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I hope so! A hot hatch to compete with and demolish the VW GTI and Audi A3 would be nice and an even smaller, lighter coupe than the 1 Series would be nice. The "0 Series"?
Meanwhile, I must say, my new 328i equipped with sport package is my favorite of my 4 BMWs. All the others had regular suspension, in deference to the wife. Now I see what I have been missing and what everybody has been raving about. Just fantastic! This vehicle is absolutely world class.
The only negative concerning the 328i is that with the premium package, as I'm sure you know, one has 2 photo cells that control glare through the rear view mirror. At night the effect is to so darken the rear view that I can barely make out the shapes of the vehicles behind me, and all I get to see are the headlights, almost like looking back through a fog; quite weird. There is no way that I can lessen the effect through the car's computer. I will call the service department Monday and ask them if they have the ability to lessen the effect.
Yeah, this is why I am dreaming of her like a poor boy!!
Good night, nice dreams,
Jose
I have no 1sthand experience with the 5-series, but a former co-worker of mine (laid off last week, bless him) has a 535i. Gas mileage, last time I heard he got 16mpg city and 23mpg highway. In this regard I must say you're mistaken about the notion of turbo = gas guzzler. In fact I got almost the same result from my experience testing a 2005 530i, whch came up with 18-24mpg. Considering the massive power bump from 225 up to 300hp and the new engine's extra mass, I say its more than decent enough. Power is decent from any perspective, but the best part is that the auto tranny is more refined than the previous version (which in 2005 530i I tested, tend to lunge from one gear to another).
As for the i(diot)Drive, I have no clue about the new one but the previous version was very inconsistent. It worked fine in one car, but can be hideously slow in another. As a reference he mentioned the slow operating NAV but the rest of the system works just fine. It may be daunting at first but you'll quickly adapt to it overtime, even better if you're used to computer mouse. Think of it as a button-less home theater remote, not that hard to use. The only scary part imo, is the distraction produced from operating i-drive while driving (not recommended).
However 28k miles in 1 year is an awful lot, personally I'd skip on that vehicle as it wont even pass for CPO. I can only think of 2 explanations for such mileage:
1) The car's been put through many long distance trips
2) The car was a "program car", aka test-car for auto journalists or promotional use
Neither is a good prospect. Being a former tester means the car's been abused, abuse is never good no matter how good BMW mechanics are at performing maintenance. If the car's been put through many long distance drivings then expect pricy turbo replacement in the near future. Overly worked turbos dont last, and 28k/yr miles is a lot of work.
The current A6 is a superb car. The previous one was a bit iffy in terms of mechanical and electrical quality, but Audi has made great strides in the last few years in those areas. The 5 is still using BMW's old iDrive system, and Audi's MMI interface is significantly better than that (the new version in the 3 and 7 basically copies MMI). The A6 doesn't have the handling of the 5 or Infiniti M, but it's still enjoyable to drive provided it has the sport suspension, and certainly better than the RL, GS, E-class, and S80.
Audi does interiors better than just about anybody, and the A6 easily beats the 5 in terms of interior design and materials, and of course Quattro AWD is unbeatable for foul weather traction. Definitely take a 4.2 Sport / S-line out for a drive.
The options I consider now are fewer (narrowed down from the huge list last time):
bmw 6/ 3coupe / MB cls
Audi A6 / 3sedan / XJ
All available for under $45k. I'd definitely consider a Chrysler 300c if only it doesnt have such crappy interior and pathetic CPO warranty :sick: . I had to cross off the 1-er from the list. There's a long waiting list and the price here is ridiculous (MSRP at best).
On an unrelated note I visited my sister at campus yesterday. She challenged me to switch cars and race her on the twisties near campus. I told her not to get too cocky, words I came to regret instantly. I drove her rx-8 and I COULDN'T KEEP UP??? :surprise: , and everyone thought I was the speed demon in the family :confuse:
I've had nice dreams of me driving and admiring Veritas. Is that Christmas Day is coming? Wearing on my face the most serious expression, I have to explain to my wife who Veritas is whilst suggesting her that her is my desired Christmas present this year. Oh, no, I can do that. Then the dream will instantly come to an end. :sick:
More seriously speaking, I must say that I've witnessed how Audi has gained tremendous reputation and momentum in Edmunds forums in recent times. Four years ago I was surprised by the fact that Audi was sort of disdained by many if not most of the posters here. It is not like that anymore.
Time ago I repeatedly posted that in Europe Audi was one of the top three German carmakers. Period. Audi sells more cars than BMW or MB depending on the European regions, but sure Audi is perceived everywhere like one of the three Round Table peers. Quattro traction, overall quality and, lately, design and sportiveness are to be blamed for that. Audi beauties repeatedly triumphing in races so blatant as the 24 Hours du Mans have made their way in the public imaginary as well.
In my case, I've preferred buying BMW instead of Audi because I really love the handling of BMW more. I loved the handling of the 530d and now I am desiring to drive my 335d coupe everyday. I have to deter myself from taking the longest drive to go from one point to other, specially if that means riding along a road. (Additionally, I've preferred to buy BMW because there is more Audis than BMWs surrounding me—in my neighborhood, in the streets, in the roads. This is a positive remark to Audi, isn't it?)
And now I am going to drive the 335 coupe for the rest of the morning, to try to forget the other.
Regards,
Jose
Regards,
Jose
Thanks so much, that was very informative.
Gardis
Certainly it is preferrable to get a vehicle with lower mileage, but if you have a full warranty, and if the price of the vehicle is reduced to account for the mileage, you could actually have yourself an attractive deal.
I want to emphasize that it would be good to clarify the type of driving if you can, but it makes sense to me that it would be impossible for that level of miles to be stop-n-go city miles. Most likely there have been many long freeway trips. You should have the body checked carefully for any signs of previous damage that may not show up on the carfax, in case the previous owner had it repaired privately.
Again, if all the criteria is satisfied... and you do your homework here, and if the price is adjusted to reflect the miles on the car, and if you can confirm the body is undamaged, and there is the full warranty you have indicated... I see minimum reason to be overly afraid of the car.
Remember, there are posters here that insist they would not keep a BMW once it is out of warranty anyway, regardless of the miles driven... so as long as you have that full warranty, the miles aren't really as critical as some are suggesting... that's how I see it... providing all other factors are positive.
TM
The only Audis that share engines and platforms with VW counterparts are the A3 and TT. They are, as you know, both on the MKV Golf platform, and they both use the 2.0T and VR6 engines. However, the TT differentiates itself with its 2/3 aluminum construction.
I don't consider the Q7 to be completely on the Touareg/Cayenne platform, because it's a half foot longer and has several different engine options.
The A8 is wholly aluminum. I have never been quite sure if the Phaeton is an A8 twin, because IIRC the Phaeton has more in common with the Continental GT than the A8.
The A4, A5 and A6 have zero VW counterparts. I can't stress it enough--Passat has nothing to do with A6. I can't believe people still think this. No matter how much they may "look" alike, don't let that fool you. And I don't see how they look like reskins of each other either. They aren't designed by the same people and with the deletion of the chrome shield grille from VW's lineup, I think you'll see much less of a resemblance. I would be surprised if the A3, Golf and TT shared any body panels at all.
'08 BMW X5 4.8i • '06 Audi A3 2.0T DSG • '05 Audi S4 Cabriolet
The Q5 seems like the best of the small luxo SUV explosion, because it is deceptively quick (being a 3.2) and efficient. This is mostly because it's quite a bit lighter than the competition, without losing any size. I would, however, still keep an eye on BMW. I think you can count Mercedes, Volvo and Infiniti out.
'08 BMW X5 4.8i • '06 Audi A3 2.0T DSG • '05 Audi S4 Cabriolet
'08 BMW X5 4.8i • '06 Audi A3 2.0T DSG • '05 Audi S4 Cabriolet
I certainly appreciate the relationship between you and your sister...She is a lucky girl......the Jag with the cpo should qualify as used (preowned sounds better, but we deal with the truth-you and me) and what I meant primarily is that if a car costs eighty thousand dollars new, and then fifty thousand dollars with five thousand miles and a year old--same newish model--then that is a much better deal....These high priced brands really take a monster hit right up front, and is such a waste of money it is shaming....I personally like the Mercedes cls....of course all your short list is tempting....and that should do you well as you aren`t wedded to a single brand....I think in a month or so, a really good deal will come along, and it may be the best chance you get --as these financial dislocations only come around a couple of times in your life......Glad you dodged the bullet Tony ps don`t give up on the 911....Go for the Gold
A 62.9 percent drop in BMW sales?
What the hell happened? Did the majority of people in the world read my sharply critical complaints about my BMW335i?
If I am not mistaken I think you are actually referring to BMW's operating income figures not revenue figures. If worldwide revenue of BMW dropped 63 percent they would go belly up since such a drop would make it impossible for them to fund their operations and liabilities.
I remember you about 3 to 4 years ago at an Audi A3 forum (remember that Walebate1 fellow?). Back in those years I was eager to buy an A3 but as time went by a twin turbo BMW caught my fancy.
I agree with you about Audi and BMW, though my opinion is more seasonal. During summers I love BMWs (at least whenever I am not making dealership appointments) and duirng winters I love Audis.
Heh, you're beginning to sound Canadian.
You may be correct but those cars may not have a BMW logo.
BMW is developing a small car division distinct from BMW which will focus on green fuel misers.
Today Honda is the best company to take advantage for the new demand of fuel misers with it manufacturing flexibility and product-line:
Not only are its U.S. plants non-unionized, but all are also among the industry's most flexible. Honda's models are designed to use common parts as much as possible and to be assembled much the same way. Its heavily robotized production lines can switch from making any one model to another in five to 10 minutes, versus days or weeks at rivals' plants. This helps produce vehicles that are uniform in quality; they're often among the top performers in the reliability ratings done by Consumer Reports and J.D. Powers. And it has allowed Honda to quickly match swings in demand, as it did this year when sky-high gas prices slashed Pilot sales and boosted those of small cars.
The company is also beginning a mini-new-product blitz. It just introduced a redesigned 2009 Fit subcompact, which has been flying off dealers' lots (but not fast enough to offset sales declines for other models). "This is the right car for the right time," says Dan Bonawitz, head of corporate planning and logistics at American Honda Motor. "It's small on the outside, big on the inside."
BARRONS
If you read back at some of my previous posts, I indicated that BMW was making a mistake doing that. There was no way that people were going to buy a BMW and then keep it outside the 4 year warranty, when they can continually turn over 3 year leases and keep their vehicles within warranty forever.
I believe the severe drop of 62.9% third quarter net profit in part is because of this.
I also predicted that when sales would inevitably drop significantly due to this mistake, BMW would restore attractive leasing terms quickly.
Sure enough, in early November BMW dramatically lowered the leasing money factor on the 2009 328i from 0.0023 (5.52%) to 0.0015 (3.6%).
The only way BMW will get sales up, is by continuing to be the world's premier leaser of luxury performance vehicles.
Question, Dewey-do you know which vehicle is the number one most popular leased vehicle in the world? :confuse: :confuse:
Let me guess: A BMW 3 Series? Dont have a clue?
These are figures I got for BMW Car Sales.
(Associated Press) BMW of North America LLC said Monday its U.S. sales fell 5 percent in October as a decline in BMW brand vehicles was slightly offset by a sharp jump in sales of MINI models.
The automaker said it sold 25,475 vehicles last month, compared with 26,821 sold in October 2007. BMW brand sales fell 13.9 percent to 20,203 vehicles, compared with 23,451 sold in the same month last year.
MINI brand sales jumped 56.4 percent to 5,272, from 3,370 a year ago.
"October sales show there is still life in the market, but it will take some hard work to achieve results," President Jim O'Donnell said.
BMW car sales fell 15.1 percent as sales of the best-selling 3 Series fell 20.6 percent to 9,059 vehicles. Light truck sales fell 8.2 percent, helped by sales of the new X6 crossover.
So far this year, BMW's U.S. sales are down 4.8 percent to 261,802 vehicles, compared with 275,094 vehicles sold in the first 10 months of 2007.
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I know every time I go to the gas station.
Actually, I figured them all to be about the same. That is a bit of a surprise. My initial reaction to your post is to consider that the gearing in the 1-Series and the 3-Series is different and that's the reason for the slight difference in mpg. Might be worth verifying, though.
BTW, nice to see you back... again.
TM
BMW hold proud positions in three other spots among the top 10 leased vehicles: (Based on JD Power data)
Z4 is number four, 6 Series is number seven, X3 is number nine, thanks to LG's wife!
Astonishing that the 3 Series didn't make the top 10. Hey, I was a buyer! Maybe if I leased, that one vote would have brought it in at number 10!
Unfortunately, folks are having an unusual amount of trouble with the 135i and 335i, not so much with the 535i. Seems like a lot of fuel pump and fuel injector issues. I played it safe with the proven 328i.
One dumb thing I did was put a significant tint on the 328i windows because of the Florida sun. Unfortunately, the premium package comes with non-adjustable sensors in the rear view mirror to reduce night time glare from the headlights to the rear. The combination of tint plus sensors makes it appear really dark through the rear view mirror when I'm driving at night. Oh well, I know now, for the next BMW. You'd think they would have an adjustment control for the glare sensors, but they don't. Otherwise, loving the 328i!
I'd be curious to know your opinion of something I read on the site here about the turbos. It was said that driving a car that much in one year would have possibly a deleterious effect on the turbos, perhaps later on needing replacement. Does that have a ring of truth to you? What would it cost to replace those turbos, I know if under warranty nothing, but after the warranty as I usually keep a car long term.
Maybe I'm over worrying, and maybe this car is just what it appears: a good deal, but I"m too skeptical. Thanks again. I've learned much from you guys.
Gardis
I'm confused. I thought the BMW warranty was a two tiered warranty. The first four years (or 50K miles, whichever comes first) covers "wear and tear" items, like brakes, windshield wipers, and the like. But the full warranty lasts 6 years or 100K miles (whichever comes first) and covers the powertrain. Isn't that correct? So why do you continuously refer to the warranty as being a 4 year warranty, when it really is a 6 year warranty.
E.G., if I buy that 2008 535i which has warranty protection until April 2013, and the transmission falls out in December 2012, BMW is on the hook to replace it.
Am I wrong?
Interesting stuff, for sure. Since I work with numbers for a living, it occurred to me to wonder if the survey was based on percentage or number of units. I'm betting it's percentage.
If 1000 7-series are moved in a year and 850 of them are leased, I'm not sure that's more interesting than 70,000 3-series, of which XX% are leased.
I'd be interested in the absolute numbers of different models leased. Those numbers are probably available, somewhere.
The A6 is one of the more reliable cars in this class, attaining Consumer Reports' coveted "circle and check" IIRC. If you get it with the sport suspension the right might be a little harsh, but the improvement in handling more than makes up for it. With the new 3.0S engine it also gives you great MPG. I'm still interested in the new A6 Avant, because it's going to be standard with that engine and Quattro.
'08 BMW X5 4.8i • '06 Audi A3 2.0T DSG • '05 Audi S4 Cabriolet
As it stands the wife has decided that she's interested in hybrid/plug-in cars now. I told her to wait until next year, so we can test out the new Prius, new Insight and of course the Volt. What could happen if this plan goes through is that I take the X5 as my new winter car and she gets one of the above. I'm betting on the Prius, but I like the Insight a bit more, judging from the concept. The Volt is a tad too silly-looking for her.
If it does happen, it's a win for everyone, because my next winter car would be a lot more than any of those, so I'd be saving money by keeping the X5... and I wouldn't have to pay as much for her gas, so I'd be saving money.
'08 BMW X5 4.8i • '06 Audi A3 2.0T DSG • '05 Audi S4 Cabriolet
I don't know if the 1 and 3 have different gearing, although that went through my head too. Do you know if they use different auto transmissions?
And, just to make sure, you're driving a 135i convertible now yes? I'm pretty sure the last time I was a constant poster, you still had the coupe.
A friend of mine recently got a black 135i convertible, although it's a bit of a waste because he's not exactly a car nut. His reasoning for the 135i over the 128i was the better wheels. Seems like $6K is a lot to pay for a set of wheels, but maybe that's just me. :sick:
'08 BMW X5 4.8i • '06 Audi A3 2.0T DSG • '05 Audi S4 Cabriolet
Only a tiny ring.
When a vehicle is cruising, as it does mostly on the highway, it uses the smallest percentage of engine power. Starting from a red light or stop sign, however, and you are using much more engine power to accelerate. Stop-n-go driving, spirited driving through traffic, and any kind of frequent acceleration will use the turbo much more than cruising on the highway, where it will not be active near as often.
No matter how you slice it, I would rather have that engine with 28K highway miles than with 14K city miles.
As I posted earlier, if you do your due diligence and find out answers to your questions, then you will be in a position to make an informed decision. It's important to keep in mind that there is no pressure to take a risk when there are plenty of other vehicles out there for you, if you are patient. That said, this car could still be "your car", if the price is adjusted to account for the miles, and if it checks out with a clean record, and if it is equipped very close to the way you want it.
One more thing... you really should check with your dealer to clarify the warranty coverage, in terms of duration and covered components... no matter what is posted here. You are the one writing the check.
TM
Well, I guess that wonderful twin turbo engine is just a little bonus for him, then.
TM
Ahhhh... m4d can always buy my 911... LOL. I'll give him a terrific deal on it! Only 7K miles. He'd have to like "speed yellow" though, cause so many Porsche buyers get black. But, the way I see it, a Porsche is a true sports car, not a limo!!
TM
It never fails... somehow we always figure out yet another reason to get yet another car. :surprise:
But, who could argue with that impeccable logic? It's brilliant.
TM
Someone mentioned recently that there is a small hole on the bottom of the mirror, where the sensor is housed. Supposedly, if you plug it or cover it, it will solve your problem. To be safe, I would try it, but not make it permanent. Let me know if you try it, and if it works. If it does, we can pass it on to others.
TM
All four of us are unique in the sense that we all tend to favor German models but may end up buying Japanese or US (Volt) models.
The Germans better hurry up with their versions of hybrids.
I think hybrids will remain hot even with lower fuel prices since now other factors play a role in hybrid purchases (Green motives, political fuel independence,risk of future higher fuel prices, diesel prices too high, interesting drivetrain technology and for many--- trendiness)
My question is who buys the car when the lease/warranty expires?
Where is the economics of buying a used BMW 7 series?
Used car buyers are more frugal by nature than new car buyers. So where is the frugality in buying a used 7 Series which is renowned as a money trap.
In fact forget the 7 Series. Every single High End Luxury Sedan is a very complex electronic machine that could end up being a money trap for anyone who thinks there being shrewd by buying their cars used.
As Tagman says get the warranty in writing directly from your dealer.
All four of us are unique in the sense that we all tend to favor German models but may end up buying Japanese or US (Volt) models.
The Germans better hurry up with their versions of hybrids.
I am already impressed with my daughter's Ford Escape hybrid. I will probably go with Toyota or Honda for myself, though... when I finally pull that trigger. Unless the Germans do surprise us.
TM
'08 BMW X5 4.8i • '06 Audi A3 2.0T DSG • '05 Audi S4 Cabriolet
I was out checking the 328i tonight in traffic, monitoring the functioning of the rear view mirror and it really wasn't that bad-just something I will have to adjust to-not really as dark as I originally thought. The mind tends to exaggerate when confronted with something new. Thanks for the info though!
I don't know if this is a problem on your 135i, but BMW changed the rear seat head rests on the 3 Series so they now penetrate quite a bit higher than any I have ever had and help to create some rear window blind spots. Luckily, I have the cold weather package so I will be driving with the rear seats folded down to avoid that.
I'm hoping BMW hears the collective voice of the majority of its 3 Series customers:
Bigger, is not necessarily better.
But, this was a trend throughout the industry. I'll bet Dodge wishes they never enlarged and ultimately ruined their previously successful Durango.
As it turned out, with the 1-Series in place, the 3-Series is now elevated above entry-level status, and is actually a near perfectly sized car. If they don't administer any more growth hormones it should continue to be one of the best overall vehicles ever made.
TM
Yeah, I do.
Regards,
Jose
As with many BMW's, the 1 Coupe looks a lot better in person. I don't know what it is, but quite a few BMW models do not photograph well.
I really am quite amazed at how much space the 328i sedan takes up in the garage. It is definitely flirting with full size status. On the other hand, it is the most comfortable, luxurious and best-driving of my four BMW's.
A LWB A4, thanks but no thanks:
Audi has just introduced a long-wheelbase version of its new A4 for the Chinese market, joining the long-wheelbase A6 that has been available in China since 2000.
I guess some markets have individuals with longer legs or individuals who like doing leg stretches while on the road.
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My dream cars are old Mercedes Benzes from the 1960s or before.Unfortunately these cars remain a dream for me because I would hate the hassle of trying to get hard to replace car parts. In this case my dreams are not as strong as my desire to avoid inconveniences.
There is not a single modern high end luxury car that I like as much as an old MB S Class from the 60s. NONE.
Curious... why do you think you feel that way?
TM