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Regards,
OW
SANTEE, Calif. -- An East County Salvation Army store may be closed for a couple of days after a white Lexus slammed through the front doors and caused extensive damage Tuesday evening
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Lots of complaints? From who?
TM
It's the internet. It must be true.
"Your underwear can kill you! It's true!"
Can anybody name that tune, er, TV show???
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
I would grant you that, yes. Just the fact that it will be offered as a coupe at all makes it closer to the original SC. The 430 was a total departure from the original idea. I think rather than compete with the really big luxury coupes like the old SC, Lexus wanted to make a bargain SL, as the SC430 is nearly the exact same size as the SL. The French studio that did it though totally lost the plot. I wonder how it would've turned out if Toyota had given the mission to Calty again instead. Californians know a bit more about convertibles than the French.
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Regards,
OW
Indeed. The new S4 should be pretty good too. The current RS4 based on its old front-heavy architecture is already regarded as basically the best driving Audi sedan ever, so imagine what the Quattro GmbH boys could do with a lighter engine running further back, as opposed to a "dead horse nailed to the radiator grille" as Clarkson put it.
People from the editorial staff of publications?
People that you know personally?
People from a particular forum?
So, I was sort of wondering which people you were hearing so much of the complaints from?
TM
Probably the people that looked under the hood and noticed that "V6" engine was missing a whole bank of cylinders! :P
TM
Whoever came up with that idea should get shot!!
The French are only good at things that are meant to be eaten, not driven.
Hope I didn't offend anyone here...
"Mercedes-Benz’ R&D boss Dr. Thomas Weber today announced all Mercedes-Benz models will offer turbocharged engines by 2010.
The move is meant to lower emissions while increasing fuel economy, as modern turbocharger systems are a relatively low-cost and efficient way of achieving both goals. The main advantage will include tighter packaging than an equivalent, naturally aspirated engine, allowing cars to be smaller and therefore lighter."
See, its not just BMW being lazy. Turbos are back in a big way. There is a replacement for displacement.
BMW
Most women and girls I asked had their eyes on the 135i, particularly in convertible trim, because its the 1st time they see BMW making a somewhat cute car, more like a mature MINI cooper. I'm not sure of what I feel when I hear the comment "cute", but they definitely notice and like them.
On the other hand, they find other BMWs becoming less and less attractive. The guys think its becoming a show-off and the lines are less muscular and looks rather feminine. Funny thing is the ladies think the new BMWs look too masculine and overstyled. An addition: they looked at the pics of upcoming 2009 3series sedan and it freaked them out. Most however, agree that the Z4 and 6 series are desirable, along with 3-coupe/convertible.
My take? Women will most likely notice, but not necessarily appreciate.
MB
Most agree that MB looks old, even now with newer designs. They still see MBs as status cars, but dont see any improvement from one generation to another, and find them looking rather boring . Ladies make exceptions on SLK, SL and E-class. They think SL and E are classy and elegant, while the SLK is (again) cute. But they doubt they'll notice when they see one coming.
Ladies will appreciate somewhat, notice but perhaps not as much as you think ( or hope) they will.
AUDI
Surprisingly, women love Audis. Simple, elegant, muscular and tasteful are the comments I hear most when it comes to the 4 rings. And now with the big-O grille, they'll have no problems turning heads. Personally, I'm now a big fan of Audis (except the yawning look of the A6 which I absolutely dislike). Women turn their heads on obviously the TT, then the A5 and Q7. I can understand why the style is attractive to them, the design practically says "I'm rich, classy" outside, soft and tastefully done inside. Yes they love the interior quality as usual. At the same time, they also said they miss the previous pre-single frame grille A4s (2002-2005), considered the clasiest, most elegant A4 ever (I somewhat agree though).
My take? Women will notice, and appreciate.
JAGUAR
Need I say more? Most of us guys think they look just old and dated. But what is it with women and Jaguars? Most like them, calling Jags sexy, stylish and pure elegant. Interestingly, when I asked whether they'll notice when they see one, they all doubt they will.
Women will appreciate, but I guess not notice.
LEXUS
Women say yes to the SC, RX and GS, big no to IS, dont care for others. The same reason they give on jaguars, sexy, stylish, and elegant (which part?????). Love the interior quality, especially the super-creamy leather (this I agree). But they said they probably wont turn heads as there are just too many of them on the streets these days. I find the current GS and RX good looking, but cant appreciate they way they drive, then again its a Lexus.
Women will appreciate, but notice? Maybe for the big L logo (and I dont mean loser
INFINITI
Head turner!!! The designs scream lookatme and sporty. Most admit to notice the FX and G-coupe immediately, but opinions are split. Some love them, same hate them. I like most of them, and would buy the next FX35 if they fix that dumb gokart-like ride. Women like the way they look but seriously hate the way they ride, and the lack of premium materials inside. Guys love they way they look and handle, dont seem to care much about the ride.
Women will notice and appreciate, until they take a ride or drive in one.
CADILLAC
Extreme looks!!! Thats their take, some like it, but many hate it. 100% agree that it's an extrovert's car. Interior drew mixed bag, they generally accept the design but complained for the dumb, cheesy materials inside. They find no model worth appreciating as status car, before you ask, not even the Escalade.
Women will definitely notice, but sadly not appreciate.
My 2 cents along with some others'... what do you people think???
July 16's Southern Metropolis Daily reported on a woman in Guangzhou who hitched her BMW to a water buffalo and led the beast around downtown to protest the car company's refusal to replace her defective car.
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dewey, I guess that explains why Audi outsells BMW in China lol
you've got enyclopedic knowledge on what women want with their cars.
Thanks for answering Sigmund Freud's question: Vhat do Vomen really Vant?
Yeah! Some 'Citroën Addict' as me can take offense :mad:
The new C5 is not ugly, though she lacks some muscle.
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(At the bottom of this page there are links to more C5 pics.)
Regards,
Jose
And yes, I heard the same complaints from people I know in UK and HK...
GOOD (the IS part that is...)!!
Unfortunately that's not what I see here in So. Cal, the IS250 has become an obvious chick car around where I live...
Indeed they did. I remember the brochure from when the SC430 launched. Toyota sent their European designers to the south of France to study luxury yachts, and they came up with tubby the SC.
Reminds me of a great Clarkson line: "If I wanted a lovely lunch, I would ring up a Frenchman. If however, I wanted a lovely super car, I'd ring my mother, my dog, my wife's horse, anyone other than a Frenchman."
If you build it, put a blue/white propellor on it, they will lease...!
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Only if you were making reference to their women... :lemon:
With SUV sales down for all marques who in his right mind wants to buy a crossover SUV that does not fulfill the needs of an SUV driver or the needs of someone who wants a nimble fast coupe?
At least the Lexus RX has a defined market (Evil Wives) but the X6 market IMO remains undefinable.
Toyota got designers to stay at the French Riviera in order to figure out what kind of bling the Rich and Famous Europeans favor.
Thank God these designers did not hang around the North German Baltic coast otherwise they may have spotted the yacht below which is owned by a Russian billionaire who happens to be a cheer leading Putin Crony. What happens if a Russian billionaire is not a Putin Crony? His billions would be seized by the RussianGovernment and he would be spending his time in more humble surroundings within a jail cell. Corruption sucks.
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I agree. In fact, I find it surprising that such a vehicle like the X6 even exists.
But, then again, I've been a little surprised that the Infiniti FX has sold as well as it has. It's certainly not the freak that the X6 is, but it's still a design stretch, IMO.
It takes serious money to design and build a vehicle. How can auto companies waste so much of their resources on stupid models anyway?
I believe I read somewhere that Audi will offer up to 41 different models in the near future!! I personally think that's too many. BMW should focus their resources on vehicles that people really need and want to buy, instead of trying to make a "statement" that ultimately serves little purpose to themselves or the buying public.
TM
Which seems to be fond of former German U-Boats :surprise:
Regards,
Jose
There is little doubt that the 135i convertible attracts women. Just again the other night I drove it to my son's ball game, and at different points during the game many of the moms came over to me to mention that they had seen and like my new car. Bizarre. I was amazed.
A young gal at a drive-through put some serious moves on me recently, even when my son was in the car. When we pulled away, he thought it was funny and wanted to know "why was she doing that?"
Anyway, I don't know if I agree with all the information on "female attraction" you listed by vehicle brand, but it was certainly interesting. There was a similar article on the MSN website earlier this week, but parts of it were so out-of-touch that it was too ridiculous to take seriously.
Anyway, good luck with the gals, and with your next car. BTW, if I were single again and looking for a "keeper", I think it would be best to make sure she likes you for YOU and not your car. If, however, you are just dating without any motivation towards serious committment... then it doesn't matter so much. In that case, drive whatever works for you, and have the very best time you can.
TM
Too many models is wasteful indeed. Want proof, ask GM.
Focus on just a few models.
Focus on a few outstanding engines with either benchmark performance or fuel efficiency. . Keep it simple. That is the forumula for success not only for Audi and BMW but for all auto makers.
A few decades ago Citroens were among the most unique cars in terms of styling. You either loved them or hated them. Sort of like BMW Bangle styling.
Now most Citroens just look like any other type of car . Their current timid styling is afraid to offend anyone. And that's a shame.
1 more thing at steady speed of 60mph whats the rpm range?
When do you suggest that it will flop any specific time, date, month, year, etc.???
At least the Lexus RX has a defined market
Especially for the ladies...
Hmmm . . .something about faint praise comes to mind.
The Peugeots I've rented from time to time in the UK (diesels all) were altogether acceptable, especially the 40+ mp(US)g.
Now what about the red state people. How would a guy with an F350 with the 6.0 diesel be received?
Or the urban elite. Wouldn't a guy pulling up in a Prius be mobbed?
Or college kids. A guy in a rag top Wrangler would be hot, I would expect.
You didn't mention SUVs much. How about a guy in an X5?
If I remember correctly, Infiniti has taken corrected the overly harsh ride of the first gen FX. With the new V8 and Infiniti's 7-speed auto, the FX50 is one of the best values in the "sport" SUV class. The new front end is very odd looking though, at least to me.
I was wondering how your thoughts for the new car are coming along??? It is almost time
My bet is that Mr. H gets a BMW 3-Series. He's made quite a supportive case recently, which means he's liking the 3er. Or maybe a Honda Accord? Big money is on the 3-Series, however... LOL.
TM
So, I say, "Takin' it for a ride?" He replies, "No, just putting the tops up, closing soon." He hops in the '08 and the dance begins: Trunk opens high, panels fold in, top comes up and lowers onto windshield and then...nothing. Trunk won't close. Sales dude sits there for a couple of minutes, kinda shaking his head. Reversed his field, top goes down, properly. Waits a minute, then top goes up properly. Hey, you hit .500 in the bigs and guaranteed Hall of Fame!
As he headed to the '06, he just looked at me and kinda shrugged. I got into my uber-shiny TL and opened/closed the sunroof without incident as I left...
Wonder if that little show was from the Car Gods subtly telling me to move on, no XLR for you! (Been toying with the idea of picking up a two year old model at half the original msrp, but common sense has held me back to a mere long-distance fascination). Smartly saving my scheckels to give to Tata Motors in a year or two...
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
I needed a vehicle that:
1. I could put my 68" road bike in (which eliminates BMW).
2. Is small enough to be fun to drive.
3. Gets better mpg than the 545i.
4. Has a nice German feel to it.
5. Is something I can con...er...convince the wife to learn to drive and it's hers...
6. So I can go back to a 3 Series with SP very soon.
The vehicle I came up with is the 4 door VW Rabbit!
Let me say, I have not gone completely mad and that this choice has been thoroughly researched. I have not encountered one single negative professional or consumer review. Quite the opposite! I have driven the vehicle thoroughly twice before purchasing it.
I've had it for 3 days and I must say, the car is a lot of fun. The driver's seat is more comfortable than the 545i's "comfort seat" because it is made of fabric and is gratefully a bit softer. More legroom too. Just missing the 5's incredible pickup. It is just slightly slower than a 328i.
It has a wonderful 5 cylinder engine and a terrific 6 speed tiptronic transmission, supposedly derived from Porsche.
It's got a 36 foot turning circle and gives up very little to BMW in agility.
With the sunroof and front windows open, I really feel the breeze. Great air circulation, since it is a small car.
It comes with satellite radio, which with 3 days of ownership, I have learned to love. So refreshing to have a radio that is so simple to store stations in. Just like pre-545i days.
The car definitely has an instantly recognizable German feel to it. Excellent steering and brakes.
With the rear seats folded, I have about 45 cubic feet of space. With the front passenger seat folded too, I get the 68" road bike inside.
I feel I made the best decision I could under the circumstances: a small, fun to drive, agile, practical vehicle.
CR recently reviewed it as the best basic hatch; rating its reliability "better than average." Of course, VW makes some souped-up versions of the Rabbit too, but I didn't want to scare the wife away. The Rabbit will be perfect for her.
If BMW offered an upscale, sporty hatch with foldable front passenger seat, I would have remained with BMW. Instead, they released the useless X6. Porsche recognizes the need and will be beating BMW to the punch quite soon.
Look for more folks in NA to dump the SUV concept and do what they do in Europe: drive practical hatchbacks that won't cost $100 to gas up.
I read somewhere that the VW Golf (its European name) is the most popular vehicle sold in Europe.
It goes without saying that VW sells more vehicles in Europe than any other manufacturer.
I have been looking for excuses to drive it, which is a very good sign. This evening, just me and the Rabbit with the sunroof and windows open and the cool breeze blowing through my hair.
You just have to love those Cadillac dealers. Good product or no (in this case a definite no) they'll do everything they can to make sure you go somewhere else.
I remember first seeing the XLR at the NYAS. There was a V6 Camry Solara nearby, and I sat in both of them. The interior in the Toyota was much better. I knew then that the XLR was going to flop hard. You can fool some of the people some of the time, but not nearly enough of them to keep a slow, sloppy handling $78K "luxury" Vette with a poorly engineered top and an interior that bad afloat for very long.
If you have a high-end convertible itch that you simply must scratch, even the old Jag XK is a far better choice, and you can pick one up now for three nickels and a bit of pocket lint. As for the new one, women may like 135i cabrios, but they love new Jag XK convertibles.
You are funny once in a while. :P
TM
Congratulations on the Cwazy Wabbit!!
Your post made me remember my previous '08 GTI, which was a 4-door and a VERY practical fun car. I owned it for all of a few months! That seems to be my average lately... LOL.
A co-worker of mine acquired an '08 Rabbit recently, and he loves it. Must be something to it, huh? He leased it during VW's "sign & drive" promotion. VW practically GAVE him the car with that unbelievable marketing campaign.
Good luck!
TM
It goes without saying that VW sells more vehicles in Europe than any other manufacturer.
Yes indeed, Volkswagen Golf/Rabbit model gives credit to the brand name.
Congrats!
Regards,
Jose
The GTI was the way I wanted to go, but the plan is to get the wife to learn to drive, so I decided to get a vehicle she would not be intimidated by.
If I may ask, why did you dump the GTI after only a few months?
VW seems to have finally gotten their quality control in order. The problems VW had were usually with cars built far from the motherland-places such as Mexico. The Rabbit is assembled in Germany.
After 3 days, I have to say the vehicle is flawless-no squeaks or rattles. Everything works as planned.
The Golf/Rabbit has an amazing amount of interior room. I am very hard to fit and I find the driving position to be perfect. The seat itself is incredibly comfortable.
One neat thing is the right arm rest can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally. It's little things like that that impress me with VW. It's also nice that whatever radio station I select, the selection is named on the screen. Never happened with BMW. Another delight is the 6 disc CD player, 10 speaker audio system with satellite radio as standard.
After the wife finally learns to drive and is comfortable with the Rabbit, then I plan to move back to BMW and a 3 Series Coupe with sport package. At that point, she and I will abandon our golf carts to make room in the garage for the 2 vehicles. My roots have been and always will be with BMW.
I really need two vehicles, Jose-one for utility and one for fun. In the meantime, the Rabbit will adequately provide me with both.
Jose, the German's have this "driving thing" nailed. It is so obvious that the Golf/Rabbit is a German-made vehicle. The GTI must be heaven!
How's the Audi behaving?
The North Carolina hills should be a fine place to be at this time.
With my car researched and bought, I am finally at peace....at least temporarily.
The GTI was a terrific car, and it had only one design flaw that I found irritating. The engine had a serious tendency to surge during downshifts. Note, however, that I had the DSG tranny, and the combination of that FSI Turbocharged engine and the DSG tranny might just need a little more engineering.
Other than that minor irritant, and perhaps a little too much road noise, the car was incredible in every way. Superior comfort, amenities, and handling. As you know, the interior room for passengers, both front and rear is astonishing and the cargo capacity is amazing as well.
Quite honestly, if it hadn't been for the introduction of the BMW 1-Series, the incredible review in Automobile Magazine, which said the purchase of a 135i could easily be the single best vehicle purchase of a lifetime, as well as Jeremy Clarkson calling it the best car BMW builds, and an absolute onslaught of incredible 135i reviews... I would have otherwise simply kept the GTI.
I must say that I do not regret trading in the GTI for the 135i, although it is not as practical as the GTI. The 135i is, however, off the chart on the FUN scale... simply remarkable! I haven't experienced this kind of excitement over a vehicle, regardless of price, since I took delivery of my '97 Boxster, which of course had just hit the market for the very first time! As you recall, the Boxster was quite a sensation in its earliest days.
Those few months with the GTI convinced me that VW can build a terrific automobile, regardless of the polarized views that I have witnessed here from time to time. Few cars combine so much well-engineered quality and feature content. As you pointed out, for example, the armrest adjusts in both directions. The V-dub's interior quality and workmanship is way ahead of most cars near its price category.
As I posted earlier, enjoy that cwazy wabbit! You'll get no Rabbit hunting and bashing from me.
BTW, even if just academic at this point, another car that comes to mind that might have also been a good choice in meeting your criteria would have been an Audi A3 2.0 T. Yet, the price and value of the Rabbit is obviously hard to dismiss.
I plan to move back to BMW and a 3 Series Coupe with sport package.
See?... Like I posted! Let's face it... once the bug bites, you're hooked for life!
Take care, Powders.
TM