Best Of

The manufacturer, Buffalo Trace, limits supply in order to hype the demand and keep prices high.

You have to plan 12 years ahead, so maybe yes, maybe less?

Maybe, maybe not. I noted a report this week that talked about how whisky inventories in warehouses are at alarmingly high levels because of dropping sales volumes and over-production, so who knows. I do know that BT is notorious for holding back product. It makes little sense. I know my US friends are often in search of a bottle of regular Buffalo Trace and can never seem to find it. Here, there are oceans of it on the shelves of the smallest liquor stores in the tiniest of towns in back corners of the province. There is never a shortage of it here. Go figure.

Went to the "unveiling" of the new 2025 BMW X3 at my local dealer, last night. New generation.

It's kind of chunky. According to the presentation, it's just 1" longer and 1" wider than the previous model. Like almost every other SUV, they seem to be making it boxier.

Some tidbits

Pano moonroof is tinted. No shade. Doesn't open.
Sport seats are now standard. Which is nice, but if you're short, they may bother you (re: my wife).
Both engines are now mild hybrids (like Audi). More HP than before, but I didn't get the numbers.
Both units on display had optional 20" tires. But, no longer runflats.

Very well equipped model (but with no leather) had MSRP just under $56K. For comparison, my wife's 2017 model, similarly equipped (leather, but no sport seats) had an MSRP of $54,400. That's not much of an increase over 8 years. Base models have a much bigger spread, mostly because standard content has increased.

I had the same invite from my dealer, actually surprised it came given how badly I skewered them on the last service survey I completed and the conversation the SM and I had. Guessing the invite came from corporate. I had scheduling conflicts so didn't get to attend, sounds like it was an unremarkable debut.

Really good drinks, small bites and desserts. We could have been previewing the new Chevy Cavalier and I would have been happy.

Today's Dennis O'Sullivan was a fun read:
QUESTION
A few weeks ago in your column, you spoke about trusting the dealership for repairs since the technicians are well trained. You also spout out nonsense that it is best to buy from a reputable dealership because they stand behind their vehicles. This email discounts all the hype that you put on dealership trust because I was promised two new tires when I purchased the car. When I took delivery, they did not have the tires so I was told to come back in a week and they would have them. During that week, I had to replace the alternator, which cost me just under four hundred dollars. This happened four days after I took possession of the car. It has been one month, and I am still waiting for the two tires. Is there a story here and are you ready to change your mind?

Larry from Simcoe

ANSWER
I wish that all my answers could be this easy. You were charged for the alternator because you specifically told the garage that you boosted your friend’s car and damaged the alternator. The dealer knowing this, gave you ten per cent off the part for goodwill. Your new tires are waiting for you right after you make good on the bounced cheque for the alternator. There is not a story here.