Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

driver100

explorerx4 said:

@driver100,
You sure change your story a lot. Blast every dealer within 100 miles, blast only some dealers within 100 miles, work with the current dealership.

Ya just gotta roll with it ex. -
It's all experimental.....but, Jip isn't playing around, he wants the car, just has to find the dealer who is willing to sell it to him.

benjaminh

@jipster : Because the Accord with the 1.5 and the CVT already gets really good mpg, you'll only save at most c. $300 a year on gas with the hybrid. The batteries should last at least ten years, but if you drive the car 15 years it's possible you'll have to pay $2000 or more for new batteries at some point, which would wipe out almost all of your gas savings. My suggestion is to maybe reconsider the EX 1.5 CVT given your price target. And if you don't need or want AndroidAuto/CarPlay the LX will save another few thousand. The base model of the Mazda 6 also doesn't seem to have AndroidAuto/CarPlay, but is available for a good price.

pensfan83

28firefighter said:

pensfan83 said:

@28firefighter @jmonroe I'm hearing and reading The O has closed. Hoping it's not true but it sure looks that way.

Temporarily or permanently?

Memories...

Probably won't know for sure until it's picked up by a news outlet but it sure looks like it's permanent.

graphicguy

oldfarmer50 said:

roadburner said:

jipster said:

The sales manager showed me the paper where they paid $28,something. Said they put.on the add ons to make money as everyone wants invoice. Said cost them $400 for the add ons (which was around $2,000 on msrp....I believe) Said he would take the all weather floor mats and some other things off to save me some money, but I didn't want to do that. He seemed like a straignt shooter. Nice guy. So I said I 'd think about.it
6% sales tax..Dont know about dmv

The Kia Store had a $4000 ADM sticker on their GTS- even though it was advertised at MSRP. Once I saw that I walked; I refuse to patronize a dealer that plays those games. Of course it didn't help that the salesman Mr. Man Bun thought an M2 was a Mercedes...

GG should sell copies of his purchase order to wave in the faces of people like that.

I’ll have to dig it out....if I can remember where I put it! LOL!

28firefighter

pensfan83 said:

28firefighter said:

pensfan83 said:

@28firefighter @jmonroe I'm hearing and reading The O has closed. Hoping it's not true but it sure looks that way.

Temporarily or permanently?

Memories...

Probably won't know for sure until it's picked up by a news outlet but it sure looks like it's permanent.

Ugh. We should go back when this is over and pour one out.

houdini1

benjaminh said:

@jipster : Because the Accord with the 1.5 and the CVT already gets really good mpg, you'll only save at most c. $300 a year on gas with the hybrid. The batteries should last at least ten years, but if you drive the car 15 years it's possible you'll have to pay $2000 or more for new batteries at some point, which would wipe out almost all of your gas savings. My suggestion is to maybe reconsider the EX 1.5 CVT given your price target. And if you don't need or want AndroidAuto/CarPlay the LX will save another few thousand. The base model of the Mazda 6 also doesn't seem to have AndroidAuto/CarPlay, but is available for a good price.

$22,800. for a new Accord LX is a darn good price.

abacomike

driver100 said:

Block is OK if your taxes are pretty straight forward, but, if there are complications then an accountant or at least a knowledgeable tax preparer might actually find more money than it costs.

Please press "Like"

I tried tapping on "LIKE" but my iPhone "Siri" said, "...are you sure you want to feed the appetite of an egotistical narcissist? He'll only get worse, Michael...!!!" So I hit the Like again and Siri said, "...do that again and you'll need to order a new iPhone...!" So I listened to Siri's threat earnestly!😜🤪

oldfarmer50

driver100 said:

28firefighter said:

What you have to lose is being blacklisted as a time waster at dealers that may actually have the car you want. It does happen. I’m not speaking from personal experience or anything.

I still think it is legitimate and fair. He has told his dealer what he is willing to pay. If he has given them his best price, has waited a reasonable time, then he is free to take his price elsewhere. I am saying to blast a few dealerships within 100 mile radius.......not all of them. Find a comparable model from their stock, see if a realistic low price works. He is being fair and he legitimately wants to buy....just at a price he wants to pay....doesn't want to do the dance and have to sit around eating a submarine sandwich. They can turn him down....but, if they really do have to sell a car this is a guy who wouldn't have bought a car from them anyway.
I don't think they are going to send his email to other dealers and warn them.
I think it is a special circumstance......he isn't desperate, he has a budget he doesn't want to go over, he is stretching his budget a bit....that is the most he really wants to pay.......why would a dealer that wants to move a car ignore him?

They might ignore him if they thought the deal was a loser.

I’ve revised my belief about dealer desperation a bit. True, there’s not much business these days but dealers may be taking the long view that when this is all over there will be a shortage of cars. They might not be willing to deplete their stock on skinny deals.

suydam

benjaminh said:

@jipster : Because the Accord with the 1.5 and the CVT already gets really good mpg, you'll only save at most c. $300 a year on gas with the hybrid. The batteries should last at least ten years, but if you drive the car 15 years it's possible you'll have to pay $2000 or more for new batteries at some point, which would wipe out almost all of your gas savings. My suggestion is to maybe reconsider the EX 1.5 CVT given your price target. And if you don't need or want AndroidAuto/CarPlay the LX will save another few thousand. The base model of the Mazda 6 also doesn't seem to have AndroidAuto/CarPlay, but is available for a good price.

He likes the hybrid. Battery replacement is not likely to be an issue, and the hybrids and plug-ins do drive differently than the regular gas models. Let him see what happens with the car he actually likes.

driver100

oldfarmer50 said:

driver100 said:

28firefighter said:

What you have to lose is being blacklisted as a time waster at dealers that may actually have the car you want. It does happen. I’m not speaking from personal experience or anything.

I still think it is legitimate and fair. He has told his dealer what he is willing to pay. If he has given them his best price, has waited a reasonable time, then he is free to take his price elsewhere. I am saying to blast a few dealerships within 100 mile radius.......not all of them. Find a comparable model from their stock, see if a realistic low price works. He is being fair and he legitimately wants to buy....just at a price he wants to pay....doesn't want to do the dance and have to sit around eating a submarine sandwich. They can turn him down....but, if they really do have to sell a car this is a guy who wouldn't have bought a car from them anyway.
I don't think they are going to send his email to other dealers and warn them.
I think it is a special circumstance......he isn't desperate, he has a budget he doesn't want to go over, he is stretching his budget a bit....that is the most he really wants to pay.......why would a dealer that wants to move a car ignore him?

They might ignore him if they thought the deal was a loser.

I’ve revised my belief about dealer desperation a bit. True, there’s not much business these days but dealers may be taking the long view that when this is all over there will be a shortage of cars. They might not be willing to deplete their stock on skinny deals.

That is an unknown. As someone said, they aren't building too many cars now...so any in stock might be precious. But, it could go either way...don't know if there will be a shortage (good possibility) or if they want to get rid of inventory.

driver100

abacomike said:

driver100 said:

Block is OK if your taxes are pretty straight forward, but, if there are complications then an accountant or at least a knowledgeable tax preparer might actually find more money than it costs.

Please press "Like"

I tried tapping on "LIKE" but my iPhone "Siri" said, "...are you sure you want to feed the appetite of an egotistical narcissist? He'll only get worse, Michael...!!!" So I hit the Like again and Siri said, "...do that again and you'll need to order a new iPhone...!" So I listened to Siri's threat earnestly!😜🤪

Yeh, I's probably have about 10000 likes by now but someone has hacked into the program

driver100

houdini1 said:

benjaminh said:

@jipster : Because the Accord with the 1.5 and the CVT already gets really good mpg, you'll only save at most c. $300 a year on gas with the hybrid. The batteries should last at least ten years, but if you drive the car 15 years it's possible you'll have to pay $2000 or more for new batteries at some point, which would wipe out almost all of your gas savings. My suggestion is to maybe reconsider the EX 1.5 CVT given your price target. And if you don't need or want AndroidAuto/CarPlay the LX will save another few thousand. The base model of the Mazda 6 also doesn't seem to have AndroidAuto/CarPlay, but is available for a good price.

$22,800. for a new Accord LX is a darn good price.

It is a good price....how did Jip get started on this hybrid thing. Sounds like he could get a really nice car and still be within budget.

oldfarmer50

Didn’t one of our posters have this same problem? I don’t recall how that turned out.

https://youtu.be/C9bx66Xj8ZQ

stickguy

the hybrid drives differently, and in Jips opinion, better. Some people here keep pushing the 2.0T. If there is some valid logic for spending extra for that upgrade powertrain, why not go for the cheaper Hybrid option?

I drove the Hybrid powertrain in the CRV and it was impressive, so I can see it being a winner in the Accord.

sda

I drove an Accord Hybrid Touring for a day as a rental as I was having the starter replaced. It was an impressive car. Very comfortable, good power, decently quiet, very balanced and likable car. Solid, quality build. I wouldn’t mind owning one.

driver100

Jip shouldn't have tried the hybrid....then he would never have known.

suydam

Always a good thing to find the vehicle you can really like and that stands out from the crowd for you!

stickguy

good thing he did. IMO the longer you plan to hold onto the car, the more important it is to get something nice that you will enjoy. for the ST lease crowd, you can get away with a strippo special for a low lease price. Since you won't have it that long anyway.

qbrozen

oldfarmer50 said:

Didn’t one of our posters have this same problem? I don’t recall how that turned out.

https://youtu.be/C9bx66Xj8ZQ

hey, a youtube car person I kind of like. Thanks!

jipster

Thanks for the comments everyone. I've read them all... and am now more confused than ever. LOL
But yes, there are both legitimate pro's and cons to every option I'm looking at.(Accord LX, EX, LX Hybrid, EX Hybrid, Mazda 6 Sport, Mazda 6 Touring).

I liked the hybrid because it was noticeable quicker and more powerful than the 1.5 liter. But, it has the battery issue and hybrid technology issue. The base model cars are very well loaded, in both the Mazda and Honda. . Can't say I'd be that interested in Android or Apple play...whatever they are, or moonroof. LOL. I do like the heated seats and power seats and a few other knick knacks from the higher trim level models. Can't say that are that important. The Mazda 6 does come with the full load of safety options at the base level, which is good. The Accord you have to move up from base to get.them all.

That said, Mrs. Jip and I went out and looked at the Mazda 6 Touring this morning, AND the Honda Accord LX AND the Accord EX Hybrid. Looking at the EX Hybrid again, after making an offer on it yesterday, was probably a tactical error, maybe, but I wanted to get my wife's opinion on the car.

Well, looking at the Mazda 6 Touring was probably a mistake, in terms of making a decision. I thought the Honda Accords interior was really beautiful, but the Mazda 6 was a full level or two above the Accords. Quality of materials and elegant design were tops. And I did like the leatherette seats that were in the Touring....which are absent in the base. We were able to test drive both cars within about an hour or each other. Which really helps in making a comparison.

We were able to take a solo extended test drive on the Mazda 6 this time...about an hour. It was a fun car to drive, but my wife kept telling me to slow down. :-(

The cons of the Mazda 6 Touring : it wasn't as spacious or comfortable as the Accord. The Touring model had 19" wheels, which I think make the car slower off the line. The Sport model I tested last week seemed quicker. The sales manager I spoke with said the bigger wheels make the car drive smoother. It did drive smoother, but may have been due to the fact I wasn't required to take a test drive again at 35mph. Bumps in the road were more pronounced with the bigger wheel, which has less tire. Pros and cons with bigger wheels I've read, but I'd prefer better comfort and starting power, over slightly better handling and stopping power.

Also, test drove the base level Accord LX in a very nice red with parchment(?) interior. I liked the darker grey/black interior with the red. The LX was nice. Not AS quiet or quick as the hybrid, naturally, but good. My wife liked the Accord better. She was falling asleep on the test drive. LOL.

So, thats where I stand. I won't be test driving another Accord. I know where I'm at with the Accord. I may take a peak at a Mazda 6 at Oxmoor Mazda. They have some red with black interior 6's. I'll have to jump thru some hoops to get a test drive, but may be worth it. Their inventory is much bigger, which should help in getting a better deal.

Michaell

jipster said:

Thanks for the comments everyone. I've read them all... and am now more confused than ever. LOL
But yes, there are both legitimate pro's and cons to every option I'm looking at.(Accord LX, EX, LX Hybrid, EX Hybrid, Mazda 6 Sport, Mazda 6 Touring).

I liked the hybrid because it was noticeable quicker and more powerful than the 1.5 liter. But, it has the battery issue and hybrid technology issue. The base model cars are very well loaded, in both the Mazda and Honda. . Can't say I'd be that interested in Android or Apple play...whatever they are, or moonroof. LOL. I do like the heated seats and power seats and a few other knick knacks from the higher trim level models. Can't say that are that important. The Mazda 6 does come with the full load of safety options at the base level, which is good. The Accord you have to move up from base to get.them all.

That said, Mrs. Jip and I went out and looked at the Mazda 6 Touring this morning, AND the Honda Accord LX and the Accord EX Hybrid. Looking at the EX Hybrid again, after making an offer on it yesterday, was probably a tactical mistake, maybe, but I wanted to get my wife's opinion on the car.

Well, looking at the Mazda 6 Touring was probably a mistake, in terms of making a decision. I thought the Honda Accords interior was really beautiful, but the Mazda 6 was a full level or two above the Accords. Quality of materials and elegant design were tops. And I did like the leatherette seats that were in the Touring....which are absent in the base. We were able to test drive both cars within about an hour or each other. Which really helps in making a comparison.

We were able to take a solo extended test drive on the Mazda 6 this time...about an hour. It was a fun car to drive, but my wife kept telling me to slow down. :-(

The cons of the Mazda 6 Touring : it wasn't as spacious or comfortable as the Accord. The Touring model had 19" wheels, which I think make the car slower off the line. The Sport model I tested last week seemed quicker. The sales manager I spoke with said the bigger wheels make the car drive smoother. It did drive smoother, but may have been due to the fact I wasn't required to take a test drive again at 35mph. Bumps in the road were more pronounced with the bigger wheel, which has less tire. Pros and cons with bigger wheels I've read, but I'd prefer better comfort and starting power, over slightly better handling and stopping power.

Also, test drove the base level Accord LX in a very nice red with parchment(?) interior. I liked the darker grey/black interior with the red. The LX was nice. Not AS quiet or quick as the hybrid, naturally, but good. My wife liked the Accord better. She was falling asleep on the test drive. LOL.

So, thats where I stand. I won't be test driving another Accord. I know where I'm at with the Accord. I may take a peak at a Mazda 6 at Oxmoor Mazda. They have some red with black interior 6's. I'll have to jump thru some hoops to get a test drive, but may be worth it.

Glad you are taking your time with this - multiple test drives can't be bad, as it helps reinforce the pros and cons of each model.

I've test driven both the Accord and Mazda 6 - I'll agree with you that the 6 is just better looking, inside and out. But, I too also found the 6 to be a bit more tightly suspended (read: jittery) on the ride, as compared to the Accord (full disclosure, the Accord I tested was the 1.5T Sport trim, which also had the 19" wheels on it).

I haven't tested the Hybrid, so I can't speak to it, but you have to ask yourself what the priorities really are. Doesn't seem like tech is a big deal, from what you've written. Is it MPG? The perception of power? (If so, the small turbo in the Accord will "feel" faster than the naturally aspirated engine in the 6). Comfort - front and rear?

If Mrs. Jip prefers the Accord, I'd likely lean in that direction. When I leased my Jetta, the Mrs. was not part of the decision process, and found the front passenger seat to be on the uncomfortable side, so she didn't ride in it all that much.

Regarding the negotiation - you've been doing research on what your target price is. You may want to craft a detailed email to any dealer you're willing to buy from, outlining all your numbers to get an OTD price, and give them the chance to accept your offer.

Anyway, thanks for the stories as the evaluation and buying process unfolds; as someone noted, we tend to live vicariously through others who are buying new cars for themselves or family members. Sounds like you are narrowing your choices down and you should pull the trigger soon.

jipster

@michaell Thanks for the comments... and you are welcome. I've always enjoyed the car buying process. I've always enjoyed reading other Edmunds members experiences from the sales frontline. It can be a bit stressful, but it is exciting to hunt to get the right car. So, happy to share.

I thought my first test drive of the Mazda 6 was certainly "jittery"...to the point it really put me off. The second test drive... not so much. So yes, probably a good idea to take one more look.

MPG really not that important. Anything over 30 highway is good enough. Looking at the Hybrid mainly for the extra power, and fun(er) to drive factor,.more than the extra mpg (which would be a nice plus).

Comfort front and rear...big advantage to the Accord. The Mazda 6 seats are certainly comfortable, and better looking, but the front cabin area a tad snug... something that was more noticeable after driving the more spacious Accord. Rear seat legroom, but advantage to the Accord.

Mrs.Jip certainly liked the Accord better. She was back and fourth on the Mazda 6..She says get the car I want, so I must obey! Nahh, I told her I wanted her to like the car too, which is important. I think she likes the 6, and puppy loves the Accord.

With the research, agree, but it can be a bit confusing. Each web site on pricing seems to have a different set of numbers on the sale price of new cars. I think splitting the difference on my Accord Hybrid offer, from yesterday, is a fair deal. Honda World has that "free" lifetime powertrain warranty.. Don't know if they lose money on that or make it. But a detailed email a good idea so they don't think I'm just blasting dealers across the country for the best price...even though I may. ;-)

benjaminh

jipster said:

....Can't say I'd be that interested in Android or Apple play...whatever they are....

AndroidAuto or Apple CarPlay are basically navigation that uses your phone combined with the screen in your car.

So if there's a place you haven't been to before you touch the microphone icon on the screen (top right below), and say, for instance, "Costco" and it will show you on a map the two Costco locations in Louisville. You press on the one you want, and it will navigate you there, showing you maps and arrows for when to turn, and giving audio directions for that as well. Also, if you're not sure from a particular place you might be what the best route to home might be, you press the button that says "Home" on the map, and it will direct you. Finally, if by chance, like me, you just like to drive around and explore places you don't yet know—streets, parts of town, parks, the countryside, and even different cities, you always know that it can help you find your way around, and then find your way home.

So that's what it is—maps and navigation.

There are other features too (such as it can play your audio book for you on a long drive, etc.), but that's the main thing imho. I think it's really useful. But if that's not something you're interested in having, perhaps better to save money and skip it.

Below is a photo showing an example of AndroidAuto with a map directing us somewhere in our CR-V.

(On my computer if you press "control" and "shift" it will let you open this photo in a new tab so that you can enlarge it and see the detail of what's on this screen for AndroidAuto.)

tommister2

jipster said:

Also, test drove the base level Accord LX in a very nice red with parchment(?) interior. I liked the darker grey/black interior with the red.

This is why Honda has lost my business several times over the years. We just don't like tan interiors and Honda tends to lock the best exterior colors with tan interiors. We decided to give it a chance years ago and just never came to terms with it. Honda generally has blah exterior colors, then they take the ones that do have a little character and pair then with tan only.

Having said that, our 2017 Civic is Aegean Blue Metallic paint and we really love it. Thank goodness Honda paired it with the grey interior! We've had 2 Civics, 3 Accords, 2 Pilots and 2 Odysseys, so we've still bought plenty of Honda products. I bet they lost 4 or 5 sales over the years because we just could not get a color combo we could live with.

Good luck in your quest!

jipster

benjaminh said:

jipster said:

....Can't say I'd be that interested in Android or Apple play...whatever they are....

AndroidAuto or Apple CarPlay are basically navigation that uses your phone combined with the screen in your car.

So if there's a place you haven't been to before you touch the microphone icon on the screen (top right below), and say, for instance, "Costco" and it will show you on a map the two Costco locations in Louisville. You press on the one you want, and it will navigate you there, showing you maps and arrows for when to turn, and giving audio directions for that as well. Also, if you're not sure from a particular place you might be what the best route to home might be, you press the button that says "Home" on the map, and it will direct you. Finally, if by chance, like me, you just like to drive around and explore places you don't yet know—streets, parts of town, parks, the countryside, and even different cities, you always know that it can help you find your way around, and then find your way home.

So that's what it is—maps and navigation.

There are other features too (such as it can play your audio book for you on a long drive, etc.), but that's the main thing imho. I think it's really useful. But if that's not something you're interested in having, perhaps better to save money and skip it.

Below is a photo showing an example of AndroidAuto with a map directing us somewhere in our CR-V.

(On my computer if you press "control" and "shift" it will let you open this photo in a new tab so that you can enlarge it and see the detail of what's on this screen for AndroidAuto.)

Thx. We asked the salesman if the car had Navigation, he didn't know. Which is odd.

Saw this certified Accord EX-L on web site. Former courtesy car.

https://www.louisvillehondaworld.com/used-Jefferson+County-2020-Honda-Accord+Sedan-EX+L+15T-1HGCV1F53LA006303

jipster

tommister2 said:

jipster said:

Also, test drove the base level Accord LX in a very nice red with parchment(?) interior. I liked the darker grey/black interior with the red.

This is why Honda has lost my business several times over the years. We just don't like tan interiors and Honda tends to lock the best exterior colors with tan interiors. We decided to give it a chance years ago and just never came to terms with it. Honda generally has blah exterior colors, then they take the ones that do have a little character and pair then with tan only.

Having said that, our 2017 Civic is Aegean Blue Metallic paint and we really love it. Thank goodness Honda paired it with the grey interior! We've had 2 Civics, 3 Accords, 2 Pilots and 2 Odysseys, so we've still bought plenty of Honda products. I bet they lost 4 or 5 sales over the years because we just could not get a color combo we could live with.

Good luck in your quest!

Thanks. Generally I usually prefer the tan interiors. But, the red goes with the black,.dark grey, interior much better. Honda U had 3 red Accords. All 3 had that tan/ivory interior. :-(

jmonroe1

jipster said:

My price is certainly low ball. But I've told salesman that's what I can do today

Yeah, but it's about "what you can do" the day you buy and I'm sure the salesman knows that.

jmonroe

ab348

Jip, good summary of where you are at the moment. I suspect that given how you tend to keep cars for a long time this won't make much difference, but the resale will be better and depreciation less on the Hondas than on the Mazdas. If you were looking for a bargain in fact, you might try to find a late-model certified Mazda 6, though that would be a fairly rare item I suspect given that the 6 has never sold nowhere near as well as other mid-sizers. I do agree with the opinion that Mrs. Jip needs to be totally on-side with the choice because even if she thinks it is just OK now, over time that could change and become an issue. Given this is a long-term thing for you, I would get the one you both really like best at whatever the best price you can find would be, and just do it.

qbrozen

Nice to see someone out there shopping

oldfarmer50

jipster said:

@michaell Thanks for the comments... and you are welcome. I've always enjoyed the car buying process. I've always enjoyed reading other Edmunds members experiences from the sales frontline. It can be a bit stressful, but it is exciting to hunt to get the right car. So, happy to share.

I thought my first test drive of the Mazda 6 was certainly "jittery"...to the point it really put me off. The second test drive... not so much. So yes, probably a good idea to take one more look.

MPG really not that important. Anything over 30 highway is good enough. Looking at the Hybrid mainly for the extra power, and fun(er) to drive factor,.more than the extra mpg (which would be a nice plus).

Comfort front and rear...big advantage to the Accord. The Mazda 6 seats are certainly comfortable, and better looking, but the front cabin area a tad snug... something that was more noticeable after driving the more spacious Accord. Rear seat legroom, but advantage to the Accord.

Mrs.Jip certainly liked the Accord better. She was back and fourth on the Mazda 6..She says get the car I want, so I must obey! Nahh, I told her I wanted her to like the car too, which is important. I think she likes the 6, and puppy loves the Accord.

With the research, agree, but it can be a bit confusing. Each web site on pricing seems to have a different set of numbers on the sale price of new cars. I think splitting the difference on my Accord Hybrid offer, from yesterday, is a fair deal. Honda World has that "free" lifetime powertrain warranty.. Don't know if they lose money on that or make it. But a detailed email a good idea so they don't think I'm just blasting dealers across the country for the best price...even though I may. ;-)

I very rarely communicate with dealers through email. I research the heck out of a car, find one I like on the dealer’s web site and go in for a sit down. I’ve given up on trying Jedi mind tricks and just give them an out the door offer. If they can meet it, fine, if not then we part as friends. The only time I’ll budge on my offer is if they can show me where I made a math mistake, like forgetting that my state taxes incentives. Otherwise it’s a simple yes or no.

If you current car is running fine then you don’t NEED a replacement. That gives you an advantage. Don’t let your salivating poster buddies rush you into anything.

And don’t fall for that “get what you want” trick. You’ll be hearing about it long after your new car goes to the crusher.😢

oldfarmer50

tommister2 said:

jipster said:

Also, test drove the base level Accord LX in a very nice red with parchment(?) interior. I liked the darker grey/black interior with the red.

This is why Honda has lost my business several times over the years. We just don't like tan interiors and Honda tends to lock the best exterior colors with tan interiors. We decided to give it a chance years ago and just never came to terms with it. Honda generally has blah exterior colors, then they take the ones that do have a little character and pair then with tan only.

Having said that, our 2017 Civic is Aegean Blue Metallic paint and we really love it. Thank goodness Honda paired it with the grey interior! We've had 2 Civics, 3 Accords, 2 Pilots and 2 Odysseys, so we've still bought plenty of Honda products. I bet they lost 4 or 5 sales over the years because we just could not get a color combo we could live with.

Good luck in your quest!

You’re certainly a contrarian on interiors as I and most people on here prefer any color over black. I usually like tan interiors since you can actually see the inside of the car.

Blue and grey sounds like a nice combination too. I’ve seen some Hondas with white over tan that seemed to work well also.

oldfarmer50

jipster said:

benjaminh said:

jipster said:

....Can't say I'd be that interested in Android or Apple play...whatever they are....

AndroidAuto or Apple CarPlay are basically navigation that uses your phone combined with the screen in your car.

So if there's a place you haven't been to before you touch the microphone icon on the screen (top right below), and say, for instance, "Costco" and it will show you on a map the two Costco locations in Louisville. You press on the one you want, and it will navigate you there, showing you maps and arrows for when to turn, and giving audio directions for that as well. Also, if you're not sure from a particular place you might be what the best route to home might be, you press the button that says "Home" on the map, and it will direct you. Finally, if by chance, like me, you just like to drive around and explore places you don't yet know—streets, parts of town, parks, the countryside, and even different cities, you always know that it can help you find your way around, and then find your way home.

So that's what it is—maps and navigation.

There are other features too (such as it can play your audio book for you on a long drive, etc.), but that's the main thing imho. I think it's really useful. But if that's not something you're interested in having, perhaps better to save money and skip it.

Below is a photo showing an example of AndroidAuto with a map directing us somewhere in our CR-V.

(On my computer if you press "control" and "shift" it will let you open this photo in a new tab so that you can enlarge it and see the detail of what's on this screen for AndroidAuto.)

Thx. We asked the salesman if the car had Navigation, he didn't know. Which is odd.

Saw this certified Accord EX-L on web site. Former courtesy car.

https://www.louisvillehondaworld.com/used-Jefferson+County-2020-Honda-Accord+Sedan-EX+L+15T-1HGCV1F53LA006303

Funny, that ad says ‘no haggle price’ but farther down it says ‘my asking price’ as if they were open to negotiation. I’d want at least 20% off on a “used” car so in this case another $1000. You could offer $25xxx as a buy it today offer and see what they say.

driver100

oldfarmer50 said:

jipster said:

@michaell Thanks for the comments... and you are welcome. I've always enjoyed the car buying process. I've always enjoyed reading other Edmunds members experiences from the sales frontline. It can be a bit stressful, but it is exciting to hunt to get the right car. So, happy to share.

I thought my first test drive of the Mazda 6 was certainly "jittery"...to the point it really put me off. The second test drive... not so much. So yes, probably a good idea to take one more look.

MPG really not that important. Anything over 30 highway is good enough. Looking at the Hybrid mainly for the extra power, and fun(er) to drive factor,.more than the extra mpg (which would be a nice plus).

Comfort front and rear...big advantage to the Accord. The Mazda 6 seats are certainly comfortable, and better looking, but the front cabin area a tad snug... something that was more noticeable after driving the more spacious Accord. Rear seat legroom, but advantage to the Accord.

Mrs.Jip certainly liked the Accord better. She was back and fourth on the Mazda 6..She says get the car I want, so I must obey! Nahh, I told her I wanted her to like the car too, which is important. I think she likes the 6, and puppy loves the Accord.

With the research, agree, but it can be a bit confusing. Each web site on pricing seems to have a different set of numbers on the sale price of new cars. I think splitting the difference on my Accord Hybrid offer, from yesterday, is a fair deal. Honda World has that "free" lifetime powertrain warranty.. Don't know if they lose money on that or make it. But a detailed email a good idea so they don't think I'm just blasting dealers across the country for the best price...even though I may. ;-)

I very rarely communicate with dealers through email. I research the heck out of a car, find one I like on the dealer’s web site and go in for a sit down. I’ve given up on trying Jedi mind tricks and just give them an out the door offer. If they can meet it, fine, if not then we part as friends. The only time I’ll budge on my offer is if they can show me where I made a math mistake, like forgetting that my state taxes incentives. Otherwise it’s a simple yes or no.
😢

I like the dealer to give me their price first. I might go in with a price in mind, and the dealer may have got a notice that morning to offer an additional 10% off......or some other deal. I have almost had that happen. I was looking at 2000 Jeep Cherokees, I saw an ad in the paper that looked really good. I took it in to my dealer and asked if he would match it...he said he could do better for me.
If you give them your price first you could be at a disadvantage.
Another thing is, a knowledgeable sales person may not accept your one and only offer....there is a factor in the sales world.....if he says yes to your price, you will think you may be able to come in lower - maybe you offered to much, hagglers remorse.
I say nothing wrong with a serious email, even give phone number. Say you prefer not to haggle, here is my offer, to show you are serious put $20 down and you will be in later today or first thing tomorrow.

roadburner

If I needed a big FWD sedan it would likely be a Mazda 6 Grand Touring.

sda

When I bought the Accord I did my initial leg work online. I stated the model and color I wanted, no extras, best OTD. Set up an appointment to finalize the deal, just needed to get a reasonable price for the trade in. When I go there they brought the only one in the color EX I wanted and it had $$ of add ones. Nope. Walked the lot with the salesman, who was great, and found the Accord I now have that had not been prepped yet. Made for a long day. Met at 1pm, left at 5pm. On the plus side, my Accord was a late model year build, 7/13, where the one they initially showed me was 11/12.

driver100

Jip....Good work on the buying process...even with us all looking on. Isn't the hybrid for a bit more much more car for the extra $1500 than the EX for $26k
Michaell....Great comments about your reviews with the two cars...must be very helpful. I see you also suggest an email, though there are some who doubt it will work. Generally, emails are probably not great as they are used by tire kickers, but if it is worded properly it could be taken as serious and easier to list what you want than try to do it with a phone call...it is all in black and white.
Benjamin.....Good solid information.

At random, I still like red with tan interior, but that black interior has some light gray which looks really good.
I think for the extra amount, the hybrid makes a better car.
One good thing about that lifetime warranty is......after a few years if the car has been reliable you don't have to follow the program and maintain the warranty...but, if you think you will have problems ahead, then you can follow their maintenance program and keep the warranty in force.

imidazol97

sda said:

When I go there they brought the only one in the color EX I wanted and it had $$ of add ones. Nope. Walked the lot with the salesman, who was great, and found the Accord I now have that had not been prepped yet.

Was the one you found the color you had wanted but with the options as you wanted them and they hadn't added it to their ready-to-show group yet or was it a different color?

oldfarmer50

driver100 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

jipster said:

@michaell Thanks for the comments... and you are welcome. I've always enjoyed the car buying process. I've always enjoyed reading other Edmunds members experiences from the sales frontline. It can be a bit stressful, but it is exciting to hunt to get the right car. So, happy to share.

I thought my first test drive of the Mazda 6 was certainly "jittery"...to the point it really put me off. The second test drive... not so much. So yes, probably a good idea to take one more look.

MPG really not that important. Anything over 30 highway is good enough. Looking at the Hybrid mainly for the extra power, and fun(er) to drive factor,.more than the extra mpg (which would be a nice plus).

Comfort front and rear...big advantage to the Accord. The Mazda 6 seats are certainly comfortable, and better looking, but the front cabin area a tad snug... something that was more noticeable after driving the more spacious Accord. Rear seat legroom, but advantage to the Accord.

Mrs.Jip certainly liked the Accord better. She was back and fourth on the Mazda 6..She says get the car I want, so I must obey! Nahh, I told her I wanted her to like the car too, which is important. I think she likes the 6, and puppy loves the Accord.

With the research, agree, but it can be a bit confusing. Each web site on pricing seems to have a different set of numbers on the sale price of new cars. I think splitting the difference on my Accord Hybrid offer, from yesterday, is a fair deal. Honda World has that "free" lifetime powertrain warranty.. Don't know if they lose money on that or make it. But a detailed email a good idea so they don't think I'm just blasting dealers across the country for the best price...even though I may. ;-)

I very rarely communicate with dealers through email. I research the heck out of a car, find one I like on the dealer’s web site and go in for a sit down. I’ve given up on trying Jedi mind tricks and just give them an out the door offer. If they can meet it, fine, if not then we part as friends. The only time I’ll budge on my offer is if they can show me where I made a math mistake, like forgetting that my state taxes incentives. Otherwise it’s a simple yes or no.
😢

I like the dealer to give me their price first. I might go in with a price in mind, and the dealer may have got a notice that morning to offer an additional 10% off......or some other deal. I have almost had that happen. I was looking at 2000 Jeep Cherokees, I saw an ad in the paper that looked really good. I took it in to my dealer and asked if he would match it...he said he could do better for me.
If you give them your price first you could be at a disadvantage.
Another thing is, a knowledgeable sales person may not accept your one and only offer....there is a factor in the sales world.....if he says yes to your price, you will think you may be able to come in lower - maybe you offered to much, hagglers remorse.
I say nothing wrong with a serious email, even give phone number. Say you prefer not to haggle, here is my offer, to show you are serious put $20 down and you will be in later today or first thing tomorrow.

I used to worry that if I tipped my hand I might miss out on that once in a lifetime deal but then I decided that all that extra anxiety wasn’t worth and extra hundred bucks. So now it’s one and done or out the door. I don’t buy super rare or exotic cars so there will always be another.

Besides, do you really think a salesman will give you his best offer first? He’ll high ball you to access you and then you’re negotiating from that high point down.

graphicguy

jipster said:

benjaminh said:

jipster said:

....Can't say I'd be that interested in Android or Apple play...whatever they are....

AndroidAuto or Apple CarPlay are basically navigation that uses your phone combined with the screen in your car.

So if there's a place you haven't been to before you touch the microphone icon on the screen (top right below), and say, for instance, "Costco" and it will show you on a map the two Costco locations in Louisville. You press on the one you want, and it will navigate you there, showing you maps and arrows for when to turn, and giving audio directions for that as well. Also, if you're not sure from a particular place you might be what the best route to home might be, you press the button that says "Home" on the map, and it will direct you. Finally, if by chance, like me, you just like to drive around and explore places you don't yet know—streets, parts of town, parks, the countryside, and even different cities, you always know that it can help you find your way around, and then find your way home.

So that's what it is—maps and navigation.

There are other features too (such as it can play your audio book for you on a long drive, etc.), but that's the main thing imho. I think it's really useful. But if that's not something you're interested in having, perhaps better to save money and skip it.

Below is a photo showing an example of AndroidAuto with a map directing us somewhere in our CR-V.

(On my computer if you press "control" and "shift" it will let you open this photo in a new tab so that you can enlarge it and see the detail of what's on this screen for AndroidAuto.)

Thx. We asked the salesman if the car had Navigation, he didn't know. Which is odd.

Saw this certified Accord EX-L on web site. Former courtesy car.

https://www.louisvillehondaworld.com/used-Jefferson+County-2020-Honda-Accord+Sedan-EX+L+15T-1HGCV1F53LA006303

That’s a bad sign...a sales person doesn’t know if their car has a major option like Navigation. That should be an easy question for him/her.

Like everyone else, I appreciate you taking us along on your journey. I must be an outlier. I LOVE Honda/Acura tan interiors....not as much as my red, but tan would be my 2nd choice.....and certainly over black.

Kinda surprised you’re backing off the Accord. It seemed you liked it more, especially the hybrid. I have a colleague that is on his 2nd Accord Hybrid. He swears he’ll never buy another car other than an Accord Hybrid. He trades his every 100,000 miles on the odo. Says they’re even more trouble free than the “regular” Accords.

At the auto show this past winter, the Mazda 6 did have a nice interior. I liked it. It was a bit tighter than the Accord, though.


Good luck, whatever you decide on.

graphicguy

Uh Oh, Infiniti....

https://youtu.be/XJs1W-qvyyk

jmonroe1

oldfarmer50 said:

jmonroe1 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

venture said:

oldfarmer50 said:

imidazol97 said:

I tried checking on my check from IRS now that the app is operating... it didn't know who I was. Bad sign?

I got the same thing. Said they couldn’t tell from the available information.

Just for the record - I checked early this morning and it said mine was deposited on 4/15/20 so it does work.

Still nothing for me. This is making me rethink my decision to be an off the grid hermit.

I don't know if it's true or not but I heard that people with the highest AGI will be getting their deposits after the poorer folks get there's. So, you must have been holding out on us as to your real wealth. For me it means I ain't cheatin enough. :@

jmonroe

Ha ha, if I made enough to have tax cheating be worth while, I wouldn’t care about any stinking checks.

Now you know why I don't care if or when I get it. But I can tell you this, if I don't get it I'll be cheating in the future waaay more than I have been. :@

jmonroe

imidazol97

Another Kroger visit. Cart I got from the group disinfected by the staff and ready-to-roll pushed hard due to resistance in front wheel bearing needing oil. At checkout the broccoli bar code wouldn't read. The lady in charge of that row was busy talking to another Kroger employee. Couldn't get attention. She didn't even notice I abandoned that checkout and moved to another one and entered my customer number and started over. I was the only person in the 6 register group.

Then I dropped a blister pack of cherry tomatoes. The smooth plastic didn't stick to my fingers. Do you know how far round tomatoes can spread between the 6 do it yourself checkouts? LOL

AT least that got her attention.

THEN at the end I had two coupons. She asked me to move back to avoid being too close to her--social distancing, you know. But when she was talking to the other employee and a third employee, they were well within social distancing spacing. Hmmmm.

Was this discrimination because I had gray hair? Or because I was male? I kept my irritation to myself at the time, for now at least.

Did I mention that one of the coupons required purchase of 2 packages of lettuce for the Kroger discount: I only had one. Most employees would have overridden the coupon and credited the purchase for whatever value it was.

sda

imidazol97 said:

sda said:

When I go there they brought the only one in the color EX I wanted and it had $$ of add ones. Nope. Walked the lot with the salesman, who was great, and found the Accord I now have that had not been prepped yet.

Was the one you found the color you had wanted but with the options as you wanted them and they hadn't added it to their ready-to-show group yet or was it a different color?

I had intended to have the Orchid Pearl White with ivory interior. As much as I like darker colors, I appreciate how lighter colors keep the car cooler and look decently clean even when they’re not. The Champagne Frost Pearl with ivory interior has been an easy color to live with and, surprisingly, I haven’t tired of. Washed yesterday 🙂

imidazol97

jmonroe1 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

jmonroe1 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

venture said:

oldfarmer50 said:

imidazol97 said:

I tried checking on my check from IRS now that the app is operating... it didn't know who I was. Bad sign?

I got the same thing. Said they couldn’t tell from the available information.

Just for the record - I checked early this morning and it said mine was deposited on 4/15/20 so it does work.

Still nothing for me. This is making me rethink my decision to be an off the grid hermit.

I don't know if it's true or not but I heard that people with the highest AGI will be getting their deposits after the poorer folks get there's. So, you must have been holding out on us as to your real wealth. For me it means I ain't cheatin enough. :@

jmonroe

Ha ha, if I made enough to have tax cheating be worth while, I wouldn’t care about any stinking checks.

Now you know why I don't care if or when I get it. But I can tell you this, if I don't get it I'll be cheating in the future waaay more than I have been. :@

jmonroe

The CPA I used in Cincinnati when I won the contest explained a lot of the techniques for maximizing deductions and adjustments at that time in the code. Worth his weight in gold.

stickguy

didn't car shop, but helping advise my sister. She was going out today to look. Not sure if the dealers in her area are open Sunday, but if not, she will walk the lot, see the colors, read some stickers, and get some exercise!

venture

Walmart. 97 cents.

stickguy

did stop at Sprouts and Lowe's. Got a new outdoor extension cord finally since the 3rd prong on the old beat up one pulled out. So got a nice 100' 14 gauge model. Not crowded at Sprouts, but quite a few people in Lowe's at 9:30 today.

browsed the washer/dryer aisle since my son will be buying a set in the next month for his new house. I really liked the nicer top load, HE, no agitator models. If we ever have to replace our front load Samsungs, definitely going that way.

qbrozen

venture said:

Walmart. 97 cents.

Unless you were buying just for the fashion, you threw away $1.

qbrozen

roadburner said:

If I needed a big FWD sedan

That should never be said by anyone.
A big FWD sedan is what you wind up with, not what you "need." ;b

carnaught

Speaking of masks, did anyone see pictures of how busy Jacksonville Beach was when it was reopened. Although sunbathing was not allowed, some photos showed crowds of unmasked individuals. Then there were similar crowds of yelling people marching in DC and Michigan protesting the closure of businesses and the “stay at home” mindset.

Although I understand their frustrations and concerns, I wonder if these will lead to more Covid19 cases - I fear, yes , but hope not.