Options

Chronic Car Buyers Anonymous (Archived)

1197019711973197519763236

Comments

  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 266,385
    corvette said:

    kyfdx said:

    corvette said:

    kyfdx said:

    kyfdx said:

    corvette said:

    Back and forth with the dealer - Kentucky requires a vehicle inspection on out of state cars and they won't do it unless you have a title or certificate of origin. Dealer "I don't believe we've sold any cars in Kentucky...will a certified copy work?" No... :@

    I thought you were leasing? Isn't TFS taking care of your registration?
    And, if not, then TFS should still send you all of the paperwork necessary to register the vehicle. They have dozens of leases in KY, daily.
    US Bank lease. The dealer is taking care of the registration, but so far as I know, I still have to take it to get it inspected. Once that's done, I send the inspection form back to them and they mail in the registration. How did they handle it when you leased the Z4 a few years back?
    With a new car, it generally doesn’t have to be inspected. With the MSO from a dealer, they can do the paperwork without it. (A dealer, leasing bank, or their agent). Our Tacoma was from an Ohio dealer, and the Tacoma never went to the Sheriff for inspection.

    Usually, the dealer or the leasing bank will pay an agent to handle the paperwork. I’d guess they could use you as the agent, if they send you the proper paperwork. I don’t think a new car has to be inspected. All of our new cars have been purchased out of state, and no inspection.
    The dealer is the one who texted me and said I needed to go have the truck inspected. Their title clerk is supposed to be dealing with the issue with them not providing the MCO.

    Passport BMW hired an agent when I bought the new 3-series, the agent was similarly clueless, and my temp tags expired before they got the necessary paperwork.
    My tags expired while waiting on the paperwork on the Z4. I took my paperwork to the local DMV, including the MD temporary tag registration, and they gave me a KY temp tag.

    But again, I’ve never had to have a new car inspected (with all of them coming from out of state).

    Edmunds Price Checker
    Edmunds Lease Calculator
    Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and share!

    Edmunds Moderator

  • greg128greg128 Member Posts: 546
    edited March 2020
    benjaminh said:

    ronsteve said:


    I’m not too impressed with the tire under the chassis arrangement. If you drive where it’s wet or salty the whole thing is rusted by the time you need it.

    That's old school truck based SUV stuff right there. Not what you expect in 2020 from Acura.
    It might be better than the BMW X3, which according to this comment doesn't have a spare tire at all. I don't have a spare in my TLX and I'm fine with it, but this comment does show a worst case scenario. And it looks like the RDX has a full-size spare too.

    https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=917185

    "06-13-2016, 06:36 AM Warning I'm about to rant!!! My wife's bmw x3, we leave for the weekend on a roughly 300 mile trip. Sunday rolls around and we pack up and leave for home, 5 miles down the road and we get a flat. She pulls over and I go to change her tire and notice no spare or Jack equipment. Call roadside assistance they offer to tow me to a dealership so it can be fixed tomorrow. Problem is both me and the wife have to work tomorrow 300 miles away. I use the run flats go back to the hotel and book another night.. First tire shop opens at 7am, can't wait for bmw service to open at 9. So total cost for me because of no spare tire rather than 5 minutes to put on a spare.
    320 dollars for a pirelli non run flat tire which will have to be changed out for a run flat when I get back to town.
    (only tire the right size they had). Went to 3 tire shops.
    180 dollars extra night in hotel room.
    120 dollars 2 meals ordered in for 4 people.
    400 dollars wife's cancelled clients today.
    400 dollars my average 1/2 daily salary I do still have to work today!
    320 tire
    300 hotel and meals
    800 lost wages for myself and wife.
    1420 dollars for a GD flat tire that I should have been able to change and carry on."

    PS Just found this: "Does the 2019 BMW x3 have a spare tire?
    The 2019 BMW X3 does not come with a spare tire because it is equipped with run flat tires."
    Exactly why after leasing a 2016 Malibu Premier with 19" low profile tires with no spare which had to be towed twice by roadside assistance resulting in a $300 bill for a new tire each time. Our current Buick has a spare and I will never own or lease another vehicle with low profile tires and/or without a spare.. With regular profiles and a spare I am now much more comfortable taking a trip.
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,231
    edited March 2020
    tjc78 said:

    I’d take an Impala SS or a Mark VII LSC over a Marauder.

    I’m with you on the LSC, but it would have to be a late run special edition.

    Like this one.

    https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1991-lincoln-mark-vii-3/
    Beautiful car but by 93’ the 4.6 LSC had 290hp vs. 225 for the HO 5.0. I like the style of the Mark VII but like the Mark VIII even better. The one I had was great to drive.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,231
    kyfdx said:

    corvette said:

    kyfdx said:

    corvette said:

    kyfdx said:

    kyfdx said:

    corvette said:

    Back and forth with the dealer - Kentucky requires a vehicle inspection on out of state cars and they won't do it unless you have a title or certificate of origin. Dealer "I don't believe we've sold any cars in Kentucky...will a certified copy work?" No... :@

    I thought you were leasing? Isn't TFS taking care of your registration?
    And, if not, then TFS should still send you all of the paperwork necessary to register the vehicle. They have dozens of leases in KY, daily.
    US Bank lease. The dealer is taking care of the registration, but so far as I know, I still have to take it to get it inspected. Once that's done, I send the inspection form back to them and they mail in the registration. How did they handle it when you leased the Z4 a few years back?
    With a new car, it generally doesn’t have to be inspected. With the MSO from a dealer, they can do the paperwork without it. (A dealer, leasing bank, or their agent). Our Tacoma was from an Ohio dealer, and the Tacoma never went to the Sheriff for inspection.

    Usually, the dealer or the leasing bank will pay an agent to handle the paperwork. I’d guess they could use you as the agent, if they send you the proper paperwork. I don’t think a new car has to be inspected. All of our new cars have been purchased out of state, and no inspection.
    The dealer is the one who texted me and said I needed to go have the truck inspected. Their title clerk is supposed to be dealing with the issue with them not providing the MCO.

    Passport BMW hired an agent when I bought the new 3-series, the agent was similarly clueless, and my temp tags expired before they got the necessary paperwork.
    My tags expired while waiting on the paperwork on the Z4. I took my paperwork to the local DMV, including the MD temporary tag registration, and they gave me a KY temp tag.

    But again, I’ve never had to have a new car inspected (with all of them coming from out of state).
    In NY even the new cars get inspected. For what I don’t know. When the flood of new cars comes in we have to drive them (sans sticker) sometimes a hundred miles to get the inspection from a private contractor. I once got pulled over in a brand new Jeep (3 miles) by the Sheriff almost in front of our offices. “”Where’s your sticker, Buddy?” He said. He let me go when I mentioned the company.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,231
    stickguy said:

    now this, my friends, is what a station wagon should be. I don't care for some of the interior choices, but that is fixable.

    https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1965-ford-fairlane/

    and for the MGM crowd. Weird mix on BaT. they have this, and also a 4 banger Mustang II running.

    https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1995-mercury-grand-marquis/

    I’d take that GM for $2500.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,349
    Over on the C&C topic I posted about how a criminal's "pristine" MGM was stripped/vandalized by some other criminals while the owner was serving a sentence in the joint. The MGM convict and his mom wanted $5000(!) restitution. As often happens, the victim's story omitted a few critical details. In this case, one of the defense attorneys showed me the following picture:



    So I confronted Mom:
    Q: "Is this your son's car?"
    A: "Yes."
    Q: "And did this happen before the car was vandalized?"
    A: "Yes, but it was COMPLETELY FIXABLE!!!"

    I'm pleading both defendants to misdemeanors and in exchange they are paying $1,000 each as restitution- and mom and son are still unhappy.
    You can't make this stuff up...

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    I bought a couple of cars (both my Hyundais) in PA, so they came with PA inspection stickers. I had to go to the inspection station to get a NJ one. But did not have to go through the inspection line. Just drive up by the exit, and they look at the paperwork and slap a new car (5 year) sticker on it. quick and easy. But I did have to have the NJ registration and plates on it already.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • corvettecorvette Member Posts: 11,308

    As often happens, the victim's story omitted a few critical details. ...
    You can't make this stuff up...

    Sounds like about 90% of the plaintiffs' attorneys I deal with... "How dare you ask us to supply evidence of damages / proof of disputed liability!" or "My client's damages are enormous, surely someone else has to be responsible, especially if they have insurance!"
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,349
    corvette said:

    As often happens, the victim's story omitted a few critical details. ...
    You can't make this stuff up...

    Sounds like about 90% of the plaintiffs' attorneys I deal with... "How dare you ask us to supply evidence of damages / proof of disputed liability!" or "My client's damages are enormous, surely someone else has to be responsible, especially if they have insurance!"
    Yes. In another case, the victim filed a felony stalking charge against her ex-husband; the defense attorney and I agreed to submit the victim's and the defendant's cell phones for forensic analysis. During the period she claims he was stalking her she was calling him 10-20 times per day.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • benjaminhbenjaminh Member Posts: 6,557
    stickguy said:

    Benjamin, if you drive them there is a vastly different experience. You can compare features but that does not tell the whole story.

    I will say though that at least by me, the service experience is not really any different. Other than loaner car availability, which I normally never use anyway. Especially leasing, should only need an occasional oil change and they have 1 hour express service option.

    Yes, I'm sure you're right that there is a huge difference between the RDX and a CR-V. When I went to test drive the TLX I thought it would be basically a slightly fancier Accord, but it's much better than an Accord 1.5T or hybrid in terms of steering, transmission, interior quality, etc., etc. For me the service experience, even for getting oil changes, is hugely different between the Honda dealer and the Acura dealer. The Honda dealer is always mobbed and super crowded and noisy. The Acura waiting room is small, quiet, and has deluxe snacks. It's actually restful and pleasant getting service at the Acura dealer, while it's often a little bit stressful at the Honda service dept.

    Back to the RDX, at first I wondered why Acura put the spare underneath the car rather than just under a cover in the back like with the CR-V. The reason, I think, is that Acura wanted to have these neat hidden storage areas under the cover in the back, as seen in the picture below.

    On more thing. Someone at some point was asking if the RDX is based on the CR-V, and actually the RDX seemingly has its own unique platform.



    2018 Acura TLX 2.4 Tech 4WS (mine), 2024 Subaru Outback (wife's), 2018 Honda CR-V EX (offspring)
  • ventureventure Member Posts: 3,170
    xwesx said:

    My grandparents bought a top-of-the-line 2000 Ford Crown Vic new; it's still in the family. The car has fairly decent performance thanks to its rear LSD allowing it to move that hulk fairly well without losing traction.

    I used to love that car, but now I just find it annoying.... It is this huge thing that looks like it should be very comfy with tons of room. Except, I get in there and quickly realize that modern midsize sedans offer far more passenger space. How is it possible that they made space use that poor in those cars? It's like a modern compact at twice the physical size. :D

    A friend used to have one of them and I thought the same thing. I had to ride in the back seat one time and it was not easy getting in or out of it.

    2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport

  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 16,985
    edited March 2020
    stickguy said:

    I bought a couple of cars (both my Hyundais) in PA, so they came with PA inspection stickers. I had to go to the inspection station to get a NJ one. But did not have to go through the inspection line. Just drive up by the exit, and they look at the paperwork and slap a new car (5 year) sticker on it. quick and easy. But I did have to have the NJ registration and plates on it already.

    Exact scenario with my Mom’s RAV bought in PA. I’ll admit it was a bit nerve racking drilling holes in the front bumper of a brand new car for the license plate bracket.

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,123
    benjaminh said:

    stickguy said:

    Benjamin, if you drive them there is a vastly different experience. You can compare features but that does not tell the whole story.

    I will say though that at least by me, the service experience is not really any different. Other than loaner car availability, which I normally never use anyway. Especially leasing, should only need an occasional oil change and they have 1 hour express service option.

    Yes, I'm sure you're right that there is a huge difference between the RDX and a CR-V. When I went to test drive the TLX I thought it would be basically a slightly fancier Accord, but it's much better than an Accord 1.5T or hybrid in terms of steering, transmission, interior quality, etc., etc. For me the service experience, even for getting oil changes, is hugely different between the Honda dealer and the Acura dealer. The Honda dealer is always mobbed and super crowded and noisy. The Acura waiting room is small, quiet, and has deluxe snacks. It's actually restful and pleasant getting service at the Acura dealer, while it's often a little bit stressful at the Honda service dept.

    Back to the RDX, at first I wondered why Acura put the spare underneath the car rather than just under a cover in the back like with the CR-V. The reason, I think, is that Acura wanted to have these neat hidden storage areas under the cover in the back, as seen in the picture below.

    On more thing. Someone at some point was asking if the RDX is based on the CR-V, and actually the RDX seemingly has its own unique platform.



    RDX does indeed ride on its own platform. If I were in the market for a CUV, the RDX would be at the top of my list. The (very few) times I’ve sat in one (actually drove one briefly) I can’t think of anything that comes close to it for the money.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • sdasda Member Posts: 7,592
    My SIL replaced the TL that she gave my daughter with a 19 RDX Advance a year ago. Other than the glitchy infotainment, Apple Car Play, etc. she really likes it. I’ve driven it a few times and it is really nice. The interior, even on the base model is of good quality. The sound system and upgraded interior of her Advance is about as nice as you can get at almost any price.

    2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,349
    edited March 2020
    The BMW Store has a real unicorn in their CPO inventory- a 2017 340i xDrive six speed manual. It's Glacier Silver over Coral Red. Normally I wouldn't give any xDrive car(save an Alpina or M5/M8) a second glance, but this one has the Track Handling Package and the M Performance Power and Sound Kit(which bumps power by 35 hp to 355 hp and 25 lb-ft of torque to 355 lb-ft). I'd have to spend $3k to get an M Performance Limited Slip Differential installed, but other than that it's perfect- except it has no CWP. Rats.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,349
    Then my wife saw me looking at Stinger GT1 at Jake Sweeney Kia in northern KY. It's a gorgeous car- Ceramic Silver with a Red interior. She absolutely loved it. Unfortunately it's also AWD- and unlike the D-AWD system on the GTS it can't be fully disabled. Rats again.



    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 266,385

    The BMW Store has a real unicorn in their CPO inventory- a 2017 340i xDrive six speed manual. It's Glacier Silver over Coral Red. Normally I wouldn't give any xDrive car(save an Alpina or M5/M8) a second glance, but this one has the Track Handling Package and the M Performance Power and Sound Kit(which bumps power by 35 hp to 355 hp and 25 lb-ft of torque to 355 lb-ft). I'd have to spend $3k to get an M Performance Limited Slip Differential installed, but other than that it's perfect- except it has no CWP. Rats.

    This one?
    https://www.bmwstore.com/certified/BMW/2017-BMW-340i-cincinnati-31aea8fc0a0d0cc77d7c2c643d3d0c1d.htm

    Yeah, that might make me consider AWD, as well. Kind of pricey, but CPO.

    Edmunds Price Checker
    Edmunds Lease Calculator
    Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and share!

    Edmunds Moderator

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,349
    Yep.

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • mjfloyd1mjfloyd1 Member Posts: 3,806
    And an accident on Carfax
  • 28firefighter28firefighter Member Posts: 9,841
    Wayyyy too much.
    2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,305
    @stickguy maybe get a few of those drinks into Mrs Stickguy to move the decision process forward. 🤪

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    pensfan83 said:

    We are trying a new spot tonight

    I'm close enough that if you order another round I'll join you. B)

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 262,820
    Why is it that we have several areas around the country (PGH, CVG, NJ and SEA are the ones that come to mind immediately) with multiple members close by, yet only the Denver contingent meets up regularly?

    @breld, @jpp75 and I are meeting up for brunch tomorrow.

    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

  • pensfan83pensfan83 Member Posts: 2,767
    We're in Irwin/North Huntington at stop #2. Come on out!
    1997 Honda Prelude Base - 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance - 2021 Honda Passport Sport - 2006 BMW 330Ci ZHP
  • 28firefighter28firefighter Member Posts: 9,841
    Well. For one, none of us live especially close. @tifighter is in the south sound, @fintail is on the Eastside, and I’m in North Seattle.
    2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    I live 15 minutes from TJC. If he wants to bring the family over in the summer to swim in the pool, he is welcome any time!

    Though then he would find out that I am a scrawny old man, but I have come to terms with that.

    we are actually the close by ones. Qbrozen is about 45-60 minutes from us. And i don't recall anyone else local (the Pittsburgh contingent probably has more close by folks, but that involves meeting up with Jmonroe!)

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • ronsteveronsteve Member Posts: 1,234
    benjaminh said:

    stickguy said:


    Back to the RDX, at first I wondered why Acura put the spare underneath the car rather than just under a cover in the back like with the CR-V. The reason, I think, is that Acura wanted to have these neat hidden storage areas under the cover in the back, as seen in the picture below.

    Volvo managed to have the storage areas, and not only have a spare under the other trapdoor, but you would pull out the storage tray to get at the battery!

    Also noticed the same (at least the storage area) on a unicorn of a Bimmer on BaT... https://cdn.bringatrailer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/2010_bmw_535i_m-sport_1581825177f9f98764daIMG_7459.jpg
    2015 Acura RDX AWD / 2021 VW TIguan SE 4Motion
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    so anyway, general observation. the stock market crashing and coronavirus panic, did not dissuade people from car shopping. every dealer we went to was packed. Even Volvo was cranking, and sold cars all over. Acura was crowded too. BMW had people everywhere like they were giving away free ones.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    so, first stop this afternoon (around 1:30. we worked for the dog rescue at a craft fair this AM so did not get out until prime time to look at cars.) was Volvo. I was shocked how busy they were. The black service loaner and blue one in the showroom were both outside, sold and being delivered. Along with a few others being delivered, and lots of people shopping. but, drove a while service loaner XC60 identical to the black one. Nice car. Wife overall liked it, but was not good with the gas pedal of all things. Not responsive enough. she would not reject the car, but not in love. So that one ended up being culled from the short list of 5. Only one actually taken off the list. I thought it was very nice though. But, it is out.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,749
    It is still tax return season. Makes it big for car shopping.
    We got our state/fed refunds over the last week.
    They went in the bank.
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    next stop was Acura. Drove a white over espresso (gorgeous color combo) RDX tech AWD. Lovely car. wife said it "felt like home". Which was odd, because there were features of my TLX in it, but nothing that vaguely resembled her RDX! But liked the seats, liked the drive, everything. And enough buttons to keep her happy. Salesguy did a good job showing how to use the touchpad, and especially how easy the voice commands were. so I think that would be OK for the boss Overall, she really like the features and how this one drove. A positive experience.

    Next stop was BMW (and at this point, I can visualize TJC doing a google maps on our route!). Also a zoo. but got a sales guy tripling up on customers, and he grabbed a black over black *(yuck, why would anyone?) X3 service loaner. Had a nice drive. Very nice car. great seats. Wife totally befuddled by the beer tap. But thought it was a very nice, quiet, comfy car. Pricey of course. But again, a positive experience.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    pensfan83 said:

    We're in Irwin/North Huntington at stop #2. Come on out!

    You're kinda out of your neck of the woods being out that way aren't you? FWIW, Son #2 lives in North Huntingdon. Given a choice, he prefers the dark beer like I saw on that table.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    next stop, Honda. Turns out they actually had gotten another Crv hybrid in, a touring. So we got to drive it (both of us, I did not take a turn in the RDX or X3 since I know they are both sweet). I was surprised by how much we both liked it. Different (neither of had driven a hybrid before) but in a good way. pretty quiet, very comfy, good handling. Lots of features. amazing MPG. quick. A little bit of CVT experience but minimal and not bothersome. I really thought one or both of us would chop it from the list, but danged if we did not both like it. definitely a winner. I think they will sell a lot of them, especially if gas prices ever go back up!

    then to Hyundai, where we drove a 2.0T limited AWD again. As last time, it was very nice. Of all the cars we drove, definitely had the most features. fancy cameras, heated wheel, ventilated seats. If you can think of it, it probably had it. In terms of value per $, a winner. also very roomy comfortable. A great family truckster option with a decadent level of features. Would have no problem owning one for the next 10 years.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989

    Well. For one, none of us live especially close. @tifighter is in the south sound, @fintail is on the Eastside, and I’m in North Seattle.

    They didn't move to those places just for the weather ya know. :o

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    stickguy said:

    I live 15 minutes from TJC. If he wants to bring the family over in the summer to swim in the pool, he is welcome any time!

    Though then he would find out that I am a scrawny old man, but I have come to terms with that.

    we are actually the close by ones. Qbrozen is about 45-60 minutes from us. And i don't recall anyone else local (the Pittsburgh contingent probably has more close by folks, but that involves meeting up with Jmonroe!)

    Yeah, but I serve the good stuff. Like ribs, rib eye steaks and bourbon. Not weiners, hamburgers and lemonade. Nor am I scrawny. :@

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • benjaminhbenjaminh Member Posts: 6,557
    edited March 2020
    Thanks for the reports @stickguy. Seems like you have a lot of good choices!

    Interesting that things are so busy. I wonder if the stress is maybe a small contributing factor to making people want a new vehicle? I mean, in stressful times a new car sure might make the average person feel better....?

    (Have you already made your spreadsheet? And if so, by any chance can you share some of what you put on it? I've never made one for car shopping, and not sure what that would look like in terms of numbers to include....)
    2018 Acura TLX 2.4 Tech 4WS (mine), 2024 Subaru Outback (wife's), 2018 Honda CR-V EX (offspring)
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    so where does this leave us? Wife commented that she though this process today would help, but it really didn't. She liked them all. Only one she decided to eliminate was the Volvo, largely because of the gas pedal response of all things. But, that was fine. So left with 4 options, and after driving them, she honestly could not say she did not want any of them. so the decision had to come down to the details (MPG, cost, etc.).

    so we discussed over dinner and a few drinks. And after debating all the pluses and minuses, looks like the winner is an RDX. Kinda where I thought we would be before this all began. Liked the BMW a lot but it was getting up there in price. And was overall pretty comparable to an RDX. The Hyundai was a strong contender. Wife did not like the screen being too close (probably since it was a touch screen, you had to be able to reach it). Might have been a little bid of badge snobbery going on, but we also have a track record with Acura. And it really is a fabulous driving car, which I will enjoy too.

    the espresso interior is gorgeous. Thankfully the wife really liked it too. after looking at the various color combos, she decided the white over espresso was good.

    so, got the OK to talk to dealer on Monday. Assuming the truecar price is valid (not worried about that), if the Acura loyalty comes off the top, and they will meet or come close to Carvana offer on the old one, I will take one off their hands. Especially if the .99% financing is in play too. It should since none of these programs have anything to do with each other. Nice that I have no real need to do a deal. Will lay it out, tell them if they can hit all the components I sign papers and take a car now, and be done. Otherwise i move on. Up to them.

    Going to call/visit Monday. Since I did the truecar I have gotten calls/emails from multiple people including the sales manager, so plenty of names to drop. I plan to deal directly with salesmanager. Not going back and forth, just a simple yes or no situation.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • benjaminhbenjaminh Member Posts: 6,557
    Today in my wife's CR-V we drove the range down to 0 before filling up. It's has a 14 gallon tank, and we only got 11.9 in it for the fill-up, meaning that the CR-V has a 2 gallon reserve even when it reads completely empty.
    2018 Acura TLX 2.4 Tech 4WS (mine), 2024 Subaru Outback (wife's), 2018 Honda CR-V EX (offspring)
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    sorry for so many posts, but I think I got it all. Now have to crack open another bottle of wine, even though the wife is already in her chair snoring instead of watching the hockey game! She did seem excited though, and if I work out the deal on a new RDX she will be happy, especially at what I told her the payment should be. After all the test drives, I think she is hooked!

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    Benjamin, we felt the Hybrid drove better than the regular CRV that we remembered. a learning curve for running on battery, but I kinda was getting hooked on it! I can definitely see the attraction. And it was a roomy, comfortable car. Not hard to see why they sell 400,000 of them every year.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • ronsteveronsteve Member Posts: 1,234
    stickguy said:


    then to Hyundai, where we drove a 2.0T limited AWD again. As last time, it was very nice. Of all the cars we drove, definitely had the most features. fancy cameras, heated wheel, ventilated seats. If you can think of it, it probably had it. In terms of value per $, a winner. also very roomy comfortable. A great family truckster option with a decadent level of features. Would have no problem owning one for the next 10 years.

    But how did it drive? My limited experience with Hyundai and Kia was that they don't have much road feel in the steering. I mean, seriously numb! But that was most noticeable in the lighter vehicles like the Sonata and Sportage, and not as bad in the Sorrento (though that 8-speed sure liked to gear hunt whenever you throw a little grade at the V6).
    2015 Acura RDX AWD / 2021 VW TIguan SE 4Motion
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,420
    I did not drive this time, but seem to recall last time it was OK. The wife liked it. and her standards are different. but she had no issues with it.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,231
    edited March 2020

    Then my wife saw me looking at Stinger GT1 at Jake Sweeney Kia in northern KY. It's a gorgeous car- Ceramic Silver with a Red interior. She absolutely loved it. Unfortunately it's also AWD- and unlike the D-AWD system on the GTS it can't be fully disabled. Rats again.



    Saw a Stinger in an electric blue color Thursday. Very nice. It looked bigger than I remember but I was driving a Hyundai Accent so maybe it just looked bigger.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • pensfan83pensfan83 Member Posts: 2,767
    jmonroe said:

    pensfan83 said:

    We're in Irwin/North Huntington at stop #2. Come on out!

    You're kinda out of your neck of the woods being out that way aren't you? FWIW, Son #2 lives in North Huntingdon. Given a choice, he prefers the dark beer like I saw on that table.

    jmonroe
    Yeah we were not in our general area but easy enough to get out there. North Huntington is a nice area.
    1997 Honda Prelude Base - 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance - 2021 Honda Passport Sport - 2006 BMW 330Ci ZHP
  • benjaminhbenjaminh Member Posts: 6,557
    And explanation with a real VW dual clutch transmission of how these things work....

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mj1Vk7SE-TI
    2018 Acura TLX 2.4 Tech 4WS (mine), 2024 Subaru Outback (wife's), 2018 Honda CR-V EX (offspring)
  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 16,985
    It is crazy @stickguy and I haven’t gotten together considering the proximity.

    Nice loop around the dealers yesterday. I know what your wife didn’t like about the Volvo. In normal mode even with start/stop disabled there is a delay from the time you take your foot off the brake and press the gas. It must uncouple the trans from gear and re-apply when you press the car. If you switch to Dynamic mode this doesn’t happen. It took me a while to get used to it.

    You can’t go wrong with the RDX and that color combo sounds like a winner.

    @jmonroe i cooked ribs last night and they were pretty darn good.

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic

  • benjaminhbenjaminh Member Posts: 6,557
    stickguy said:

    ....Assuming the truecar price is valid (not worried about that), if the Acura loyalty comes off the top, and they will meet or come close to Carvana offer on the old one, I will take one off their hands. Especially if the .99% financing is in play too. It should since none of these programs have anything to do with each other. Nice that I have no real need to do a deal. Will lay it out, tell them if they can hit all the components I sign papers and take a car now, and be done. Otherwise i move on....

    The truecar price might not be compatible with the 0.9% rate:

    "kyfdx Posts: 146,904
    March 5
    There is an extra incentive the dealer gets for writing the loan at the standard rate. So, the price will definitely be higher if you take the low rate finance."

    It might be that you can get more overall savings with the lease incentive of c.$3k by doing a lease to buy. But you'd have to bargain both ways, I suppose, and crunch the numbers both ways to see.

    Found a kinda interesting video of the Honda type R engine, which is similar to the engine in the RDX....

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtkGMUY-4hs
    2018 Acura TLX 2.4 Tech 4WS (mine), 2024 Subaru Outback (wife's), 2018 Honda CR-V EX (offspring)
  • benjaminhbenjaminh Member Posts: 6,557
    From the Acura press kit on the RDX....

    "The RDX redesign features a new-from-the-ground-up, Acura-exclusive platform...."

    Lots of tech details in the full press kit.

    https://hondanews.com/en-US/releases/2019-acura-rdx-press-kit#overview
    2018 Acura TLX 2.4 Tech 4WS (mine), 2024 Subaru Outback (wife's), 2018 Honda CR-V EX (offspring)
This discussion has been closed.