Yes, I do slightly miss the leather-wrapped steering wheel, although I'm not sure I'm willing to spend an hour and a half putting one on! But yours looks nice, and yes I'd be curious about the vendor. Thanks.
I found it on e-bay and the vendor is Wheelskins out of CA. I had intended on buying a White Orchid Pearl Accord and thought I had secured one via online with the dealer. When I went to pick it up, they had loaded it up with dealer accessories which I didn't want. Instead I searched their lot and found a car they hadn't touched yet, thus the Champagne Frost Pearl that I have. At first I wasn't that keen on the color, but have found it to be a good choice.
Thanks!
I love the champagne frost pearl color. That would be my first choice in terms of looks, but with the hot climate I live in wop seems like the coolest color.
My car was actually loaded up with dealer accessories too, but to my amazement they threw them all in for "free" when I said I didn't want them. I almost feel guilty about how good a deal I got, but the midsize car segment is really, really competitive right now. Deals are amazing on every midsize car as far as I can tell.
By the way, I just took my first highway trip in my new 2016 Accord, and managed to get 39 mpg with the AC on going c. 65-70. I'm familiar with this trip with my wife's 2013 Accord, and I think it would have gotten c. 1-3 mpg less. Honda changed the transmission software slightly for 2016 and added some aerodynamic improvements. They seem to have worked.
It took me awhile to figure out that we're talking about a Mustang Cobra; for the first several days I was thinking AC/Shelby Cobra. Either way, have fun with it!
@breld - wow! Ditched both the S4 and X5 for this?
Is there enough room in the Sedona and the JSW for everyone and their luggage?
Either way, congrats on the punch. I guess time will tell if the lack of a manual will put you back in the market for something fun. Say, a used Miata.
I've overnighted in Richfield a number of times on trips to SoCal from Denver. Makes for a long second day, however.
Talked with the wife again today, and we thought we'd try becoming a 1 car household after the lease on my Elantra GT is up. I'm not delivering any more, so my need for a car full-time pretty much goes away.
Daughter still has her MINI Countryman, and since both the wife and kid work at the same place, a majority of the time they commute together. One week in the MINI, the next week in the Outback.
Will take a bit more planning; on those days where I've got errands to run or need to go to the local office, they'll take the MINI and I'll drive the Outback.
Figure to save roughly $300/mo between the payment and insurance. When I need to get to/from the airport, I'll use Uber. Which I'm pretty sure I can expense.
And, should the logistics become unworkable, I can get back in the market pretty easily.
So, the cost at the moment will be the mileage charge (currently at 48,xxx, so $600 there, bound to increase), the bumper repair (another $600-1000, depending on the shop), and the termination fee of, I think, $400. Still, less than 3 more years of leasing.
However, with that said, the Subaru has been acting up. Took it to the dealer for a service yesterday - oil change, tire rotation and a recall fix on the electronic parking brake. Inpection shows the car to be in great shape - aligned correctly, 8/32 on all 4 tires, etc.
But, today whilst running errands, the one touch down on the front windows refuses to work. And, cannot use the power switch on the drivers door to roll down the front passenger window at all. So, another trip to the dealer is in order.
Having the MINI available on short notice should make the transition a bit easier. Our "ride" if we need to get somewhere and the car dies lives ~8 miles away. But she doesn't drive all that much and it wouldn't be a hassle for us to borrow her car for a day. In the last 32 years, I think we've shared one car for about 9 of those, including sharing the van the last two years.
Bummer about the Subbie problems - hope I'm not up going to be the fourth mod to have a CEL or something break in the last week or so. (you, @kyfdx and @PF_Flyer).
One car does get old after awhile. But for a time it will save $$. We're at 1 car for the same reason but I figure in a month or so we will want a second car again.
One car does get old after awhile. But for a time it will save $$. We're at 1 car for the same reason but I figure in a month or so we will want a second car again.
We've never tried to share a car for as long as we've been together. But, with the daughters MINI available to get them to work, we might be able to pull it off.
There are, on occasion, times where the wife and daughter need to be in different places. guess we will deal with those issues as they arise.
@michaell - Well, like you pointed out, it'll be easy to pick up a lease or a used car if you find you do need one. So, may as well try it out.
You probably noticed that red Jetta TDI sedan stick shift is gone now, huh?
I hadn't looked lately. But, not terribly surprised.
The nice thing about this plan is that I'll have some time to shop if I need to jump back in, and I won't be constrained to Hyundai.
Now that I'm working again, the home improvement projects are starting back up. First is to get the exterior of the house painted. Second is to get a quote for a custom home office - desks, bookshelves, filing cabinets and other storage. Will be nice to be organized again.
Have an interview in 45 minutes at a local dental place to be a driver of dental stuff. They turned me down back in 2013 so, we'll see. Use their vehicle, employee and not a i c, 2 to 4 days/week with 7 to 8 hours a day. It's $.05/hour less than Hertz pays but, it's about 5 miles down one road and won't need to pay any tolls. Just not sure so will go talk and see. Will be hard to leave Hertz to be honest but hate the commute! Who knows if they'll even offer it to me!!!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
I happened to be near a BMW dealer and Benz dealer, so I just took a cursory look at a used X1 and GLK350. The X1 looks to be way too small inside (particularly the back seat). I am definitely leaning toward the GLK. It is closer to X3 size but thousands of dollars less when comparing 2013 models.
The BMW dealer had something that REALLY caught my eye, though. A 2012 E63 AMG. Gorgeous blue color over tan interior. Fully loaded of course, with 36k miles. Sale price is $43k, which is a good deal. I was drooling over it, but I can't see my way clear to getting into another $40k+ car.
Have an interview in 45 minutes at a local dental place to be a driver of dental stuff. They turned me down back in 2013 so, we'll see. Use their vehicle, employee and not a i c, 2 to 4 days/week with 7 to 8 hours a day. It's $.05/hour less than Hertz pays but, it's about 5 miles down one road and won't need to pay any tolls. Just not sure so will go talk and see. Will be hard to leave Hertz to be honest but hate the commute! Who knows if they'll even offer it to me!!!
I happened to be near a BMW dealer and Benz dealer, so I just took a cursory look at a used X1 and GLK350. The X1 looks to be way too small inside (particularly the back seat). I am definitely leaning toward the GLK. It is closer to X3 size but thousands of dollars less when comparing 2013 models.
The BMW dealer had something that REALLY caught my eye, though. A 2012 E63 AMG. Gorgeous blue color over tan interior. Fully loaded of course, with 36k miles. Sale price is $43k, which is a good deal. I was drooling over it, but I can't see my way clear to getting into another $40k+ car.
I told my wife about it and she said, "hey, what's the point of working so hard if you can't buy what you want?"
Gotta love her, but I still just can't do it.
I've almost certainly said this before, but I've heard it said that no one lies on their deathbed and says, "I wish I'd spent more time at the office." The RB corollary to that is, No one lies on their deathbed and says, " I wish I had bought more anodyne appliances to drive instead of the entertaining cars I wound up with."
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I agree. But I think less can be spent and still be enjoyed, that's all. The AMG is a great temptation, but I'd regret it the minute I had to take it in for repair.
Found this interesting option. It is overpriced, but $32k wouldn't be too bad considering the CPO warranty stretches to Jan 2021. Still, however, the new Fusion Sport at $35k might be the smarter buy between the two.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
However, with that said, the Subaru has been acting up. Took it to the dealer for a service yesterday - oil change, tire rotation and a recall fix on the electronic parking brake. Inpection shows the car to be in great shape - aligned correctly, 8/32 on all 4 tires, etc.
But, today whilst running errands, the one touch down on the front windows refuses to work. And, cannot use the power switch on the drivers door to roll down the front passenger window at all. So, another trip to the dealer is in order.
I know this is terribly silly of me to even suggest, but.... double-check the window lockout button on the driver door to make sure it is not depressed. If the lockout is engaged, even the driver cannot operate the passenger windows (ridiculous, but true of all Subarus).
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
Good job @breld! Nice ride! Congrats! I knew once you had that SQ5 in your sights it was only a matter of time! I've still got one more day here in Disney & then it's off to Myrtle Beach, SC.
Bradd, you go on vacation and see what happens! Hope you and your family are having a great time.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
However, with that said, the Subaru has been acting up. Took it to the dealer for a service yesterday - oil change, tire rotation and a recall fix on the electronic parking brake. Inpection shows the car to be in great shape - aligned correctly, 8/32 on all 4 tires, etc.
But, today whilst running errands, the one touch down on the front windows refuses to work. And, cannot use the power switch on the drivers door to roll down the front passenger window at all. So, another trip to the dealer is in order.
I know this is terribly silly of me to even suggest, but.... double-check the window lockout button on the driver door to make sure it is not depressed. If the lockout is engaged, even the driver cannot operate the passenger windows (ridiculous, but true of all Subarus).
It's not silly, because I did check it.
And, that wouldn't prevent the 'auto down' feature from working on the drivers window.
I'll have to do more troubleshooting before I call the dealer.
1. AndroidAuto/AppleCarplay. Wow. The google maps navi on the dash works much better than the built-in navi on my 2008 or even on my wife's 2013. Communicating with it is a breeze: "Find Indian restaurant," "Displaying local Indian restaurants" along with their ratings, and one touch to direct you there or call them.
2. Remote start. Cools your car off in summer, or warms it up and defrosts it in winter while you're inside having your last cup of coffee and brushing your teeth.
3. 39 mpg on our first highway trip. Beat the EPA hwy estimate on the first tank.
4. Aluminum hood. Makes it easier to put in washer fluid, check the oil, etc.
5. LED daytime running lights, fog lights, and tail lights.
6. Next generation XM that let's you "rewind" and "fast forward," as well as combine stations on your presets (for instance you can combine 60s on 6 and 70s on 7 to get songs from both stations mixed together).
7. Cloth seats. Honestly I like these better than leather in our hot climate. They are cooler in hot weather and warmer in cold weather. Nice quality fabric on the EX. Sill have a power driver's seat with power lumbar support.
8. HD FM radio. Better reception and no static. Works great.
9. HondaLink. Kinda like GM's ONstar, except it's free. If, god forbid, your airbags deploy, it calls the closest emergency services automatically.
10. Honda Lanewatch. Color camera on the right side of your car helps you see what's back there, including if there's a bike approaching, etc.
11. Better handling than any Accord I've previously owned, and I've owned a 2002, a 2008, and my wife has a 2013.
12. Has all sorts of other stuff like moonroof, pushbutton start, dual zone climate control, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, sunglasses holder, built-in programmable garage door opener, multiview rear camera, etc. Plus Honda quality, reliability, and durability.
1. AndroidAuto/AppleCarplay. Wow. The google maps navi on the dash works much better than the built-in navi on my 2008 or even on my wife's 2013. Communicating with it is a breeze: "Find Indian restaurant," "Displaying local Indian restaurants" along with their ratings, and one touch to direct you there or call them.
2. Remote start. Cools your car off in summer, or warms it up and defrosts it in winter while you're inside having your last cup of coffee and brushing your teeth.
3. 39 mpg on our first highway trip. Beat the EPA hwy estimate on the first tank.
4. Aluminum hood. Makes it easier to put in washer fluid, check the oil, etc.
5. LED daytime running lights, fog lights, and tail lights.
6. Next generation XM that let's you "rewind" and "fast forward," as well as combine stations on your presets (for instance you can combine 60s on 6 and 70s on 7 to get songs from both stations mixed together).
7. Cloth seats. Honestly I like these better than leather in our hot climate. They are cooler in hot weather and warmer in cold weather. Nice quality fabric on the EX. Sill have a power driver's seat with power lumbar support.
8. HD FM radio. Better reception and no static. Works great.
9. HondaLink. Kinda like GM's ONstar, except it's free. If, god forbid, your airbags deploy, it calls the closest emergency services automatically.
10. Honda Lanewatch. Color camera on the right side of your car helps you see what's back there, including if there's a bike approaching, etc.
11. Better handling than any Accord I've previously owned, and I've owned a 2002, a 2008, and my wife has a 2013.
12. Has all sorts of other stuff like moonroof, pushbutton start, dual zone climate control, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, sunglasses holder, built-in programmable garage door opener, multiview rear camera, etc. Plus Honda quality, reliability, and durability.
I love a positive report! I have found that I really like and depend upon Lanewatch and the back up display. When I drive the Pilot I struggle to see the back up camera display that shows in the review mirror ( at least without reading glasses) and look to the center console when I signal right only to find the image from Lanewatch not there.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
I love a positive report! I have found that I really like and depend upon Lanewatch and the back up display. When I drive the Pilot I struggle to see the back up camera display that shows in the review mirror ( at least without reading glasses) and look to the center console when I signal right only to find the image from Lanewatch not there.
sda: I think you'd find that the 2016 EX is a significant upgrade on your 2013. You could still probably get a good trade-in value if you're interested. And Honda is right now offering 0.9% financing for 5 years.
I was able to trade in my 2008 Accord as a downpayment and still ended up with monthly payments of less than $300 even after TTL.
Congrats, breld! We're at 21 punches for the year.
My rental this week is a Lincoln MKZ 3.7 FWD. Stupid rental agency has enabled the Ford MyKey and it's limited to 80 MPH. Feels like it has a bent wheel, and there are several rattles coming from the cabin with only 30k on the odometer. The transmission sometimes shifts roughly. The stereo is good. Overall, I'm not impressed.
I agree. But I think less can be spent and still be enjoyed, that's all. The AMG is a great temptation, but I'd regret it the minute I had to take it in for repair.
Found this interesting option. It is overpriced, but $32k wouldn't be too bad considering the CPO warranty stretches to Jan 2021. Still, however, the new Fusion Sport at $35k might be the smarter buy between the two.
I'd take the SRT over the Fusion in a heartbeat; RWD, a great V8 engine, and performance oriented handling...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I agree. But I think less can be spent and still be enjoyed, that's all. The AMG is a great temptation, but I'd regret it the minute I had to take it in for repair.
Found this interesting option. It is overpriced, but $32k wouldn't be too bad considering the CPO warranty stretches to Jan 2021. Still, however, the new Fusion Sport at $35k might be the smarter buy between the two.
I'd take the SRT over the Fusion in a heartbeat; RWD, a great V8 engine, and performance oriented handling...
I'd have to drive both to make the decision on handling. I actually want AWD this time around, I think. And they will likely have very close acceleration numbers, so the v8 doesn't matter much. I think the Fusion is something like 600 lbs lighter, so it might very well take the handling crown of the two. So much test driving to be done.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I love a positive report! I have found that I really like and depend upon Lanewatch and the back up display. When I drive the Pilot I struggle to see the back up camera display that shows in the review mirror ( at least without reading glasses) and look to the center console when I signal right only to find the image from Lanewatch not there.
sda: I think you'd find that the 2016 EX is a significant upgrade on your 2013. You could still probably get a good trade-in value if you're interested. And Honda is right now offering 0.9% financing for 5 years.
I was able to trade in my 2008 Accord as a downpayment and still ended up with monthly payments of less than $300 even after TTL.
I like your idea but have promised that I will hold firm for the time being. Next year my daughter gets her license so I will need figure out if I get her a car, give her the Accord, replace the Pilot, or buy me something new. My wife loves her Pilot, but with it getting older, she may be ready for a different ride.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
Very nice vehicle but HEAVY and you feel it from closing the doors to acceleration to braking. Felt like a much larger vehicle and think the length is only about 173", give or take. Truthfully, felt like a barge and didn't have the tossability of the Golf. Bummer because I really really wanted to like this car so much so that I could've convinced the wife to let me get it. Coral seats were a nice color change, no sports package though so no great seats. Had the cold weather and convience packages, oil just changed and a new battery installed. Definitely has low mileage and they also CPO'd it, a good thing. Nice vehicle and all, but just the wrong one for me. A shame because I really did want to love it but just happen to like my Golf better, the length wasn't the problem either. Just felt like a barge is the only way to describe it. Such is life I guess.
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Back over to the Mini store either tomorrow or Thursday to test the 2/4 door mini Cooper and the Mini Clubman. Want to get a perspective on how they drive compared to my Golf. Not that I'm gonna switch out or anything but am intrigued with them. Have heard some not so good things about them especially with trim pieces falling off willy nilly and some reliability issues but want to see for myself. And with those, think one has to do brand new to et the whole experience. Certain vehicles aren't made to be pre-owned but that's just me. Also want to go back and drive a Tiguan because that's the one vehicle I think I'd trade into in a heart beat if I found the right color combo with super low miles. Honestly do like that ride height and absolutely love the Tiguan SE. A one year old model seems to be my sweet spot as I don't want one with more than 12K on the clock. And has to be an SE or even a SEL model. Nothing else really floats my boat yet except maybe the Infiniti Q50...sweet sweet engine in that puppy and find the seats very comfortable. And at work, I do not have my "Relax The Back" cushion to sit on, and I really need it in every one I drive. Just softens and cushions my lower spine area where I have a lot of damage.
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
At this juncture, have decided to pass on the dental driving gig and stay with Hertz. It's the best fit for me right now and the wife and family all agree. To be honest, I'm just trying to push myself too hard by taking on too much and when that happens, my body gives out from the pain and exhaustion and am in bed for a week or two. Working 6 or so days is greatfor the income it brings but the physical anguish is just too much as history has shown. Once I get in that "work zone", I tend to let the needs of my places of employment take over and my physical needs hit a brick wall a week or two in. Physically, and mentally I just can not taken on more than I can chew. Hertz has me coming in 3 full days now, usually doing 9.5 hours each day. And if they are really in need, I'm asked to work either a full or half day. My boss even said it in our meeting yesterday, "you show up" he said and he's right, I come to work when scheduled. There are 3 of us who do this while the others just don't. Feel it's best to stay and work M/T/F and call it a day. If I feel better once season starts again, can always call the West Palm company and get a shift or two each week. So the decision has been made...I stay at Hertz!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
The better question is what is the penalty if you take a car out with a curbed rim and don't notice it? Probably the same answer. Nothing if they don't notice.
2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
Maybe not a barge, but it drove "heavy" and felt without the 6 under the hood, it wouldn't go nowhere. On the way home, was a real pleasure to hit the gas and just go! It felt so light and even though there's that nano second of turbo lag, just felt quicker and lighter. Don't know how else to explain it. Will hit the Mini store tomorrow I think and see how they feel. Then the Honda place and try the HR-V. Just for my peace of mind. But was a pleasure to get in the Golf and drive it home last night...a real pleasure!! Maybe a BMW is not for everyone!!!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Maybe not a barge, but it drove "heavy" and felt without the 6 under the hood, it wouldn't go nowhere. On the way home, was a real pleasure to hit the gas and just go! It felt so light and even though there's that nano second of turbo lag, just felt quicker and lighter. Don't know how else to explain it. Will hit the Mini store tomorrow I think and see how they feel. Then the Honda place and try the HR-V. Just for my peace of mind. But was a pleasure to get in the Golf and drive it home last night...a real pleasure!! Maybe a BMW is not for everyone!!!
The Sandman
Hold it.
The 1-series has a 6-cylinder engine - normally aspirated for the 128i (230 HP) or turbocharged (twin-turbo?) for the 135i (300 HP).
But, power to weight has a lot to do with how a car feels.
Sat in my daughters friends GTI yo say. Gorgeous dark blue. Base model so plaid seats. Was smart turned down offer to drive. Poor thing was filthy though.
But dang, those seats, just too confining in the bolsters.
Sat in my daughters friends GTI yo say. Gorgeous dark blue. Base model so plaid seats. Was smart turned down offer to drive. Poor thing was filthy though.
But dang, those seats, just too confining in the bolsters.
I actually did a trial fit in this 2013 Golf TDI, before I purchased the Passat TDI.
At least you're keeping a sense of humor about it, @kyfdx? If it's something significant, I'd reach back out to the selling dealer.
97K mile car.. not sure that would help, any. If it were title or odometer issues, that might be one thing, but you sign all those papers acknowledging it has no warranty and that you are turning down all sorts of maintenance warranty plans.
I might pay the $150 to get it diagnosed, then see where I am. That's life when buying out of warranty used cars.
Yeah I know. I've had some success in the past as a gesture of good will. I mean 24 hours is a little crazy and I'd hate to think it had it while in stock and they just cleared the code...
Vegas puts the odds at 99:1 that resetting the code is exactly what they dd; without addressing the known problem.
'18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
There's something wrong with the world when a BMW 1-series feels like a barge.
Hey, you save money this way, Sandy; ya can't complain about that!
Funny. I would say that is one of my main complaints with the M235's I test drove. Although lighter than the S4, not enough so for my tastes. Drove and felt a lot like the S4; which is a great thing. I was just looking for something lighter afoot. Also the head room was pretty bad with the way dealer's order 99.9% of them with moon-roofs.
'18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
Well.. I test drove the car on Wednesday about 10 miles and bought it, then picked it up on Saturday and drove it home (113 miles). It had been on their lot for four months. No code until I started it back up, after the drive home.
The local VW/Audi specialist said it was an intermittent fault that had finally happened enough that it triggered the CEL (probably). They found a loose intake pipe that was the likely culprit. All diagnosed and (maybe) fixed for $111. They gave the car the once over, and pronounced it in good shape for it's age/mileage.
They were concerned about whether it had recommended service at the proper intervals, but it looks like it was in every 10K miles, and all Audi dealer service (very extensive service records on the CARFAX).
I'm pretty sure I'm in violation of the terms of CCBA, I have Ford x-plan and still no desire to buy anything new.
We talked about what to do with the 2012 Focus if the looming medical retirement happens. I figured sell it since he won't need it anymore really. That didn't go over well so I guess that car will leave Alaska with us. Same with the other 3......I stopped being a chronic car buyer and turned in to a chronic car hoarder.......is there a group for that?
Comments
I love the champagne frost pearl color. That would be my first choice in terms of looks, but with the hot climate I live in wop seems like the coolest color.
My car was actually loaded up with dealer accessories too, but to my amazement they threw them all in for "free" when I said I didn't want them. I almost feel guilty about how good a deal I got, but the midsize car segment is really, really competitive right now. Deals are amazing on every midsize car as far as I can tell.
By the way, I just took my first highway trip in my new 2016 Accord, and managed to get 39 mpg with the AC on going c. 65-70. I'm familiar with this trip with my wife's 2013 Accord, and I think it would have gotten c. 1-3 mpg less. Honda changed the transmission software slightly for 2016 and added some aerodynamic improvements. They seem to have worked.
Is there enough room in the Sedona and the JSW for everyone and their luggage?
Either way, congrats on the punch. I guess time will tell if the lack of a manual will put you back in the market for something fun. Say, a used Miata.
I've overnighted in Richfield a number of times on trips to SoCal from Denver. Makes for a long second day, however.
Anyway, @breld is taking my punches for the year.
Talked with the wife again today, and we thought we'd try becoming a 1 car household after the lease on my Elantra GT is up. I'm not delivering any more, so my need for a car full-time pretty much goes away.
Daughter still has her MINI Countryman, and since both the wife and kid work at the same place, a majority of the time they commute together. One week in the MINI, the next week in the Outback.
Will take a bit more planning; on those days where I've got errands to run or need to go to the local office, they'll take the MINI and I'll drive the Outback.
Figure to save roughly $300/mo between the payment and insurance. When I need to get to/from the airport, I'll use Uber. Which I'm pretty sure I can expense.
And, should the logistics become unworkable, I can get back in the market pretty easily.
So, the cost at the moment will be the mileage charge (currently at 48,xxx, so $600 there, bound to increase), the bumper repair (another $600-1000, depending on the shop), and the termination fee of, I think, $400. Still, less than 3 more years of leasing.
However, with that said, the Subaru has been acting up. Took it to the dealer for a service yesterday - oil change, tire rotation and a recall fix on the electronic parking brake. Inpection shows the car to be in great shape - aligned correctly, 8/32 on all 4 tires, etc.
But, today whilst running errands, the one touch down on the front windows refuses to work. And, cannot use the power switch on the drivers door to roll down the front passenger window at all. So, another trip to the dealer is in order.
Edmunds Price Checker
Edmunds Lease Calculator
Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and let us know! Post a pic of your new purchase or lease!
MODERATOR
2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
Bummer about the Subbie problems - hope I'm not up going to be the fourth mod to have a CEL or something break in the last week or so. (you, @kyfdx and @PF_Flyer).
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
There are, on occasion, times where the wife and daughter need to be in different places. guess we will deal with those issues as they arise.
Edmunds Price Checker
Edmunds Lease Calculator
Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and let us know! Post a pic of your new purchase or lease!
MODERATOR
2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
You probably noticed that red Jetta TDI sedan stick shift is gone now, huh?
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
The nice thing about this plan is that I'll have some time to shop if I need to jump back in, and I won't be constrained to Hyundai.
Now that I'm working again, the home improvement projects are starting back up. First is to get the exterior of the house painted. Second is to get a quote for a custom home office - desks, bookshelves, filing cabinets and other storage. Will be nice to be organized again.
Edmunds Price Checker
Edmunds Lease Calculator
Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and let us know! Post a pic of your new purchase or lease!
MODERATOR
2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
Gotta love her, but I still just can't do it.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Found this interesting option. It is overpriced, but $32k wouldn't be too bad considering the CPO warranty stretches to Jan 2021. Still, however, the new Fusion Sport at $35k might be the smarter buy between the two.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
And, that wouldn't prevent the 'auto down' feature from working on the drivers window.
I'll have to do more troubleshooting before I call the dealer.
Edmunds Price Checker
Edmunds Lease Calculator
Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and let us know! Post a pic of your new purchase or lease!
MODERATOR
2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
1. AndroidAuto/AppleCarplay. Wow. The google maps navi on the dash works much better than the built-in navi on my 2008 or even on my wife's 2013. Communicating with it is a breeze: "Find Indian restaurant," "Displaying local Indian restaurants" along with their ratings, and one touch to direct you there or call them.
2. Remote start. Cools your car off in summer, or warms it up and defrosts it in winter while you're inside having your last cup of coffee and brushing your teeth.
3. 39 mpg on our first highway trip. Beat the EPA hwy estimate on the first tank.
4. Aluminum hood. Makes it easier to put in washer fluid, check the oil, etc.
5. LED daytime running lights, fog lights, and tail lights.
6. Next generation XM that let's you "rewind" and "fast forward," as well as combine stations on your presets (for instance you can combine 60s on 6 and 70s on 7 to get songs from both stations mixed together).
7. Cloth seats. Honestly I like these better than leather in our hot climate. They are cooler in hot weather and warmer in cold weather. Nice quality fabric on the EX. Sill have a power driver's seat with power lumbar support.
8. HD FM radio. Better reception and no static. Works great.
9. HondaLink. Kinda like GM's ONstar, except it's free. If, god forbid, your airbags deploy, it calls the closest emergency services automatically.
10. Honda Lanewatch. Color camera on the right side of your car helps you see what's back there, including if there's a bike approaching, etc.
11. Better handling than any Accord I've previously owned, and I've owned a 2002, a 2008, and my wife has a 2013.
12. Has all sorts of other stuff like moonroof, pushbutton start, dual zone climate control, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, sunglasses holder, built-in programmable garage door opener, multiview rear camera, etc. Plus Honda quality, reliability, and durability.
And I really want CarPlay.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
I was able to trade in my 2008 Accord as a downpayment and still ended up with monthly payments of less than $300 even after TTL.
My rental this week is a Lincoln MKZ 3.7 FWD. Stupid rental agency has enabled the Ford MyKey and it's limited to 80 MPH. Feels like it has a bent wheel, and there are several rattles coming from the cabin with only 30k on the odometer. The transmission sometimes shifts roughly. The stereo is good. Overall, I'm not impressed.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
EDIT- autonews.com/article/20160531/OEM06/160539986/hyundai-offers-free-apple-carplay-android-auto-updates
Have it on the Soul EV. There are things I'd change for sure, but I'm glad to have it in any case.
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?zip=33067&endYear=2017&modelCode1=1_SERIES&showcaseOwnerId=51167445&makeCode1=BMW&startYear=1981&firstRecord=0&searchRadius=25&showcaseListingId=434422654&mmt=[BMW[][1_SERIES[]]]&listingId=433087550&Log=0
Very nice vehicle but HEAVY and you feel it from closing the doors to acceleration to braking. Felt like a much larger vehicle and think the length is only about 173", give or take. Truthfully, felt like a barge and didn't have the tossability of the Golf. Bummer because I really really wanted to like this car so much so that I could've convinced the wife to let me get it. Coral seats were a nice color change, no sports package though so no great seats. Had the cold weather and convience packages, oil just changed and a new battery installed. Definitely has low mileage and they also CPO'd it, a good thing. Nice vehicle and all, but just the wrong one for me. A shame because I really did want to love it but just happen to like my Golf better, the length wasn't the problem either. Just felt like a barge is the only way to describe it.
Such is life I guess.
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Nothing else really floats my boat yet except maybe the Infiniti Q50...sweet sweet engine in that puppy and find the seats very comfortable. And at work, I do not have my "Relax The Back" cushion to sit on, and I really need it in every one I drive. Just softens and cushions my lower spine area where I have a lot of damage.
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Hertz has me coming in 3 full days now, usually doing 9.5 hours each day. And if they are really in need, I'm asked to work either a full or half day. My boss even said it in our meeting yesterday, "you show up" he said and he's right, I come to work when scheduled. There are 3 of us who do this while the others just don't. Feel it's best to stay and work M/T/F and call it a day. If I feel better once season starts again, can always call the West Palm company and get a shift or two each week.
So the decision has been made...I stay at Hertz!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
Hey, you save money this way, Sandy; ya can't complain about that!
Will hit the Mini store tomorrow I think and see how they feel. Then the Honda place and try the HR-V. Just for my peace of mind. But was a pleasure to get in the Golf and drive it home last night...a real pleasure!! Maybe a BMW is not for everyone!!!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
The 1-series has a 6-cylinder engine - normally aspirated for the 128i (230 HP) or turbocharged (twin-turbo?) for the 135i (300 HP).
But, power to weight has a lot to do with how a car feels.
Edmunds Price Checker
Edmunds Lease Calculator
Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and let us know! Post a pic of your new purchase or lease!
MODERATOR
2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
But dang, those seats, just too confining in the bolsters.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
http://houston.craigslist.org/ctd/5696169263.html
Nice car, and actually has more headroom than the Passat. But the seats, dear lord, the seats!
Vegas puts the odds at 99:1 that resetting the code is exactly what they dd; without addressing the known problem.
The local VW/Audi specialist said it was an intermittent fault that had finally happened enough that it triggered the CEL (probably). They found a loose intake pipe that was the likely culprit. All diagnosed and (maybe) fixed for $111. They gave the car the once over, and pronounced it in good shape for it's age/mileage.
They were concerned about whether it had recommended service at the proper intervals, but it looks like it was in every 10K miles, and all Audi dealer service (very extensive service records on the CARFAX).
So, I'm feeling pretty good about it... today.
Edmunds Price Checker
Edmunds Lease Calculator
Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and share!
Edmunds Moderator
http://www.sanrafaelmitsubishi.com/lease-offer-specials.cfm
We talked about what to do with the 2012 Focus if the looming medical retirement happens. I figured sell it since he won't need it anymore really. That didn't go over well so I guess that car will leave Alaska with us. Same with the other 3......I stopped being a chronic car buyer and turned in to a chronic car hoarder.......is there a group for that?