Well, my experience only comes from test driving the G and 330 and then choosing the G. Yes, I agree that the BMW is "more refined" in that it is quieter and more solid feeling. For me, it came down to what that extra refinement was worth. Comparing similar vehicles with similar age and miles, the G was many thousands cheaper at the time. So that made my choice.
'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
Attempted to change the climate filter in the Altima today (at nearly 30,000 miles, it's 15,000 miles overdue). In the fourth-generation Altima, it's located in the center of the dash, in a very hard to reach place. Also, the filter is much larger than the opening it goes in. (In the third-gen, it was directly behind the glove box, was fully accessible, and could be easily changed without tools.)
I ended up turning the new filter into a crumpled mess, trying to get it through the tiny opening. I give up, I'll just run it with no filter, like the base model. On the plus side, the heater in this one works extremely well, which was a problem with the third-generation Altima I used to own.
Ok guys I need suggestions on good aftermarket rotors. The Pilot warped its again and I'm just done with OEM crap. I had them resurfaced and one quick stop later they were warped. I'm not complaining too much, its got nearly 50k on it and a lot of city driving in the past year.
Other than a parking light with an attitude (read: have to smack the crap out of it to get it to work), an occational refusal to start without protesting in the garage, and a tranny that seems to be starting to slip (or something) I'm pretty happy with the Pilot still, lol.
My eyes are beginning to wander a bit.......might pick up a nice used truck in the next year or so to fill the urge to buy something and to keep the TT from continuing to be a yard ornament like it has for the past 3 years.
On another note hubby's Civic is approaching 40k and so far no issues, just a great little car that seems to plow through anything......including porcupines and coyotes! :sick:
You can do a search for brake parts and you'll find sites that have sources for higher quality rotors for your truck. Some offer free shipping. Good indy shop near me always recommends replacing rotors instead of turning them. Cost isn't that much more for most vehicles. Brembo is a top brand. Sounds like you might want to stick with economy level parts considering the issues you are having. Get the cheapest ones from the top manufacturers.
tirerack is a good source, and most likely would have you covered. If available, I have found Brembos to be just fine and last longer than my Volvo OEM ones, at least.
Another good site, if you want to compare prices, is www.frugalmechanic.com
'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
Akangl, good to see that you are still posting. Haven't seen you post in a long time (unless I missed it).
My little Honda CR-V is doing well. No brake or transmission problems at 31,000 miles (add another 27,000 for towing).
I do have 'loud' calipers. Going over the road reflector disks or a rough road will make the calipers vibrate. It's sounds like a box of wooden marbles. They were replaced by the dealer a while back but it didn't make any difference. The tech guy told me that the Odysseys were really bad.
The OEM battery was replaced at 15,000 miles (I think) and the new one seems a little sluggish on cold mornings. The warranty will last until March or 36K. The battery looks a little small to me, maybe I'll get a real battery if they don't replace it.
GET that TT out and use it!!! Try pulling it with the Pilot!! :P
Safe travels! Mark156
2010 Land Rover LR4, 2013 Honda CR-V, 2009 Bentley GTC, 1990 MB 500SL, 2001 MB S500, 2007 Lincoln TC, 1964 RR Silver Cloud III, 1995 MB E320 Cab., 2015 Prevost Liberty Coach
GET that TT out and use it!!! Try pulling it with the Pilot!!
I think the Pilot would have a heart attack. Sadly the Pilot isn't even close to being a tow vehicle for it. The tow capacity maxes at 3500 lbs for the Pilot, the TT empty is 4500, not to mention its 26' long which is too big as well.
I'd like to get a Suburban, kind of a jack of all trades, but hubby says no, just buy a 10-15 year old truck. I agree in some ways, I really would hate to part with the Pilot, its been a good car. However, a new Suburban...........*looks around for CCBA membership card*
Nah, I don't see Jolie waiting 4 months to pull the trigger.
The Pilot needs new rotors, she wants something large enough to pull the TT, and, from the past, she strikes me as an "instant gratification" type of gal.
You guys always make me laugh. As much as I'd like to move up to something bigger its just not in the budget. I'd have to trade down, to probably an 05-06 Suburban with 75k or so on it and I'm just not willing to give up a car with 50k that hasn't really been a problem.
The transmission issue has been there for about 12k miles and the dealer says wait it out. Its under warranty for another 3.5 yrs and 70k miles so repairs won't cost anything until that point. The rotors can wait, I looked around at prices and yeah, they aren't that bad yet, I'll wait until they are unbearable.
I'd like to wait until our TT is paid off next spring before trading the Pilot in on something. I might do some looking around this weekend though, not sure, just see what's out there and exactly where I'm sitting in the Pilot.
On another note, I will NEVER EVER EVER buy another RV, nope, no way. Ours is a 2004, bought in 2005 brand new, in that time its dropped $20k in value........TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS!!! :sick: Makes me sick to think about it, thankfully it will be paid off soon and its still in great shape. Haven't used it in 3 years though.
I'd like to wait until our TT is paid off next spring before trading the Pilot in on something. I might do some looking around this weekend though, not sure, just see what's out there and exactly where I'm sitting in the Pilot.
Uh-oh. Now you're making my memorial day date look shaky, Jolie... :surprise:
Seriously, the Pilot is a good car. I have a 08 4WD that comes off lease next year. I did a lease simply to force myself to keep a car for 3 years. And you know what? I'm actually considering buying it. I looked at the last auto show, and just didn't see anything that significantly bested it. I've got 17K miles on it with a buyout around $16.5K, so a purchase seems like a good move. Used ones on lots around here are asking $22-23K; we'll see what they bring in a year. But I am a CCBA member, so who knows?
Uh-oh. Now you're making my memorial day date look shaky
The Pilot is a great car, I've honestly never kept a car for more than a year before this one. I've had my Pilot 2 1/2 years and I still enjoy driving it. I just hate that we have a lovely travel trailer sitting in our yard and can't use it unless we beg a friend to move it for us to a campground and then back home.
Hubby keeps telling me I'll hate myself if I give up the Pilot........somehow I think he's right. A used truck is probably the best way to go.......but a new Suburban....... :confuse:
I had an Escalade as a rental car on a trip out West last year. It drove and handled impressively well for such a huge, heavy vehicle, but the ride was harsh, and it wasn't all that quick for having 400+ horsepower. Gas mileage was around 20 MPG highway on the RWD model I had, which again, was impressive. I'd prefer a Pilot or MDX as a daily driver, since they're a lot more comfortable (to me at least).
Also, I felt like a complete tool in the Escalade, due to its image...
I'm actually pretty sure the Pilot has as much usable space inside as an Escalade anyhow. The third row in the Pilot folds completely flat, unlike the GMT900 models, which opens up a lot of room for cargo. I continue to be impressed with how much space they got in there, especially when you consider my Pilot is shorter in length than an Outback...
Pilots are exceptionally roomy, I've never used the 3rd row seat in mine, so its always folded down. I have husky liners in it, replaced the floor mats with them and have one as a cargo liner. I've managed to put some pretty impressive things in it and close the rear hatch. Let's see, an eliptical, a recliner, a computer desk, and various other things that shouldn't have fit but did. Gotta do what ya gotta do when you don't own a truck.
On another note, the trunk in a Civic is pretty worthless, probably why we never take it anywhere and hubby is the only one who drives it, I personally can't stand the car. However, it gets him back and forth to work every week so can't complain too much.
It's supposed to be one of the best compacts on the market. I test drove a used Elantra sedan before buying my Altima. It rode okay, but the seating position was weird, it was underpowered, and the engine was really harsh above 4,000 rpm, to the point that I thought there was something loose. It was a lot cheaper than the Altima, but I'm happy with the Altima, and don't think I would've been with the Elantra.
It's supposed to be one of the best compacts on the market
Its just a small car, I don't like small cars. Also, its a stick shift, which in itself is no big deal, but its sooo fussy. I've never stalled a manual tranny as much as I've stalled that one, you have to be dead on with it or its like "no, I quit". Other than that its an ok car, it is fun in the summer to take on roads with lots of curves though, lol.
It's supposed to be one of the best compacts on the market.
It's vastly overrated. The automotive press likes it because it is a Honda, so it revs high and pretends to be sporty. For the vast majority of buyers it is a buzzy, noisy, car that can be tiring to live with.
It's supposed to be one of the best compacts on the market.
I agree, its comfortable, handles well, seems to have a good trade off between performance and ride quality, its easy to drive, has good visibility, and with a manual transmission, plenty of pep. I also like how easy it is to see and reach the controls.
I also love the seats in the Civic SI. Very comfortable and supportive for a car in that price range. For that much money though, the Hyundai Genesis coupe starts looking pretty good.
Still love my Civic as much as the 1st day I bought it over 3.5 years ago and every one I talk to who owns one swears by them, so I don't put any creedeance when someone talks about "the vast majority" who don't like them. Unless someone actually owns one and drives it as their daily driver, comments like that mean nothing. Our Mazda 3s is also a great car but I still prefer my Civic hands down.
Waiting to see how the next generation Elantra compares with the competition, as we'll be buying either a 2011 or 2012 model to replace the Mazda. Should be interesting to see what the wife decides on when she's ready to buy.
The Sandman :sick: :shades:
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)
Went to the car show (philly) today. Like the crack man came to town.
Even got the wife to go this year (usually my son went with me, but he is off at college now). My 14 YO daughter came along too. Needless to say, it was not a 5 hour marathon visit!
Wifee found a few things she liked (now we just need the financial means to replace the 2005 Odyssey!). VOlvo XC60 seemed to top the list, with the Acuras (RDX and MDX) close behind. The Hyundai santa fe and Kia Sorrento (man, that was nice) got seem seious play too.
Of course, this was just sitting, so the test drives would likely eliminate some of the contendors.
Oh, the Audi 7 (Q series?) seemed to float her boat (and for 50+ large, it better come with a captain), and I really liked the Q5. Wifee hated the GLK mercedes.
will likely expand on this elsewhere, but it was interesting that they put Hyundai next to Toyota this year. Forget quality, recalls and runaway cars. Toyota has a serious product problem. Basically, model to model, Hyundai blew them out of the water in styling, features, interiors and price. And from what I have read, in most cases they drive better (but maybe more toward the honda end of the spectrum, only Buick can match Toyota for numb isolation from the road).
Toyota has to be living off their reputation for live forever, no maintenance, reliability, because they sure can't be #1 based on having the best stuff to sell.
At elast they decided to go for some style on the new Sienna. Weird dashboard though. ANd they came within $200 of breaking the 40K barrier for a minivan. Did like the barcalounger middle seats though (I guess that is appropriate for a Toyota!)
forgot to mention, they had my favorite car, and what is now my other new favorite (in a sedan).
THey had a 4 door Golf TDI, in a dark blue/gray color. Damn, it looked good. What a nice car inside too.
ANd surprisingly, the new Sonota was very, very nice. Fantastic interior and I liked the exterior styling (although it might not be for everyone). Tons of interior room, loaded with features, and the trunk should have it's own zip code.
much nicer than the bulbous new accord,
I really wouldn't expect to be getting another sedan if I got a new car now, but if I did, that would be one of my first stops (Mazda too, for the 6).
As a fan, I am disappointed there was no F-word in your description of the show, but I was curious how that worked outside of NAIAS in Detroit.
1. On Industry Days (the pre-show with the OEMs and Suppliers), the busiest areas were the Europeans (tend to introduce new technology first), Hyundai (tends to take existing technology and drop the price point at the mid- to high- ), and Ford, because well, they had the most new stuff.
2. On regular people days (a Friday afternoon to evening), there were more people in the Ford area than the whole rest of the show. Hyundai had no waiting to get in anything, nor did Kia. Everyone was in the Mercedes, Audi, or Ford areas, minus the "game show" they had in the Toyota and Chrysler areas to be on Fox and win $$.
I also agree that Toyota seemed like they were hurting at the show, and that was before all this broke.
I was very interested in seeing their display. The transit connect, in person, was slick.
But, they did not have the new Focus (which I really, really wanted to see). They did have the FIesta, but it was roped odd on an elevated stage, so hard to really scope out. Very stylish though.
There was a Focus and a Fiesta on display at the DC auto show. Both looked pretty sharp IMO, although the Fiesta looks a bit goofy when viewed head-on. The headlights just look too big, and I never liked that style where the lower grille is bigger than the upper. It looks tipsy, too, although with small, narrow tall cars, that can't be helped. If it makes it to the market more-or-less unmolested, it should be a hit.
As for crowds, the Ford display was a bit empty, but we had a snowstorm that day that ended up dumping 5-6 inches, and temps barely got out of the teens, so that might have kept people away. Plus, with the DC show, they put GM, Ford, and Volvo in a separate upper level, with everybody else down below. And it was getting late by the time we got to the upper level, so the crowds may have been dispersing by then.
Wifee found a few things she liked (now we just need the financial means to replace the 2005 Odyssey!). VOlvo XC60 seemed to top the list, with the Acuras (RDX and MDX) close behind. The Hyundai santa fe and Kia Sorrento (man, that was nice) got seem seious play too.
I can only assume you've found you don't need the utility of a minivan?
Did you guys sit in the XC60? Personally, I couldn't deal with it. Once set to be comfortable for me, the nose of the car felt a mile away, and I wouldn't be able to see traffic lights without leaning forward to look up out of the windshield. It seems, for once, volvo let styling override practicality.
'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 have begun to feel “the itch” again. [ sigh ]
BMW has released information regarding what I see as an upgrade to their 335i that systematically addresses virtually every aspect of the 3 series that I care about.
When I made the decision to by my G8 GT, in November 2008, I had previously driven 335i sedans on 3 different occasions. In fact, I drove one the morning I bought the G8.
Though the G8 GT that I currently drive is a 4DR sedan that is significantly larger than a 3 Coupe, the 3 series BMW is actually closer to what I was originally hoping the G8 would be – in both size and weight.
I have been well pleased with the G8 GT, in most respects – and certainly ‘for the money’.
Yet a smaller & lighter coupe, with even better acceleration [ I expect ], than my G8 – and the traditional virtues of a BMW 3 Series – and [ I trust ] without the HPFP issues – holds very strong appeal.
335i that is comparable to 335iS 2011 prices
$43,525 base 335i Coupe MSRP – nonmetallic paint [ including postage & handling ] $1,450 Dakota Leather - standard on 335iS [ this is not certain - at this time ] $3,250 M Sport Pkg - standard on 335iS [ despite some confusing reportage ]
$48,225
335iS $50,525 base MSRP Apples-to-apples comparison \ difference: $2,300
So – a $2,300 for increase in TQ from 300 to 370 [ 23% increase ] and HP from 300 to 320 [ 7% increase ] and associated systems upgrades – with full backing of the BMW 4 year \ 50,000 mile warranty. And a performance exhaust - that sounds great, to me, in the videos I have seen \ heard.
This sounds like a reasonable price, for what it is.
So – based on the preliminary information now available, a European Delivery trip with my Daughter in about 15 months – to pick up a new 335iS Coupe sounds like a very real possibility.
Certainly fun to think about, anyway . . . - Ray No punches on my CCBA card in over a year now . . .
well, we fill up the minivan a couple of times a year, but my wife also tends to wildly overpack, so this would be a good tool to help cure that. But we could get by with something smaller, as long as it still had decent cargo room.
It is hard at the car show to actually tell how a car would function. 1/2 the time you can't move the seats, and even if you can, you don't spend enough time to really do it right.
But, it passed the first test. Looked nice,comfy seats (length of the bottom cushion, and width overall). It always takes a test drive though to see how it all comes together.
We aren't in the market now anyway, but a few yers down the road when we will normally be childless, then it sounds like a plan!
That's something that's sooooo annoying nowadays at the auto shows - they don't hook the car up to power, so power door latches and power seats don't work. Leaves you without a sense of how it would be to drive the car.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
That's something that's sooooo annoying nowadays at the auto shows - they don't hook the car up to power, so power door latches and power seats don't work. Leaves you without a sense of how it would be to drive the car.
At the DC auto show, the Ford people took it one step further...they disconnected the hood release so you couldn't open the hood! Evidently, last year, just before closing time, vandals came around and started cutting wires under the hood. Nice way to ruin it for the rest of us! :mad:
In their defense though, they did leave the power hooked up for most of the cars so we could move the seats around.
So – based on the preliminary information now available, a European Delivery trip with my Daughter in about 15 months – to pick up a new 335iS Coupe sounds like a very real possibility.
I'm contemplating doing that too with my wife and son in a couple or so years. She hasn't been to my native country (Poland) yet, and I haven't been back in 10 years. I have lots of family there I'd like to see, many of my cousins now have kids too.
We'd like to go when our son grows up a bit (he's only 4 months old) but before we have a second child. By that time we should be due for a vehicle replacement so getting a euro delivery would make the trip convenient as we wouldn't have to rent anything. It would also give me an excuse to do a lap or two on the Nurburgring and of course try out the Autobahn. So we would hit about 3 birds with one stone. :shades:
The 335is is a good deal; the performance enhancements can be purchased separately, but it will cost more to purchase them and have them installed.
I'm thinking more and more I should get a four door, so a 2001-2003 M5 is starting to climb the charts again. My first choice would be an E90 M3 DCT, but it costs $65K equipped to my specs. With the M5 I get at least 90% of the M3's performance at less than 40% of the cost.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
It looks pretty clean. At 124k it's probably time for a water pump and radiator, but that's not all that expensive. I'd consider a 530i if I could find one with a manual as well as the Sport and Cold Weather packages.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I was driving next to a new M3 convertible (dark grey in and out). Wow, the high-pitched whine of the exhaust/engine would drive me nuts on a regular basis. It sounded like it was going a 100 mph when only going 35-40. Also, it had a slush-box and the 'older' driver was really winding out the gears to impress his 'older' female passenger (I guess). They were upper, upper 60's.
My GTC has a nice sound to the engine and it's not whiney or high pitched, just a deep rumble sound.
Mark
2010 Land Rover LR4, 2013 Honda CR-V, 2009 Bentley GTC, 1990 MB 500SL, 2001 MB S500, 2007 Lincoln TC, 1964 RR Silver Cloud III, 1995 MB E320 Cab., 2015 Prevost Liberty Coach
I think I'm finally throwing my 530xi on cars.com today. I've been hesitating 'cause there's a lot of good reasons to keep the car - not the least of which is that I still enjoy it and have a lot of pride in it. But it made a lot more sense when it was my only car - size-wise, AWD, etc. As a second car, it's a bit much.
I had it in for an alignment yesterday and had a loaner car - got there too late for a 3-series, so I ended up with an X5. Maybe that's good - a day with a 328 or 335 may have resulted in me trading in the 530 when I picked it up.
Nothing all that interesting on their used lot though, except for a 135i with a manual. But they were asking $37k for it - and they're no haggle. They do have an '05 330i ZHP with only 26k miles on it. I think it's certified too. I may check that out.
But as someone wisely suggested earlier, I need to concentrate on selling the 530 first - then start the shopping.
The current \ newest M3 [ and I do respect the car – and the motor ] has a V8 with 400+ HP.
But. [ And 1 big reason I’d buy a 335iS rather than an M3. ]
The HP peak is at 8,300 RPM. The TQ peak is at about 4,000 RPM. The 335iS TQ ‘peak’ is from about 1,500 RPM to over 4,000 RPM. Meaning: although the N54 twin turbocharged motor will certainly rev freely, to fairly high RPM, in any sane street driving, that is not necessary. And it can be driven very quickly [ as can my G8 GT ] using no more than 3,000 or 4,000 RPM.
If ‘more is better’, then: M3’s V8, at 400+ HP is nice – Very nice, indeed. But way up at 8,300 RPM?
335iS HP = [ only ] 320 – but at a [ much more often accessible during any street driving ] 6,000 RPM.
And that M3 TQ peak is only 295. Even more important to me, in ** MY ** typical driving is the 335iS TQ – at least 330 under any conditions and [ 369 \ 370 ] in overboost mode is available as low as 1,500 RPM and always stays above 300 TQ [ again, more than the M3’s peak TQ ] until well past 4,000 RPM.
In daily driving – even in [ ahem ] spirited driving, I strongly favor useable TQ at all RPM over high HP at high RPM.
Thus, my personal preference would be the 335iS, over an M3. This new model addresses every aspect of performance that I rate important. [ Except for lack of an LSD. ] For significantly less money than an M3. [ Initial cost, maintenance – and even gas $$s ] YMMV - Ray
BTW: If I intended to drive on a track [ I do not ] and an M3 would be my second or third car, the M3 would certainly make MUCH more sense – for several reasons.
Comments
'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 ended up turning the new filter into a crumpled mess, trying to get it through the tiny opening. I give up, I'll just run it with no filter, like the base model. On the plus side, the heater in this one works extremely well, which was a problem with the third-generation Altima I used to own.
Other than a parking light with an attitude (read: have to smack the crap out of it to get it to work), an occational refusal to start without protesting in the garage, and a tranny that seems to be starting to slip (or something) I'm pretty happy with the Pilot still, lol.
My eyes are beginning to wander a bit.......might pick up a nice used truck in the next year or so to fill the urge to buy something and to keep the TT from continuing to be a yard ornament like it has for the past 3 years.
On another note hubby's Civic is approaching 40k and so far no issues, just a great little car that seems to plow through anything......including porcupines and coyotes! :sick:
Another good site, if you want to compare prices, is www.frugalmechanic.com
'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
My little Honda CR-V is doing well. No brake or transmission problems at 31,000 miles (add another 27,000 for towing).
I do have 'loud' calipers. Going over the road reflector disks or a rough road will make the calipers vibrate. It's sounds like a box of wooden marbles. They were replaced by the dealer a while back but it didn't make any difference. The tech guy told me that the Odysseys were really bad.
The OEM battery was replaced at 15,000 miles (I think) and the new one seems a little sluggish on cold mornings. The warranty will last until March or 36K. The battery looks a little small to me, maybe I'll get a real battery if they don't replace it.
GET that TT out and use it!!! Try pulling it with the Pilot!! :P
Safe travels!
Mark156
I think the Pilot would have a heart attack. Sadly the Pilot isn't even close to being a tow vehicle for it. The tow capacity maxes at 3500 lbs for the Pilot, the TT empty is 4500, not to mention its 26' long which is too big as well.
I'd like to get a Suburban, kind of a jack of all trades, but hubby says no, just buy a 10-15 year old truck. I agree in some ways, I really would hate to part with the Pilot, its been a good car. However, a new Suburban...........*looks around for CCBA membership card*
I'll take Valentine's Day in the pool!
Feels like betting $1 on the price is right...
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
Nah, I don't see Jolie waiting 4 months to pull the trigger.
The Pilot needs new rotors, she wants something large enough to pull the TT, and, from the past, she strikes me as an "instant gratification" type of gal.
4 weeks, max.
me - 2/26
tifighter - 5/31
fezo - 3/3
come one, come all! put down your guesses and see who's the closest when jolie finally pulls the trigger
sorry, jolie - but, we know that when you start to get the 'itch', it's only a matter of time before you do the deal
You guys always make me laugh. As much as I'd like to move up to something bigger its just not in the budget. I'd have to trade down, to probably an 05-06 Suburban with 75k or so on it and I'm just not willing to give up a car with 50k that hasn't really been a problem.
The transmission issue has been there for about 12k miles and the dealer says wait it out. Its under warranty for another 3.5 yrs and 70k miles so repairs won't cost anything until that point. The rotors can wait, I looked around at prices and yeah, they aren't that bad yet, I'll wait until they are unbearable.
I'd like to wait until our TT is paid off next spring before trading the Pilot in on something. I might do some looking around this weekend though, not sure, just see what's out there and exactly where I'm sitting in the Pilot.
On another note, I will NEVER EVER EVER buy another RV, nope, no way. Ours is a 2004, bought in 2005 brand new, in that time its dropped $20k in value........TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS!!! :sick: Makes me sick to think about it, thankfully it will be paid off soon and its still in great shape. Haven't used it in 3 years though.
Uh-oh. Now you're making my memorial day date look shaky, Jolie... :surprise:
Seriously, the Pilot is a good car. I have a 08 4WD that comes off lease next year. I did a lease simply to force myself to keep a car for 3 years. And you know what? I'm actually considering buying it. I looked at the last auto show, and just didn't see anything that significantly bested it. I've got 17K miles on it with a buyout around $16.5K, so a purchase seems like a good move. Used ones on lots around here are asking $22-23K; we'll see what they bring in a year. But I am a CCBA member, so who knows?
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
The Pilot is a great car, I've honestly never kept a car for more than a year before this one. I've had my Pilot 2 1/2 years and I still enjoy driving it. I just hate that we have a lovely travel trailer sitting in our yard and can't use it unless we beg a friend to move it for us to a campground and then back home.
Hubby keeps telling me I'll hate myself if I give up the Pilot........somehow I think he's right. A used truck is probably the best way to go.......but a new Suburban....... :confuse:
Also, I felt like a complete tool in the Escalade, due to its image...
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
On another note, the trunk in a Civic is pretty worthless, probably why we never take it anywhere and hubby is the only one who drives it, I personally can't stand the car. However, it gets him back and forth to work every week so can't complain too much.
It's supposed to be one of the best compacts on the market. I test drove a used Elantra sedan before buying my Altima. It rode okay, but the seating position was weird, it was underpowered, and the engine was really harsh above 4,000 rpm, to the point that I thought there was something loose. It was a lot cheaper than the Altima, but I'm happy with the Altima, and don't think I would've been with the Elantra.
Its just a small car, I don't like small cars. Also, its a stick shift, which in itself is no big deal, but its sooo fussy. I've never stalled a manual tranny as much as I've stalled that one, you have to be dead on with it or its like "no, I quit". Other than that its an ok car, it is fun in the summer to take on roads with lots of curves though, lol.
It's vastly overrated. The automotive press likes it because it is a Honda, so it revs high and pretends to be sporty. For the vast majority of buyers it is a buzzy, noisy, car that can be tiring to live with.
I agree, its comfortable, handles well, seems to have a good trade off between performance and ride quality, its easy to drive, has good visibility, and with a manual transmission, plenty of pep. I also like how easy it is to see and reach the controls.
I also love the seats in the Civic SI. Very comfortable and supportive for a car in that price range. For that much money though, the Hyundai Genesis coupe starts looking pretty good.
Waiting to see how the next generation Elantra compares with the competition, as we'll be buying either a 2011 or 2012 model to replace the Mazda. Should be interesting to see what the wife decides on when she's ready to buy.
The Sandman :sick: :shades:
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)
Even got the wife to go this year (usually my son went with me, but he is off at college now). My 14 YO daughter came along too. Needless to say, it was not a 5 hour marathon visit!
Wifee found a few things she liked (now we just need the financial means to replace the 2005 Odyssey!). VOlvo XC60 seemed to top the list, with the Acuras (RDX and MDX) close behind. The Hyundai santa fe and Kia Sorrento (man, that was nice) got seem seious play too.
Of course, this was just sitting, so the test drives would likely eliminate some of the contendors.
Oh, the Audi 7 (Q series?) seemed to float her boat (and for 50+ large, it better come with a captain), and I really liked the Q5. Wifee hated the GLK mercedes.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Toyota has to be living off their reputation for live forever, no maintenance, reliability, because they sure can't be #1 based on having the best stuff to sell.
At elast they decided to go for some style on the new Sienna. Weird dashboard though. ANd they came within $200 of breaking the 40K barrier for a minivan. Did like the barcalounger middle seats though (I guess that is appropriate for a Toyota!)
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
THey had a 4 door Golf TDI, in a dark blue/gray color. Damn, it looked good. What a nice car inside too.
ANd surprisingly, the new Sonota was very, very nice. Fantastic interior and I liked the exterior styling (although it might not be for everyone). Tons of interior room, loaded with features, and the trunk should have it's own zip code.
much nicer than the bulbous new accord,
I really wouldn't expect to be getting another sedan if I got a new car now, but if I did, that would be one of my first stops (Mazda too, for the 6).
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
1. On Industry Days (the pre-show with the OEMs and Suppliers), the busiest areas were the Europeans (tend to introduce new technology first), Hyundai (tends to take existing technology and drop the price point at the mid- to high- ), and Ford, because well, they had the most new stuff.
2. On regular people days (a Friday afternoon to evening), there were more people in the Ford area than the whole rest of the show. Hyundai had no waiting to get in anything, nor did Kia. Everyone was in the Mercedes, Audi, or Ford areas, minus the "game show" they had in the Toyota and Chrysler areas to be on Fox and win $$.
I also agree that Toyota seemed like they were hurting at the show, and that was before all this broke.
But, they did not have the new Focus (which I really, really wanted to see). They did have the FIesta, but it was roped odd on an elevated stage, so hard to really scope out. Very stylish though.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
As for crowds, the Ford display was a bit empty, but we had a snowstorm that day that ended up dumping 5-6 inches, and temps barely got out of the teens, so that might have kept people away. Plus, with the DC show, they put GM, Ford, and Volvo in a separate upper level, with everybody else down below. And it was getting late by the time we got to the upper level, so the crowds may have been dispersing by then.
I can only assume you've found you don't need the utility of a minivan?
Did you guys sit in the XC60? Personally, I couldn't deal with it. Once set to be comfortable for me, the nose of the car felt a mile away, and I wouldn't be able to see traffic lights without leaning forward to look up out of the windshield. It seems, for once, volvo let styling override practicality.
'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
[ sigh ]
BMW has released information regarding what I see as
an upgrade to their 335i that systematically addresses
virtually every aspect of the 3 series that I care about.
http://www.insideline.com/bmw/3-series/2011/2011-bmw-335is-first-drive.html
When I made the decision to by my G8 GT, in November 2008,
I had previously driven 335i sedans on 3 different occasions.
In fact, I drove one the morning I bought the G8.
Though the G8 GT that I currently drive is a 4DR sedan that is significantly larger than a 3 Coupe, the 3 series BMW is actually closer to what I was originally hoping the G8 would be – in both size and weight.
I have been well pleased with the G8 GT, in most respects – and certainly ‘for the money’.
Yet a smaller & lighter coupe, with even better acceleration
[ I expect ], than my G8 – and the traditional virtues of a BMW 3 Series – and [ I trust ] without the HPFP issues – holds very strong appeal.
335i that is comparable to 335iS 2011 prices
$43,525 base 335i Coupe MSRP –
nonmetallic paint [ including postage & handling ]
$1,450 Dakota Leather - standard on 335iS
[ this is not certain - at this time ]
$3,250 M Sport Pkg - standard on 335iS [ despite some confusing reportage ]
$48,225
335iS
$50,525 base MSRP
Apples-to-apples comparison \ difference:
$2,300
So – a $2,300 for increase in TQ from 300 to 370
[ 23% increase ] and HP from 300 to 320
[ 7% increase ]
and associated systems upgrades – with full backing
of the BMW 4 year \ 50,000 mile warranty.
And a performance exhaust - that sounds great, to me, in the videos I have seen \ heard.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbJY9QDTeOk&feature=player_embedded
This sounds like a reasonable price, for what it is.
So – based on the preliminary information now available,
a European Delivery trip with my Daughter
in about 15 months –
to pick up a new 335iS Coupe
sounds like a very real possibility.
Certainly fun to think about, anyway . . .
- Ray
No punches on my CCBA card in over a year now . . .
It is hard at the car show to actually tell how a car would function. 1/2 the time you can't move the seats, and even if you can, you don't spend enough time to really do it right.
But, it passed the first test. Looked nice,comfy seats (length of the bottom cushion, and width overall). It always takes a test drive though to see how it all comes together.
We aren't in the market now anyway, but a few yers down the road when we will normally be childless, then it sounds like a plan!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
At the DC auto show, the Ford people took it one step further...they disconnected the hood release so you couldn't open the hood! Evidently, last year, just before closing time, vandals came around and started cutting wires under the hood. Nice way to ruin it for the rest of us! :mad:
In their defense though, they did leave the power hooked up for most of the cars so we could move the seats around.
a European Delivery trip with my Daughter
in about 15 months –
to pick up a new 335iS Coupe
sounds like a very real possibility.
I'm contemplating doing that too with my wife and son in a couple or so years. She hasn't been to my native country (Poland) yet, and I haven't been back in 10 years. I have lots of family there I'd like to see, many of my cousins now have kids too.
We'd like to go when our son grows up a bit (he's only 4 months old) but before we have a second child. By that time we should be due for a vehicle replacement so getting a euro delivery would make the trip convenient as we wouldn't have to rent anything. It would also give me an excuse to do a lap or two on the Nurburgring and of course try out the Autobahn. So we would hit about 3 birds with one stone. :shades:
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
How tall are you again?
I am 5 11 but with relatively short legs.
'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
It's higher priced, but damn nice. This is a no haggle dealer of used cars.
I'm thinking more and more I should get a four door, so a 2001-2003 M5 is starting to climb the charts again. My first choice would be an E90 M3 DCT, but it costs $65K equipped to my specs. With the M5 I get at least 90% of the M3's performance at less than 40% of the cost.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
It looks pretty clean. At 124k it's probably time for a water pump and radiator, but that's not all that expensive. I'd consider a 530i if I could find one with a manual as well as the Sport and Cold Weather packages.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
My GTC has a nice sound to the engine and it's not whiney or high pitched, just a deep rumble sound.
Mark
I think I'm finally throwing my 530xi on cars.com today. I've been hesitating 'cause there's a lot of good reasons to keep the car - not the least of which is that I still enjoy it and have a lot of pride in it. But it made a lot more sense when it was my only car - size-wise, AWD, etc. As a second car, it's a bit much.
I had it in for an alignment yesterday and had a loaner car - got there too late for a 3-series, so I ended up with an X5. Maybe that's good - a day with a 328 or 335 may have resulted in me trading in the 530 when I picked it up.
Nothing all that interesting on their used lot though, except for a 135i with a manual. But they were asking $37k for it - and they're no haggle. They do have an '05 330i ZHP with only 26k miles on it. I think it's certified too. I may check that out.
But as someone wisely suggested earlier, I need to concentrate on selling the 530 first - then start the shopping.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2025 MB GLE450e - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
But. [ And 1 big reason I’d buy a 335iS rather than an M3. ]
The HP peak is at 8,300 RPM.
The TQ peak is at about 4,000 RPM.
The 335iS TQ ‘peak’ is from about 1,500 RPM to over 4,000 RPM.
Meaning: although the N54 twin turbocharged motor will certainly rev freely, to fairly high RPM, in any sane street driving, that is not necessary. And it can be driven very quickly [ as can my G8 GT ] using no more than 3,000 or 4,000 RPM.
If ‘more is better’, then:
M3’s V8, at 400+ HP is nice –
Very nice, indeed.
But way up at 8,300 RPM?
335iS HP = [ only ] 320 – but at a
[ much more often accessible during any street driving ]
6,000 RPM.
And that M3 TQ peak is only 295.
Even more important to me,
in ** MY ** typical driving
is the 335iS TQ – at least 330 under any conditions
and [ 369 \ 370 ] in overboost mode is available as low as 1,500 RPM and always stays above 300 TQ
[ again, more than the M3’s peak TQ ]
until well past 4,000 RPM.
In daily driving – even in [ ahem ]
spirited driving, I strongly favor useable TQ at all RPM
over high HP at high RPM.
Thus, my personal preference would be the 335iS, over an M3.
This new model addresses every aspect of
performance that I rate important.
[ Except for lack of an LSD. ]
For significantly less money than an M3.
[ Initial cost, maintenance –
and even gas $$s ]
YMMV
- Ray
BTW: If I intended to drive on a track
[ I do not ]
and an M3 would be my second or third car,
the M3 would certainly make MUCH more sense –
for several reasons.
To add to the BMW weirdness we got a 2003 528i wagon with really low miles.
EDIT just checked 53,000 miles. Oh and yes it is as stick.
EDIT just checked 53,000 miles. Oh and yes it is as stick.
[Tifighter sits back, puts his feet up , and awaits the inevitable droolfest/worship that's coming]
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0