Thanks for the ad...I remember those qualities being touted in the 60s, it was a pretty amazing feat for a car to be air tight and to float in those days.
That VW was $1999 less than the cost of my tires and alignment, which was $2500!
But the 535 drives like it old self again. They found flat spots on the tires and bulges in the two rear tires...it was a good thing it went in when it did, we have a few trips coming up.
Oh yea, the rental company brought me a Dodge 200 to try but they gave it to someone else who needed a car really quick. So, I had to wait and they brought me a Passat....which was a great car to drive but we already have a Passat so not much real fun to test. It was an automatic and it had a Sport Mode so that livened it up a bit. Great handling car, you can feel a bit of Audi in the Passat. (Verdugo, I know, even if it is made in Amercia).
Speaking of technology, those of us who are technophobes might relate to this cartoon.
I can certainly relate!
That cartoon is so appropriate for today's technophobes like many of us.
I tried reading my Owner's Manual(s) and didn't really understand most of the technologies nor how to use them. So I uploaded a special DVD Owner's Manual into my car's hard drive and sat there and tried to concentrate on the explanations and animations it took me through (while the car was stopped, of course). I know most of the technologies and how to use them, but the new car comes with totally new NAV system, Accident Avoidance System, Rear View Camera System, Lighting Systems w/Full LED Lighting, Voice Activation System, to name a few. Even with the animations, I still got stumped.
Had to make an appointment to sit down with one of the dealer's delivery specialist so he could take me through the new systems which are not clearly explained in the manuals.
This, even though I had a manual to tell me how to use the manual, but also had to have a specialist explain the other two manuals and the myriad of engaging, setting, disengaging, etc.
Never could figure out how to upload all my CD's to the hard drive - finally got them all on the car's hard drive. There is so much technology on these new cars that the average driver cannot possibly assimilate all the info needed, even with the many manuals.
As an example, the new NAV voice recognition system now understands a one sentence destination for state, city, street/road and house number and city without having to enter each individually.
We discussed Chick-Fil-A a lot months back. Has anyone noticed their changes?
Funny you mentioned that! Yes, we also noticed increased prices for their chicken strips, which we usually get. Chicken still tastes great, but it costs us $1.50 more for two lunches now.
As for their salads, I heard other customers talking about that.
So long as their chicken stays as delicious as it has always been and their fries as great tasting, we'll remain loyal customers. We go once a week to our local Chick-Fil-A for lunch.
here is so much technology on these new cars that the average driver cannot possibly assimilate all the info needed, even with the many manuals.
It was kind of refreshing to drive the rental Passat. No off/on feature, no tech screen to have to agree to, no satellite, USB choices to make, no rear camera to look at........just put the car in drive and go. Now, that's technology!
Thanks to all for the kind words and positive thoughts - reading them really helps.
The good news is that the DIL was moved from ICU to a regular room yesterday. The room is smaller, but has more amenities and the nurses don't bother her as frequently.
The bad news is that we still don't have a diagnosis. After a thyroid biopsy, two MRIs and a spinal tap, the doctors have been able to tell us:
1) no thyroid cancer 2) no issues with her lungs - the earlier concern was simply a vein
So, the next step is to perform a brain biopsy - she has 3 lesions that are showing up on the MRI - on Wednesday. Test results for that won't be available until early next week, so we're still in the dark as to what is really happening.
To look at her, you'd think she was fine - no motor or speech issues now.
The really bad news is that the wife and I have to return to Colorado on Wednesday. DIL's mom and other family members are expected to arrive from southern Utah tomorrow for a stay of about a week. We're thankful that there will be some family here to keep an eye on things.
To look at her, you'd think she was fine - no motor or speech issues now.
That is encouraging news. Keep praying for God to guide the hands of the medical specialist to diagnose and find a cure for your DIL's medical condition. -- Stay Blessed.
That cartoon is so appropriate for today's technophobes like many of us.
Don't look now, but there is more of it coming, and fast. In the current issue of Fortune Magazine they discuss how GM turned to Boston-based InContext to create the CUE system for the Cadillac and other GM lines. The print version has several interesting graphics to complement the article. You probably might have to be a subscriber to read the full article, but here is an excerpt:
“The largest, most expensive mobile device in most people's lives is not a smartphone or a tablet. It's their car. As microprocessors, GPS, and wireless have invaded the automobile, carmakers have begun to obsess about apps and interfaces that make such gadgetry work. Trouble is, old-line manufacturers tend to think in decades -- car platforms cost billions to develop and take years to roll out -- not trendy weekly or even daily iterations common in Bay Area software shops.”
And here is an example of the work done by InContext: "...InContext began with some 140 field interviews in cities ranging from Boston to Beijing to assess what drivers really need. This led developers to create personalization options -- so users can, for instance, configure their car displays to show the features they use most often -- as well as an interactive iPad manual." http://money.cnn.com/2013/06/13/technology/gm-incontext-design.pr.fortune/index.- - - html?pw_log=in
Technowhat? I always tell people when I'll be driving as that's the best time to call me. Bluetooth shuts off the music and presents the caller in clear voice to which I can respond.
Without bluetooth, the chances of me answering a cell call fall off greatly. Can't hear it, can't get to it in time, or in one case my wife called while my sil and I were trying to call her with the phone already open. Not knowing which button to push, we lost yet another call.
>That is one chain that can probably get away with raising prices.
They ceased being the honest fast food chain when they represent their salads differently on the menu board than the delivered item. The salads also show various things such as large pieces of strawberry, but the delivered salad had 2 thin slices of berry.
Shrinking the chicken on the sandwich is a time old tradition. But the phone agent to whom I spoke wouldn't even say the size had or had not changed in the past 6 months. That was my answer right there.
We are stopping at Chick-Fil-A less and less and spending less when we do stop.
“The largest, most expensive mobile device in most people's lives is not a smartphone or a tablet. It's their car. As microprocessors, GPS, and wireless have invaded the automobile, carmakers have begun to obsess about apps and interfaces that make such gadgetry work. Trouble is, old-line manufacturers tend to think in decades -- car platforms cost billions to develop and take years to roll out -- not trendy weekly or even daily iterations common in Bay Area software shops.”
And, there you have it. This is the problem....parallysis by analysis. This is why the electroncs GM and Ford use are so buggy and difficult to use.
I have been doing the tech thing for some time now. Both our cars are loaded with all that stuff, I have a 4G phone to stay connected 24/7, a mini ipad, an ultra book, another laptop, a kindle, and a "smart" tv.
I am sick of all that stuff, and I plan on cutting back. I have no need for the dumb 4G phone and will get a new simple phone when feasible. I am tired of spending so much time charging things. Rant over.
I have no need for the dumb 4G phone and will get a new simple phone when feasible.
Don't know if you saw 60 Minutes this last Sunday but they had an interview with David Kelly whose company Ideo makes new designs.
He designed the current "Apple mouse", and upright toothpaste containers. He made the thumbs up and thumbs down feature on TIBO, so it learns what you like and don't like. He also worked closely with Steve Jobs to design computer programs.
He makes improvements to things by watching how people react when they are doing things. If they grimmace when working on a software program, they know it has to be changed.
They ceased being the honest fast food chain when they represent their salads differently on the menu board than the delivered item.
You may have to give them a chance, the new signs may not have come in yet. Seems most chains and products under go these changes from time to time....slightly smaller hamburgers, smaller chocolate bars, less detergeant in the container etc. We get upset for awhile and then forget about it.....there will still be a huge line up at Chick-Fil-A's drive through before noon every day.
I am sick of all that stuff, and I plan on cutting back.
Houdini, I understand where you are coming from. I plan on cutting back as well.
I am on contract with AT&T mobile until this December. I pay $92 a month for 450 minutes (which I never use), 300 megs of data on the 4G network (which I also don't use since I use WiFi mostly), unlimited texting, etc. when my contract is up, I am going with T-Mobile. They charge $50 a month for unlimited everything and they told me that they can unblock my iPhone so I can use it w/T-Mobile.
I have web access in my car via satellite - who needs it? I will finish the 6 month trial then cancel. Same thing with traffic, weather and SAT radio services. A true waste of money. That technology is a "nice to have but who needs it" technology.
The more they put into these cars, the more confusing it gets!
That is one chain that can probably get away with raising prices.
There you have it.
If demand exceeds supply, then it's time to raise prices. Some percentage of the current cohort who shops there will pull away, but if Chick-Fil-A has done their arithmetic correctly, they'll come out ahead. Informed consumers (all 29 of them) will go elsewhere. So what? We already have an example on the board here of someone who's sucked it up and will return.
BMW has done a similar thing. They've totally jettisoned the enthusiasts who got them where they were a number of years ago, and they're making billions selling hermetically-sealed computermobiles to the masses. Dipsticks, run-flat tires, and batteries that need to be replaced at the dealer -- who cares? Not the target demo. We're not the target demo. Well, some of us are, but I try to stay civil.
Works every time it's tried.
I do want to try that chicken. I gave up on self-respect decades ago.
BMW has done a similar thing. They've totally jettisoned the enthusiasts who got them where they were a number of years ago, and they're making billions selling hermetically-sealed computermobiles to the masses. Dipsticks, run-flat tires, and batteries that need to be replaced at the dealer -- who cares?
You nailed it- Peter M. De Lorenzo at Autoextremist agrees- although you were a bit more succinct and to the point:
BMW: Ah, what a journey it has been for the Bavarian company, from purveyors of the original sport sedan – the vaunted 2002 – to the ubiquitous luxury brand that it is today, BMW certainly has its act down cold. But that’s just it: BMW’s coldly calculated act has grown stale. Why? Most everything that made BMW a BMW has been lost in translation. The light, nimble, toss-able sedans that launched the company have given way to bloated sedans, SUVs and crossovers that have about as much in common with the original idea as today’s O.J. Simpson has with the legendary USC football star. Will BMW still sell prodigious amounts of BMWs? Of course they will. But people are buying BMWs because they think they should be driving them, instead of lusting after the vehicles because they can deliver a driving experience like no other. There’s a big difference. And the sad thing is that BMW operatives are perfectly content with the notion of churning out BMWs for every niche, both real and imagined, on their quest to getting one in every garage in America. Will BMW’s new “i” electric brand make any difference? We’ll see. The AE Brand Image Meter ranking? A lukewarm Venti cup of blonde roast, with a topper of steamed soy vacuous.
Aside from the 135i M Sport, the E92 M3, and the M6 Gran Coupe, I cannot imagine owning any new BMW. And this comes from someone who has been a fan of Munich iron since 1971 and has owned 10 Bimmers over the last 30 years...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
BMW has done a similar thing. They've totally jettisoned the enthusiasts who got them where they were a number of years ago, and they're making billions selling hermetically-sealed computermobiles to the masses. Dipsticks, run-flat tires, and batteries that need to be replaced at the dealer -- who cares?
You nailed it- Peter M. De Lorenzo at Autoextremist agrees- although you were a bit more succinct and to the point:
BMW: Ah, what a journey it has been for the Bavarian company, from purveyors of the original sport sedan – the vaunted 2002 – to the ubiquitous luxury brand that it is today, BMW certainly has its act down cold. But that’s just it: BMW’s coldly calculated act has grown stale. Why? Most everything that made BMW a BMW has been lost in translation. The light, nimble, toss-able sedans that launched the company have given way to bloated sedans, SUVs and crossovers that have about as much in common with the original idea as today’s O.J. Simpson has with the legendary USC football star. Will BMW still sell prodigious amounts of BMWs? Of course they will. But people are buying BMWs because they think they should be driving them, instead of lusting after the vehicles because they can deliver a driving experience like no other. There’s a big difference. And the sad thing is that BMW operatives are perfectly content with the notion of churning out BMWs for every niche, both real and imagined, on their quest to getting one in every garage in America. Will BMW’s new “i” electric brand make any difference? We’ll see. The AE Brand Image Meter ranking? A lukewarm Venti cup of blonde roast, with a topper of steamed soy vacuous.
Aside from the 135i M Sport, the E92 M3, and the M6 Gran Coupe, I cannot imagine owning any new BMW. And this comes from someone who has been a fan of Munich iron since 1971 and has owned 10 Bimmers over the last 30 years...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I've been a fan of (and lusted after) BMWs since I had the distinct pleasure of tearing up the streets of Buffalo one night in a friend's 1995 E36 Sport Pkg, 5 speed, 325is. I leased an X3 for 3 years in 2007 for my wife & turned it back in 3 years later. I finally was able to afford a BMW of my own last March thanks to a heavily subsidized lease and $4000 worth of cash incentives ($2500 cash, $500 payment credit for the 1st 2 payments, & a $500 BMWCCA rebate). I love my 2011 328xi, but like many others have been left cold with the current generation of BMWs.
I drove an F10 535xi & 550xi at a BMW ride & drive event. While the 550xi was insanely fast, it didn't leave me with that "let's see if I can raid the kids' college funds without the wife noticing" feeling.
Same with a 650i Convertible w/ sport pkg I drove. Pretty? check. Fast? check. Any chance of me plunking down $100K on it instead of a Porsche 911? Not on your life.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
If you liked the old style BMWs you'll come a lot closer to the real thing if you take an Audi A4 for a spin....it feels the way a bimmer used to feel, only with a nicer interior.
Maybe BMW is abandoning the performance heritage population because that group isn't buying enough new cars. The present iteration appeals to the group that has the financial wherewithal to afford one and will actually commit to buy one. Broaden the appeal and sell more cars.
. . .someone who has been a fan of Munich iron since 1971 and has owned 10 Bimmers over the last 30 years. . .
I was late to the party, and as we all know, timing is everything. Almost exactly as soon as I could afford a BMW their focus changed. It's not a new thing for me -- a few weeks after I was eligible for a parking space at work, the reserved parking policy was eliminated.
Either way, I helped a friend set his valves (remember that?) on a 1600 (I don't think it was a 2002) in 1974 because it just like my MGB, only executed much more nicely. I appreciated how the engine was put together, and that was it for decades.
By the time I was able to consider a BMW, the yuppies had wrecked the image of the brand (in my mind) and by the time I decided I didn't care (thanks to Shipo and others), it was all over. Now the BMW is the appliance many of us used to abhor, even though it handles very nicely. As many have said (including the guru of all things related to fixing BMWs, Mike of Roundel fame), the new ones shouldn't be driven without warranty coverage.
That said, they are sold (more likely leased) by the boatload.
We don't matter and I've gotten to the point where I don't care.
We don't matter and I've gotten to the point where I don't care.
You guys are forgetting the major demographic for BMW's decision to move in that direction. Women!
I have no statistics to support that assertion but I believe Women are involved in over 60% of the buying decision of the family's car. With that said, an auto manufacturer would be wise to produce a vehicle that meet the wants and needs of women, i.e. automatic transmission, softer suspension and lots of airbags. BMW is doing today what GM did so successfully in the second half of the 20th. century--build and market an aspirational vehicle for every socioeconomic group.
>You may have to give them a chance, the new signs may not have come in yet.
As I indicated, the signs were up the day they started the new menu. Chick-Fil-A has lost their way because they now aren't the honest, quallity store they were. That is my opinion. Truett needs to take a second look.
. Chick-Fil-A has lost their way because they now aren't the honest, quallity store they were.
Your sounding like an old person...Chic-Fil-As not the same as it used to be.....bmw is not the way it used to be.......cell phones are not the same as they used to be.........I think we are all getting older!
Where profit is concerned companies will cut corners and aim for more customers, to increase profit. And, the sad truth is, it is almost impossible for companies to survive unless they do that....grow or die, and that is just the way it is.
Maybe the upcoming 1 series (that the new FWD model?)
Just FYI the1 Series is RWD. Though, the article I just read said 80% of owners think their 1's are FWD.....makes you wonder how much handling really means to most people.(you may be referring to a newer model not out yet)
80 Percent Of BMW 1-Series Owners Think Their Car Is Front-Wheel Drive
Last week’s announcement that BMW is planning to launch a new entry-level model with a front-wheel drive powertrain would certainly have had some brand purists spewing, but for the large majority of new car buyers it would appear that it doesn’t matter which wheels are doing the driving because most wouldn’t even notice.
Any enthusiast would almost instantly recognize whether a car is front, rear or all-wheel drive once they hop behind the wheel but according to a survey run by BMW, most new car buyers are clueless on the issue.
Speaking to analysts following the release of BMW’s 2009 financial results last week, CEO Norbert Reithofer revealed that 80 percent of 1-series owners believe they are driving a front-wheel drive car.
Just FYI the1 Series is RWD...(you may be referring to a newer model not out yet)
FYI - the current 1 series is RWD. Everything I've read say the next 1 series due out in 2015 will share a FWD/AWD platform with the next mini and the current 1 series will become the 2 series.
I know what the current one is. I was talking about the new FWD model that is coming soon. Just wondering if they are going to call that the 1 series also.
and don't be so sure that so many people can tell easily what wheels are driving. With the EPS so many cars have now, and the electronic nannies, you can barely tell they have wheels.
and don't be so sure that so many people can tell easily what wheels are driving. With the EPS so many cars have now, and the electronic nannies, you can barely tell they have wheels.
As more than one brain-dead imbecile has told me, "I need a FWD or AWD car because I need to be able to drive it in the rain."
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
It gives bmw a chance to go up against MB in more classes. Also, since they have the technology for the mini, may as well get maximum use from it. Hope they don't use RFTs!
They seem to favor using 1-Series in the name, but could be changed a bit, possibly 1-series GT.
Personally, I am not getting too excited about it.
"I need a FWD or AWD car because I need to be able to drive it in the rain."
I could be wrong (what do I know), but, it is my understanding AWD does grip better on wet roads. Just a guess, but, I would assume FWD cars may grip better on wet roads too, with that extra weight on the drive wheels.
That comment seems strange, but, possibly there is some truth to it....maybe?
I received an invitation letter in the mail on Monday from one of the Huyandi dealers in the area. It seems that if I called and made an appointment to test-drive their new Equus, I would receive a $50 gift card for my time. So, I called and made the appointment for this afternoon at 3:00 PM.
When I got to the showroom, the front lot was filled with Sonatas and Elantras. The showroom had a crossover on the floor along with a Sonata, an Elantra and a Genesis coupe. The waiting room was filled with kids running around and screaming. My first impression was that I was no longer in Kansas anymore - it was a completely different world, if you know what I mean. I'm no snob, believe me when I say that, but it was like walking through a Steven King novel - like a time warp - a place where "no one knows your name"!
I walked up to the receptionist and she called for the salesman. He introduced himself and shook my hand. He said, "...let's get out of here and away from these brats (he was referring to the screaming kids) so you can appreciate the elegance of the new Equus!" He took me out to the back lot and there he showed me where they kept the "good stuff", as he called it. They had 3 Equus sedans and about 12 genesis sedans.
I started one of the Equus's up and a cloud of black smoke pored out of the rear exhaust pipes. He quickly shut the engine down and apologized - he said he was told one of the Equus sedans had a problem. Now remember, this was a $60,000 car sitting on a back lot, spouting black smoke. He took me to a silver Equus sedan and I started that one up. It ran for 25 seconds and then stalled. I started it again, and again it stalled. I looked at salesman, shook his hand, and I said, "...thanks, but no thanks!" He said if I have him my license he would have my gift card sent to my address, but I said, "...thanks, but no thanks!"
How anyone can buy a $60,000 luxury car under circumstances and conditions like what I experienced is truly beyond me!
How anyone can buy a $60,000 luxury car under circumstances and conditions like what I experienced is truly beyond me!
Unbelievable! It almost sounds like those cars weren't prepared for the big day.
Not much thought given to the test run....I wonder how many people show up for one of those demonstrations. Every one who comes in will tell 20 people what happenned, not a good way to build a brand.
A question.......when other people do this kind of thing they make you feel guilty for trying to collect $50 and taking up a salespersons time...when there isn't much chance you will be buying the car. So, how do you justify going to the Equus test run?
A question.......when other people do this kind of thing they make you feel guilty for trying to collect $50 and taking up a salespersons time...when there isn't much chance you will be buying the car. So, how do you justify going to the Equus test run?
I've never driven one - saw one on display at the Boca Town Center Mall, but never got a chance to find out if it is truly a contender. Well, still haven't driven one, but I did have the chance to 'start' one. And as for the $50 gift card, never gave them my driver's license. I think I spent 10 minutes there including the time to sit in the car and trying to get one to actually run.
If the Equus is truly a contender in the luxury car line, I wanted to find out how it was built and what it drove like. Needless to say, I've crossed that one off my list. No wonder they valet the car for all services - they don't want the customer to sit in their waiting rooms!!!
Comments
Thanks for the ad...I remember those qualities being touted in the 60s, it was a pretty amazing feat for a car to be air tight and to float in those days.
That VW was $1999 less than the cost of my tires and alignment, which was $2500!
But the 535 drives like it old self again. They found flat spots on the tires and bulges in the two rear tires...it was a good thing it went in when it did, we have a few trips coming up.
Oh yea, the rental company brought me a Dodge 200 to try but they gave it to someone else who needed a car really quick. So, I had to wait and they brought me a Passat....which was a great car to drive but we already have a Passat so not much real fun to test. It was an automatic and it had a Sport Mode so that livened it up a bit. Great handling car, you can feel a bit of Audi in the Passat. (Verdugo, I know, even if it is made in Amercia).
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I can certainly relate!
That cartoon is so appropriate for today's technophobes like many of us.
I tried reading my Owner's Manual(s) and didn't really understand most of the technologies nor how to use them. So I uploaded a special DVD Owner's Manual into my car's hard drive and sat there and tried to concentrate on the explanations and animations it took me through (while the car was stopped, of course). I know most of the technologies and how to use them, but the new car comes with totally new NAV system, Accident Avoidance System, Rear View Camera System, Lighting Systems w/Full LED Lighting, Voice Activation System, to name a few. Even with the animations, I still got stumped.
Had to make an appointment to sit down with one of the dealer's delivery specialist so he could take me through the new systems which are not clearly explained in the manuals.
This, even though I had a manual to tell me how to use the manual, but also had to have a specialist explain the other two manuals and the myriad of engaging, setting, disengaging, etc.
Never could figure out how to upload all my CD's to the hard drive - finally got them all on the car's hard drive. There is so much technology on these new cars that the average driver cannot possibly assimilate all the info needed, even with the many manuals.
As an example, the new NAV voice recognition system now understands a one sentence destination for state, city, street/road and house number and city without having to enter each individually.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Until the day he died, he could never understand how any American could buy a German or a Japanese car.
Funny you mentioned that! Yes, we also noticed increased prices for their chicken strips, which we usually get. Chicken still tastes great, but it costs us $1.50 more for two lunches now.
As for their salads, I heard other customers talking about that.
So long as their chicken stays as delicious as it has always been and their fries as great tasting, we'll remain loyal customers. We go once a week to our local Chick-Fil-A for lunch.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
It was kind of refreshing to drive the rental Passat. No off/on feature, no tech screen to have to agree to, no satellite, USB choices to make, no rear camera to look at........just put the car in drive and go. Now, that's technology!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I assume there are still long line ups beginning way before 12 noon. That is one chain that can probably get away with raising prices.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
The good news is that the DIL was moved from ICU to a regular room yesterday. The room is smaller, but has more amenities and the nurses don't bother her as frequently.
The bad news is that we still don't have a diagnosis. After a thyroid biopsy, two MRIs and a spinal tap, the doctors have been able to tell us:
1) no thyroid cancer
2) no issues with her lungs - the earlier concern was simply a vein
So, the next step is to perform a brain biopsy - she has 3 lesions that are showing up on the MRI - on Wednesday. Test results for that won't be available until early next week, so we're still in the dark as to what is really happening.
To look at her, you'd think she was fine - no motor or speech issues now.
The really bad news is that the wife and I have to return to Colorado on Wednesday. DIL's mom and other family members are expected to arrive from southern Utah tomorrow for a stay of about a week. We're thankful that there will be some family here to keep an eye on things.
That is encouraging news. Keep praying for God to guide the hands of the medical specialist to diagnose and find a cure for your DIL's medical condition. -- Stay Blessed.
Don't look now, but there is more of it coming, and fast. In the current issue of Fortune Magazine they discuss how GM turned to Boston-based InContext to create the CUE system for the Cadillac and other GM lines. The print version has several interesting graphics to complement the article. You probably might have to be a subscriber to read the full article, but here is an excerpt:
“The largest, most expensive mobile device in most people's lives is not a smartphone or a tablet. It's their car. As microprocessors, GPS, and wireless have invaded the automobile, carmakers have begun to obsess about apps and interfaces that make such gadgetry work. Trouble is, old-line manufacturers tend to think in decades -- car platforms cost billions to develop and take years to roll out -- not trendy weekly or even daily iterations common in Bay Area software shops.”
And here is an example of the work done by InContext: "...InContext began with some 140 field interviews in cities ranging from Boston to Beijing to assess what drivers really need. This led developers to create personalization options -- so users can, for instance, configure their car displays to show the features they use most often -- as well as an interactive iPad manual."
http://money.cnn.com/2013/06/13/technology/gm-incontext-design.pr.fortune/index.- - - html?pw_log=in
Without bluetooth, the chances of me answering a cell call fall off greatly. Can't hear it, can't get to it in time, or in one case my wife called while my sil and I were trying to call her with the phone already open. Not knowing which button to push, we lost yet another call.
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
Ditto!!!
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
They ceased being the honest fast food chain when they represent their salads differently on the menu board than the delivered item. The salads also show various things such as large pieces of strawberry, but the delivered salad had 2 thin slices of berry.
Shrinking the chicken on the sandwich is a time old tradition. But the phone agent to whom I spoke wouldn't even say the size had or had not changed in the past 6 months. That was my answer right there.
We are stopping at Chick-Fil-A less and less and spending less when we do stop.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
And, there you have it. This is the problem....parallysis by analysis. This is why the electroncs GM and Ford use are so buggy and difficult to use.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
I am sick of all that stuff, and I plan on cutting back. I have no need for the dumb 4G phone and will get a new simple phone when feasible. I am tired of spending so much time charging things. Rant over.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Don't know if you saw 60 Minutes this last Sunday but they had an interview with David Kelly whose company Ideo makes new designs.
He designed the current "Apple mouse", and upright toothpaste containers. He made the thumbs up and thumbs down feature on TIBO, so it learns what you like and don't like. He also worked closely with Steve Jobs to design computer programs.
He makes improvements to things by watching how people react when they are doing things. If they grimmace when working on a software program, they know it has to be changed.
Ideo segment 60 Minutes; 60 Minutes
Maybe you should get one of these....
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You may have to give them a chance, the new signs may not have come in yet. Seems most chains and products under go these changes from time to time....slightly smaller hamburgers, smaller chocolate bars, less detergeant in the container etc. We get upset for awhile and then forget about it.....there will still be a huge line up at Chick-Fil-A's drive through before noon every day.
They know they gotcha!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Houdini, I understand where you are coming from. I plan on cutting back as well.
I am on contract with AT&T mobile until this December. I pay $92 a month for 450 minutes (which I never use), 300 megs of data on the 4G network (which I also don't use since I use WiFi mostly), unlimited texting, etc. when my contract is up, I am going with T-Mobile. They charge $50 a month for unlimited everything and they told me that they can unblock my iPhone so I can use it w/T-Mobile.
I have web access in my car via satellite - who needs it? I will finish the 6 month trial then cancel. Same thing with traffic, weather and SAT radio services. A true waste of money. That technology is a "nice to have but who needs it" technology.
The more they put into these cars, the more confusing it gets!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
There you have it.
If demand exceeds supply, then it's time to raise prices. Some percentage of the current cohort who shops there will pull away, but if Chick-Fil-A has done their arithmetic correctly, they'll come out ahead. Informed consumers (all 29 of them) will go elsewhere. So what? We already have an example on the board here of someone who's sucked it up and will return.
BMW has done a similar thing. They've totally jettisoned the enthusiasts who got them where they were a number of years ago, and they're making billions selling hermetically-sealed computermobiles to the masses. Dipsticks, run-flat tires, and batteries that need to be replaced at the dealer -- who cares? Not the target demo. We're not the target demo. Well, some of us are, but I try to stay civil.
Works every time it's tried.
I do want to try that chicken. I gave up on self-respect decades ago.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
You nailed it- Peter M. De Lorenzo at Autoextremist agrees- although you were a bit more succinct and to the point:
BMW: Ah, what a journey it has been for the Bavarian company, from purveyors of the original sport sedan – the vaunted 2002 – to the ubiquitous luxury brand that it is today, BMW certainly has its act down cold. But that’s just it: BMW’s coldly calculated act has grown stale. Why? Most everything that made BMW a BMW has been lost in translation. The light, nimble, toss-able sedans that launched the company have given way to bloated sedans, SUVs and crossovers that have about as much in common with the original idea as today’s O.J. Simpson has with the legendary USC football star. Will BMW still sell prodigious amounts of BMWs? Of course they will. But people are buying BMWs because they think they should be driving them, instead of lusting after the vehicles because they can deliver a driving experience like no other. There’s a big difference. And the sad thing is that BMW operatives are perfectly content with the notion of churning out BMWs for every niche, both real and imagined, on their quest to getting one in every garage in America. Will BMW’s new “i” electric brand make any difference? We’ll see. The AE Brand Image Meter ranking? A lukewarm Venti cup of blonde roast, with a topper of steamed soy vacuous.
Aside from the 135i M Sport, the E92 M3, and the M6 Gran Coupe, I cannot imagine owning any new BMW.
And this comes from someone who has been a fan of Munich iron since 1971 and has owned 10 Bimmers over the last 30 years...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
You nailed it- Peter M. De Lorenzo at Autoextremist agrees- although you were a bit more succinct and to the point:
BMW: Ah, what a journey it has been for the Bavarian company, from purveyors of the original sport sedan – the vaunted 2002 – to the ubiquitous luxury brand that it is today, BMW certainly has its act down cold. But that’s just it: BMW’s coldly calculated act has grown stale. Why? Most everything that made BMW a BMW has been lost in translation. The light, nimble, toss-able sedans that launched the company have given way to bloated sedans, SUVs and crossovers that have about as much in common with the original idea as today’s O.J. Simpson has with the legendary USC football star. Will BMW still sell prodigious amounts of BMWs? Of course they will. But people are buying BMWs because they think they should be driving them, instead of lusting after the vehicles because they can deliver a driving experience like no other. There’s a big difference. And the sad thing is that BMW operatives are perfectly content with the notion of churning out BMWs for every niche, both real and imagined, on their quest to getting one in every garage in America. Will BMW’s new “i” electric brand make any difference? We’ll see. The AE Brand Image Meter ranking? A lukewarm Venti cup of blonde roast, with a topper of steamed soy vacuous.
Aside from the 135i M Sport, the E92 M3, and the M6 Gran Coupe, I cannot imagine owning any new BMW.
And this comes from someone who has been a fan of Munich iron since 1971 and has owned 10 Bimmers over the last 30 years...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
I drove an F10 535xi & 550xi at a BMW ride & drive event. While the 550xi was insanely fast, it didn't leave me with that "let's see if I can raid the kids' college funds without the wife noticing" feeling.
Same with a 650i Convertible w/ sport pkg I drove. Pretty? check. Fast? check. Any chance of me plunking down $100K on it instead of a Porsche 911? Not on your life.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
lol....and he did!
If you liked the old style BMWs you'll come a lot closer to the real thing if you take an Audi A4 for a spin....it feels the way a bimmer used to feel, only with a nicer interior.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Just that they seemed to have stopped making something for the traditionalists.
Maybe the upcoming 1 series (that the new FWD model?) will have some of that (if you can get past the FWD aspect!)
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I was late to the party, and as we all know, timing is everything. Almost exactly as soon as I could afford a BMW their focus changed. It's not a new thing for me -- a few weeks after I was eligible for a parking space at work, the reserved parking policy was eliminated.
Either way, I helped a friend set his valves (remember that?) on a 1600 (I don't think it was a 2002) in 1974 because it just like my MGB, only executed much more nicely. I appreciated how the engine was put together, and that was it for decades.
By the time I was able to consider a BMW, the yuppies had wrecked the image of the brand (in my mind) and by the time I decided I didn't care (thanks to Shipo and others), it was all over. Now the BMW is the appliance many of us used to abhor, even though it handles very nicely. As many have said (including the guru of all things related to fixing BMWs, Mike of Roundel fame), the new ones shouldn't be driven without warranty coverage.
That said, they are sold (more likely leased) by the boatload.
We don't matter and I've gotten to the point where I don't care.
You guys are forgetting the major demographic for BMW's decision to move in that direction. Women!
I have no statistics to support that assertion but I believe Women are involved in over 60% of the buying decision of the family's car. With that said, an auto manufacturer would be wise to produce a vehicle that meet the wants and needs of women, i.e. automatic transmission, softer suspension and lots of airbags. BMW is doing today what GM did so successfully in the second half of the 20th. century--build and market an aspirational vehicle for every socioeconomic group.
As I indicated, the signs were up the day they started the new menu. Chick-Fil-A has lost their way because they now aren't the honest, quallity store they were. That is my opinion. Truett needs to take a second look.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Your sounding like an old person...Chic-Fil-As not the same as it used to be.....bmw is not the way it used to be.......cell phones are not the same as they used to be.........I think we are all getting older!
Where profit is concerned companies will cut corners and aim for more customers, to increase profit. And, the sad truth is, it is almost impossible for companies to survive unless they do that....grow or die, and that is just the way it is.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I'm offended.
You are welcome to your position. I'm allowed to have my opinion without being denigrated personally.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Richard and snakeweasel are still awol.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Did you get lost out in the back 40?
Did the hooptie break down in the back 300 acres?
I thought maybe you sold your farm to a developer and moved to Largo FL.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I am just as offended...I am in the same boat as you are.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Just FYI the1 Series is RWD. Though, the article I just read said 80% of owners think their 1's are FWD.....makes you wonder how much handling really means to most people.(you may be referring to a newer model not out yet)
80 Percent Of BMW 1-Series Owners Think Their Car Is Front-Wheel Drive
MotorAuthority - 80% of bmw 1 series owners think their car is FWD
Last week’s announcement that BMW is planning to launch a new entry-level model with a front-wheel drive powertrain would certainly have had some brand purists spewing, but for the large majority of new car buyers it would appear that it doesn’t matter which wheels are doing the driving because most wouldn’t even notice.
Any enthusiast would almost instantly recognize whether a car is front, rear or all-wheel drive once they hop behind the wheel but according to a survey run by BMW, most new car buyers are clueless on the issue.
Speaking to analysts following the release of BMW’s 2009 financial results last week, CEO Norbert Reithofer revealed that 80 percent of 1-series owners believe they are driving a front-wheel drive car.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
FYI - the current 1 series is RWD. Everything I've read say the next 1 series due out in 2015 will share a FWD/AWD platform with the next mini and the current 1 series will become the 2 series.
and don't be so sure that so many people can tell easily what wheels are driving. With the EPS so many cars have now, and the electronic nannies, you can barely tell they have wheels.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
As more than one brain-dead imbecile has told me, "I need a FWD or AWD car because I need to be able to drive it in the rain."
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
You are absolutely correct, bmw is planning on making several FWD models, using the next generation mini FWD system.
Good article; Forbes bmw goes FWD
It gives bmw a chance to go up against MB in more classes. Also, since they have the technology for the mini, may as well get maximum use from it.
Hope they don't use RFTs!
They seem to favor using 1-Series in the name, but could be changed a bit, possibly 1-series GT.
Personally, I am not getting too excited about it.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I could be wrong (what do I know), but, it is my understanding AWD does grip better on wet roads. Just a guess, but, I would assume FWD cars may grip better on wet roads too, with that extra weight on the drive wheels.
That comment seems strange, but, possibly there is some truth to it....maybe?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
When I got to the showroom, the front lot was filled with Sonatas and Elantras. The showroom had a crossover on the floor along with a Sonata, an Elantra and a Genesis coupe. The waiting room was filled with kids running around and screaming. My first impression was that I was no longer in Kansas anymore - it was a completely different world, if you know what I mean. I'm no snob, believe me when I say that, but it was like walking through a Steven King novel - like a time warp - a place where "no one knows your name"!
I walked up to the receptionist and she called for the salesman. He introduced himself and shook my hand. He said, "...let's get out of here and away from these brats (he was referring to the screaming kids) so you can appreciate the elegance of the new Equus!" He took me out to the back lot and there he showed me where they kept the "good stuff", as he called it. They had 3 Equus sedans and about 12 genesis sedans.
I started one of the Equus's up and a cloud of black smoke pored out of the rear exhaust pipes. He quickly shut the engine down and apologized - he said he was told one of the Equus sedans had a problem. Now remember, this was a $60,000 car sitting on a back lot, spouting black smoke. He took me to a silver Equus sedan and I started that one up. It ran for 25 seconds and then stalled. I started it again, and again it stalled. I looked at salesman, shook his hand, and I said, "...thanks, but no thanks!" He said if I have him my license he would have my gift card sent to my address, but I said, "...thanks, but no thanks!"
How anyone can buy a $60,000 luxury car under circumstances and conditions like what I experienced is truly beyond me!
End of story!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Unbelievable! It almost sounds like those cars weren't prepared for the big day.
Not much thought given to the test run....I wonder how many people show up for one of those demonstrations. Every one who comes in will tell 20 people what happenned, not a good way to build a brand.
A question.......when other people do this kind of thing they make you feel guilty for trying to collect $50 and taking up a salespersons time...when there isn't much chance you will be buying the car. So, how do you justify going to the Equus test run?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I've never driven one - saw one on display at the Boca Town Center Mall, but never got a chance to find out if it is truly a contender. Well, still haven't driven one, but I did have the chance to 'start' one. And as for the $50 gift card, never gave them my driver's license. I think I spent 10 minutes there including the time to sit in the car and trying to get one to actually run.
If the Equus is truly a contender in the luxury car line, I wanted to find out how it was built and what it drove like. Needless to say, I've crossed that one off my list. No wonder they valet the car for all services - they don't want the customer to sit in their waiting rooms!!!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
and jmonroe. He didn't even chime in when we were talking about dealer fees. :P