Chronic Car Buyers Anonymous (Archived)

stickguy

you might get almost exactly what you want, within a reasonable budget, but getting a gently used BRZ, and slapping a turbo kit on it. it seems to be exactly what you want except for the missing 100 HP. Hence the point of the turbo!

ab348

roadburner said:

I looked at a Mustang GT today; MSRP with the Performance Package and a listenable audio system is $41,215. I have a $500 voucher from Ford and I can get the X-Plan price through my uncle- so I'm e-mailing the sale guy I talked with to see what the final cost would be. Not too encouraged however- seeing the sled in the metal was pretty underwhelming. I'm definitely not feeling the love right now...

I wonder how common that reaction is. I know my first impressions were about the same. Quite the contrast to when the 2005 first was introduced.

breld

My reaction was different - I visited a Ford dealership this past week to check out the new Mustang and liked it quite a bit. While I appreciate the previous Mustangs, this is the first one I'd truly consider owning.

The $5,000 "Denver Market Adjustment" was pretty laughable though.

qbrozen

jayrider said:

Aren't there a number of after market radio options ?
I see Alpine, Pioneer and Kenwood receivers for less than $100 that will work.

Of course you can do whatever you want aftermarket, but, again, then I might as well have bought the mazda2 for less money and added everything it was missing. But there is a reason people buy cars with the options already on them... it just works better (or at least it SHOULD). I've done the aftermarket stereo thing many many times. I'd be very surprised to learn there is a $100 option that does all of that, though. My volvo unit set me back nearly $500 and that is without backup cam (although I could add one, but it would only add to the cost). It does play DVDs, though, which the Honda does not. So call it a draw, I guess. PLUS, when you do that to a newer car, it detracts from the value in many cases. It is not like the days of replacing a stock AM radio. Since the Honda unit is SUPPOSED to encompass so much that future buyers will want it there so I believe resale/trade-in would suffer without it.

stickguy

well Q, there is only one solution.

Dump that dog and buy something else!

breld

jayrider said:

I just feel that a used CT is not the "fun"car you are looking for. Hope I'm wrong if you buy. The CRV is a great car but it doesn't have a "fun" personality either. Now the Golf starts moving in the right direction but if you really want a smile -- go for the GTI $28500 4 door auto SE with leather.which is less than the A3 in price but right there in drive dynamics --- choose wisely my friend.

I agree with jayrider - nothing wrong with making this move Sandy - I think everyone here would be happy for you - but just make sure it's for the right car.

You seem to really like and appreciate the "luxury" feel your wife's new A3 offers. Not so sure the HR-V gets you there. The CT is nice and as much as you drive, the MPG would be nice. But do make sure getting in and out of the car isn't gonna wear on you.

I like jay's GTI suggestion - definitely a fun car with character and a nice compliment to the A3 stablemate. Golf TDI would be good too.

fintail

Either good or bad that I picked up my car about a month ago - the used section of the local MB dealer just picked this up:



1998 SL500, rare pano, sport, 18" AMG wheels, striking color combo, 1 owner, 29K miles. They want something like 17K for it. I stopped by to peek today, it looks like a year old car. I've read that's a good year for the R129. I'd drive that.

Michaell

breld said:

My reaction was different - I visited a Ford dealership this past week to check out the new Mustang and liked it quite a bit. While I appreciate the previous Mustangs, this is the first one I'd truly consider owning.

The $5,000 "Denver Market Adjustment" was pretty laughable though.

I wonder if that adjustment goes away with the next snowfall.

Predicted temps this week in Colorado - 50's

stickguy

Jersey is getting a N'oreaster Tuesday/Wednesday. thankfully just rain, even though we are already saturated and floating away. Could end up bring snow to New England though I imagine, and I think it is supposed to be more up the coast so hitting NY (long island), CT and MA harder. and once you get up there, always the snow possibility.

stickguy

Thankfully my daughter came home today from college (her finals end early), and managed to travel in between the 2 storms this week. Took the train so not a big deal anyway. better than a bunch of her friends that are coming up north Tuesday and Wednesday, many flying and some driving.

oh, car related? She got to try out the rear heated seats in the new car. And was very fond of them!

henryn

qbrozen said:

jayrider said:

Aren't there a number of after market radio options ?
I see Alpine, Pioneer and Kenwood receivers for less than $100 that will work.

Of course you can do whatever you want aftermarket, but, again, then I might as well have bought the mazda2 for less money and added everything it was missing. But there is a reason people buy cars with the options already on them... it just works better (or at least it SHOULD). I've done the aftermarket stereo thing many many times. I'd be very surprised to learn there is a $100 option that does all of that, though. My volvo unit set me back nearly $500 and that is without backup cam (although I could add one, but it would only add to the cost). It does play DVDs, though, which the Honda does not. So call it a draw, I guess. PLUS, when you do that to a newer car, it detracts from the value in many cases. It is not like the days of replacing a stock AM radio. Since the Honda unit is SUPPOSED to encompass so much that future buyers will want it there so I believe resale/trade-in would suffer without it.

About two years ago I was replacing the factory stereo in my 2008 Passat. I consulted with one of the best car stereo shops here in Houston before making my choices. Whilst talking with the head man there, he told me that much of his work comes from dealerships, the more expensive brands of dealerships. They pay him good money to restore the factory stereo setup in the trade-ins that they are going to put on their used car lot. Seems people buying a used Mercedes / BMW / Lexus etc, etc want the factory stereo.

Mr_Shiftright

Crazy money for that car. $10K-$12K would be sky high limit, and that's premium over high book.

fintail said:

Either good or bad that I picked up my car about a month ago - the used section of the local MB dealer just picked this up:



1998 SL500, rare pano, sport, 18" AMG wheels, striking color combo, 1 owner, 29K miles. They want something like 17K for it. I stopped by to peek today, it looks like a year old car. I've read that's a good year for the R129. I'd drive that.

graphicguy

Never understood those who would rip up their dash, rip their inside door covers, rear shelf tray, etc, and pay tons of extra money, just to put in an aftermarket stereo of usually questionable sound improvement. I have heard from more than one dealer that aftermarket stereos invariably lower resale values.

Michaell

graphicguy said:

Never understood those who would rip up their dash, rip their inside door covers, rear shelf tray, etc, and pay tons of extra money, just to put in an aftermarket stereo of usually questionable sound improvement. I have heard from more than one dealer that aftermarket stereos invariably lower resale values.

I put in an aftermarket head unit in my old '02 Saturn L300 ... but had the MINI dealer where we traded it put the factory head unit back in for me.

stickguy

On a modern car I wouldn't rip out the head unit. But I have replaced speakers, but always in stock size and location.

corvette

graphicguy said:

Never understood those who would rip up their dash, rip their inside door covers, rear shelf tray, etc, and pay tons of extra money, just to put in an aftermarket stereo of usually questionable sound improvement. I have heard from more than one dealer that aftermarket stereos invariably lower resale values.

Back in the day, I replaced the cassette head unit in my 1999 Jetta. The CD changer got really flaky and I got a head unit that would play MP3 CDs. So I could fit a hundred songs on one CD. It worked great but I put the factory unit back in when I sold the car. 

Now, so long as there's an Aux input or Bluetooth audio streaming, I'm all set. 

roadburner

graphicguy said:

Never understood those who would rip up their dash, rip their inside door covers, rear shelf tray, etc, and pay tons of extra money, just to put in an aftermarket stereo of usually questionable sound improvement. I have heard from more than one dealer that aftermarket stereos invariably lower resale values.

Does this install pass muster?

roadburner

stickguy said:

On a modern car I wouldn't rip out the head unit. But I have replaced speakers, but always in stock size and location.

I lucked out when I wanted to replace the execrable stock speakers in the Wrangler- an old street/drag racing buddy runs a home/car audio shop; a customer had bought a set of four MB Quart speakers and then promptly totaled his car. The speakers wouldn't fit his new ride so he traded them back to my friend- who sold them to me at a substantial discount.

rayainsw

I test drove a black on black [ cloth seats ] 2015 Dodge Charger R/T on Saturday.
A few impressions, observations and opinions . . .
–
Car: R/T = 5.7L V8 and 8-speed ZF trans.
Sunroof – vent does NOT slide sunshield back!
[ This was something odd that I had noticed in a previous Chrysler product drive, a while back. One could not open the sunroof to vent without the sunshade powering all the way back as well! ]
And very quiet in vent mode, if partially open – the way I drive almost year round.
Plenty of headroom, even with the sunroof. Front seats have up \ down as well as more \ less lumbar support. Good side support and a wide adjustment range.
Plenty of back seat room.
Confirmed 1,250 RPM at 60 MPH in top \ eighth gear.
[ Calc. approx. 1,670 RPM at 80. ]
Sounds very nice at startup – nice, low, discrete V8 rumble.
Motor \ exhaust sounds good otherwise – appropriate for the genre. Certainly not too loud.
Overall, very quiet at highway speeds – at least up to as fast as I cruise. Road noise subdued, no wind noise.
Other points:
Acceleration – adequate – and I truly AM a torque junkie \ addict! I have not seen an instrumented test of a 5.7L with the eight speed automatic, but my guess is mid-13s in the Quarter.
Throttle seemed a bit sensitive at very slow \ parking lot speeds, but this may just require a slight recalibration of my throttle foot.
Outward visibility - MUCH better than the Challenger R/T Coupe that I drove recently.
Ride quality was quiet and smooth, particularly considering the 20”, low profile tires = 245/45x20 all-seasons.
Soooo – I will certainly drive another example [ hopefully closer in equipment \ configuration to what I’d buy ] before pulling the trigger, but this will likely be my next purchase.

= Ray

Never seriously considered a Dodge product before . . .

fintail

Of course it's high, it's a MB dealer. Price will be optimistic, but negotiable. I bet it'll go for 15K - sometimes book values only go so far with relatively unique cars.

Mr_Shiftright said:

Crazy money for that car. $10K-$12K would be sky high limit, and that's premium over high book.

roadburner

rayainsw said:

I test drove a black on black [ cloth seats ] 2015 Dodge Charger R/T on Saturday.
A few impressions, observations and opinions . . .
–
Car: R/T = 5.7L V8 and 8-speed ZF trans.
Sunroof – vent does NOT slide sunshield back!
[ This was something odd that I had noticed in a previous Chrysler product drive, a while back. One could not open the sunroof to vent without the sunshade powering all the way back as well! ]
And very quiet in vent mode, if partially open – the way I drive almost year round.
Plenty of headroom, even with the sunroof. Front seats have up \ down as well as more \ less lumbar support. Good side support and a wide adjustment range.
Plenty of back seat room.
Confirmed 1,250 RPM at 60 MPH in top \ eighth gear.
[ Calc. approx. 1,670 RPM at 80. ]
Sounds very nice at startup – nice, low, discrete V8 rumble.
Motor \ exhaust sounds good otherwise – appropriate for the genre. Certainly not too loud.
Overall, very quiet at highway speeds – at least up to as fast as I cruise. Road noise subdued, no wind noise.
Other points:
Acceleration – adequate – and I truly AM a torque junkie \ addict! I have not seen an instrumented test of a 5.7L with the eight speed automatic, but my guess is mid-13s in the Quarter.
Throttle seemed a bit sensitive at very slow \ parking lot speeds, but this may just require a slight recalibration of my throttle foot.
Outward visibility - MUCH better than the Challenger R/T Coupe that I drove recently.
Ride quality was quiet and smooth, particularly considering the 20”, low profile tires = 245/45x20 all-seasons.
Soooo – I will certainly drive another example [ hopefully closer in equipment \ configuration to what I’d buy ] before pulling the trigger, but this will likely be my next purchase.

= Ray

Never seriously considered a Dodge product before . . .

Me either, but if I go that route it will have to be a Challenger- I want a manual transmission. Just deciding between a new R/T or a used SRT. I'm thinking that a 392 may be the sweet spot...

stevedebi

sandman_6472 said:

After reading the article about the new HR-V, I think that's the one for me. I'd have no problem wanting the EX-L model since I do want leather and XM in my next ride. Looks to be a mini CR-V which is fine by me. The smaller size is exactly what I like and it that blue color, just about perfect! Might still go see that C-Max today but honestly, think I just need to wait a couple of years, let the hoopla die down with the HR-V and then swoop in and purchase in year 2 or 3 when any bugs should have been taken care of and there are plenty on the road so invoice pricing would be doable. Considering I still have 4 years of back to back warranty on the Tucson, seems prudent to just stay put for the next few years and build up my car fund. Sure, i could blow about $13.5 and get a newish 200CTh, but since I'm not really "in love" with it, really makes no sense actually. It's nice and all but...maybe the excitement of the wife's new purchase with all the toys on it got me wanting something similar. But from a financial standpoint, would be plain foolish to dump a perfectly good vehicle for a used year older one. Best to wait a couple of years and trade it with around 45k on the clock.
I know that kind of thinking goes against the mantra of this forum, but we have purchased two new vehicles within a years time which is pretty good for us. And if I really need a new car fix, can always take my set of keys to the A3 and take a spin because in all honesty, it really is a cool vehicle. So glad I mentioned it to her and she's already told me thanks for telling her.

The Sandman

You can't go wrong financially by keeping with the car you own! The C-Max is pretty heavy (3500 lbs for the normal, 3800 for the Energi). If you do look at the C-Max, go for the Energi. With the federal rebates, it is almost as cheap as the normal C-Max (assuming you don't mind the loss of cargo space in the back for that hulkin' big battery).

If you want great highway mileage and good pickup, check out the Golf TDI while you are shopping. My wife has the Passat and it is fun to drive, I suspect the lighter Golf would be a real hoot. It will match the CT on the highway.

laurasdada

WooHoo! PUG @ Costco, south of Boston: $2.96/gallon. Nor'easter a comin', so I'm a fillin'.

Sandman6472

Test drove both the Jetta and the Golf SE after work today and even brought the Jetta by the house for the garage test, it fit but just barely. The Golf SE with the roof was a hoot to drive especially in Sport mode, drove better than the wife's A3 if you can believe that but think it's lighter to be honest. As we stand now, I got them down to $10.5 plus my Tucson and they'd swap out the 17" diesel alloys for the 17" ones that came on the SE. All in all, not to bad of a deal to finally get into something I'd really love...I mean wow, it accelerated so great I was speechless! The wife...well, she says "do what you want" but I could tell she wants me to keep what I have. She did mention that I had put the amp in and those side protectors on the doors so I do have an investment here and guess she thinks I've thrown money out here. I know it ain't practical but...!
But here's another twist to our story. She's asked me to hold off a bit and here's the kicker...she asked me if I'd want to buy her out on the A3!

The Sandman

jayrider

sandman_6472 said:

Test drove both the Jetta and the Golf SE after work today and even brought the Jetta by the house for the garage test, it fit but just barely. The Golf SE with the roof was a hoot to drive especially in Sport mode, drove better than the wife's A3 if you can believe that but think it's lighter to be honest. As we stand now, I got them down to $10.5 plus my Tucson and they'd swap out the 17" diesel alloys for the 17" ones that came on the SE. All in all, not to bad of a deal to finally get into something I'd really love...I mean wow, it accelerated so great I was speechless! The wife...well, she says "do what you want" but I could tell she wants me to keep what I have. She did mention that I had put the amp in and those side protectors on the doors so I do have an investment here and guess she thinks I've thrown money out here. I know it ain't practical but...!
But here's another twist to our story. She's asked me to hold off a bit and here's the kicker...she asked me if I'd want to buy her out on the A3!

The Sandman

This has to be the greatest CCBA story ever. I love it !!! This is the one by which all others will be judged.

ab348

My head hurts.

stever

Wait a minute - you'd get her A3 and she'd go shopping again (while driving your Tucson)?

nyccarguy

I can see Sandy & His wife negotiating now! Ha!

carnaught

Yeah, just swap cars with her plus ??$'s

stickguy

well, that rose debloomed pretty quick. Even Mike must be confused by this. Trading before the first oil change? That's nothing compared to before the first gas stop!

talk about someone that needs to give it a chance.

Sandy, I told you that the Jetta was a size up from the Mazda 3. the Golf? That will fit just fine length wise, and as you noted, is a hoot to drive. You should try it with the stick shift. That is a blast.

basically, the Golf is a shorter, lighter hatchback A3 1.8t FWD with a few less goodies (in the SE model). If you like one, you should like the other dynamically.

xwesx

When you have that bug, you have it. In this case, I think Sandy has a rather healthy colony of 'em!

stickguy

Sandy, totally serious here. It is pretty clear that you would rather have something else besides the Tuscan at this point. Perfectly fine.

but speaking from experience, when you have the bug like this, take some extra time, and look at every possible option. Then think it over and look again. basically make 110% sure you are making the right move, and getting something that you will commit to living with for a long time. So don't settle, but also don't jump too quick.

I was going to say, like your wife with the A3, but maybe that isn't the best example any longer...

unless of course she is just messing with you to get you going! hard to imagine she could learn to hate the A3 that quickly, though maybe she just had a pang of (cheap) conscious?

laurasdada

Be careful with your wife's F&I guy, Sandy. You probably don't need credit life insurance, paint sealant and fabric protection...

qbrozen

Read a few days ago that Dodge will be releasing a Charger version of the Hellcat. OH BOY!

Michaell

qbrozen said:

Read a few days ago that Dodge will be releasing a Charger version of the Hellcat. OH BOY!

I think it's already been released.

rayainsw

"Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
The 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat takes the performance sedan world by storm. The world’s quickest, fastest, most powerful sedan with power and performance figures once reserved for exotics has a starting U.S. MSRP of $63,995 (including $1,700 gas-guzzler tax) and includes one day of driving at the SRT Driving Experience designed for owners to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track.

The new Charger SRT Hellcat features the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI Hellcat V-8 engine, which produces 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque and clocked an NHRA-certified quarter-mile elapsed time of 11.0 seconds, making it the quickest, fastest, most powerful production sedan in the world, as well as the most capable and technologically advanced four-door muscle car in America.

Additionally, the SRT Hellcat adds the following equipment to the Charger SRT 392 model: two key fobs – red and black – to control engine output; SRT Performance Pages with boost gauge, unique SRT flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel finished with Gunmetal accents; Dark Spun aluminum accents, 7-inch DID with 200 mph speedometer, aluminum performance hood with NACA duct and dual air extractors, Slingshot forged-aluminum wheels with Matte Black or Brass Monkey/Dark Bronze finish; and Hellcat fender badges."

qbrozen

I think the article I read said its due in the Spring.

graphicguy

rayainsw said:

"Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
The 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat takes the performance sedan world by storm. The world’s quickest, fastest, most powerful sedan with power and performance figures once reserved for exotics has a starting U.S. MSRP of $63,995 (including $1,700 gas-guzzler tax) and includes one day of driving at the SRT Driving Experience designed for owners to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track.

The new Charger SRT Hellcat features the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI Hellcat V-8 engine, which produces 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque and clocked an NHRA-certified quarter-mile elapsed time of 11.0 seconds, making it the quickest, fastest, most powerful production sedan in the world, as well as the most capable and technologically advanced four-door muscle car in America.

Additionally, the SRT Hellcat adds the following equipment to the Charger SRT 392 model: two key fobs – red and black – to control engine output; SRT Performance Pages with boost gauge, unique SRT flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel finished with Gunmetal accents; Dark Spun aluminum accents, 7-inch DID with 200 mph speedometer, aluminum performance hood with NACA duct and dual air extractors, Slingshot forged-aluminum wheels with Matte Black or Brass Monkey/Dark Bronze finish; and Hellcat fender badges."

Yee-Haaawwwww!

Do some serious ego damage on the street with that.

Michaell

graphicguy said:

rayainsw said:

"Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
The 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat takes the performance sedan world by storm. The world’s quickest, fastest, most powerful sedan with power and performance figures once reserved for exotics has a starting U.S. MSRP of $63,995 (including $1,700 gas-guzzler tax) and includes one day of driving at the SRT Driving Experience designed for owners to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track.

The new Charger SRT Hellcat features the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI Hellcat V-8 engine, which produces 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque and clocked an NHRA-certified quarter-mile elapsed time of 11.0 seconds, making it the quickest, fastest, most powerful production sedan in the world, as well as the most capable and technologically advanced four-door muscle car in America.

Additionally, the SRT Hellcat adds the following equipment to the Charger SRT 392 model: two key fobs – red and black – to control engine output; SRT Performance Pages with boost gauge, unique SRT flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel finished with Gunmetal accents; Dark Spun aluminum accents, 7-inch DID with 200 mph speedometer, aluminum performance hood with NACA duct and dual air extractors, Slingshot forged-aluminum wheels with Matte Black or Brass Monkey/Dark Bronze finish; and Hellcat fender badges."

Yee-Haaawwwww!

Do some serious ego damage on the street with that.

But only in a straight line. Could it keep up with RB's MS3 at a HPDE?

nyccarguy

I'm definitely mellowing out when it comes to cars I'd consider buying. To go along with what @roadburner said, there's nothing out there that screams "Bradd, you have to buy this car! NOW!" BMWs are nice, but have gotten heavier and softer to the point that for my everyday needs I don't put them worlds above the competition as I once did.

I'd consider buying a used CT200h for my wife as a daily driver once the Pilot is paid off and the loan balance on my Legacy is considerably less. I'd look at a CPO IS350 F-Sport for her DD and a weekend runabout. I'm even starting to like a lot of the face lifted E350 Sports. I'd buy another Subaru for myself in a heart beat. I think I'd spring for a WRX next time around though:)

roadburner

Michaell said:

graphicguy said:

rayainsw said:

"Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
The 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat takes the performance sedan world by storm. The world’s quickest, fastest, most powerful sedan with power and performance figures once reserved for exotics has a starting U.S. MSRP of $63,995 (including $1,700 gas-guzzler tax) and includes one day of driving at the SRT Driving Experience designed for owners to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track.

The new Charger SRT Hellcat features the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI Hellcat V-8 engine, which produces 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque and clocked an NHRA-certified quarter-mile elapsed time of 11.0 seconds, making it the quickest, fastest, most powerful production sedan in the world, as well as the most capable and technologically advanced four-door muscle car in America.

Additionally, the SRT Hellcat adds the following equipment to the Charger SRT 392 model: two key fobs – red and black – to control engine output; SRT Performance Pages with boost gauge, unique SRT flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel finished with Gunmetal accents; Dark Spun aluminum accents, 7-inch DID with 200 mph speedometer, aluminum performance hood with NACA duct and dual air extractors, Slingshot forged-aluminum wheels with Matte Black or Brass Monkey/Dark Bronze finish; and Hellcat fender badges."

Yee-Haaawwwww!

Do some serious ego damage on the street with that.

But only in a straight line. Could it keep up with RB's MS3 at a HPDE?

I'd think so; the 2008 Challenger SRT8 with 425 hp and an automatic was only a tick slower than a stock 2007 MS3 at VIR. The Challenger SRT suspension tuning was significantly improved around 2011 so add 275 hp and methinks I'd be hard pressed to keep up.

breld

Well, got a deal done for the in-laws.

Went to a different Honda dealer - a one-price, low pressure place where I've purchased a few cars (and I think where Michael got his Mini).

Based on the great info Michael provided on the Accord lease forum, I was targeting a cost of $308/month for an Accord EX-L, with nothing down (pre-tax). That was assuming dealer invoice, less lease cash, plus acq fee for the cap cost. They came back with $315 - figured that was plenty fair, and the in-laws are thrilled.

So, they're picking up their blue EX-L later this afternoon.

The contrast between the dealer we went to Saturday night and this one is incredible. I knew the first one was sort of a pain, but since we were there, I figured we could talk numbers. They were adding on things like clear mask, tint, windshield protection, etc., as more or less forced options, then more or less scoffed at our offer of $320/month, and ultimately let us walk.

The dealer today took all of five minutes to put the numbers in, and clearly showed us all the relevant numbers right on their computer screen - cap cost, money factor, residual, etc. - all of which lined up exactly with what I expected. Very transparent.

breld

And since there was a Dodge dealer next door....

I'm really becoming quite enthralled with the Durango. With the 2014 upgrades of the 8-speed automatic, exterior cosmetic changes, and improved interior materials and media interface, I could definitely see myself in one.

Since this would replace the van, one of my main concerns is how useful the 3rd row and storage is - that 3rd row is narrow with only two seats, but legroom is pretty good. With captain's chairs as an option, access to that 3rd row is nice - not as easy as the van, but still good. Storage space behind that 3rd row is decent, especially with a very usable space beneath the floor shelf back there.

I still need to actually drive one, but reviews are good.

Is it as practical as the Odyssey? No. But the latest talks between the wife and I relate to the extent to which we really use all that capacity. We definitely need a vehicle to seat six, but based on the amount of time we need it, maybe we don't need the most comfortable option.

The latest thought is to sell the Odyssey, put those proceeds toward the outstanding GTI loan, and lease a Durango.

au1994

nyccarguy said:

I'm definitely mellowing out when it comes to cars I'd consider buying. To go along with what @roadburner said, there's nothing out there that screams "Bradd, you have to buy this car! NOW!" BMWs are nice, but have gotten heavier and softer to the point that for my everyday needs I don't put them worlds above the competition as I once did.

I'd consider buying a used CT200h for my wife as a daily driver once the Pilot is paid off and the loan balance on my Legacy is considerably less. I'd look at a CPO IS350 F-Sport for her DD and a weekend runabout. I'm even starting to like a lot of the face lifted E350 Sports. I'd buy another Subaru for myself in a heart beat. I think I'd spring for a WRX next time around though:)

I am thinking very much the same as you when it comes time to replace my 335i. The new BMW's, 3's or 5's, are so soft compared to previous iterations that I am not sure I would even consider one again. This would be my 3rd 3 (or 4th if you count the ZHP) and I just don't love them like I used to. Comparing the 535i to the E350, I'd much rather have the E350 and it appears that the deals are better too. I do find the 435 GranCoupe interesting but not sure if I find it interesting at the mid 50's+ price point based on my build on the BMW site.

Never been a Lexus guy and had a TSX which was a darn good car, just driven by the wrong 2 wheels . I'll keep my ZHP for fun in the sun and spirited driving but I see myself taking a more luxury 1st, sport 2nd path with my next vehicle. But of course indecisiveness being a hallmark trait of a CCBA'er, part of me says go with something like a GTI. Sporty, roomy, economical and cheaper than anything from the premium brands to boot. Maybe check out the A3 as well. See, I'm everywhere!!

stickguy

Even though I locked myself out of the market for the next 3 years, I still can't wait to go to the car show in January. Gotta plan ahead, right? Though the only possible way I get something sooner (barring an unforeseen accident) is if my bet on sending the Volvo to college busts. Then I will be hosed!

Though I think if that happened and I sold the Volvo, I would use money from it to pay off wife's car, and cheap lease a corolla or some such for the kid.

Sandman6472

Let's get this straight, she doesn't hate her A3, not by a long shot, but she's finding the front seat not as comfortable now, seems to be painful at a certain part where her thigh hits the seat cushion. I did feel the bar that she's talking about but I have no issue with it. Think she was kidding when she said that but since I was just at the VW dealer, she figured why get one when I could just take over her A3 and she look at the Forte again or the new Imprezza due at the nearby dealer on the 15th. As of now, no one is doing anything until after that...and I think that if I end up doing anything, it'll be on the 30th or 31st to see if I could get some real end of year deal. But right now, I think I'd get the Golf SE with the swapped diesels wheels, drove a bit better than the Jetta and the best of anything. Has the A3 beat by a smidge due to the lower weight and smaller size, it felt like a real pocket rocket and I had that grin on my face the whole time...even the sales guy mentioned it!
To be honest, when I hit the accelerator, I want the vehicle to move, quickly, and the 200CTh just doesn't do this. Plus the engine noise that the Edmunds review mentioned is a bit on the loudish side as is when the pedal is mashed down. It's liveable but not sure that it wouldn't get old pretty quick when I needed a quick burst of speed which just isn't there. Probably after a few weeks living with it, I'd get used to it and prepare to do any passing before I had to, but to have to keep it like 7 or 8 years, not sure I really could do this. Do love the vehicle but after driving the Golf and Jetta, there just is no comparison. And not having to buy used is something that appeals to me. I think driving the A3 has really spoiled me in a way here, it's just the "whole package" if you will, probably the way folks feel about their BMW's and Benz's. Once one goes into the luxury class, be it entry level or above, there's just this orgasmic feeling about hitting the accelerator and going forward...something I know you guys who buy these vehicles just know. And once you go that route, nothing else can compare. I think driving those 3 Series at work spoiled me here, I want an entry level lux vehicle or something close to it!
Don't get me wrong, the Tucson is a good vehicle and I do like it, hell, there's still a good chance it'll stick around for another year or so but now that I know that I could trade up like the wife did, I would rather do it now than later because tomorrow is not a given. So, best to test drive again and let it stew a bit and then if a move is made, to do it in a couple of weeks. Seems to be best to just wait a bit longer here as I'm sure they'll have new stock coming in every day.

The Sandman

breld

au1994 said:

nyccarguy said:

Never been a Lexus guy and had a TSX which was a darn good car, just driven by the wrong 2 wheels . I'll keep my ZHP for fun in the sun and spirited driving but I see myself taking a more luxury 1st, sport 2nd path with my next vehicle.

I like that idea a lot - go with the fun (older) BMW for the fun car and something more reliable and "mainstream" for the primary driver. Right now, the TLX is speaking to me. Wouldn't mind getting back into a Honda product. To me, the TLX is a nice alternative to all those who like the Accord Sport, but would like a bit more in features.

au1994

breld said:

au1994 said:

nyccarguy said:

Never been a Lexus guy and had a TSX which was a darn good car, just driven by the wrong 2 wheels . I'll keep my ZHP for fun in the sun and spirited driving but I see myself taking a more luxury 1st, sport 2nd path with my next vehicle.

I like that idea a lot - go with the fun (older) BMW for the fun car and something more reliable and "mainstream" for the primary driver. Right now, the TLX is speaking to me. Wouldn't mind getting back into a Honda product. To me, the TLX is a nice alternative to all those who like the Accord Sport, but would like a bit more in features.

I could probably learn to love a TLX. Its good looking, I think, and although I joke above, I really don't have anything against FWD.

Sandman6472

Taking the mature drivers class with the other half next week to save some on the insurance bill which comes due mid February. Guess we have to take it every 3 years as this'll be the 3rd one we taken...or it could be every 4 years. They sent us a postcard in the mail telling us it was time, guess Metlife is keeping up with this...good idea though.

The Sandman

jayrider

sandman_6472 said:

Taking the mature drivers class with the other half next week to save some on the insurance bill which comes due mid February. Guess we have to take it every 3 years as this'll be the 3rd one we taken...or it could be every 4 years. They sent us a postcard in the mail telling us it was time, guess Metlife is keeping up with this...good idea though.

The Sandman

I thought you were insured with Meh--tlife.