It would appear, tifighter, that some intensive brainwashing has started to work for you - or your wife has decided that "...if you can't fight them, join them!" Well done tifighter, well done!
@akangl said:
Wow, its been a while since I was here, the forums have changed a lot.
Glad to see you found your way to the new edmunds. I'm happy everything is going well with your baby to be, your sons Hyundai, hubby's focus, & that you seem content with your explorer.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@abacomike - we've all got a serious problem here. We are all here to support each other.
I try not to set foot on a car lot unless I know there is a distinct possibility that I'm going to buy a car. I'm constantly looking. Reading the newspaper ads trying to see what dealers are really trying to lease or finance cheap, watching the prices paid forum to see what cars are actually selling for, & looking on lease trading websites to see if anybody has got a short term lease with a bunch of miles on it (1,700 + per month)...
The incentives BMW had on my car were just too tempting. $2500 rebate + 2 $500 payment credits + $500 BMW CCA Rebate that was even before the pumped up lease residual & short lease term. Plus I've wanted a 3 series forever. My Acura TSX was nice, but "meh," had a scrape in the rear bumper, a creased side bolster, a curb rashed wheel plus was approaching the need for some major servicing, tires, & expiring warranty. I had myself convince that my Acura was a 150,000 mile + long term keeper until I set foot on the BMW dealer's lot & drove a 2011 328xi.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
My BMW's pumped up residual is what keeps me off of dealer's lots. I know that the car is not worth anywhere near the rest of the lease payments + the residual. I won't finance negative equity or roll it into a lease.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
my son wants to look this weekend. He really has the bug. But, I am out of town again doing parent (mine, not his!) duty, and may not get home until Sunday morning. so, he says we will just go Sunday, until I told him we can't. He was dumbfounded to discover car dealers in NJ were closed on Sundays! Well, can still walk the lots.
I think he is going to get brave, and go out on his own Saturday. From all his online research, he apparently has moved on from the ILX and did not warm up to the Jetta, and thinks his 2 favorites are the new mazda 3 (4 door) and Imprezza (hatch I think).
My wife's Pilot is the perfect example of why I don't set foot onto car dealer lots. The Pilot is 2 1/2 years old & has over 45K on the odometer. We are past the half way point as far as paying for it goes. I'm sure It is worth a little more than our current pay off (which is in the $19K range). I could buy the exact same car cheaper now than I did in May of 2011, with a cheaper financing rate, plus some positive equity and have a cheaper payment or I could look at a heavily discounted GMC Acadia Denali plus 0 financing. So I just stay away:)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
I am still resisting. I did look at the BRG Mini Cooper S and it is LOW- no way I could drive it every day. I also dropped by the Fiat dealer and talked with the salesperson we had when we almost bought the used Countryman. She is really sharp- she knows the cars but isn't at all pushy. Too bad the one Abarth equipped the way I want it(red leather/heated seats/upgraded audio) is black; I'm thinking it would be too much trouble to keep clean...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Low as in hard to climb down into, or low as in you're looking up at everyone else's bumpers (not to mention being eyeball to eyeball with semi wheels)?
@nyccarguy said:
Sandy - nice shot of the Tuscon in your profile pic! I like it. Nice car dude!
My Tuscon is actually silver with black bottom cladding and the special SE wheels. I will upload my photos tomorrow and then change my pic to really show the vehicle. The jury is still out on the wheels as I prefer the brighter regular ones. Tried to get them swapped out but the saleslady played dumb and that was that. That was the only bad part of working with her...she really didn't listen to what I was saying!!! Bummer!
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)
For me, and my wife is the same way, it's about having some sort of "project" to occupy my mind with. My wife will obsess about stuff around the house - a hot tub, new flooring, new furniture, etc., and mine is mostly with cars (obviously) but occasionally with electronics and such.
I love the research involved - learning all about a new car (whether it's a "new" car or just something I hadn't been interested in previously). And I generally love the dealership experience. Which is why, like nyccarguy, I try to stay away from the lots without a distinct purpose in mind. They make buying cars too easy!
@Stever@Edmunds said:
Low as in hard to climb down into, or low as in you're looking up at everyone else's bumpers (not to mention being eyeball to eyeball with semi wheels)?
Low as in the front airdam is only about 5" off the pavement.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
@myccarguy Your comments about your BMW lease are one of the reasons I stopped leasing (I applaud your restraint). It's hard to be a chronic car buyer if you lease a car. I've successfully sold out 2 leases even, but usually the good leases that really lure us in are like yours. You really can't get out early without negative equity.
2011 Toyota Camry, 2014 Jeep Wrangler, 2017 Honda Civic Coupe, 2019 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid XSE, 2021 Toyota Tundra, 2022 Toyota 4Runner, 2022 Tesla Model 3
@roadburner said:
I am still resisting. I did look at the BRG Mini Cooper S and it is LOW- .
They have a Fiat 500 in the mall. Sign a card to win the car. Of course, you agree to let the company to sell your contact info to hundreds of telemarketers to harass you forever. I looked at the cars backseat and it was so close to the rear bumper, that any passengers sitting there in a rear end collision might as well be riding a motorcycle.
@jayrider said:
They have a Fiat 500 in the mall. Sign a card to win the car. Of course, you agree to let the company to sell your contact info to hundreds of telemarketers to harass you forever. I looked at the cars backseat and it was so close to the rear bumper, that any passengers sitting there in a rear end collision might as well be riding a motorcycle.
I'm a bit of a fatalist about vehicles and size; I buy what I like and I like small nimble cars. I know some folks think my 2002 is a deathtrap- no airbags or electronic nannies- but the pleasure I get from driving it trumps all....
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
@tommister2 said:
myccarguy Your comments about your BMW lease are one of the reasons I stopped leasing (I applaud your restraint). It's hard to be a chronic car buyer if you lease a car. I've successfully sold out 2 leases even, but usually the good leases that really lure us in are like yours. You really can't get out early without negative equity.
I used to only lease vehicles from 1990 through 2003, but you are correct, nyccarguy, it is almost impossible to be a CCB if all you do is lease. You may get lucky once or twice, but in the long run, it's not a maneuver that would successfully enable you to get in and out of cars frequently and easily - unless you were a man of "means" and didn't mind burying an**** extra**** 3000-5000 dollars in a new car every year or so over an above the normal depreciation.
@stickguy said:
my son wants to look this weekend. He really has the bug. But, I am out of town again doing parent (mine, not his!) duty, and may not get home until Sunday morning. so, he says we will just go Sunday, until I told him we can't. He was dumbfounded to discover car dealers in NJ were closed on Sundays! Well, can still walk the lots.
I think he is going to get brave, and go out on his own Saturday. From all his online research, he apparently has moved on from the ILX and did not warm up to the Jetta, and thinks his 2 favorites are the new mazda 3 (4 door) and Imprezza (hatch I think).
Personally, the ILX is just a Civic all dressed up, a pig with lipstick if you will, and could not see what the price premium was for. Did like the Jetta but wanted to sit higher and unfortunately never went back to try a Tiguan as I might've driven out in one. I think the mid version was a bit more than I wanted to spend. I personally like the new Mazda3 but having one in the stable, I am a bit predisposed towards Mazda. Did sit in a new C-5 yesterday at the dealer while waiting on our rentals and was impressed with the interior actually, the cloth was very grippy and the seats were powered and felt great. The Escape I drove home yesterday was terrible for my spine and so glad I went the way I did.
Personally, I thing the new Mazda3 is the perfect vehicle for what y'all need...and they are super reliable to boot!
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)
@abacomike said:
it is almost impossible to be a CCB if all you do is lease.
Assuming a 36 month lease, I would be getting ready for my 5th car soon. Instead I'm still driving the '99 van. So even "normal" lessees are chronic buyers to lots of us.
Like others, getting used to the new format. I've found how to get my old "watched discussions" back, but when I click on one of them is there a way to pick up where I left off? Seems now whenever I choose one I'm forced to the last page.
2024 Ram 1500 Longhorn, 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2019 Ford Mustang GT Premium, 2016 Kia Optima SX, 2000 Pontiac Trans Am WS6
Just uploaded pics from my smartphone, not sure how but I did it, and put my new rig as my profile pic. After driving that Ford escape down to Lauderdale from Orlando, glad I got what I did. My butt and back were hurting after about an hour of seat time and had to stop and walk around for a few minutes. Painful even with the power seat! Definitely made the right decision here though it was a toss up with the Mitsu Outlander SE with the 740 watt Rockford Fosgate audio. Never even got to hear it because if I had, think that's what would be sitting in my garage right now. It's being a Mitsu and the large 18" sneakers kinda shied me away from it but if that dumb manager had taken my deal and thrown the pinstripe and door edge guards/wheel well moldings on, he would've had a deal. Because I wouldn't take it home that night with those things I wanted, he let me walk next door and buy...and for the same exact price to! Ya think he'd have wanted to move another unit out the door of a vehicle with very little units in the marketplace...I mean really, how many of these Outlander SE's do ya see on the roads? Even the new Rav4 and C-5 have a bigger market share and they just came out! Guy was an idiot as he had a sale waiting to take out his credit card and he let me walk!
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)
So far the only drawback is the mileage isn't that great and I am babying it right now since I am just at under 1k. Hopefully by the 5k mark, things will improve a few mpg's. besides that, a great little crossover and truthfully, even though the wife said it's o k, think she really likes it. If she asked for it right now as her d d, think I'd hand over the keys to make her happy. But, I am loving the extra power from the 2.4 engine and it tracks straight and true. I did transfer the remainder of the Civic's 3 year 4 wheel alignment policy over to it as I still have about 2 years left on it...a couple months over actually. All I need to get is the cover for the trunk and the stainless steel accents I've seen for the front end...want to dress it up a bit. The new speakers are going to wait a bit but they will get done eventually as the amp gave me the added punch i was after but doesn't have the same clarity the Civic had with it's Boston Acoustic ones...those were outstanding and gave awesome sound. My audio guy is getting in a new high line in January he thinks will give me just what I am after here so will consider it in 2014. The wife thinks I am nuts and keeps asking how much I've spent already but haven't told her. She came home the day I transferred the amp unfortunately... and had to tell her. Next time with the new speakers, need to wait until she is not around. She is away now with my middle girl but the speakers aren't in yet!
Glad I have the funds put away and since the judge approved me last week, I will have the funds in my account by years end. Whoohoo!!!
_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)
@js06gv, after you've read a discussion, you can hit your backspace key and that will take you back to your Bookmarks list, all refreshed and ready to click on the next thread you want to read.
Leasing is what actually started me being a Chronic Car Buyer back in 2007. We leased a 2007 BMW X3 for 3 years/ 15K per year (punch #1).
In April 2008 I purchased a 2 door, E30 325i as a project car for $950 (punch #2).
After 2 years of the 3 year lease, we had 38,000 miles on the X3 (out of 45,000 miles allowed) and I figured out that my BMW project wasn't going anywhere. Cash for Clunkers came around & I couldn't pass up $3500 for my $950 BMW so I bought my wife a 2010 Acura TSX at the end of August 2009 (punch #3).
2010 was a punchless year in the Levin household, but once we found out we were going to have our 3rd child we NEEDED an SUV.
In May of 2011 we bought our 2011 Honda Pilot (punch #4).
I inherited the TSX from my wife and was never completely in love with it. So in March 2012 I took the plunge & traded in my TSX for my 2011 BMW 328xi (punch #5).
Yes my name is Bradd, & I'm a chronic car buyer!
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Update on the looking. I stopped at the mazda/volvo dealer (same showroom, super convenient!) and sat in a 2014 S60 (interesting new dash, but really need to see it in action). and a new 3 and 6 mazda The 3 was very nice, and interior wise, actually reminded me a lot of the Volvo. Also swung by VW (right around the corner) and scoped out a Jetta. Not bad, but I think the Mazda was more interesting. Stopped at Subaru yesterday and sat in an Imprezza. Not bad, but again, seemed a little on the cheaper side.
did not drive any of them, so can't factor that into the equation.
my son went out on his own and checked out VW and Subaru (just sits, no drives). Jetta did not impress him. Imprezza was OK to him. He also stopped at Mazda, and got a test drive in a 3. That he loved. The interior, tech gadgets, and the way it drove. That is easily his favorite, including over the ILX I think (need to clarify that though).
Sandy will be pleased to know that if he did have to buy right now, the 3 would be choice #1. He really liked all the goodies on the tech package. I thought that overall it was a big upgrade over the previous model, so Mrs. Sandy would probably love it.
This may be more than idle looking, because he reported today that his TL is acting up again. In the past it had a problem with not wanting to restart if he drove a lot and it sat a short time. Not sure if this ended up being the coil packs that finally failed in May. we only replaced 3, and I have no particular desire to pay to replace the other 3 now!
my concern is, if he does have to take the plunge, will I actually want the TL back? probably would take the chance (besides, I would feel guilty selling it without sorting out a potential issue) but keeping it for my spare car should be OK, since that is very low usage. And I keep it on the insurance to assign my 18 YO on it, so practically free to keep it.
next week, I will go take a 3 for a drive to formulate my own opinion. along with a Jetta, just for the hell of it.
Yep, though he'd like the new 3...saw one yesterday at the Daytona Mazda store and was very impressed. Once the wife drives one, don't think she'll be able to buy an Accent actually. She's on a short road trip with the Mazda right now and hope all is fine with it. Asked her to take the kid's Accent so she could see if it could work as her d d but she vetoed that idea. She still insists that she'll get a 2015 Accent but I am not holding my breathe here.
Stopped at the Hyundai store earlier to pick up a Hyundai key ring I liked and to check on the tonneau cover for the rear hatch. Turns out they don't sell one for it, shame. Saw my saleslady and she remembered that I was unhappy with the special SE alloys but again convinced me to keep 'em so I will...just prefer the lighter color if I had my choice here. But then she asked if the wife was ready to purchase and told her that truth that if she does want the Accent, we'd only go to her and I will if we end up there. Something tells me that our Mazda is not going to be in our garage through the end of 2014 and that something else will be in it's place this time next year and it'll be either a Mazda3 or the Hyundai Accent GLS with the alloys/cruise that I insist on for the larger tires.
_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)
@nyc leasing is what keeps me in the ccba game as well. Knowing I'm 2 or 3 years away from my next ride is good enough for me. I've been able to trade out of a couple of leases early without rolling negative equity but that is the exception not the rule. That's particularly difficult to do with a BMW lease. The inflated residual buries you immediately. I'm probably 6k upside down on my F30 lease that started in the spring. I'll admit to having second thoughts on this one. It's just not the same car as my E92. Today, and this will change hundreds of times, my plan when this lease matures my plan would be to lease a GTI and buy on older M3 convertible as a toy.
Would love to have a 435i but they want ridiculous money for them. The soon to be released 2 series is intriguing as well. But I also think the A5 is one of the best looking cars on the road so as you can see I'm all over the map! That's ok as I think for most of us looking is half (or more) of the fun!
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
I saw one at the mall in red with black leather interior the other day - 435i. Great looking car, but you are correct about pricing. The window sticker showed $59,990 and I think it was just the hardtop, not the convertible.
@abacomike said:
au1994...would love to have a 435i...
I saw one at the mall in red with black leather interior the other day - 435i. Great looking car, but you are correct about pricing. The window sticker showed $59,990 and I think it was just the hardtop, not the convertible.
No doubt it was the hardtop, the convertible hasn't been released yet. I'd imagine you could option a 435i vert up to near 70k! In order to build a 435 similar to my 335 59k was the number I came up with. To me the I6 is the essence of the 3 series so it's very important to me. I drove the 4 cyl turbo. Nice but just not as smooth as the 6. If I was going to resign myself to a 4 I'd go ahead and get an A5 which is just as attractive.
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
talking about sticker shock, while at the VW dealer, looked at a tiguan in the showroom, that had a factory MSRP over 40K. For that money, there are way more desirable options than that!
Audi has come a long way in the past 30 years. Back in the 80's, I bought 2 Audi sedans - a 5000S and a 5000CS (not sure if it was "CS", but it had a 5 cylinder Turbo, I believe). I hated both cars - the 5000S was slow and drove like a tank and the Turbo had a 2-3 second delay before it took off.
So, I have a bad taste in my mouth from those experiences - but I test-drove the A7, and it was a far cry from those 5000's, that's for sure.
Their A4, A5 and A6 are excellent cars, but I just didn't fit well (I am 6'2" and 235 lbs).
If I had had serious problems with any of my Mercedes sedans, I would be more inclined to switch brands - but for the most part, I have been quite satisfied with the Mercedes lineup.
@abacomike...I hear ya. I'm some years jr to you but think that's the stigma Audi is fighting and the sudden acceleration debacle. Have to say I've spent time in the A4,5&6 and they are close to equal of the comparable BMW models. I saw an A3 sedan in Germany this summer and BMW better get ready for stiff competition especially in S3 trim. As for Mercedes, I have never owned one but found them to lean more toward luxury than sport at least at the C series so it didn't appeal to me. I will say I think the E series looks great especially in coupe and convertible form but again not sure if they can compete on the sportiness scale with BMW or Audi and really that's ok.
But back to the original point, Audi is going to be a stiff competitor to BMW in the future if BMW continues to soften the 3 series as they have the 5 series. The latter of which is a shadow of its former self.
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
@au1994 BMW keeps sucking you in as well. The inflated residuals make the lease payments on your $X thousand dollar BMW very attractive: "Gee, I can finance a loaded Camcord for 5 years or for the same monthly payment drive a BMW for 3 years." Plus you don't have to pay for maintenance & the next time around they usually have loyalty cash.
I've said this before, but I'm really curious as to what the actual value of my car will be when the lease is up.
Besides the fact that I'm going to try and go for something less expensive next, BMWs in general are just getting ridiculously expensive. Very easy for a 328i to push well into the $50K range and 335i to get into the $60K stratosphere. My big beef with the 328i wasn't so much the coarseness of the 4cyl turbo, but with its electric power steering (improved for 2014). Call me old school, but $50K plus is A LOT for a 4 banger. $60K is too much for a 3 series that doesn't have an ///M in front of if.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@nyccarguy Now that I own one of these, the funny thing is I'm seeing them all over the place! Although not so many of the new ones. It was a very popular car in the previous '06-'11 generation. It's also kind of funny that there is a clear age divide between the 2-doors and the 4-doors, 4-doors all owned by middle-aged and older people, 2-doors all owned by 20-something guys who have modified them in some way (one thing I have noticed especially is lots of lowered SI coupes).
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
@nyccarguy I am starting to get real interested in the new Mazda 3. Impressive car, and very well equipped. Plus, it seems to be a throwback as a sporty small sedan. In many ways, it is what a BMW was a couple of decades ago (just driven by the front wheels).
@stickguy I suggested a new 3 to one of my wife's friends and she loves it; me; I'd wait to see when/if Mazda offers a manual on the 2.5 or-much better yet-rolls out a Mazdaspeed version...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
There are definitely "cheap" ways to get into a new BMW, but you've got to be pretty creative. I just "built" an X1 x-Drive with cold weather pkg, lighting pkg, & Harmon Kardon. MSRP is $36,000 on the nose. Invoice is $33,165 (BTW, pricing out a car on KBB is sooooooo much easier & more updated). Minus $750 Holiday Credit & $500 Loyalty = $31,915 plus TTL. (Up to) $500 payment credit & $500 BMWCCA rebate. Hmmmmm
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
If I had more time today (and had no desire to go near the shopping districts on a Saturday afternoon!) BMW in spring valley had a nice lease deal offered. a 320xi premium pack + heated seats (MSRP 37K or so). $309/mo, zero down, about 1K (or 1.5K w/o the loyalty money) to drive away. Tempting.
Hey, stickguy, we are CCBers - almost anything is tempting - especially at this time of year.
The best deals are consummated between Dec. 26th and Dec. 31st - from dealerships that are competing for top dog in the nation or in their state for their particular brand.
When I was in the business as a sales manager in the top selling dealership in the country for our brand, we would sell $40,000 and $50,000 cars and SUV's for thousands below invoice just to make our end-of-year sales targets. On New Years Eve Day, we would easily sell 20-30 new vehicles at an average "loss" of $1200 -$1500 each. The owner of our dealership would always tell us to make any and every deal possible - especially during the week between Christmas and New Years.
So, down here in South Florida, I live 5 miles or less from the top selling BMW, Lexus, Volkswagen, Huyandai, Mercedes, Nissan and Infiniti dealerships. They are currently making unbelievable deals on cars. If you are looking for a new car, this is the time of the year to make a great deal - TEMPTING!!!
@stickguy - that's where we buy and service our BMWs. If you ever need it, I can pass along my parents' salesman contact info to you. He's knowledgable, friendly, and so far from pushy. Remember, NY has their doc fees capped @ $75. Might be worth it to you to save a few hundred;)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@breld said:
For me, and my wife is the same way, it's about having some sort of "project" to occupy my mind with. My wife will obsess about stuff around the house - a hot tub, new flooring, new furniture, etc., and mine is mostly with cars (obviously) but occasionally with electronics and such.
Yeah, my current project is touching up a patio bench I repainted this year and also painting some cabinets I salvaged to hang in my garage. I really like the idea of garage cabinets: Put a few things in their place, but if all else fails, you can just close the door on your junk, clutter, and messes.
@nyccarguy said:
stickguy - that's where we buy and service our BMWs. If you ever need it, I can pass along my parents' salesman contact info to you. He's knowledgable, friendly, and so far from pushy. Remember, NY has their doc fees capped @ $75. Might be worth it to you to save a few hundred;)
interesting to know. If I did not want to get home earlier today, I might stop but they don't open until 11. Too bad I don't qualify for the $500 loyalty, though I have had a BMW credit card for ages. I never did figure out if that does anything for me!
I assume that a NY dealer can lease into NJ and have it all work out with registration, tax, etc.
@stickguy - yup. They do it all the time. I leased in NY & live in CT. Only as thing is that dealers in NY cannot take MSDs which if you can do it might be worth paying the doc fee.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@stickguy said:
nyccarguy I am starting to get real interested in the new Mazda 3. Impressive car, and very well equipped. Plus, it seems to be a throwback as a sporty small sedan. In many ways, it is what a BMW was a couple of decades ago (just driven by the front wheels).
Can't wait to drive one!
It's been a few years since I sat in Mazda 3. It seemed so low to the ground and small, I immediately crossed it off my list. 35 years ago, it would have been a contender. After spending more time in the LaCrosse, I've become a semi-luxury sedan man for life.
Interested as well to hear your impressions of the Mazda3, stick.
My wife registered the A3 this past week, and we couldn't transfer the plates (and related prorated credit) from the veloster because the Hyundai was under my name and the A3 is under hers. Colorado car registration fees are very high (about 2% of the cars value, until a certain age). Anyhow, my point is, she said that I'd be able to transfer the credit to another purchase if made by this upcoming July. We agreed that realistically that's not gonna be a problem.
I don't necessarily want to get rid of any of the current cars, but I would like to see the following in the fleet at some point: 3 series GT, Civic Si, Accord, GTI or GLI, Crosstour. Maybe a Mazda6 or 3 too.
I'll wait on the 3 series until they are available used, and that really could become a more long-term car at that time. It just hits all the right buttons. But in the meantime, a Crosstour would fill the gap well - tons of 3 year leases coming due, with nice EX-L AWD models right around $20k.
Then it's just a question of what fills the fun car role - the Si, a VW, or simply the current 335xi.
@nyccarguy said:
au1994 BMW keeps sucking you in as well. The inflated residuals make the lease payments on your $X thousand dollar BMW very attractive: "Gee, I can finance a loaded Camcord for 5 years or for the same monthly payment drive a BMW for 3 years." Plus you don't have to pay for maintenance & the next time around they usually have loyalty cash.
I've said this before, but I'm really curious as to what the actual value of my car will be when the lease is up.
Besides the fact that I'm going to try and go for something less expensive next, BMWs in general are just getting ridiculously expensive. Very easy for a 328i to push well into the $50K range and 335i to get into the $60K stratosphere. My big beef with the 328i wasn't so much the coarseness of the 4cyl turbo, but with its electric power steering (improved for 2014). Call me old school, but $50K plus is A LOT for a 4 banger. $60K is too much for a 3 series that doesn't have an ///M in front of if.
I just got an email from Infiniti offering me $4k off my G37x payoff at the end of the lease. We just dumped the other half's 2007 A4 so we're actually considering buying out the G37. The A4 was at 90k and really showing it's age mechanically. Cosmetically it looked great and still handled well but there was an easy 2k in maintenance and repairs looming and knowing we didn't want to keep it long term we decided to go ahead and get rid of it.
Still loving the Q50. Took it on a short road trip at got 35.1 mpg, the more I drive it the more I love it.
Comments
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Glad to see you found your way to the new edmunds. I'm happy everything is going well with your baby to be, your sons Hyundai, hubby's focus, & that you seem content with your explorer.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@abacomike - we've all got a serious problem here. We are all here to support each other.
I try not to set foot on a car lot unless I know there is a distinct possibility that I'm going to buy a car. I'm constantly looking. Reading the newspaper ads trying to see what dealers are really trying to lease or finance cheap, watching the prices paid forum to see what cars are actually selling for, & looking on lease trading websites to see if anybody has got a short term lease with a bunch of miles on it (1,700 + per month)...
The incentives BMW had on my car were just too tempting. $2500 rebate + 2 $500 payment credits + $500 BMW CCA Rebate that was even before the pumped up lease residual & short lease term. Plus I've wanted a 3 series forever. My Acura TSX was nice, but "meh," had a scrape in the rear bumper, a creased side bolster, a curb rashed wheel plus was approaching the need for some major servicing, tires, & expiring warranty. I had myself convince that my Acura was a 150,000 mile + long term keeper until I set foot on the BMW dealer's lot & drove a 2011 328xi.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
My BMW's pumped up residual is what keeps me off of dealer's lots. I know that the car is not worth anywhere near the rest of the lease payments + the residual. I won't finance negative equity or roll it into a lease.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
my son wants to look this weekend. He really has the bug. But, I am out of town again doing parent (mine, not his!) duty, and may not get home until Sunday morning. so, he says we will just go Sunday, until I told him we can't. He was dumbfounded to discover car dealers in NJ were closed on Sundays! Well, can still walk the lots.
I think he is going to get brave, and go out on his own Saturday. From all his online research, he apparently has moved on from the ILX and did not warm up to the Jetta, and thinks his 2 favorites are the new mazda 3 (4 door) and Imprezza (hatch I think).
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
My wife's Pilot is the perfect example of why I don't set foot onto car dealer lots. The Pilot is 2 1/2 years old & has over 45K on the odometer. We are past the half way point as far as paying for it goes. I'm sure It is worth a little more than our current pay off (which is in the $19K range). I could buy the exact same car cheaper now than I did in May of 2011, with a cheaper financing rate, plus some positive equity and have a cheaper payment or I could look at a heavily discounted GMC Acadia Denali plus 0 financing. So I just stay away:)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
I am still resisting. I did look at the BRG Mini Cooper S and it is LOW- no way I could drive it every day. I also dropped by the Fiat dealer and talked with the salesperson we had when we almost bought the used Countryman. She is really sharp- she knows the cars but isn't at all pushy. Too bad the one Abarth equipped the way I want it(red leather/heated seats/upgraded audio) is black; I'm thinking it would be too much trouble to keep clean...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Low as in hard to climb down into, or low as in you're looking up at everyone else's bumpers (not to mention being eyeball to eyeball with semi wheels)?
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)
For me, and my wife is the same way, it's about having some sort of "project" to occupy my mind with. My wife will obsess about stuff around the house - a hot tub, new flooring, new furniture, etc., and mine is mostly with cars (obviously) but occasionally with electronics and such.
I love the research involved - learning all about a new car (whether it's a "new" car or just something I hadn't been interested in previously). And I generally love the dealership experience. Which is why, like nyccarguy, I try to stay away from the lots without a distinct purpose in mind. They make buying cars too easy!
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
Low as in the front airdam is only about 5" off the pavement.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
@myccarguy Your comments about your BMW lease are one of the reasons I stopped leasing (I applaud your restraint). It's hard to be a chronic car buyer if you lease a car. I've successfully sold out 2 leases even, but usually the good leases that really lure us in are like yours. You really can't get out early without negative equity.
They have a Fiat 500 in the mall. Sign a card to win the car. Of course, you agree to let the company to sell your contact info to hundreds of telemarketers to harass you forever. I looked at the cars backseat and it was so close to the rear bumper, that any passengers sitting there in a rear end collision might as well be riding a motorcycle.
I'm a bit of a fatalist about vehicles and size; I buy what I like and I like small nimble cars. I know some folks think my 2002 is a deathtrap- no airbags or electronic nannies- but the pleasure I get from driving it trumps all....
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
I used to only lease vehicles from 1990 through 2003, but you are correct, nyccarguy, it is almost impossible to be a CCB if all you do is lease. You may get lucky once or twice, but in the long run, it's not a maneuver that would successfully enable you to get in and out of cars frequently and easily - unless you were a man of "means" and didn't mind burying an**** extra**** 3000-5000 dollars in a new car every year or so over an above the normal depreciation.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Personally, the ILX is just a Civic all dressed up, a pig with lipstick if you will, and could not see what the price premium was for. Did like the Jetta but wanted to sit higher and unfortunately never went back to try a Tiguan as I might've driven out in one. I think the mid version was a bit more than I wanted to spend. I personally like the new Mazda3 but having one in the stable, I am a bit predisposed towards Mazda. Did sit in a new C-5 yesterday at the dealer while waiting on our rentals and was impressed with the interior actually, the cloth was very grippy and the seats were powered and felt great. The Escape I drove home yesterday was terrible for my spine and so glad I went the way I did.
Personally, I thing the new Mazda3 is the perfect vehicle for what y'all need...and they are super reliable to boot!
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)
Assuming a 36 month lease, I would be getting ready for my 5th car soon. Instead I'm still driving the '99 van. So even "normal" lessees are chronic buyers to lots of us.
Like others, getting used to the new format. I've found how to get my old "watched discussions" back, but when I click on one of them is there a way to pick up where I left off? Seems now whenever I choose one I'm forced to the last page.
2024 Ram 1500 Longhorn, 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2019 Ford Mustang GT Premium, 2016 Kia Optima SX, 2000 Pontiac Trans Am WS6
Just uploaded pics from my smartphone, not sure how but I did it, and put my new rig as my profile pic. After driving that Ford escape down to Lauderdale from Orlando, glad I got what I did. My butt and back were hurting after about an hour of seat time and had to stop and walk around for a few minutes. Painful even with the power seat! Definitely made the right decision here though it was a toss up with the Mitsu Outlander SE with the 740 watt Rockford Fosgate audio. Never even got to hear it because if I had, think that's what would be sitting in my garage right now. It's being a Mitsu and the large 18" sneakers kinda shied me away from it but if that dumb manager had taken my deal and thrown the pinstripe and door edge guards/wheel well moldings on, he would've had a deal. Because I wouldn't take it home that night with those things I wanted, he let me walk next door and buy...and for the same exact price to! Ya think he'd have wanted to move another unit out the door of a vehicle with very little units in the marketplace...I mean really, how many of these Outlander SE's do ya see on the roads? Even the new Rav4 and C-5 have a bigger market share and they just came out! Guy was an idiot as he had a sale waiting to take out his credit card and he let me walk!
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)
So far the only drawback is the mileage isn't that great and I am babying it right now since I am just at under 1k. Hopefully by the 5k mark, things will improve a few mpg's. besides that, a great little crossover and truthfully, even though the wife said it's o k, think she really likes it. If she asked for it right now as her d d, think I'd hand over the keys to make her happy. But, I am loving the extra power from the 2.4 engine and it tracks straight and true. I did transfer the remainder of the Civic's 3 year 4 wheel alignment policy over to it as I still have about 2 years left on it...a couple months over actually. All I need to get is the cover for the trunk and the stainless steel accents I've seen for the front end...want to dress it up a bit. The new speakers are going to wait a bit but they will get done eventually as the amp gave me the added punch i was after but doesn't have the same clarity the Civic had with it's Boston Acoustic ones...those were outstanding and gave awesome sound. My audio guy is getting in a new high line in January he thinks will give me just what I am after here so will consider it in 2014. The wife thinks I am nuts and keeps asking how much I've spent already but haven't told her. She came home the day I transferred the amp unfortunately... and had to tell her. Next time with the new speakers, need to wait until she is not around. She is away now with my middle girl but the speakers aren't in yet!
Glad I have the funds put away and since the judge approved me last week, I will have the funds in my account by years end. Whoohoo!!!
_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)
@js06gv, after you've read a discussion, you can hit your backspace key and that will take you back to your Bookmarks list, all refreshed and ready to click on the next thread you want to read.
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Leasing is what actually started me being a Chronic Car Buyer back in 2007. We leased a 2007 BMW X3 for 3 years/ 15K per year (punch #1).
In April 2008 I purchased a 2 door, E30 325i as a project car for $950 (punch #2).
After 2 years of the 3 year lease, we had 38,000 miles on the X3 (out of 45,000 miles allowed) and I figured out that my BMW project wasn't going anywhere. Cash for Clunkers came around & I couldn't pass up $3500 for my $950 BMW so I bought my wife a 2010 Acura TSX at the end of August 2009 (punch #3).
2010 was a punchless year in the Levin household, but once we found out we were going to have our 3rd child we NEEDED an SUV.
In May of 2011 we bought our 2011 Honda Pilot (punch #4).
I inherited the TSX from my wife and was never completely in love with it. So in March 2012 I took the plunge & traded in my TSX for my 2011 BMW 328xi (punch #5).
Yes my name is Bradd, & I'm a chronic car buyer!
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Update on the looking. I stopped at the mazda/volvo dealer (same showroom, super convenient!) and sat in a 2014 S60 (interesting new dash, but really need to see it in action). and a new 3 and 6 mazda The 3 was very nice, and interior wise, actually reminded me a lot of the Volvo. Also swung by VW (right around the corner) and scoped out a Jetta. Not bad, but I think the Mazda was more interesting. Stopped at Subaru yesterday and sat in an Imprezza. Not bad, but again, seemed a little on the cheaper side.
did not drive any of them, so can't factor that into the equation.
my son went out on his own and checked out VW and Subaru (just sits, no drives). Jetta did not impress him. Imprezza was OK to him. He also stopped at Mazda, and got a test drive in a 3. That he loved. The interior, tech gadgets, and the way it drove. That is easily his favorite, including over the ILX I think (need to clarify that though).
Sandy will be pleased to know that if he did have to buy right now, the 3 would be choice #1. He really liked all the goodies on the tech package. I thought that overall it was a big upgrade over the previous model, so Mrs. Sandy would probably love it.
This may be more than idle looking, because he reported today that his TL is acting up again. In the past it had a problem with not wanting to restart if he drove a lot and it sat a short time. Not sure if this ended up being the coil packs that finally failed in May. we only replaced 3, and I have no particular desire to pay to replace the other 3 now!
my concern is, if he does have to take the plunge, will I actually want the TL back? probably would take the chance (besides, I would feel guilty selling it without sorting out a potential issue) but keeping it for my spare car should be OK, since that is very low usage. And I keep it on the insurance to assign my 18 YO on it, so practically free to keep it.
next week, I will go take a 3 for a drive to formulate my own opinion. along with a Jetta, just for the hell of it.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Yep, though he'd like the new 3...saw one yesterday at the Daytona Mazda store and was very impressed. Once the wife drives one, don't think she'll be able to buy an Accent actually. She's on a short road trip with the Mazda right now and hope all is fine with it. Asked her to take the kid's Accent so she could see if it could work as her d d but she vetoed that idea. She still insists that she'll get a 2015 Accent but I am not holding my breathe here.
Stopped at the Hyundai store earlier to pick up a Hyundai key ring I liked and to check on the tonneau cover for the rear hatch. Turns out they don't sell one for it, shame. Saw my saleslady and she remembered that I was unhappy with the special SE alloys but again convinced me to keep 'em so I will...just prefer the lighter color if I had my choice here. But then she asked if the wife was ready to purchase and told her that truth that if she does want the Accent, we'd only go to her and I will if we end up there. Something tells me that our Mazda is not going to be in our garage through the end of 2014 and that something else will be in it's place this time next year and it'll be either a Mazda3 or the Hyundai Accent GLS with the alloys/cruise that I insist on for the larger tires.
_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)
My son did report that the 3 drove like a sports car. I owned a Miata, so I will be the one to judge how well it compares!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
@nyc leasing is what keeps me in the ccba game as well. Knowing I'm 2 or 3 years away from my next ride is good enough for me. I've been able to trade out of a couple of leases early without rolling negative equity but that is the exception not the rule. That's particularly difficult to do with a BMW lease. The inflated residual buries you immediately. I'm probably 6k upside down on my F30 lease that started in the spring. I'll admit to having second thoughts on this one. It's just not the same car as my E92. Today, and this will change hundreds of times, my plan when this lease matures my plan would be to lease a GTI and buy on older M3 convertible as a toy.
Would love to have a 435i but they want ridiculous money for them. The soon to be released 2 series is intriguing as well. But I also think the A5 is one of the best looking cars on the road so as you can see I'm all over the map! That's ok as I think for most of us looking is half (or more) of the fun!
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
I saw one at the mall in red with black leather interior the other day - 435i. Great looking car, but you are correct about pricing. The window sticker showed $59,990 and I think it was just the hardtop, not the convertible.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
No doubt it was the hardtop, the convertible hasn't been released yet. I'd imagine you could option a 435i vert up to near 70k! In order to build a 435 similar to my 335 59k was the number I came up with. To me the I6 is the essence of the 3 series so it's very important to me. I drove the 4 cyl turbo. Nice but just not as smooth as the 6. If I was going to resign myself to a 4 I'd go ahead and get an A5 which is just as attractive.
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
talking about sticker shock, while at the VW dealer, looked at a tiguan in the showroom, that had a factory MSRP over 40K. For that money, there are way more desirable options than that!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
40k? Ouch!! Smart looking CUV but not for that money.
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
Audi has come a long way in the past 30 years. Back in the 80's, I bought 2 Audi sedans - a 5000S and a 5000CS (not sure if it was "CS", but it had a 5 cylinder Turbo, I believe). I hated both cars - the 5000S was slow and drove like a tank and the Turbo had a 2-3 second delay before it took off.
So, I have a bad taste in my mouth from those experiences - but I test-drove the A7, and it was a far cry from those 5000's, that's for sure.
Their A4, A5 and A6 are excellent cars, but I just didn't fit well (I am 6'2" and 235 lbs).
If I had had serious problems with any of my Mercedes sedans, I would be more inclined to switch brands - but for the most part, I have been quite satisfied with the Mercedes lineup.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
@abacomike...I hear ya. I'm some years jr to you but think that's the stigma Audi is fighting and the sudden acceleration debacle. Have to say I've spent time in the A4,5&6 and they are close to equal of the comparable BMW models. I saw an A3 sedan in Germany this summer and BMW better get ready for stiff competition especially in S3 trim. As for Mercedes, I have never owned one but found them to lean more toward luxury than sport at least at the C series so it didn't appeal to me. I will say I think the E series looks great especially in coupe and convertible form but again not sure if they can compete on the sportiness scale with BMW or Audi and really that's ok.
But back to the original point, Audi is going to be a stiff competitor to BMW in the future if BMW continues to soften the 3 series as they have the 5 series. The latter of which is a shadow of its former self.
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
@au1994 BMW keeps sucking you in as well. The inflated residuals make the lease payments on your $X thousand dollar BMW very attractive: "Gee, I can finance a loaded Camcord for 5 years or for the same monthly payment drive a BMW for 3 years." Plus you don't have to pay for maintenance & the next time around they usually have loyalty cash.
I've said this before, but I'm really curious as to what the actual value of my car will be when the lease is up.
Besides the fact that I'm going to try and go for something less expensive next, BMWs in general are just getting ridiculously expensive. Very easy for a 328i to push well into the $50K range and 335i to get into the $60K stratosphere. My big beef with the 328i wasn't so much the coarseness of the 4cyl turbo, but with its electric power steering (improved for 2014). Call me old school, but $50K plus is A LOT for a 4 banger. $60K is too much for a 3 series that doesn't have an ///M in front of if.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@nippononly I saw a red 2013 Civic Si Sedan on my way to work the other day. Sharp looking!
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@nyccarguy Now that I own one of these, the funny thing is I'm seeing them all over the place! Although not so many of the new ones. It was a very popular car in the previous '06-'11 generation. It's also kind of funny that there is a clear age divide between the 2-doors and the 4-doors, 4-doors all owned by middle-aged and older people, 2-doors all owned by 20-something guys who have modified them in some way (one thing I have noticed especially is lots of lowered SI coupes).
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
@nyccarguy I am starting to get real interested in the new Mazda 3. Impressive car, and very well equipped. Plus, it seems to be a throwback as a sporty small sedan. In many ways, it is what a BMW was a couple of decades ago (just driven by the front wheels).
Can't wait to drive one!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
@stickguy - can't wait to hear your impressions
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
@stickguy I suggested a new 3 to one of my wife's friends and she loves it; me; I'd wait to see when/if Mazda offers a manual on the 2.5 or-much better yet-rolls out a Mazdaspeed version...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
There are definitely "cheap" ways to get into a new BMW, but you've got to be pretty creative. I just "built" an X1 x-Drive with cold weather pkg, lighting pkg, & Harmon Kardon. MSRP is $36,000 on the nose. Invoice is $33,165 (BTW, pricing out a car on KBB is sooooooo much easier & more updated). Minus $750 Holiday Credit & $500 Loyalty = $31,915 plus TTL. (Up to) $500 payment credit & $500 BMWCCA rebate. Hmmmmm
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
If I had more time today (and had no desire to go near the shopping districts on a Saturday afternoon!) BMW in spring valley had a nice lease deal offered. a 320xi premium pack + heated seats (MSRP 37K or so). $309/mo, zero down, about 1K (or 1.5K w/o the loyalty money) to drive away. Tempting.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Hey, stickguy, we are CCBers - almost anything is tempting - especially at this time of year.
The best deals are consummated between Dec. 26th and Dec. 31st - from dealerships that are competing for top dog in the nation or in their state for their particular brand.
When I was in the business as a sales manager in the top selling dealership in the country for our brand, we would sell $40,000 and $50,000 cars and SUV's for thousands below invoice just to make our end-of-year sales targets. On New Years Eve Day, we would easily sell 20-30 new vehicles at an average "loss" of $1200 -$1500 each. The owner of our dealership would always tell us to make any and every deal possible - especially during the week between Christmas and New Years.
So, down here in South Florida, I live 5 miles or less from the top selling BMW, Lexus, Volkswagen, Huyandai, Mercedes, Nissan and Infiniti dealerships. They are currently making unbelievable deals on cars. If you are looking for a new car, this is the time of the year to make a great deal - TEMPTING!!!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
@stickguy - that's where we buy and service our BMWs. If you ever need it, I can pass along my parents' salesman contact info to you. He's knowledgable, friendly, and so far from pushy. Remember, NY has their doc fees capped @ $75. Might be worth it to you to save a few hundred;)
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Yeah, my current project is touching up a patio bench I repainted this year and also painting some cabinets I salvaged to hang in my garage. I really like the idea of garage cabinets: Put a few things in their place, but if all else fails, you can just close the door on your junk, clutter, and messes.
interesting to know. If I did not want to get home earlier today, I might stop but they don't open until 11. Too bad I don't qualify for the $500 loyalty, though I have had a BMW credit card for ages. I never did figure out if that does anything for me!
I assume that a NY dealer can lease into NJ and have it all work out with registration, tax, etc.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
@stickguy - yup. They do it all the time. I leased in NY & live in CT. Only as thing is that dealers in NY cannot take MSDs which if you can do it might be worth paying the doc fee.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
It's been a few years since I sat in Mazda 3. It seemed so low to the ground and small, I immediately crossed it off my list. 35 years ago, it would have been a contender. After spending more time in the LaCrosse, I've become a semi-luxury sedan man for life.
Interested as well to hear your impressions of the Mazda3, stick.
My wife registered the A3 this past week, and we couldn't transfer the plates (and related prorated credit) from the veloster because the Hyundai was under my name and the A3 is under hers. Colorado car registration fees are very high (about 2% of the cars value, until a certain age). Anyhow, my point is, she said that I'd be able to transfer the credit to another purchase if made by this upcoming July. We agreed that realistically that's not gonna be a problem.
I don't necessarily want to get rid of any of the current cars, but I would like to see the following in the fleet at some point: 3 series GT, Civic Si, Accord, GTI or GLI, Crosstour. Maybe a Mazda6 or 3 too.
I'll wait on the 3 series until they are available used, and that really could become a more long-term car at that time. It just hits all the right buttons. But in the meantime, a Crosstour would fill the gap well - tons of 3 year leases coming due, with nice EX-L AWD models right around $20k.
Then it's just a question of what fills the fun car role - the Si, a VW, or simply the current 335xi.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
I just got an email from Infiniti offering me $4k off my G37x payoff at the end of the lease. We just dumped the other half's 2007 A4 so we're actually considering buying out the G37. The A4 was at 90k and really showing it's age mechanically. Cosmetically it looked great and still handled well but there was an easy 2k in maintenance and repairs looming and knowing we didn't want to keep it long term we decided to go ahead and get rid of it.
Still loving the Q50. Took it on a short road trip at got 35.1 mpg, the more I drive it the more I love it.