Congrats on your milestone. I wish to thank the Hosts for their leniency in allowing us to discuss various topics. . .
I'll echo that in a big way. I'm in the Chicago area for business, and today I took the "architectural cruise" per the recommendations from a few of you -- beautiful day (perfect weather), uncrowded & very interesting. Owing to the earlier posts, I was prepared to pay a fortune for parking on the Navy Pier, and did. However, I found a little Greek stand that sold an excellent chicken gyro for ~$6; all-in-all an excellent experience.
Our company is in bed with National, and they mostly provide GM cars. This time it's an Impala, though I've done Malibus lately as well.
Sometimes they have other castoff stuff they've been able to buy at a bargain. That's how I was exposed to Hyundai a few months ago, and there are often Chrysler products available. I got a Ford Fusion a time or two ago; it was quite nice.
I usually try to rent the same one or two cars so that I don't have to search for controls, but will make exceptions when something interesting is in the lineup.
Haven't been to Newfoundland... Don't go either...as a Southern boy you won't like it.
Well, I wouldn't advise anyone to go in the winter time or make a tour of the Naval Base. However, it is a unique place. Seems like you are back in the 60s. And, they have a unique way of talking.
The best part is you can go on a tug boat to look at whales.....I was freezing my a-- off with the cold water and I was drenched, but saw a few whales. Also, you can see some real Puffins, and you can go to Signal Hill where Marconi received the first telegraph message from England - which became very important to sending wireless messages to ships. Also, got to see salmon spawning, which is quite a sight........what those poor salmon go through to mate!!!!!! Whewwww
66 yrs old! You'd never know it.... a true guitar virtuoso... "
kyfdx...I'm officially jealous. My son bought me his Blu Ray concert for my birthday. It took place in a small club setting a couple of years ago. Absolutely amazing. Seems as if his popularity is being revived.
Good score on that concert. I'm truly sorry I missed it.
The best part is you can go on a tug boat to look at whales.....I was freezing my a-off with the cold water and I was drenched, but saw a few whales.
I disagree, the "best part" is to watch it on the Travel Channel and any dreching is when I spill my beer. The worst part would be if I soggied my chips doing it.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I'm glad because I think of you as a bright young nephew who can sell cars and write excellent articles about them.
BTW, I need your expert opinion. There has been a slight change in car preferences. My wife now says that she doesn't want a JGC; she wants an Aspen. I pointed out to her that Chrysler is no longer going to produce those. She responded by pointing out that the Durango looks just like it. I called my salesman and he said that the 2011 Durango will be out in late August or early September. According to him, they didn't do a 2010 Aspen or Durango. My question is this: Have you heard any news about the 2011 Durango? What are your thoughts on its realibility, options, etc.? Like my wife, I have been impressed with the looks of the Durango because it resembles the Aspen. Other than that, I've done no research on it. Since you sell Chrysler products, I don't want to put you on the spot. Still, I would appreciate your honest opinion and gut feelings about the Durango. We would be interested in the Limited model. Thanks!
What are your impressions of an Impala or Malibu? I forget what your own car is too. How do they compare.
I drive an '08 Acura TSX, pre-beak. It's the rest-of-the-world Accord & considerably smaller and tighter than the U.S. Accord. It handles well (for a FWD car) and I've enjoyed it the 2+ years I've been driving it.
I've rented dozens of Impalas, and they're all relatively less responsive and generally sloppier than the TSX. However, some are considerably better than others, which I've attributed to the trim level & possible presence of some sort of "touring suspension" or whatever. Most of the are LTs I think, but sometimes it's a different designation, and I'm clueless regarding which are what for Chevrolet.
The Malibu is smaller and tighter & handles reasonably well. Once again, there are different trim levels which could affect the suspensions. All-in-all not a bad car.
I agree that the Hyundai was better than either of the GM offerings, but for putzing around cities it doesn't make a lot of difference. I wrote after I rented the Hyundai that I thought it was an excellent vehicle -- only time I've ever been in one.
I always make the (possibly incorrect) assumption that whenever National has something other than GM in the fleet that they were able to buy whatever it was for a song. I had a Fusion the other week that was pretty nice & almost got a Lincoln MKwhatever last month, but it turned out to have already been taken by someone else.
My best friend has a similar Acura and it is a very nice car.
My impressions are very similar to yours regarding the Impala, Malibu, and the Hyundai. While I made that statement, it reminds me, I just drove by a Hyundai dealer today and the new Sonata's looked really nice, all lined up. One thing I noticed about Hyundai's is they seem to have some of the nicest colors around, and quite a choice from pale blues, to deep purples and maroons.
I also think that since the rental companies can't get as many cars at really cheap prices any more, they have to go with whatever they can pick up at a reasonable price.
Thanks, for sharing your thoughts...it kind of confirms for me what I had thought about those particular cars.
There is some stuff on the new Durango. My son has an 07 and is happy. Drove it last week and it ran smooth -- nice engine note and the transmission was solid. The step up is pretty high if you have short legs so running boards may be needed. You should do a search for Aspens on cars.com and autotrader. May find a nice low mileage unit. Saw a certified one in Easton, Md. for upper 20's with 16k miles silver-leather awd certified. Google Easton Md chrysler and click on certified used.
I looked up the Aspen in Maryland. It is a beautiful vehicle. Thanks. Glad to hear that your son likes his Durango. Found some "spy" pictures of the 2011 but couldn't tell too much.
handling and performance has it's place but as you said -- "for putzing around" keep an open mind on all the brands..
If all you want to do in life is putz around, you're correct, lots of cars available, probably a K Car would do quite nicely. But if you're spending a few thousand dollars for a car, you might as well get some enjoyment from it.
Well you have to balance your wants with actual needs and price and ability to use your wants. If you are buying a car that will mostly be driven in commuter traffic and you will have the opportunity to use lots of acceleration and handling a very small portion of the time why spends thousands more for abilities you will rarely use?
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Well you have to balance your wants with actual needs and price and ability to use your wants. If you are buying a car that will mostly be driven in commuter traffic and you will have the opportunity to use lots of acceleration and handling a very small portion of the time why spends thousands more for abilities you will rarely use?
Gee, some folks don't want to go through their short time on earth driving a boring or poor handling car. They are enthusiasts that enjoy driving. Cars with good performance are a joy to drive all the time. And usually the price difference isn't that great.
So go ahead and drive your bland economical cars and save a few bucks. I for one will have no regrets over the cars I have owned in my lifetime. Even if it means leaving a little less to my descendents. You only go around once.
You are missing the point,jwilliams, no one is suggesting it is wrong to buy and enjoy performance/luxury rides. I'm cool with that. But for many [like me] those features [other than comfort] aren't needed because we will never utilize all that stuff. The thing is -- I just don't appreciate sport suspensions or quick acceleration anymore. Different story 45 years ago. Give me a nice big leather seat-satellite radio and a smooth ride and I'm happy. For those who want more---I understand-- get what gives you enjoyment.
From what I remember when I researched the Durango several years ago unless the 2011 is a lot different or improved, there are much better choices out there. Edmunds has reviews of the 2009 that pretty much say what I remember... It is good for towing or hauling but has a rough ride and limited space compared to some of the other choices. http://www.edmunds.com/dodge/durango/2009/review.html
But they have nothing on the 2011, so this might not apply.
unless the 2011 is a lot different or improved, there are much better choices out there.
The 2011 has been completely redisigned. It will be a different car. IIRC, it will be built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee. I'm too lazy to google it right now to check.
We haven't received much info on the 2011 Durango. Since merging with Fiat, Chrysler has been really secretive about upcoming products, so even we as dealers don't know much until just before a product is released.
Other than that, you might be able to find a new or slightly used Aspen or Durango out there, but they are much much bigger than Grand Cherokees or Explorers. A test drive would help you decide if their size is an issue or not. And although Aspens and Durangos are similiar, they do have quite distinct front ends, the Aspen being the more luxurious one.
There is also a new SUV/Crossover coming out that will be called a Magnum, but will not be a station wagon like the previous Magnum was.
If you can wait a few more months then you should. Lots of new products coming out from Chrysler, and more info should be available on the Durango by then.
You are missing my point. Why buy a car with great pickup if you rarely, if ever use it and never need it? Why get a car that has great handling if it will never be used?
Right now I am driving a 98 Saturn to and from work. I admit its not that much of a car but I will guarantee that you won't find a car that is more of a joy to drive to and from work in. Thats because the drive itself is not a joy at all. Basically it is one straight drive, one left turn then one more straight drive. All is very slow bumper to bumper traffic.
I'll take it one step further. You get any high performance car you want and I'll drive that little Saturn and we will race to work in the morning and home in the evening and I will guarantee you that I will beat you both ways.
Performance cars have their places and can be a joy to drive, but if you are like me and drive mostly in a large urban area that is congested then you will never use all that performance. So let me ask you this, why should I spend the extra money (and it can be considerable) to buy a car that goes 0-60 in 4.5 seconds when most of the time at a traffic light I am behind traffic that will take 15 seconds to get to 45 MPH and if I am first at the light all that extra speed will do is just get me to the traffic in front of me a few seconds sooner?
All I am saying is you have to balance want with need in view of prices. Do I want a high performance car? Sure? Will I use that performance? most likely 3 or 4 times a year. So I have to ask myself, is it worth $5K, $10K or more to me? No it isn't.
Go ahead and waste your money buy capabilities you don't need and will rarely use, I have better uses for my money.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Will I use that performance? most likely 3 or 4 times a year. So I have to ask myself, is it worth $5K, $10K or more to me? No it isn't.
I am with jwilliams2. Even for heavy traffic the extra ability to swerve or have enough horse power to merge into traffic makes it worthwhile. If I am spending hours intraffic I want it to be as enjoyable as possible.
We're here for a good time, not a long time, and I don't want to waste any of it driving a box with a steering wheel, but, I completely understand if it isn't a priority and you would rather spend the money on other things.....as long as it isn't cigarettes, liquor, gambling or on wild women!
Even for heavy traffic the extra ability to swerve or have enough horse power to merge into traffic makes it worthwhile. If I am spending hours intraffic I want it to be as enjoyable as possible.
If you are in heavy traffic I don’t think you can do any swerving and do it safely and within the traffic laws of most states in the US. You probably have the same type of laws in Canada but since I don’t live there I am not positive about that.
When I bought the Genny I figured I’d appreciate its power since I drive the PA Turnpike about 40 miles round trip each day and I do appreciate the power that car has. But believe me, I can’t be out there passing every car in sight and swerving is against my rules let alone the state of PA. I use the cruise control constantly because early in the ownership of that car I found myself going over 80 quite a few times (speed limit 65) and if I were pulled over I’m sure I couldn’t weasel (sorry ‘snake’) my way out of a ticket by saying, “officer this thing is so quite and smooth riding I didn’t realize I was going that fast, honest”. So, I guess I bought more car than I really needed in the way of power but it is a nice cruising machine.
...as long as it isn't cigarettes, liquor, gambling or on wild women!
Well, I don’t smoke anymore. Liquor I don’t crave but every now and then I do have some. Gambling I never do. Wild women would probably be my destruction and that doesn’t even take into consideration what Mrs. j would do if I got caught. So I guess you can say I ain’t having no fun, not even with a powerful car.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Even for heavy traffic the extra ability to swerve or have enough horse power to merge into traffic makes it worthwhile
We are not talking about traffic flying down the highway at 70-80 MPH, we are talking heavy traffic doing 35 at best. Most of the time I could get to a proper merging speed on a bicycle.
But I would also add that with my old 140 or so HP Elantra I had no problems getting up to 70 MPH by the end of the on ramp.
As for swerving its more a function of planning ahead that maneuverability in heavy bumper to bumper traffic.
That being said you don't have to have power and "performance" to have an enjoyable drive. It can be enjoyable and cost a lot less.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
If you are in heavy traffic I don’t think you can do any swerving
I didn't explain myself properly. Just an example, it was shortly after I got my first BMW, an X3. I was cruising by in the left lane of w lanes...going about 60. Without any reason a Plymouth Voyager decided to change lanes from the middle lane to right in front of me. I had to move over onto the median area or he would have hit me around my front right fender. My 2000 Jeep Cherokee wouldn't have the nimble handling to avoid the potential accident.
The X3 has the balance and easy handling as well as all wheel drive which I am sure helped. I believe to this day if it was a lesser vehicle, it would have been a crash for sure.
I guess you can say I ain’t having no fun, not even with a powerful car
For a guy who would rather watch whales and puffins on Discovery channel than see the real things, you don't need excitement. Are you one of those people who drives a 300 hp performance car, that dawdles along at 40mph in a 60 zone causing accidents all around you? Haven't you ever had to up to merge, or get away from a bad driver? I'll probably jinx myself but my last ticket was in 1994 caught on a radar camera. I don't think it was a fair ticket because it was in a construction zone and I only had a short distance to get on the highway in front of a line of trucks. It is a lot worse if you slow down or stop on an entry ramp. I'll pay the ticket and not complain because there are other times they could have caught me and didn't...but I really don't drive that fast...about 70% of the cars on the road are going faster than me.
As for swerving its more a function of planning ahead that maneuverability in heavy bumper to bumper traffic
I know about planning ahead, I taught high school driving classes....and defensive driving is definitely important, but sometimes people still do weird things.
I drove the Optima for a week and it has good handling and a reasonable amount of horse power for most situations. I'll still take all the extra help I can get though, and the BMW can steer, brake, and blend with traffic way better than the Optima. Personally, just a hunch, but I think the people who think they are always in control of the situation no matter what happens around them, could be more likely to get into trouble than someone who admits they are not 100% perfect - and can be on top of any situation. In fact, I often see these people speed by me during a snow storm....and then they spin out a few miles ahead. Being overly confident about driving ability can be more of a problem than being a little cautious and taking into account the failings of others and possibly ourselves.
That being said you don't have to have power and "performance" to have an enjoyable drive. It can be enjoyable and cost a lot less.
I think a nice sports sedan, say like the Buick Regal, may be the perfect blend of comfort and performance. In my Regal LS I have the quiet and comfort of a Buick, plus the power in torque and horsepower to do the job without any problem.
When I need great handling to handle those tight corners at the track, I get into my Mazda MPV. Mazda says it has the body of a minivan and the soul of a sports car... and they don't lie. So, less filling or taste great? I'll take both. :P
You make a good point. In my case, why would I purchase 4WD when I never go off of pavement, or drive in snow or ice? Also, I don't need or particularly care about a sunroof, nav, rear TV, or heated seats. I do want some nice features like leather seats, rear sensors, and Bluetooth. I think that options are personal preferences depending on where you live, how you drive, what you need, and what you desire.
Thanks. I did read the reviews---editors and consumers. Though the consumers were more complimentary, it is probably best to wait on the 2011. It looks to be a major renovation. Driver will find it interesting that BMW helped with the 2011 model.
Thanks, Boom. I agree. I don't mind waiting a few months. In fact, our farm money won't be in now until the end of September. The company purchased an additional ten acres, so we had to redo the contract.
The Magnum sounds interesting. I had not heard about the change to an SUV/Crossover. I realize that the Aspen and Durango are larger than the JGC or Explorer. Having owned a Tahoe, a TC, etc., big vehicles don't bother us. We even feel a little safer in them.
Do keep us posted here as you get new information on all of these changes.
"The thing is -- I just don't appreciate sport suspensions or quick acceleration anymore. Different story 45 years ago. Give me a nice big leather seat-satellite radio and a smooth ride and I'm happy. For those who want more---I understand-- get what gives you enjoyment."
Back in my late teens and early twenties I had more then a few people tell me that I would get tired of musclecars/sports cars/sports sedans and that I would "graduate" to a leather upholstered land yacht. Well, here I am at the ripe old age of 53 and there isn't a single rolling sofa in the garage. And my next car will almost certainly be another fast track toy- think: Mustang GT with Brembo package, E90 M3, Cayman S, or 997. The only luxoboat I've EVER lusted after is the Alpina B7; you gotta love a 4700 lb. sedan that scorches the quarter in the high twelves and doesn't run out of breath until somewhere north of 190 mph...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I was cruising by in the left lane of w lanes...going about 60.
OK a couple of things, first if you read what I am posting you would find that this example doesn't apply to what I am talking about. In my daily commute if you get up to 60 MPH you are plowing into something.
Secondly the maneuver you described I have had to do more than once in lesser cars with no issues.
And no I am not the guy who dawdles at 40 MPH in a 60 MPH zone in a performance car. But I am a guy who knows that a 200 HP car can move you along very well at 60 MPH. Now I have had to merge and avoid bad drives and you don't need a Vette to do so.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
That being said you don't have to have power and "performance" to have an enjoyable drive. It can be enjoyable and cost a lot less.
Well, to each his own. What's enjoyable to one may not be to another. I would certainly not enjoy such a car. And those of you who drive only to work in crowded slow speed traffic have my sympathy.
And no, I don't need a 4.5 second 0-60 time either. Anything under 6 seconds will do just fine.
Also, am I losing it or did someone say that Greenpea had enlisted in the military?
Not sure if you are losing it but I thought that Greenpea went over to the service department of his dealership. Not quite the same as the military... unless there are some unruly customers.
Comments
Richard
I wish to thank the Hosts for their leniency in allowing us to discuss various topics. . .
I'll echo that in a big way. I'm in the Chicago area for business, and today I took the "architectural cruise" per the recommendations from a few of you -- beautiful day (perfect weather), uncrowded & very interesting. Owing to the earlier posts, I was prepared to pay a fortune for parking on the Navy Pier, and did. However, I found a little Greek stand that sold an excellent chicken gyro for ~$6; all-in-all an excellent experience.
Thanks to those who helped make it possible.
Richard
Richard
Our company is in bed with National, and they mostly provide GM cars. This time it's an Impala, though I've done Malibus lately as well.
Sometimes they have other castoff stuff they've been able to buy at a bargain. That's how I was exposed to Hyundai a few months ago, and there are often Chrysler products available. I got a Ford Fusion a time or two ago; it was quite nice.
I usually try to rent the same one or two cars so that I don't have to search for controls, but will make exceptions when something interesting is in the lineup.
Don't go either...as a Southern boy you won't like it.
Well, I wouldn't advise anyone to go in the winter time or make a tour of the Naval Base. However, it is a unique place. Seems like you are back in the 60s. And, they have a unique way of talking.
The best part is you can go on a tug boat to look at whales.....I was freezing my a-- off with the cold water and I was drenched, but saw a few whales. Also, you can see some real Puffins, and you can go to Signal Hill where Marconi received the first telegraph message from England - which became very important to sending wireless messages to ships. Also, got to see salmon spawning, which is quite a sight........what those poor salmon go through to mate!!!!!! Whewwww
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I think it would be fun to print a picture of it and leave it on her pillow, with a subtle message, "Honey, here's your next vehicle", love Richard.
On second thought, I think you made a very smart move by keeping it to yourself. We get wiser with age, and experience.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Hey, I'll take a Hyundai Magentis/Optima over an Impala or a Malibu any time.
What are your impressions of an Impala or Malibu? I forget what your own car is too. How do they compare.
Glad you are enjoying Chicago, few things are better than really good food....that is cheap!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
66 yrs old! You'd never know it.... a true guitar virtuoso... "
kyfdx...I'm officially jealous. My son bought me his Blu Ray concert for my birthday. It took place in a small club setting a couple of years ago. Absolutely amazing. Seems as if his popularity is being revived.
Good score on that concert. I'm truly sorry I missed it.
I disagree, the "best part" is to watch it on the Travel Channel and any dreching is when I spill my beer. The worst part would be if I soggied my chips doing it.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
BTW, I need your expert opinion. There has been a slight change in car preferences. My wife now says that she doesn't want a JGC; she wants an Aspen. I pointed out to her that Chrysler is no longer going to produce those. She responded by pointing out that the Durango looks just like it. I called my salesman and he said that the 2011 Durango will be out in late August or early September. According to him, they didn't do a 2010 Aspen or Durango. My question is this: Have you heard any news about the 2011 Durango? What are your thoughts on its realibility, options, etc.? Like my wife, I have been impressed with the looks of the Durango because it resembles the Aspen. Other than that, I've done no research on it. Since you sell Chrysler products, I don't want to put you on the spot. Still, I would appreciate your honest opinion and gut feelings about the Durango. We would be interested in the Limited model. Thanks!
Richard
I drive an '08 Acura TSX, pre-beak. It's the rest-of-the-world Accord & considerably smaller and tighter than the U.S. Accord. It handles well (for a FWD car) and I've enjoyed it the 2+ years I've been driving it.
I've rented dozens of Impalas, and they're all relatively less responsive and generally sloppier than the TSX. However, some are considerably better than others, which I've attributed to the trim level & possible presence of some sort of "touring suspension" or whatever. Most of the are LTs I think, but sometimes it's a different designation, and I'm clueless regarding which are what for Chevrolet.
The Malibu is smaller and tighter & handles reasonably well. Once again, there are different trim levels which could affect the suspensions. All-in-all not a bad car.
I agree that the Hyundai was better than either of the GM offerings, but for putzing around cities it doesn't make a lot of difference. I wrote after I rented the Hyundai that I thought it was an excellent vehicle -- only time I've ever been in one.
I always make the (possibly incorrect) assumption that whenever National has something other than GM in the fleet that they were able to buy whatever it was for a song. I had a Fusion the other week that was pretty nice & almost got a Lincoln MKwhatever last month, but it turned out to have already been taken by someone else.
My best friend has a similar Acura and it is a very nice car.
My impressions are very similar to yours regarding the Impala, Malibu, and the Hyundai. While I made that statement, it reminds me, I just drove by a Hyundai dealer today and the new Sonata's looked really nice, all lined up. One thing I noticed about Hyundai's is they seem to have some of the nicest colors around, and quite a choice from pale blues, to deep purples and maroons.
I also think that since the rental companies can't get as many cars at really cheap prices any more, they have to go with whatever they can pick up at a reasonable price.
Thanks, for sharing your thoughts...it kind of confirms for me what I had thought about those particular cars.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
LOL, but you gotta get out more. Maybe it is time to wax your car again.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Richard
If all you want to do in life is putz around, you're correct, lots of cars available, probably a K Car would do quite nicely. But if you're spending a few thousand dollars for a car, you might as well get some enjoyment from it.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Gee, some folks don't want to go through their short time on earth driving a boring or poor handling car. They are enthusiasts that enjoy driving. Cars with good performance are a joy to drive all the time. And usually the price difference isn't that great.
So go ahead and drive your bland economical cars and save a few bucks. I for one will have no regrets over the cars I have owned in my lifetime. Even if it means leaving a little less to my descendents. You only go around once.
From what I remember when I researched the Durango several years ago unless the 2011 is a lot different or improved, there are much better choices out there. Edmunds has reviews of the 2009 that pretty much say what I remember... It is good for towing or hauling but has a rough ride and limited space compared to some of the other choices. http://www.edmunds.com/dodge/durango/2009/review.html
But they have nothing on the 2011, so this might not apply.
The 2011 has been completely redisigned. It will be a different car. IIRC, it will be built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee. I'm too lazy to google it right now to check.
We haven't received much info on the 2011 Durango. Since merging with Fiat, Chrysler has been really secretive about upcoming products, so even we as dealers don't know much until just before a product is released.
Other than that, you might be able to find a new or slightly used Aspen or Durango out there, but they are much much bigger than Grand Cherokees or Explorers. A test drive would help you decide if their size is an issue or not. And although Aspens and Durangos are similiar, they do have quite distinct front ends, the Aspen being the more luxurious one.
There is also a new SUV/Crossover coming out that will be called a Magnum, but will not be a station wagon like the previous Magnum was.
If you can wait a few more months then you should. Lots of new products coming out from Chrysler, and more info should be available on the Durango by then.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
Right now I am driving a 98 Saturn to and from work. I admit its not that much of a car but I will guarantee that you won't find a car that is more of a joy to drive to and from work in. Thats because the drive itself is not a joy at all. Basically it is one straight drive, one left turn then one more straight drive. All is very slow bumper to bumper traffic.
I'll take it one step further. You get any high performance car you want and I'll drive that little Saturn and we will race to work in the morning and home in the evening and I will guarantee you that I will beat you both ways.
Performance cars have their places and can be a joy to drive, but if you are like me and drive mostly in a large urban area that is congested then you will never use all that performance. So let me ask you this, why should I spend the extra money (and it can be considerable) to buy a car that goes 0-60 in 4.5 seconds when most of the time at a traffic light I am behind traffic that will take 15 seconds to get to 45 MPH and if I am first at the light all that extra speed will do is just get me to the traffic in front of me a few seconds sooner?
All I am saying is you have to balance want with need in view of prices. Do I want a high performance car? Sure? Will I use that performance? most likely 3 or 4 times a year. So I have to ask myself, is it worth $5K, $10K or more to me? No it isn't.
Go ahead and waste your money buy capabilities you don't need and will rarely use, I have better uses for my money.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I am with jwilliams2. Even for heavy traffic the extra ability to swerve or have enough horse power to merge into traffic makes it worthwhile. If I am spending hours intraffic I want it to be as enjoyable as possible.
We're here for a good time, not a long time, and I don't want to waste any of it driving a box with a steering wheel, but, I completely understand if it isn't a priority and you would rather spend the money on other things.....as long as it isn't cigarettes, liquor, gambling or on wild women!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
well, come on, that's no more self-indulgent than a fast car. :P
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
If you are in heavy traffic I don’t think you can do any swerving and do it safely and within the traffic laws of most states in the US. You probably have the same type of laws in Canada but since I don’t live there I am not positive about that.
When I bought the Genny I figured I’d appreciate its power since I drive the PA Turnpike about 40 miles round trip each day and I do appreciate the power that car has. But believe me, I can’t be out there passing every car in sight and swerving is against my rules let alone the state of PA. I use the cruise control constantly because early in the ownership of that car I found myself going over 80 quite a few times (speed limit 65) and if I were pulled over I’m sure I couldn’t weasel (sorry ‘snake’) my way out of a ticket by saying, “officer this thing is so quite and smooth riding I didn’t realize I was going that fast, honest”. So, I guess I bought more car than I really needed in the way of power but it is a nice cruising machine.
...as long as it isn't cigarettes, liquor, gambling or on wild women!
Well, I don’t smoke anymore. Liquor I don’t crave but every now and then I do have some. Gambling I never do. Wild women would probably be my destruction and that doesn’t even take into consideration what Mrs. j would do if I got caught. So I guess you can say I ain’t having no fun, not even with a powerful car.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
We are not talking about traffic flying down the highway at 70-80 MPH, we are talking heavy traffic doing 35 at best. Most of the time I could get to a proper merging speed on a bicycle.
But I would also add that with my old 140 or so HP Elantra I had no problems getting up to 70 MPH by the end of the on ramp.
As for swerving its more a function of planning ahead that maneuverability in heavy bumper to bumper traffic.
That being said you don't have to have power and "performance" to have an enjoyable drive. It can be enjoyable and cost a lot less.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
I didn't explain myself properly. Just an example, it was shortly after I got my first BMW, an X3. I was cruising by in the left lane of w lanes...going about 60. Without any reason a Plymouth Voyager decided to change lanes from the middle lane to right in front of me. I had to move over onto the median area or he would have hit me around my front right fender. My 2000 Jeep Cherokee wouldn't have the nimble handling to avoid the potential accident.
The X3 has the balance and easy handling as well as all wheel drive which I am sure helped. I believe to this day if it was a lesser vehicle, it would have been a crash for sure.
I guess you can say I ain’t having no fun, not even with a powerful car
For a guy who would rather watch whales and puffins on Discovery channel than see the real things, you don't need excitement. Are you one of those people who drives a 300 hp performance car, that dawdles along at 40mph in a 60 zone causing accidents all around you? Haven't you ever had to up to merge, or get away from a bad driver? I'll probably jinx myself but my last ticket was in 1994 caught on a radar camera. I don't think it was a fair ticket because it was in a construction zone and I only had a short distance to get on the highway in front of a line of trucks. It is a lot worse if you slow down or stop on an entry ramp. I'll pay the ticket and not complain because there are other times they could have caught me and didn't...but I really don't drive that fast...about 70% of the cars on the road are going faster than me.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I know about planning ahead, I taught high school driving classes....and defensive driving is definitely important, but sometimes people still do weird things.
I drove the Optima for a week and it has good handling and a reasonable amount of horse power for most situations. I'll still take all the extra help I can get though, and the BMW can steer, brake, and blend with traffic way better than the Optima.
Personally, just a hunch, but I think the people who think they are always in control of the situation no matter what happens around them, could be more likely to get into trouble than someone who admits they are not 100% perfect - and can be on top of any situation. In fact, I often see these people speed by me during a snow storm....and then they spin out a few miles ahead. Being overly confident about driving ability can be more of a problem than being a little cautious and taking into account the failings of others and possibly ourselves.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I think a nice sports sedan, say like the Buick Regal, may be the perfect blend of comfort and performance. In my Regal LS I have the quiet and comfort of a Buick, plus the power in torque and horsepower to do the job without any problem.
When I need great handling to handle those tight corners at the track, I get into my Mazda MPV. Mazda says it has the body of a minivan and the soul of a sports car... and they don't lie. So, less filling or taste great? I'll take both. :P
You make a good point. In my case, why would I purchase 4WD when I never go off of pavement, or drive in snow or ice? Also, I don't need or particularly care about a sunroof, nav, rear TV, or heated seats. I do want some nice features like leather seats, rear sensors, and Bluetooth. I think that options are personal preferences depending on where you live, how you drive, what you need, and what you desire.
Richard
Richard
The Magnum sounds interesting. I had not heard about the change to an SUV/Crossover. I realize that the Aspen and Durango are larger than the JGC or Explorer. Having owned a Tahoe, a TC, etc., big vehicles don't bother us. We even feel a little safer in them.
Do keep us posted here as you get new information on all of these changes.
Richard
Join the club. At least we're not up at night wondering what our wives know or don't know. :P
Richard
Also, am I losing it or did someone say that Greenpea had enlisted in the military? He was a nice young man. I miss his posts as well.
Richard
Back in my late teens and early twenties I had more then a few people tell me that I would get tired of musclecars/sports cars/sports sedans and that I would "graduate" to a leather upholstered land yacht. Well, here I am at the ripe old age of 53 and there isn't a single rolling sofa in the garage. And my next car will almost certainly be another fast track toy- think: Mustang GT with Brembo package, E90 M3, Cayman S, or 997. The only luxoboat I've EVER lusted after is the Alpina B7; you gotta love a 4700 lb. sedan that scorches the quarter in the high twelves and doesn't run out of breath until somewhere north of 190 mph...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
OK a couple of things, first if you read what I am posting you would find that this example doesn't apply to what I am talking about. In my daily commute if you get up to 60 MPH you are plowing into something.
Secondly the maneuver you described I have had to do more than once in lesser cars with no issues.
And no I am not the guy who dawdles at 40 MPH in a 60 MPH zone in a performance car. But I am a guy who knows that a 200 HP car can move you along very well at 60 MPH. Now I have had to merge and avoid bad drives and you don't need a Vette to do so.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Don't try to twist my words around. I am definitely not one of those. :P BTW, the Genny V8 has a lot more than 300 HP much closer to 400.
Haven't you ever had to up to merge, or get away from a bad driver?
I sure have. When I get to the on ramp of the PA Turnpike everyday I have no problems getting up to speed. Then the cruise goes on.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Well, to each his own. What's enjoyable to one may not be to another. I would certainly not enjoy such a car. And those of you who drive only to work in crowded slow speed traffic have my sympathy.
And no, I don't need a 4.5 second 0-60 time either. Anything under 6 seconds will do just fine.
Don't you mean MB? :confuse:
Ditto here. Had to do that in my wife's Subaru Impreza wagon with all of its 173 HP.
Not sure if you are losing it but I thought that Greenpea went over to the service department of his dealership. Not quite the same as the military... unless there are some unruly customers.
Always glad to show Chrysler how to build a car :P
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Don't you mean MB?
I think you are right. MB can also show Chrysler how to make cars.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
No, the Durango article said BMW for the engine. The JGC article was the one which said MB.
Richard
In that case, Chrysler is equaled to BMW.
Richard