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Perhaps ask a dealer what the going rate is.....only if you find or know a trustworthy dealer. Pick-up a auto-trader and see what Impala's are going around town.
Rocky
Don't forget, any Chevy dealer ANYWHERE will be happy to sell you a brand new base model Impala for cheap. That car has a much improved interior and the 3.8L under the hood. Ever since 9/11, used car sellers have been fighting the flood of undervalued, extra-cheap new cars flowing out of dealerships.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
1. Better interior quality, especially material quality. get rid of the usage of hard plastics and replace those with softer ones. The benchmark for them should be Honda, Acura and Lexus.
2. Improve engine technology. I know the pushrods are fine and the Corvettes have them but it just won't cut it for me. Give me high performance DOHC V6 and please stop making V8 that makes less than 280 HP. A good V6 can do that just easily. Benchmark: Toyota's 2GR-FSE and Nissan's VQ.
3. Improve handling. Give drivers more feedbacks of the road and a more stiff suspension. Benchmark: BMW.
4. Get rid of the incentives. If you build a good car, people would buy it with or without discounts. I don't wish to have all the discounts up front and lower resale value at the end and that lead us to...
5. Higher resale values. I don't know how they suppose to improve on this one. I guess it's all due to public perception and if they build a better car the resale values should go up right?
6. More gadgets as standard option. I want to drive a 21st century car so give me bluetooth, DVD audio, voice recognition and etc. Benchmark: Acura
and last but not least...
7. Build segment leading cars instead of "me too" cars. In order to be the segment leader the car has to be better at EVERYTHING than the current leaders. For example, Caddy is doing a decent job so far with the CTS but is it better than the 3 at EVERYTHING? NO.
I know I am picky and may sound like a jerk but that's just what's gonna take for the domestics to do to get me business.
I don't think I can get a GT and would likely go with the Sport. The only down side of that is I kind of got used to a sunroof, which that model doesn't have.
I think its a lot of fun/value if in the low 20s.
Rocky
For me, IMO, 335i will have one thing better than the IS350 (okay, maybe 2): handling and it comes with manual transmission. Acceleration will be close (very close I think). IS350 still has the upper hand at interior refinement (that's if BMW decides to keep the current POS interior of the 3 series and most likely they will).
I doubt I buy a BMW 335i because I prefer to drive bigger cars like a Caddy STS, or Volvo S80. The Volvo S80 currently is my first choice outside of another GM. I guess I will have to see how roomy a BMW 335i sedan is before I speak to soon. The IS I've sat in and liked the layout but being 6'2 240-250, it's a snug fit.
Rocky
P.S. Yep the IS 350 hs lots of gadgets which are nice, but the BMW has alot of gadgets also. The manuel option is a big selling point, and the 335i sedan will smoke a Lexus IS 350. My estimation of a 335i Sedan will be 0-60 in 4.9-5.1
Ah, now I know why you think the 335i is twice the car than IS350. I'll tell you what, the 335i sedan's 0-60 will be no where near 4.9 sec. Why? Let me explain...
Edmunds just did a first drive with the 335i coupe and they rated it at 5.6 sec from 0 to 60. No doubt that the sedan version is going to be heavier so my estimation is that 5.6 sec is going to be the BEST that the sedan can do. IS350 was rated anywhere from 6.1 to 5.1 so that's why I said the acceleration time will be really close.
I agreed with you that the back seat of the IS350 is really non-exist. I pretty much treated it like a 2+1 since I am 6'1 and I like to recline by back really low. Also when I was talking about interior refinement I wasn't talking about gadgets. It's about the overall quality and materials used. Also, the 335i will be as roomy as the current 330i.
My estimation for the sedan: 5.5 sec.
Since Lexus claims IS350's 0-60 time at 5.3 and we see numbers from 6.1 to 5.1. There is no doubt that the acceleration of 335i and IS350 will be really close (most likely will depend on the driver).
My bottom line: There is no way that the 335i sedan will SMOKE the IS350.
Sheer acceleration isn't why I put the twice the car comment. It's about everything combined. The Lexus IS for instance like you agreed is a 2+1. Once I recline, just like you do, I know I wouldn't beable to fit my child seats in the rear seat area. :sick: The Acura TL and Bimmer dimensions are much closer, than the IS350 vs. 335i/330i
The BMW 335i, will do circles around the VDIM limited
IS350. The 335i, will also have a 335xi AWD available in March of 07'
derived vehicles.
Edmunds just did a first drive with the 335i coupe and they rated it at 5.6 sec from 0 to 60. No doubt that the sedan version is going to be more heavier so my estimation is that 5.6 sec is going to be the BEST that the sedan can do. IS350 was rated anywhere from 6.1 to 5.1 so that's why I said the acceleration time will be really close.
I never saw a 5.1 0-60 time of the IS350. The fastest I remember seeing is 5.2. Most others had the 0-60 in 5.3, a couple others had it 5.6-5.7. I was very interested in this car when it first came out and did my homework, and even talked to 3 Lexus dealerships on price quotes down here in Texas.
I agreed with you that the back seat of the IS350 is really non-exist. I pretty much treated it like a 2+1 since I am 6'1 and I like to recline by back really low. Also when I was talking about interior refinement I wasn't talking about gadgets. It's about the overall quality and materials used. Also, the 335i will be as roomy as the current 330i.
I liked the IS350 layout, but disagree with you on the interior refinement. The IS350 had the "fake plastic trim" on the sport suspension package that replaced the birds-eye maple on the non-sport suspension car. The sports suspension car was $47-$48K and that was if you got a deal and only paid sticker :surprise:
I respectfully disagree with ya pal.
Rocky
P.S. look for one of the car mags to come up with better acceleration times for the 335i. Even BMW is quoting 0-60 in 5.3. I'm sure the 335i will achieve much better realistic numbers. :P
We must have osmosis as I just put that below.
My estimation for the sedan: 5.5 sec.
I gurantee it will be better than 5.5
Since Lexus claims IS350's 0-60 time at 5.3 and we see numbers from 6.1 to 5.1. There is no doubt that the acceleration of 335i and IS350 will be really close (most likely will depend on the driver).
That is very true, the driver can have a huge effect on numbers.
My bottom line: There is no way that the 335i sedan will SMOKE the IS350.
Ummmmm, your respectfully wrong :P I'm right on this one pal. The Bimmer, will not only out accelerate it but will whip the IS350's butt around every sweeping curve on the road leaving the IS350 driver in total awe. Why do you think BMW's are considered by most as the "Ultimate Driving Machines"
Rocky
Oh yeah, Bimmer and TL have better interior space, hands down, no doubt, lights out. I was actually considering the TL (die-hard Acura fan here) when I was shopping for car but the RWD and the kick [non-permissible content removed] engine lured me to IS350. I am looking forward for the next gen TL with AWD and 300+ HP engine (can we say turbo-charged v6
Also, agree on 335i has better handling than IS350. However, the 07' model will come with the VDIM-off button (it's no like one can't disable it now, I do it all the time). So it'll be interesting to see how that plays out on the upcoming comparison (I am pretty sure the Bimmer will still has better handling, hands down).
As for my source for 5.1 sec 0-60 of the IS350: Car & Driver. I estimate they'll rate the coupe at 4.9 sec and sedan at 5.0.
I guess we just have very different opinions on the interior then. For me, interior >= handling (it's not like the IS350 drives like a Buick anyway) and that's one of the major reasons I opted for the IS instead of the Bimmer. Also, I like the "fake metallic trim" better than the birds-eye maple. I just really really hate woodtrims anywhere in the car. Lexus should definitely put some real aluminum in the interior to make it appear even more upscale. Also, in the IS you get real leather without any additional charge
I'll leave them both behind in the Caddy. :shades:
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I have no doubt that it'll be better than 5.5. I was referring to the official BMW figure. If they rate the coupe at 5.3 there is no way the sedan will be at 5.3. Okay, 5.4 give or take.
IMO, Bimmer will kick IS350's butt at corner but the overall acceleration will be very close. However, performance-wise the Bimmer still wins. With the new 335i, no doubt the BMW still builds the ultimate driving machines.
Sorry thats the Pontiac GTO, BMW is just a "Johnny come lately" with that stealing that phrase.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I 100% agree pal.
Oh yeah, Bimmer and TL have better interior space, hands down, no doubt, lights out. I was actually considering the TL (die-hard Acura fan here) when I was shopping for car but the RWD and the kick [non-permissible content removed] engine lured me to IS350.
Yep I can see why you chose the IS350 over the TL. I was in the same situation, but had to factor in the winter weather and ultimately choose the TL for that reason.
I am looking forward for the next gen TL with AWD and 300+ HP engine (can we say turbo-charged V6
Yep me to. The 2007' Acura TL Type-S
(according to Acurazine) will be a 3.5 V-6 with around 300 hp. The Acurazine forum folks expect a AWD TL in model year 2009' where the next gen will happen. However some such as you could be right with SH-AWD. I hope you are right on the Turbo V-6 option, maybe a Type-S will feature this option ? Time will tell.
Also, agree on 335i has better handling than IS350. However, the 07' model will come with the VDIM-off button
Wow, the VDIM is going to finally get a button to push to disable it. :surprise:
(it's no like one can't disable it now, I do it all the time).
How in the heck do you accomplish that task ?
So it'll be interesting to see how that plays out on the upcoming comparison (I am pretty sure the Bimmer will still has better handling, hands down).
Yep I agree it will be interesting, that disable function however should improve the IS 350's handling by quite a margin. I also agree the Bimmer will still handle much beter than a 07' IS 350, but the disable function on the VDIM will make the IS350 much more fun to drive.
As for my source for 5.1 sec 0-60 of the IS350: Car & Driver. I estimate they'll rate the coupe at 4.9 sec and sedan at 5.0.
Wow, I must of missed that issue. I agree with your 335i numbers.
I guess we just have very different opinions on the interior then. For me, interior >= handling (it's not like the IS350 drives like a Buick anyway)
Yes I agree the IS350 doen't handle like a Buick, all though buicks handeling has improved alot over the last year with the Magnaride suspension and steering feel. I like I said like the IS350's layout, but prefer the quality feel of the 3 series. The IS350's braking has alot of vibration at triple digits, something a BMW 3 series doesn't possess.
and that's one of the major reasons I opted for the IS instead of the Bimmer. Also, I like the "fake metallic trim" better than the birds-eye maple.
That is one of the reason why I didn't want a IS350 sport suspension because the "fake mettalic trim" cheapened up the car. IMHO, real wood in premium cars always gives a expensive feel. I haven't been a big fan of aluminum trim.
I just really really hate woodtrims anywhere in the car.
I guess we differ here. I also am looking at a Volvo
S80 V-8, and it has the aluminum trim as a option. It also has 2- wood trim color option and if I decide on the S80, I will opt for the medium bown color wood since it looks expensive with the light tan leather seats. The 2 front ones are ventialted which helps beat the 100 degree heat here in the Texas Panhandle.
Lexus should definitely put some real aluminum in the interior to make it appear even more upscale.
100% agree with you.
Also, in the IS you get real leather without any additional charge
Yeah that is true, but the new 2007' 335i has standard leather trim also.
I guess the bottom line is what each individual in this segment see's is the perfect choice for he/she. The New G35 will definetly gain market share since it might be now seen as the best value in this entry-lux segment.
Rocky
I think the BMW 335i sedan will be closer to 5.2 and the coupe at 5.0 give or take. But then again this is just my opinion, and is a educated guess based on the Bimmers 300 lbs. of torque, and is a huge advantage throughout the rev range of 1400-5000=300 lbs. of tq.= best in class
IMO, Bimmer will kick IS350's butt at corner but the overall acceleration will be very close.
Okay fair enough.
However, performance-wise the Bimmer still wins. With the new 335i, no doubt the BMW still builds the ultimate driving machines.
Agree but the competition like the IS350, and new and improved brands such as the G35 are closing that gap each year it seems.
Rocky
Ummm, you must be talking about the 60's GTO's :confuse:
The present GTO, can't hold either the Lexus IS 350 or Bimmer 335i jockey strap. :P
Rocky
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Rocky
I thought the 335i was coupe only? There is to be a sedan next year? Or will it still be called the 330i?
VDIM is totally disabled by a short procedure you perform when you start the car, and then remains disabled while the engine is running. Every time the engine is restarted, VDIM is reset and has to be turned off again. Good thing Lexus is finally putting in a proper off button. Should end the snit the car mags are in over the whole thing.
Give me an IS250 with the stick. Happy camper, fun with rear drive, and mpgs over 30 probably. :-)
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
That was a rumor. A Sedan will be here this September, which will make the 330i moot.
Nippon, Here's my proof.
http://www.e90post.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=33280&d=1153751708
VDIM is totally disabled by a short procedure you perform when you start the car, and then remains disabled while the engine is running. Every time the engine is restarted, VDIM is reset and has to be turned off again. Good thing Lexus is finally putting in a proper off button. Should end the snit the car mags are in over the whole thing.
Okay, understand now.
Give me an IS250 with the stick. Happy camper, fun with rear drive, and mpgs over 30 probably.
You might as well buy a Azera *Snooze* :P J/K
Rocky
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
I bet. You don't need a BMW; you need Lean Cuisine. :shades:
Rocky, here's what you do...
1. make sure the parking brake is off
2. start the engine
3. engage parking brake
4. fully depress the brake padel
5. fully depress the brake padel
6. disengage the parking brake
7. depress the brake padel and hold it
8. engage parking brake then disengage
9. engage parking brake then disengage
10. release the brake padel
11. engage parking brake
12. fully depress the brake padel
13. fully depress the brake padel
14. disengage the parking brake and off you go with VDIM off
Sounds complicated? I can do it in less than 20 seconds now since I do it all the time.
However, a VDIM-off button should be a better option...
Here's my suggestion...go test drive the IS350 again and try it this time without VDIM and see if you can feel the difference.
Give me one of those Yamaha-powered IS200s with a stick.
I saw a rally blue IS300 sitting out front at a Ford dealer a month ago and was tempted to check it out. (I'm sure it was a slushbox anyway; a stick would have already been gone.) I wonder if it's feasible to federalize a Euro-spec IS?
A few car mags have retested the IS350 after following the procedure to turn off VDIM, and have been just blown away. It is an extraordinarily capable car being totally inhibited by the electronic mommy.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
You know, a major reason for arguments on the internet is because sarcasm doesn't translate well to text.
Having a TCS off button, i appreciate how you might want to dab at it now and again while driving. The preceding procedure doesn't allow for you to dig yourself out of gunk then be safe again, nor to show off then be safe.
Of course, if the new IS has a TCS off button, the point is largely moot.
I had a second chance to drive the old IS recently, and it confirmed my previous impression. Cramped, and not as fun to drive as a 3.
dave
Rocky
ROTFLMAO. That was ver low and mean dude. However I'm big-boned. I agree I could lose at least 20 pounds though :P
I hoever do run alot for my job, and can run circles around 80-90% of americans. :P
Rocky
Thanx though.
Rocky
Don't tell me that you've never test drive for fun before. :surprise:
Really? Which magazines?
I need to cut down on the magazine subscriptions. I do remember they used the strongest language to state how impressed they were with the car once the VDIM was totally disabled.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
PS. I guess they weren't that impressed huh?
Rocky
P.S. I do like to test drive.
For me, majority of the dealers (except BMW and MB) are 5 mins away from my house back in Atlanta so me and my friends sometimes just go in and test drive for fun.
Rocky
Anybody got news to share?
Rocky
Just a guess though.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
My guess is that we are getting the Chinese TL and yes with the rear bumper lights.
We'll find out soon...
Rocky
But after looking at the numbers in the news yesterday, I'd say alot more people are buying Toyota and alot less are buying GM & Ford.
How can an airline like Jet Blue get you there on a nicer equipted plane for half the price as United and American?
The company is structured for today's lean and mean environment. GM & Ford has a bunch of fat good old boys at the top still raking in their big paychecks while the ship lists precariously in the water.
Can't say I really feel sorry for the GM and Ford's out ther while the "foriegn" brands set up factories here in the states and employ Americans to assemble them.
FWIW Bill Ford has been working without pay for quite some time now. About 2-3 years I believe.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Oh come on snake, old Bill probably is getting 18oz steak for dinner now instead of the 22oz he used to get before.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D