I borrowed a friends Verizon V710 and synced it up to my M35's Bluetooth today, as I still haven't purchased a new, Bluetooth enabled phone. Very simple to do so. I was pretty disappointed in the sound clarity through the car audio system; also, a lot of static while I was in a stationary position with good phone reception.
I would appreciate the input of those out there that use their phone with the car--it would be helpful to know which carrier and phone you are using, and where. Thanks in advance for any input.
You're going to attach a bike rack to a 50K car? Hmmm....I guess I shouldn't have worried so much about taking mine to the the brushless, soft-cloth car wash in town here (I can already hear some of you gasping--but how else am I going to easily get the salt off the undercarriage?)
You should have opted for Infiniti's tow package and gotten a good hitch-mounted rack. Seriously, though, aren't you worried about scratches?
I haven't noticed the static on the V710. Granted, I have only used it for two days. As to the car speaker, yes, it is monaural--a big letdown after the 5.1 DVD audio--but I think it is pretty decent for a speakerphone. My daughter in the back had no problem with the sound quality. My wife (at the other end) had no problems making out what she was saying from the back seat.
(Before I get any responses, yes, I know there is no such thing as a tow package for the M).
I want to add a bike rack to my M45 Sport also and like you I will not put it on the roof. I have decided to install a 2" tow hitch so that I can use a hitch-mounted rack. That way I can remove the rack whenever I'm not using it. I haven't surveyed all of the available racks but as long as you have plenty of clearance between the rack and the back of the car, any standard rack should work just fine. I'm looking at the Yakima Fullswing 4 or maybe the Backswing 4. Thule would have comparable racks that should also work.
I would definitely recommend a 2" hitch over a 1.25" hitch. You'll have lots more options when you shop for racks.
I called the dealership yesterday and they quoted me $366 for the hitch, no electrical wiring (don't need it for a bike rack obviously), plus the cost of installation. Sounds a little high to me so I may try some place else, although the though of having an after-market guy work on my brand new car gives me some heartburn.
Some M devotees will probably hate the idea of adding a tow hitch to such a gorgeous car but hey, my Orbea Orca is a work of art too. The two of them together should be spectacular!
Doc--I am worried about that very thing and I've all but thrown in the towel on transporting my bike. I guess I'm holding out hope that there's some new rack out there that will minimize the possibility of scratching, etc. First time in years we haven't had an SUV in the household. My wife's Jag lease runs in one year and we'll probably get her into an RX330, but until then, I may be screwed. Still no regrets.
I guess that's my problem--I just don't want to blemish that gorgeous rear end by putting a big, old 2" tow receptacle on it. That's like throwing a pair of baggy Lee jeans on Sarah Jessica Parker.
If you're going to go through with your sinister plan, you might want to look into your local U-Haul store--they will put a hitch on for significantly less than the average dealer.
-- The literature on the M says that a full size spare reduces trunk space. I mentioned this to the dealer and he showed me a car with full size spare- same configuration under the trunk floor. He says (and it looks like he's right) that it does not decrease space. ---
I have personally seen both. There is a big difference in trunk space with the full size tire/wheel. They add about 4 to 6 inches of padding to the bottom of the trunk to raise the deck around the tire. I was going to purchase the full size space until I saw how much space was lost. Bought my M45 Sport a “dounut” spare.
Well. I own both cars, an M35 Sport and "04 TL. There is no comparison between the two even with the sizeable price differential. With over 6 weeks now of ownership of the Infiniti, it remains as tight as the proverbial drum, problem-free and luxurious. Even this early in the course of ownership of my Acura it had developed rattles and vibrations as well as my noting manufacturing defects.
1) Reduced the tire pressure to the recommended 33 psi COLD - the dealer delivered it to me with 37-38 psi even after I specifically requested that they check the tire pressure!! This resulted in a smoother and quieter ride - much less road noise. Last week I said the car was noisy, that was in comparison to the Lexus - probably the quietest car out there. The car is quieter than the wife's M-B even with overinflated tires.
2) Gas mileage for the second tank of gas fell to 17.9 mpg from the first tank's 20.1 mpg. About 50/50 city/highway driving - maybe I drove it a little harder this week. Not sure where the on-board computer numbers come from - it says 17.1 mpg. The distance to empty number is so fluid it's pretty useless.
3) The car is rock solid except for one annoying squeak. Probably would not have noticed the squeak if the car wasn't so solid in the first place. Sounds like the moonroof is flexing a little - not 100% sure what is causing the squeak but that's where it is coming from. Check out the roof headliner and rear window joint. There's a gap in there so any sound caused by the moonrof will travel between the headliner and the top of the car and come out by by the rear window. At first I thought the squeak was coming from the rear window.
4) Did not see one other M on the road this past week - still a rarity.
I have the full size spare and related trunk mat. It does reduce the trunk space by raising the floor level of the trunk by I'm guessing about 3-5 inches. If you put a full size spare in the compact compartment and use the same trunk mat, the mat will not lay flat - you will probably have a bump. That's why there is a different trunk mat for the full size spare. The full size spare also comes with a matching alloy wheel. Probably a wothwhile $200 option unless you really need the extra trunk space.
Thanks everyone for the great reply on this - very helpful! I test drove the M45 sport on a rough road tonight and it actually isnt bad in terms of how smooth. I drove my 01 TL immediately before and after and found the M to be smoother. It's certainly not a Lexus LS430 or GS - a bit stiff and moves you around a bit. Based on the replies here, and given that I want smooth ride, comfort, longer tire wear and better snow traction, I'm going with the Lux M.
What kind of deals have folks here gotten on the 45 in Chicagoland?
I've driven the M35 several times and the 45 twice now. I've researched the 330 and seen it on the lot for the first time a couple days ago but havent yet driven it. I have been holding off on the M wanting to test drive the 330. A few observations:
- The M35 or 45 is much larger inside and out. - Back seat leg room looked very tight in the 330. M is far better. - The M styling IMO is far better. I was very disappointed in the looks of the 330. The 330 is unique but in a non-descript, unexciting way to me. Couldnt tell if it looked like a hyundai, corrolla or simply a 330 that was disfigured. Matter of taste of course. - The reliability on all the BMW's has been sliding terribly - see Consumer reports. I would be wary of it, although the M is new and unproven. - The power, handling and performance of the 35 is great and I would think is on par to the 330. 0-60 on the M35 is around 6.2 and same for 330 in the BMW brochure. And you can get AWD w the M now whereas looks like will be later for the 330.
Based on my own priorities, its no contest, without having even driven the 330. Looks, reliability, size/comfort/space, creature features say M with performance a wash. Price appears to be a littel higher for the M35 though, but plus minus a few thousand but I havent done the side by side of the 35 and 330. 45 is a different animal - you gotta look at BMW 545 and I say M again.
I'm four weeks and about 1450 miles into my M45 Sport (tech/journey) - guess that makes me an early adapter. I couldn't be happier! The car is solid. I'm soooo happy I'm through the break-in period and I can finally push the M45's V8. The car is a kick in the pants. A co-worker asked what my favorite feature was and I said - without hesitation - "the ENGINE!" Don't get me wrong, the M35 test drive was great, but there's noting like a V8.
Some observations:
* A lot of folks are making a big deal about the fact that the car doors don't lock automatically. I'd give the car back if they did. Rather make that decision on my own. And 'no' it's NOT programmable -
* I don't like the fact that I have to acknowledge the Nav. Systems warning screen by pressing ok everytime I start the car. Probably the single most annoying 'feature.'
* I turned off the lane departure system the first day - haven't used it since.
* Some less than friendly features on the climate control system, the most annoying is that the AC turns on when you turn on the front window defroster, then stays on when you disable the defroster. This has to be an over site - can't imagine this would be done by design.
* Bose stereo actually works well if you take the time to adjust it (I leave the bass on neutral and the treble almost all the way up - Bose is really bass heavy). If you have the 5.1 surround, invest in some DVD-A's. The sound is incredible!
* Back-up camera works great. I have to remind myself to look over the shoulder for any approaching cross traffic. Also makes backing into a parking space a breeze.
* The key - the actual metal key that is - will open and close all the windows if you insert it in the lock and turn it either in the locked direction (closes windows) or unlocked direction (opens windows) and hold it there for a few seconds. Nice feature that the dealer neglected to tell me about (you can also use the remote unlock button to open all the windows but not to close them).
All in all I'm extremely satisfied. I've only seen two other M's on the road and one was before I bought mine. It's an absolute joy to drive. Putters around town well, but really moves out when you step on it. Sorry BMW lovers, but I'd take my M45 over any 5 series other than the M5.
Observations from other owners (what works - what doesn't) would be greatly appreciated.
My 1998 Lexus GS300 (7 yrs old) had self leveling HID headlights.
Apologies to Lexus and owners of their fine vehicles.
My intention was to show that many manufacturers followed by installing Xenons but few chose to do it the right way (self-leveling). My G35 Coupe is one of those offenders.
We bought an M45 Sport the night before last. It is being delivered to Houston from Alabama. It will have journey & the wood trim.
I previously owned a 1999 Q45T and had traded that in on a Q45T, so I've been driving v-8's for 8 years.
We went over there to drive/buy an M-35. I didn't like the way it drove at all. Seemed noisy and that it had to struggle or something to move quickly. Hard to describe.
Next, we drove the M-45 Sport. I loved that before we got out of the parking lot. It drove just like my Q. So, we decided to see if it was because of the sport or because of theV-8 that I liked it so much better. We next drove the M-35 Sport. I liked that SO much better than the M-35. It handled better but not as good as the M-45 sport.
Last, we drove the M-45 w/o the Sport. It was very nice, but not quite as good as the sport. So, ended up getting the sport.
All of this took hours. They showed us some of the features, and I had researched a lot of things. There are a lot of things they have not demoed. We get the car Sat. or Mon. What are the most important things to have them show? I can't imagine they will get to everything when they do the delivery.
I've never seen an M-35 or M-45 on the road here in Houston, but I see G-35 everywhere. I hope these cars really take off. My Q only had 45,000 miles on it, and I gave it away barely at trade-in value, so I am hoping to love this car.
North Houston Infiniti is giving away the Blackberry 7100t with every M purchase. Only 2 months ago, I bought a sidekick II, thinking I didn't need bluetooth. Of course, I had to take a contract. Anyone using a blackberry with this car?
Just a couple of responses to your list of issues, from an '04 TL owner (always good to know the bias of the poster!):
* I don't like the fact that I have to acknowledge the Nav. Systems warning screen by pressing ok everytime I start the car. Probably the single most annoying 'feature.'
I heartily agree, but I think it's that way in all nav systems (at least before-market systems). It also bothers me that even though my TL accepts voice commands, including the comman "OK" when accepting a route, for the initial warning screen, I need to manually press the button. I assume the M also doesn't accept a voice acceptance of the terms & conditions, but don't know for sure.
* Some less than friendly features on the climate control system, the most annoying is that the AC turns on when you turn on the front window defroster, then stays on when you disable the defroster. This has to be an over site - can't imagine this would be done by design.
That it doesn't turn off might be an oversight, but most good climate control systems put on the a/c with the front defrost - it just works better that way. Perhaps you're not turning the front defrost off in the same manner you turn it on? I bet if you used a voice command, like "climate control automatic," it'd work the way you want it.
Thanks for the post - the M is a great car, but it's still fun to complain about the minor details!!!
I also have noted a slight rattle which sounds like it's coming from the moonroof over the passenger seat. It sounds like something is loose as I hear it on rougher roads. Not terribly bothersome, but not expected.
Does anyone know if there is a way for both sideview mirrors to tilt down when backing up? I know you can make one or the other (or neither) tilt down. I normally set it for the passenger side (as I am pretty aware of what is next to my door). Just curious, not really needed. I believe that the degree of tilt is also customizable for each seat memory position.
Regarding seat memory. I was under the impression that each of the two fobs were distinct and could be set to one or the other memory setting. When my wife set her fob and memory, it worked fine. However, the next time I got in (with my fob), it went to position number 2. I had to manually (what a drag) reach down and actually push setting number 1. I went through the reset sequence later with my fob and now it automatically goes to number 1, but I haven't tried getting in with the other fob.
P.S. Okay, just tried it with the other fob and it went to position 1. Can the two fobs be set to different positions?
My experience with 2 other cars with programmable memory seats is that you need to do some combination like set the memory seat and within 3 seconds, hold the keyfob unlock button until it blinks twice - I don't have an M, so check your owner's manual for a listing such as "programming FOB"
the two fobs can be set to different settings, but I think you have to press the unlock button on the fob before/when you enter the car to change it from the default memory setting to the setting on the fob you are carrying. The default setting would be the setting of the last fob used.
I had the same type of rattle when I drove over rough roads. I found that the top of the rearview mirror was toughing the windshield at the top. When I adjusted the mirror down, the rattle stopped.
I am a sales manager at an Infiniti dealership. The sales personnel who are steering you to the M35 may be doing it because M35's are produced 3-1 over the M45. We have only 4 M45's in stock, but have 40 M35's -
As for profit margin, both cars have about a 9.5% mark-up over sticker - thus, the M45 would produce more gross profit, car for car, over the M35.
I agree, though, that the performance of the M45 is unsurpassed - the first time I drove it, I almost got whiplash from the throttle-to-the-floor onset. Remember, both cars are identical except for the engine. However, if you are sensitive to gas prices, premium is required in the 45 while you can use other grades in the 35.
So, in conclusion, the only reason I can think of for the sales personnel pushing the 35 over the 45 is availability, if they are in the same position as we are in inventory of 45's.
I would bet than Infiniti goofed a little on early production estimates. There were probably many people waiting for the 45 (unless, like me, they needed AWD). After the initial sales quiet down a little, I'm guessing the 3-1 ratio will be more appropriate.
Just finished 1000 miles of M35x( tech journey). Had to drive in the rain and I noticed that the windshield washers are very weak. Has any one else noticed this?. Not sure they will do much good at 75mph. Also I realized that there are no headlight washer as on my previous A6 or MB. Not often a problem but winter ski trips I will probably miss the headlight washers. Other than these two minor details love the car. Try Chicago DVD A the sound is awesome. Also got a chance to use laser cruise on a day trip to Atlantic City Once you get used to it the system works amazingly well. It adjusts the speed smoothly unless someone pulls out right in front of you than it definitely hits the brakes.
Reliability for the new TL has been curiously un-Acura like, with pretty average scores in CR. They dont have any '05 data for the TL yet, but it would make me a little nervous if I was a new RL owner.
My lease is up on my Lexus GS 300 and I'm getting ready to buy a car. I looked at the new redesigned GS but I dont like the Bluetooth they have in the car. I found out that you CANNOT have a private conversation at all in that car. Meaning, if the phone rings and you dont want others to hear the conversation, you dont have the option to pick up the handset and just speak through that.
I test drove the M35 yesterday and the salesperson there said you can pick up the phone with "their" Bluetooth and have a private conversation. Is this true?
Also, I was told by the salesperson that if the car is in park, you can watch a movie on the front navigation screen.... is this true? and if it is......is there any software to override that so your front passenger can watch a movie on long trips while the car is moving
This has already been discussed serveral times in this forum. If a passanger wants to watch a movie, have them sit in the back and get the movie screen. Movies in the front are not only dangerous, but illegal in several states.
Yes, you can do this. It's a very simple process -- a little turn of the dial, one tap on the button, and the call switches exclusively to the handset. I've done it and it's a no-brainer. I have a Motorola V551 if that makes any difference.
One caveat: Switching to the handset only seems to work once you have a connected call. As soon as the call is connected, then you can easily switch to the handset. I just haven't figured out how to use the handset without first placing or receiving a call through the car.
One thing that surprised me was the range of the Bluetooth. The other day I was standing about 30' from the car which, while not running, had the ignition on. I had the cell phone with me and tried to make a call but the Bluetooth from the car intercepted the call. So I either had to walk over to the car and make the call there, turn off the car, or turn off the Bluetooth at the handset.
I'm also a bit bummed that it doesn't have a rain sensor like my BMW. That feature worked great. Not enough to dampen my enthusiasm for the M, though. It really is awesome.
If you're going to go through with your sinister plan, you might want to look into your local U-Haul store--they will put a hitch on for significantly less than the average dealer.>
My sinister plan has been foiled, at least temporarily. I called the Infiniti dealership again and they said no tow hitch has been developed for the M45 (I don't know what the first guy was thinking or how he managed to quote a price for me). U-Haul does not have a hitch for the M45 yet. One guy wants me to drive the car to his shop across town to see if he has something that will work but that does not sound encouraging. I may wait until Infiniti produces something specifically designed for the M45.
You know, after I saw your post I looked at the rear cowling and I didn't see how a hitch could be mounted, since the cowling extends so far below the underbody compoents that you might fasten a hitch receiver to.
BTW--I took a look at your Orca online after I saw your first post. Awesome. My only question--was it more or less $$$ than your loaded M45?
You are obviously much more serious about your biking than I. That is one sweet looking road bike.
I took a look at some trunk racks online yesterday--I'm not seeing anything I'd trust on the back of my M35x. Looks like my bikes stay in the garage until my wife's lease is up.
I sat in a new 330 yesterday and while the car is very attractive, the interior is just a step down from the Infiniti. Very basic and utilitarian. Not plush. There is a little more room in the back seat than before but not like the M. Haven't driven the 330 yet. I've never owned a BMW and this is my first shot at my first "cool" car after decades of "sensible" cars. Man this is a tough choice.
Just got back from the dealer and got an M35x, tech-journey-Twilight Blue with wheat interior. They picked the last 3 out of 4 payments I had on my GS300 and they came down $93 per month on the monthly payments from the 1st time the salesman went to the business manager. I'll get the car in a few days- CAN'T WAIT
Would be interested in what a decent lease rate is for a M35x with journey-tech-and DVD Navigation. Currently being quoted $714 for a 36 month lease and that sounds too high compared to my current lease on a fully loaded Q45 at $740/mo for 39 months. Anyone who can lend a little guidance would be much appreciated!
Once again....in order to judge lease questions one needs to provide much more information than just the monthly quote. You need the following:
MSRP Agreed upon price Term Yearly mileage Money rate (or interest rate) - dealers hate to tell you this! Your local tax rate Are you putting a security deposit down
You only provided the term so I'll give you an answer using some educated guesses.
MSRP is $49,960, you are paying $48,000 and are only paying the Infiniti Financial Services base money rates - no dealer markup
1) 36 Months, 12K miles No Security Deposit 61% residual, 0.00188 money rate Monthly payment is $634.32 plus tax
2) 36 Months, 15K miles No Security Deposit 60% residual, 0.00188 money rate Monthly payment is $647.26 plus tax
3) 36 Months, 12K miles with a Security Deposit 61% residual, 0.00173 money rate Monthly payment is $622.55 plus tax
4) 36 Months, 15K miles with a Security Deposit 60% residual, 0.00173 money rate Monthly payment is $635.57 plus tax
Increasing the price paid for the car by $1,000 adds about $20 a month but again these are just WAGs.
johnrbrooks, I had the same dilemma after driving a Camry for 12 years and 182,000 miles and still kicking, I looked at an E320/E350, BMW, new Lexus GS, Acura RL, etc., and made a conclusion that for the money, the fun factor, styling, room, features, technology, on and on and on, the Infiniti beats all the others hands down. Just read all the accolades in the press, it's practially unanimous. I wish you well in your decision making, but I think if you're like many of us on this forum, you'll come to a logical conclusion as well.
I can't wait to take delivery of my M35x black/black w/ journey, tech, and MES - sometime in late June or early July.
I finally saw another M in Atlanta (the second one i've seen on the road so far) as I was driving back from lunch today. I was VERY envious to say the least! This one was a black/black M45-AWESOME. Not sure i would choose black/black here in Atlanta due to the heat but it really did look great!
Thanks drtravel..........That's the info I needed to judge where I stand with this leasing arrangement. The sticker price was $48,040, over 36 months with 12 k miles/year. Thanks for taking the time to rspond!
You know, after I saw your post I looked at the rear cowling and I didn't see how a hitch could be mounted, since the cowling extends so far below the underbody compoents that you might fasten a hitch receiver to.
I'm concerned about that too, which is why I have decided to wait to see if Infiniti will produce a hitch for the M45. The last thing I want is for some after-market hack to damage my new toy. I'm willing to pay extra for a hitch specifically designed for the car, assuming there ever is such a thing. Anybody know how I would find that out?
BTW--I took a look at your Orca online after I saw your first post. Awesome. My only question--was it more or less $$$ than your loaded M45? You are obviously much more serious about your biking than I. That is one sweet looking road bike.
At the risk of straying off-topic, I do love the Orca. It only has two wheels and no engine (other than me), but it may still be my favorite vehicle in the garage. It's a close call between it and the M45 Sport. As far as price, it was just slightly more expensive than the M45's technology package. Not cheap, but it's such a great ride. And it turns as many heads among cyclists as the M45 does among drivers.
Thanks to all who provided input. I spoke to the sales manager today and ordered my M35 tech/journey Blue/Black today! Should be here late June/early July.
I'm from Canton and have driven the M at that dealership. They''ve been calling me to let me know what they have in stock. I'll see whether they still want to deal. The salesman says they're selling them as soon as they get them so they may not be willing to come off of MSRP. If not, I'm in no hurry.
Sorry it took me awhile to respond. I was in the UK on business. Didn't see any new M's over there.
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I have removed several posts asking for the name of a dealership to be emailed to the poster. There's no reason for that; as I noted after the first couple of them, the name of the dealership may be posted here if the person who made reference to it wants to do so.
Let's keep the conversation online where everyone can benefit.
This is a strange one....I have noticed that after I turn the car off and it is cooling down sometimes I hear this clanging sound from underneath the car - I think it's the driver's side. Almost sounds like someone is hitting the muffler - it's a hollow twang. Usually I notice it after 3-5 minutes after shutting the car off - every once in awhile I hear the noise twice.
I'm speculating that something really hot is cooling and maybe two attached components are cooling at different rates and the sound is a result of stress between two attached parts contracting at different rates. Or maybe it's the catalytic converter or??? I've had the car for two weeks (about 700 miles) and am hopeful this will go away after the break-in period, but the sound is a little bothersome.
I put in my deposit for a 35x with Journey/tech package two days ago. I will pay $1500 for the first payment (including 1st month, bank fee, registration fee, document fee, tire fee), $659/month for a 39 month/ 12K lease. A few conclusions from my shopping experience: 1. It's hard to get certain options. I wanted the Journey and Nav option (without the full tech package) but that's hard to find. i wasn't sure I needed the hi-tech gizmos of the lane departure warning and intelligent cruise control in the tech package. (But since I'm leasing the additional money wasn't too bad ~$30 more each month) Ordering a car from the factory wasn't feasible with my 2002 acura tl lease ending soon. 2. some dealers aren't really willing/ able to cut their rates. I tried to work with 3 infiniti dealers. I got a better deal from one and the other ones couldn't or wouldn't match the winning dealer. Their strategy esp the one closest geographically to me was to play psychological games. They suggested the winning dealer was quoting prices that didn't include taxes. Obviously that wasn't true. They also suggested the winning dealer was going to pull a bait and switch. 3. Since I haven't gotten the car yet I can't vouch everything will go smoothly but certainly hope so. My dealer doesn't have the car yet but expects to get it soon by swapping with another dealer. 4. One of the losing dealers called me up a day after I put in my purchase and wanted to know the price I paid. They remained incredulous that my dealer could supply the car at those rates and suggested if they couldn't find the car in time, then the price could change since May's lease rates will be different than April's was. (if it is different, hopefully it will be in my favor!) 5. I assume since none of the other 2 dealers could match my dealer's price that means I did ok with the price. 6. The key to starting the negotiation is to get one dealer to give you some numbers. At least that gives you a starting point. But I don't think the tristate area is really conducive to bargaining. The M's are selling pretty well and the Infiniti dealers know it! 7. Colors: I ordered the platinum. The interior of the m35x: The Black interior is nice but is VERY dark when combined with the rosewood trim. I ordered the wheat interior. I know some people love the bourbon but I'm not a big fan.
Comments
I would appreciate the input of those out there that use their phone with the car--it would be helpful to know which carrier and phone you are using, and where. Thanks in advance for any input.
You should have opted for Infiniti's tow package and gotten a good hitch-mounted rack. Seriously, though, aren't you worried about scratches?
I haven't noticed the static on the V710. Granted, I have only used it for two days. As to the car speaker, yes, it is monaural--a big letdown after the 5.1 DVD audio--but I think it is pretty decent for a speakerphone. My daughter in the back had no problem with the sound quality. My wife (at the other end) had no problems making out what she was saying from the back seat.
(Before I get any responses, yes, I know there is no such thing as a tow package for the M).
I would definitely recommend a 2" hitch over a 1.25" hitch. You'll have lots more options when you shop for racks.
I called the dealership yesterday and they quoted me $366 for the hitch, no electrical wiring (don't need it for a bike rack obviously), plus the cost of installation. Sounds a little high to me so I may try some place else, although the though of having an after-market guy work on my brand new car gives me some heartburn.
Some M devotees will probably hate the idea of adding a tow hitch to such a gorgeous car but hey, my Orbea Orca is a work of art too. The two of them together should be spectacular!
My 1998 Lexus GS300 (7 yrs old) had self leveling HID headlights.
If you're going to go through with your sinister plan, you might want to look into your local U-Haul store--they will put a hitch on for significantly less than the average dealer.
I have personally seen both. There is a big difference in trunk space with the full size tire/wheel. They add about 4 to 6 inches of padding to the bottom of the trunk to raise the deck around the tire. I was going to purchase the full size space until I saw how much space was lost. Bought my M45 Sport a “dounut” spare.
2) Gas mileage for the second tank of gas fell to 17.9 mpg from the first tank's 20.1 mpg. About 50/50 city/highway driving - maybe I drove it a little harder this week. Not sure where the on-board computer numbers come from - it says 17.1 mpg. The distance to empty number is so fluid it's pretty useless.
3) The car is rock solid except for one annoying squeak. Probably would not have noticed the squeak if the car wasn't so solid in the first place. Sounds like the moonroof is flexing a little - not 100% sure what is causing the squeak but that's where it is coming from. Check out the roof headliner and rear window joint. There's a gap in there so any sound caused by the moonrof will travel between the headliner and the top of the car and come out by by the rear window. At first I thought the squeak was coming from the rear window.
4) Did not see one other M on the road this past week - still a rarity.
What kind of deals have folks here gotten on the 45 in Chicagoland?
- The M35 or 45 is much larger inside and out.
- Back seat leg room looked very tight in the 330. M is far better.
- The M styling IMO is far better. I was very disappointed in the looks of the 330. The 330 is unique but in a non-descript, unexciting way to me. Couldnt tell if it looked like a hyundai, corrolla or simply a 330 that was disfigured. Matter of taste of course.
- The reliability on all the BMW's has been sliding terribly - see Consumer reports. I would be wary of it, although the M is new and unproven.
- The power, handling and performance of the 35 is great and I would think is on par to the 330. 0-60 on the M35 is around 6.2 and same for 330 in the BMW brochure. And you can get AWD w the M now whereas looks like will be later for the 330.
Based on my own priorities, its no contest, without having even driven the 330. Looks, reliability, size/comfort/space, creature features say M with performance a wash. Price appears to be a littel higher for the M35 though, but plus minus a few thousand but I havent done the side by side of the 35 and 330. 45 is a different animal - you gotta look at BMW 545 and I say M again.
Some observations:
* A lot of folks are making a big deal about the fact that the car doors don't lock automatically. I'd give the car back if they did. Rather make that decision on my own. And 'no' it's NOT programmable -
* I don't like the fact that I have to acknowledge the Nav. Systems warning screen by pressing ok everytime I start the car. Probably the single most annoying 'feature.'
* I turned off the lane departure system the first day - haven't used it since.
* Some less than friendly features on the climate control system, the most annoying is that the AC turns on when you turn on the front window defroster, then stays on when you disable the defroster. This has to be an over site - can't imagine this would be done by design.
* Bose stereo actually works well if you take the time to adjust it (I leave the bass on neutral and the treble almost all the way up - Bose is really bass heavy). If you have the 5.1 surround, invest in some DVD-A's. The sound is incredible!
* Back-up camera works great. I have to remind myself to look over the shoulder for any approaching cross traffic. Also makes backing into a parking space a breeze.
* The key - the actual metal key that is - will open and close all the windows if you insert it in the lock and turn it either in the locked direction (closes windows) or unlocked direction (opens windows) and hold it there for a few seconds. Nice feature that the dealer neglected to tell me about (you can also use the remote unlock button to open all the windows but not to close them).
All in all I'm extremely satisfied. I've only seen two other M's on the road and one was before I bought mine. It's an absolute joy to drive. Putters around town well, but really moves out when you step on it. Sorry BMW lovers, but I'd take my M45 over any 5 series other than the M5.
Observations from other owners (what works - what doesn't) would be greatly appreciated.
Apologies to Lexus and owners of their fine vehicles.
My intention was to show that many manufacturers followed by installing Xenons but few chose to do it the right way (self-leveling). My G35 Coupe is one of those offenders.
I previously owned a 1999 Q45T and had traded that in on a Q45T, so I've been driving v-8's for 8 years.
We went over there to drive/buy an M-35. I didn't like the way it drove at all. Seemed noisy and that it had to struggle or something to move quickly. Hard to describe.
Next, we drove the M-45 Sport. I loved that before we got out of the parking lot. It drove just like my Q. So, we decided to see if it was because of the sport or because of theV-8 that I liked it so much better. We next drove the M-35 Sport. I liked that SO much better than the M-35. It handled better but not as good as the M-45 sport.
Last, we drove the M-45 w/o the Sport. It was very nice, but not quite as good as the sport. So, ended up getting the sport.
All of this took hours. They showed us some of the features, and I had researched a lot of things. There are a lot of things they have not demoed. We get the car Sat. or Mon. What are the most important things to have them show? I can't imagine they will get to everything when they do the delivery.
I've never seen an M-35 or M-45 on the road here in Houston, but I see G-35 everywhere. I hope these cars really take off. My Q only had 45,000 miles on it, and I gave it away barely at trade-in value, so I am hoping to love this car.
North Houston Infiniti is giving away the Blackberry 7100t with every M purchase. Only 2 months ago, I bought a sidekick II, thinking I didn't need bluetooth. Of course, I had to take a contract. Anyone using a blackberry with this car?
* I don't like the fact that I have to acknowledge the Nav. Systems warning screen by pressing ok everytime I start the car. Probably the single most annoying 'feature.'
I heartily agree, but I think it's that way in all nav systems (at least before-market systems). It also bothers me that even though my TL accepts voice commands, including the comman "OK" when accepting a route, for the initial warning screen, I need to manually press the button. I assume the M also doesn't accept a voice acceptance of the terms & conditions, but don't know for sure.
* Some less than friendly features on the climate control system, the most annoying is that the AC turns on when you turn on the front window defroster, then stays on when you disable the defroster. This has to be an over site - can't imagine this would be done by design.
That it doesn't turn off might be an oversight, but most good climate control systems put on the a/c with the front defrost - it just works better that way. Perhaps you're not turning the front defrost off in the same manner you turn it on? I bet if you used a voice command, like "climate control automatic," it'd work the way you want it.
Thanks for the post - the M is a great car, but it's still fun to complain about the minor details!!!
Does anyone know if there is a way for both sideview mirrors to tilt down when backing up? I know you can make one or the other (or neither) tilt down. I normally set it for the passenger side (as I am pretty aware of what is next to my door). Just curious, not really needed. I believe that the degree of tilt is also customizable for each seat memory position.
Regarding seat memory. I was under the impression that each of the two fobs were distinct and could be set to one or the other memory setting. When my wife set her fob and memory, it worked fine. However, the next time I got in (with my fob), it went to position number 2. I had to manually (what a drag) reach down and actually push setting number 1. I went through the reset sequence later with my fob and now it automatically goes to number 1, but I haven't tried getting in with the other fob.
P.S. Okay, just tried it with the other fob and it went to position 1. Can the two fobs be set to different positions?
As for profit margin, both cars have about a 9.5% mark-up over sticker - thus, the M45 would produce more gross profit, car for car, over the M35.
I agree, though, that the performance of the M45 is unsurpassed - the first time I drove it, I almost got whiplash from the throttle-to-the-floor onset. Remember, both cars are identical except for the engine. However, if you are sensitive to gas prices, premium is required in the 45 while you can use other grades in the 35.
So, in conclusion, the only reason I can think of for the sales personnel pushing the 35 over the 45 is availability, if they are in the same position as we are in inventory of 45's.
Good Luck - and GOOD CHOICE!
Other than these two minor details love the car. Try Chicago DVD A the sound is awesome. Also got a chance to use laser cruise on a day trip to Atlantic City
Once you get used to it the system works amazingly well. It adjusts the speed smoothly unless someone pulls out right in front of you than it definitely hits the brakes.
I test drove the M35 yesterday and the salesperson there said you can pick up the phone with "their" Bluetooth and have a private conversation. Is this true?
I just saw this on E-Bay last night-thanks for posting! May be a great deal for someone looking for a black/black M35 Sport!!
One caveat: Switching to the handset only seems to work once you have a connected call. As soon as the call is connected, then you can easily switch to the handset. I just haven't figured out how to use the handset without first placing or receiving a call through the car.
One thing that surprised me was the range of the Bluetooth. The other day I was standing about 30' from the car which, while not running, had the ignition on. I had the cell phone with me and tried to make a call but the Bluetooth from the car intercepted the call. So I either had to walk over to the car and make the call there, turn off the car, or turn off the Bluetooth at the handset.
My sinister plan has been foiled, at least temporarily. I called the Infiniti dealership again and they said no tow hitch has been developed for the M45 (I don't know what the first guy was thinking or how he managed to quote a price for me). U-Haul does not have a hitch for the M45 yet. One guy wants me to drive the car to his shop across town to see if he has something that will work but that does not sound encouraging. I may wait until Infiniti produces something specifically designed for the M45.
BTW--I took a look at your Orca online after I saw your first post. Awesome. My only question--was it more or less $$$ than your loaded M45?
You are obviously much more serious about your biking than I. That is one sweet looking road bike.
I took a look at some trunk racks online yesterday--I'm not seeing anything I'd trust on the back of my M35x. Looks like my bikes stay in the garage until my wife's lease is up.
MSRP
Agreed upon price
Term
Yearly mileage
Money rate (or interest rate) - dealers hate to tell you this!
Your local tax rate
Are you putting a security deposit down
You only provided the term so I'll give you an answer using some educated guesses.
MSRP is $49,960, you are paying $48,000 and are only paying the Infiniti Financial Services base money rates - no dealer markup
1) 36 Months, 12K miles No Security Deposit
61% residual, 0.00188 money rate
Monthly payment is $634.32 plus tax
2) 36 Months, 15K miles No Security Deposit
60% residual, 0.00188 money rate
Monthly payment is $647.26 plus tax
3) 36 Months, 12K miles with a Security Deposit
61% residual, 0.00173 money rate
Monthly payment is $622.55 plus tax
4) 36 Months, 15K miles with a Security Deposit
60% residual, 0.00173 money rate
Monthly payment is $635.57 plus tax
Increasing the price paid for the car by $1,000 adds about $20 a month but again these are just WAGs.
I can't wait to take delivery of my M35x black/black w/ journey, tech, and MES - sometime in late June or early July.
I'm concerned about that too, which is why I have decided to wait to see if Infiniti will produce a hitch for the M45. The last thing I want is for some after-market hack to damage my new toy. I'm willing to pay extra for a hitch specifically designed for the car, assuming there ever is such a thing. Anybody know how I would find that out?
BTW--I took a look at your Orca online after I saw your first post. Awesome. My only question--was it more or less $$$ than your loaded M45? You are obviously much more serious about your biking than I. That is one sweet looking road bike.
At the risk of straying off-topic, I do love the Orca. It only has two wheels and no engine (other than me), but it may still be my favorite vehicle in the garage. It's a close call between it and the M45 Sport. As far as price, it was just slightly more expensive than the M45's technology package. Not cheap, but it's such a great ride. And it turns as many heads among cyclists as the M45 does among drivers.
S
Sorry it took me awhile to respond. I was in the UK on business. Didn't see any new M's over there.
Part of being a part of a vibrant, online community is having the discussions online where everyone can benefit from the questions and answers. Therefore, we highly discourage "email me" posts as we like to have the discussions take place in our Forums and not in email. When questions are answered in email, everyone else in the discussion loses in the opportunity to learn and benefit from the exchange.
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I have removed several posts asking for the name of a dealership to be emailed to the poster. There's no reason for that; as I noted after the first couple of them, the name of the dealership may be posted here if the person who made reference to it wants to do so.
Let's keep the conversation online where everyone can benefit.
Thanks!
I'm speculating that something really hot is cooling and maybe two attached components are cooling at different rates and the sound is a result of stress between two attached parts contracting at different rates. Or maybe it's the catalytic converter or??? I've had the car for two weeks (about 700 miles) and am hopeful this will go away after the break-in period, but the sound is a little bothersome.
I will pay $1500 for the first payment (including 1st month, bank fee, registration fee, document fee, tire fee), $659/month for a 39 month/ 12K lease.
A few conclusions from my shopping experience:
1. It's hard to get certain options. I wanted the Journey and Nav option (without the full tech package) but that's hard to find. i wasn't sure I needed the hi-tech gizmos of the lane departure warning and intelligent cruise control in the tech package. (But since I'm leasing the additional money wasn't too bad ~$30 more each month) Ordering a car from the factory wasn't feasible with my 2002 acura tl lease ending soon.
2. some dealers aren't really willing/ able to cut their rates. I tried to work with 3 infiniti dealers. I got a better deal from one and the other ones couldn't or wouldn't match the winning dealer. Their strategy esp the one closest geographically to me was to play psychological games. They suggested the winning dealer was quoting prices that didn't include taxes. Obviously that wasn't true.
They also suggested the winning dealer was going to pull a bait and switch.
3. Since I haven't gotten the car yet I can't vouch everything will go smoothly but certainly hope so. My dealer doesn't have the car yet but expects to get it soon by swapping with another dealer.
4. One of the losing dealers called me up a day after I put in my purchase and wanted to know the price I paid. They remained incredulous that my dealer could supply the car at those rates and suggested if they couldn't find the car in time, then the price could change since May's lease rates will be different than April's was. (if it is different, hopefully it will be in my favor!)
5. I assume since none of the other 2 dealers could match my dealer's price that means I did ok with the price.
6. The key to starting the negotiation is to get one dealer to give you some numbers. At least that gives you a starting point. But I don't think the tristate area is really conducive to bargaining. The M's are selling pretty well and the Infiniti dealers know it!
7. Colors: I ordered the platinum. The interior of the m35x: The Black interior is nice but is VERY dark when combined with the rosewood trim. I ordered the wheat interior. I know some people love the bourbon but I'm not a big fan.