gold standard in midsize luxury sedans for almost three decades, the E-Class is also about to receive a complete makeover for 2015. Traditionally, this model has leaned toward comfort, with some performance-minded variants in the mix. The current E-Class features hallmark traits like German solidity, innovative technology and best-in-class interiors, and the next model should build from there.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I am really enjoying the E400 the more I drive it. I am getting used to the lighter steering, but I really like the comfort and the way everything works. The best is having it in Sport and entering a highway....lots of power.
I have some mileage figures but they aren't as high as you are expecting. I found the bmw improved a lot after 10k miles. In Sport mode I got 28.7 mpg at 74 mph. In Economy I got 32.2 at 64 mph. I have no idea what thet graph shows that varies from about 8 mpg to 40. I think it used more gas when accelerating or going up hills, and less when coasting.
Imid, thanks for the police tip in Dayton. I-75 is fixed up around Dayton, speed limit is 55 but everyone is going 70. They seemed to be doing repairs about an hour North of you now. Nice to know I have friends on the way...if I need bail posted I'll know I just have to ask.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I feel good too that I actually used Edmunds price service, and saved money thanks to it. Only took seconds too, so very handy when you are sitting at a dealers, and want to get a quote for them to beat.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
but when you turn the car off, it switches over to a snapshot of your latest leg (I think since the car was last turned on) showing miles, elapsed time, and MPG for the leg. I have no clue what purpose it really serves, but kind of interesting to see what mileage you get in little chunks. I guess it could be handy if you are on a long trip and want to see how you do on different legs.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Driver, when you are in sport mode, you start in 1st gear and it holds gears longer thus you use more gas. In Economy mode, you start in 2nd gear and the car shifts rapidly into 7th gear, thus using less gasoline.
Sport mode is much less economical, however the car handles more stiffly and is more responsive to acceleration and deceleration. Also, if "START/STOP" is activated, you will also notice improved fuel economy.
For the 3 days I had the E400, my highway mileage at 65 mph was 35.5 mpg using instant setting on my settings menu. Dead average mpg was 22 mpg.
I am glad you are enjoying the Mercedes. What does your wife think of it?
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
I looked at a GTI S, but it will be pushing $28k with the Xenons and the mandatory(for me, anyway) Performance Pack-and even then It will be slower than my MS3, making it a lateral move at best.
As for BMWs, only the M235i, M3/4, M6 Gran Coupe and B6 Gran Coupe are even remotely interesting. No Audis, Cadillacs, or Mercedes are on my radar screen at all.
I balk at paying over $40k for a Mustang GT- especially when Ford states that HPDEs will void the warranty. I wish the BRZ/FR-S had better brakes and about 100 more horsepower, that might work. The NISMO 370Z? Just another "track focused" car with inadequate binders. The IMS issue makes me leery of a 911 or Cayman.
The more I drive the MS3, the Club Sport, and the 2002, the more I doubt I'll find something more interesting. I don't even enjoy driving my wife's 328i(yawn). Maybe I'll just wait until the right E24 M6 comes along...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive