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Comments
Will do, sir! How has everything been going for you LG?
All things considered, quite well. No problems with the S6, or tickets as of late. I've read stories of budget-crunched states handing out $100 tickets for as little as 5 over the limit, but I've been sticking to my strategy of around 8 over with no complaints from the PA boys in blue. If I had to drive under 60 just to not get a ticket, I would probably trade in the Audi and Jag for a Prius as well (or an '03 ES300), and spend the money on new Levinson or EDGE amplifiers. At least those I can actually use to their full potential.
Then it came down the Infiniti, which leaps and bounds better in quality than the previous model, but still trails the other Japanese, most Europeans, and one American in particular in overall polish.
I know what you mean. I liked the G's interior when it was released, but I've since soured on it. That seem in the lower dash that doesn't line up with the sides bugs me to no end. The new TL's interior though is much worse, the center stack design is an ergonomic nightmare, and it reeks of bargain basement materials. Even the aluminum strips in the old car are gone, as far as I know the new TL is 100% plastic.
And with the Audi, I wish they upgraded the engines a bit more than what was delivered. Audi/VW had no decent V6 until the upcoming 3.0
Yep, in every instance where Audi offers the 2.0T and the 3.2, the pretty much universal consensus is "get the 2.0T". I will say though that the final year of the 2.7T, when it offered 265hp and 280ft.lbs of torque while returning 22mpg overall was a very competitive engine, better than the E320 and 530i that were offered that year. So Audi had a decent V6 for a year. Despite being based on the ancient 2.8, I think the A6 would've been better off if they had just kept the old 2.7T and mated it to the six-speed in the '05 car.
The new 3.0T seems like an absolutely fantastic engine, and it should elevate the A6 from slug to worthy contender. Now Audi needs to do the same with the A4.
The CTS-V is a monster, even James May liked it. Unfortunately I can't get past the styling, or the Cadillac "experience". I've never been to a Cadillac dealer that I found even tolerable, let alone pleasant. Absolutely no difference in attitude from the guys next door selling Pontiacs or GMCs.
I wouldn't go that far. The Insight is rated 40/43, but Edmunds was able to break 50mpg in their full test. C&D managed 37/33 with the Fusion, which is hugely impressive considering the Fusion is more than 1,000lbs heavier than the Insight, and a good 3 seconds quicker to 60. Frankly I think the Ford is more of an achievement than both the Insight and the Prius.
Yes. That is exactly my point. The most exciting technologies are availabe in both the Prius and HS. As far as I know the HS does not have the solar powered sun roof like the Prius.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system, using advanced millimeter wave radar, is an available option. The system also enables Lane Keep Assist, which helps the driver stay safely within the lane, and the Pre-Collision System, which retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a crash is unavoidable.
http://www.netcarshow.com/toyota/2010-prius/
Choosing a Lexus over a Toyota because of better comfort, service, quality, ride and the many other reasons makes sense. I am not trying to say one choice is more sensible than the other. The RX hybrid is IMO the most comfortable hybrid available.
Yes. 17 ' Bridgestones.
51.5 MPG! That's fantastic.
In that case I agree with Tagman and I will be far more open minded about a Honda Insight than I was just a few hours ago.
I work to much to enjoy it.
Here's the exact reference for that 51.5 MPG...
"We couldn't measure fuel economy on our customary test loops at home, but we devised a 197-mile substitute in Arizona. This suburban loop had more rural two-lanes in it than our usual Orange County course, but we're still impressed by the 51.5-mpg result our 2010 Honda Insight EX achieved."
The only way to do a fair and accurate comparison is for Edmunds to drive the Prius (both old an new) on that same route with the same driver. My IS350 once gave me over 30 mpg on all highway driving and that trumps the EPA figures by quiet a lot so before they've done that I am sticking with the EPA figures for comparison purpose.
I do think it is good to be open-minded, because until you see them both, it is a guessing game. That said, however, with both the new Prius and the Insight unseen, I would probably choose the Prius... based only on the information that is currently available on both cars. This could change, and driving the cars could make a big difference, of course... but I have the impression at this point that the Prius will be the nicer vehicle of the two.
Personally, I think I would be willing to wait for the updated version of the Prius that is supposed to emerge later in the year.
TM
I did also. But when seen form, the graining and choice of plastics and the workmanship is definitely behind BMW, Audi, MB, Jag, and Lexus. But it makes up for it with its powertrain, although BMW still has it beat there.
Our boys in blue in NY state have decided to TRIPLE the amount of fines in work zones, and yes and some parts of the state charge upwards of 18 per mile over, plus constituents fines, plus court fees(if 20 and over), plus restitution. Thank God that most of them know my cars by plate that patrol my area!
The 2.7t was a fantastic engine. It was very tractable and flexible. The allroad gave Volvo plenty of headaches when compared to their Cross Country because of this engine. The allroad's problem was price of course. People just weren't comfortable paying over 40K in those days if it wasn't a truck based SUV.
My experience was similar with Caddy. But then again, this was with my 93 STS. I understand they've improved things tremendously since then. The CTS-v has been glamoured on both sides of the pond- no small feat for a 100% bred Yank! Im just curious of maintaining 550hp with everyday viability. But all things told and read, Caddy delivered and is firing on all 8 cylinders. Finally, nice things to say about Cadillac other than the Escalade.
Unfortunately, Acura really went overbored with the TL. I wonder if they'd reduced the huge frontal area would that have reduced frontal mass, thus improving its otherwise average to below average numbers. The interior went from ok to flat out bore. The maze of buttons have taken the place of the 08 models futuristic look. The Nissan Maxima looks better, performs slightly better, and costs 3-5k less? Its a no brainer!
BTW: The 3.0 V6 that is in th updated A6 will serve duty in the upcoming S4. 340Hp superchrged unit will supplant the previous 340Hp V8 that reaked havoc on the previous models weight distribution. Same power from a V6- now that's progress..
I just learned that the later version of the Prius with lithium-ion batteries will only be released as an experiment. We're talking a tiny release of only 500 vehicles globally, and out of that, only 150 to the USA. I don't know the figure for Canada, but obviously not very many... and they will only be leased.
Stay with your original plan, and you will have a terrific Prius. It's batteries have already proven themselves beyond any doubt anyway. Let someone else do the experiment.
Only other consideration I can see for you at this point is the Honda Insight or the Lexus HS250h, pictured here...
The Insight is all over the internet today, so there are plenty of videos and pics to check it out. I will bet that you will want the Prius, but it is good that you will have an opportunity to see the Insight just to make sure. And, you have already explained that the Lexus has too much unecessary fluff that you don't need or want.
I'm already leaning towards the Prius myself. It's a LOT of cool technology for the money, and I think the hatchback body style is more useful than the 4-door Lexus... unless the Lexus rear seats folded, but perhaps it's batteries would prevent that. Do you know if those rear seats fold down in the Lexus HS250h?
Also, I get the impression that the Prius is better made than the Insight, although I like the Insight's exterior styling better. But, the Prius somehow just looks better on the inside, IMO.
I've always hated the Prius, but this new one gets my nod. The sunroof would be a MUST for me.
TM
Not exactly. There's been a huge amount of confusion over exactly how much power the A6 3.0T has, I guess from different octanes, or boost pressure programming for different markets or something. The US spec A6 has 300hp and 310ft.lbs. A bit of the same happened with the various previews of the S4, which was supposed to have anywhere from 325-335hp.
It sounds like (though I'm not positive) that our version will pack 333hp @ 5500rpm, and 325ft.lbs @ 2900rpm. Compared to the outgoing V8, horsepower is down by 7, but torque is up by 23ft.lbs, and comes on full force much sooner thanks to the wonders of forced induction. 0-60 with either the six-speed manual or the seven-speed DSG is supposed to be about the same as the old car.
Of course the main benefit from the new engine isn't power, but reduced weight on the nose combined with huge gains in fuel efficiency. When equipped with the QuattroSport rear dif to overdrive the outside rear wheel in corners, ye olde Audi understeer is supposedly banished for good.
The problem is that when the last S4 launched, it had as much power as an M3 or AMG C-class and looked like a bit of a bargain, even if it ultimately wasn't as quick as those cars. Now, the top of the standard range from pretty much every player in the segment but Audi means 300hp+. The S4 now has to compete with cars like the 335i xDrive and G37x, which are significantly cheaper, while the A4 3.2 wears a sign that says "what's the point of me?" on it.
Audi should replace the A4 3.2 with a 3.0T version, but with 300hp an A4 3.0T S-line would likely cut into S4 sales, especially considering that boosting power to at least 333 would likely involve little more than an ECU flash. It's a tricky situation.
The Prius also at least looks distinctive. The HS250h might as well be called "compact Asian sedan". Stick on the badge of your choice. It's generic taken to the extreme.
I assume you are talking about the Audi engine that we've talked about before at some length, which is the only real challenger to the BMW TT in-line 6. The only disadvantage I see, although that could be argued, is that this Audi engine needs to spin at two times the RPMs of the BMW engine in order to deliver it's peak torque. Peak torque is more readily accomplished by the BMW engine at an amazingly low 1400 RPM... although the Audi engine should deliver somewhere between 5-10% more power.
TM
According to Audi though, response is instant. They say they went with a supercharger rather than their usual twin turbo route for more linear response all the way through the rev range. The old 2.7T hit peak torque at 1800rpm, but it definitely wasn't as smooth or linear as the 4.2.
I drove most my life without being charged for speeding until I got my BMW 335i.Many times I would get caught with only a warning and no ticktets. But now with my BMW 335i I get treated like I am some kind of road warrior bandit.
Despite my speeding tickets I would have skill kept my BMW 335i for many years. But the recurring dealership visit is what makes me want to sell it right away.
I already have three problems with my car but I still refuse to go to the dealership again until a much anticipated fourth problem arises which I know will happen very soon.
I've been going so many times to the dealership that I would rather accure my problems to the point where I have no choice but to go to the dealerhship. My many repeated dealership visits has been a real time killer for me.
The Hyundai Genesis.
Just like the Hyundai Genesis I think the Prius transcends its price tag .Why? Let's just look at the technology of a Prius compared to cars that are many times its price and you will know what I mean. Also I read BMW is developing two mode hybrids that based on the descriptions sounds almost prehistoric when compared to Toyota's new HSD technology.
Here's a a very brief and short list of some of the technologies that will be available in the new Prius:
Use of an electric water pump and a new exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system also contribute to the engine's efficiency. The 1.8-liter Toyota Prius engine is the first Toyota power plant that requires no belts under the hood for better fuel economy and less potential maintenance.
The patented Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the 2010 Toyota Prius is 90 percent newly-developed with significant improvements over previous models.
* The transaxle is lighter in weight and reduces torque losses by as much as 20 percent compared to the previous model.
* The inverter, which converts direct current to alternating current, has a new direct cooling system to reduce size and weight.
* Taken together, the inverter, motor and transaxle are smaller and 20 percent lighter.
* A newly developed electronically controlled regenerative braking system has been adopted, with control logic optimized to enhance regeneration.
The new Toyota Prius will offer three alternative driving modes. EV-Drive Mode allows driving on battery power alone at low speeds for about a mile, if conditions permit. There is also a Power Mode, which increases sensitivity to throttle input for a sportier feel, and an Eco Mode, which helps the driver achieve their best mileage.
The new Prius received more wind tunnel hours of testing than any other Toyota in history, resulting in the cleanest aerodynamic profile of any mass-produced vehicle in the world. By focusing on the shape of the body, underfloor, wheelhouse liner and shape of the wheels, the designers of the new Toyota Prius were able to reduce the coefficient of drag (Cd) value to 0.25, compared to 0.26 for the previous model. The airflow under the car was studied extensively. Engineers made changes to the shape of the fender liner, front surface of the underfloor, and added a fin at the rear floor cover to increase linear stability.
An available sliding glass moonroof is packaged with solar panels, located over the rear seating area, that power a new ventilation system. This solar powered ventilation system uses an electrically powered air circulation fan that does not require engine assist. The system prevents the interior air temperature from rising while the vehicle is parked, making the cool-down time shorter when the driver returns to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning.
The remote air-conditioning system is the first system in the world to function on battery-power alone and that can be remotely operated, so the driver can adjust the interior temperature for comfort before getting in the car.
Reducing the vehicle's power consumption, available LED (light emitting diode) lamps are used for low beams and also in the tail and stop lamps. Air conditioning, a major energy drain, has been re-engineered to increase efficiency and cool-down performance. In addition, an exhaust heat recirculation system reduces heat waste by warming engine coolant during cold startup, for improved performance. It also heats up the passenger cabin more efficiently.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system, using advanced millimeter wave radar, is an available option. The system also enables Lane Keep Assist, which helps the driver stay safely within the lane, and the Pre-Collision System, which retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a crash is unavoidable.
Next-generation Intelligent Parking Assist features simplified settings to help guide the car into parking spaces.
A backup monitor, which provides a view of rear obstacles when reverse is engaged, is available with an optional voice-activated navigation system. Safety Connect, Toyota's first safety and security service, includes automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator and an SOS call button. Safety Connect will be available a few months after launch.
My situation is that I need to dramatically reduce the number of cars I already have, and I must decide what to keep and what to sell. I have decided earlier this morning to sell my Ford F-150, even though it is only two months after acquiring it. I had breakfast with my Ford rep to iron out the details. The Porsche has already been for sale, but no buyers yet. That leaves the Jag and the 135i. That's a very tough choice.
Yes, the Genesis won the award. I read about it, but didn't post here because I have already posted my belief in the Genesis so many times here. I originally, and steadily, have posted nothing but full confidence in the Genesis and I have predicted its success from day one. The award is just another testimony to what the Genesis is all about. I hope more of the posters here are starting to "get it", and appreciate what the Genesis is all about.
Did you say you already placed your order for the Prius?
TM
I called two sales reps from two dealers to call me as soon as they have the pricing. Whoever calls me first will get my business.
Just remember it will still be your wife's car no matter what she chooses.
Assuming the following conditions existed with regards to my BMW 335i:
I lived in warm California
I did not get traffic tickets
My car was not a piece of junk in terms of reliability
I would not consider buying a Prius this year if the the three above conditions applied to my situation. I would keep my BMW for years if that was the case.
Now my question to you is why are you considering selling your BMW 135i for a Prius?
Dewey, I really wish they could sort out all of the issues with your 335. It is really a great car.
BTW, has anyone ever heard there is a very, very little known way you can complain to BMW and you can get a new car if you have a trouble-plagued car? The story I heard from a CEO was they allocate cars for direct replacement of their lemons.
I would hope you could go that route first, if you should so desire.
Regards,
OW
The BMW 135i convertible, OTOH, is strictly loads of fun. There is almost no practical side to it at all, and I have been in a mindset of different priorities lately. I can't seem to justify its existence beyond the fact that it's a total blast to drive.
Beyond all that, the wife is a wildcard that I must reckon with. I have no idea what she wants to do at this point.
Your question is a very good one though. Once the Porsche and truck are gone, perhaps I should simply keep the Jag and the BMW. Afterall, that's not exactly a terrible combination.
In addition to all that, it's quite possible that I've lost my mind.
TM
Coupe
Jaguar readying mid-engine Audi R8-rival
Jaguar may have just unveiled its updated XKR at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but the XK range won’t be the only performance two-door in Jaguar’s lineup for long. According to a new report, Jaguar is readying a mid-engine sports car to take on Audi’s R8.
Auto Express claims that it has the inside scoop on a new mid-engine Jag, set to debut in just over a year. The new model will take on Audi’s R8 and will beat the company’s F-Type to production. The F-Type will do battle in a lower segment, taking on the likes of Porsche’s Boxster.
Reportedly dubbed the XE, the new car will appear in concept form at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. The XE will likely use Jaguar’s new 5.0L supercharged V8 mid-ship, marking the brand’s first mid-engine car since the XJ220 launched in 1991.
Design-wise, the XE is expected to take Jaguar’s new design language even farther, erasing virtually all ties with the current XJ.
Regards,
OW
Dont worry I lost mine years ago and I still cant find it.
If I had a rational mind I would have bought a far larger vehicle that would be suitable for my family needs. But what do I do instead: I buy cars that are much smaller than the cars that I drove when I was a single lad and despite that I yearn for even smaller cars as my kids are getting taller.
If I was sensible I would pick a RX450 with its AWD for snow,its extra space and fuel efficiency.
Unfortunately that will not be the case since I am still searching for my mind.
I seeked the fun factor with my BMW 335i and as a result I've developed a perpetual frown on my face.
I can assure you that after driving a Prius for a few years I will be back in this forum with a vengeance boasting about exciting German performance cars that I wish to buy. But right now I just want dependable boredom served with high technology features (the Prius)
Thanks for your suggestion.
Mine is definitely a lemon and my service records are proof of that. :lemon:
I will definitely find out if I can get a direct replacement but I wont bank on it. Somebody told me a car can only be replaced if it is not older than two years. That would be unfortunate since my car is 26 months old.
Well, to be fair, all of the people who put deposits down on XJ220s could no longer afford the car when it was actually released. If I remember correctly, Jag ended up having to take people to court over the issue. The 220 itself wasn't a bad car, just horribly timed. Despite the engine being just a turbo V6, Top Gear featured one pitted against today's supercars, and it could beat them in a drag race.
Well... I am going to go the practical route. I really must have my priorities in the right place at this point in time. There is no room for an "extra" car right now.
So... I will sell the Porsche, and the F150 as soon as possible. After that is accomplished, I will sell the BMW 135i that I love so much.
That will leave the Jag, the MDX, and the Escape Hybrid... unless my wife convinces me to sell the Jag instead of the BMW, or the MDX instead of the F150. But, no matter what, I'm taking it from six vehicles down to three.
After that... ?????
TM
Wow that has to be tough. The XJ VP is good enough though that I would be more than satisfied with it as my only vehicle. Depending on how good the S7 Cab is, I might even go down to one car.
Oh, God yes. I am humbled by this entire experience.
The XJ VP is good enough though that I would be more than satisfied with it as my only vehicle.
Thank you... I agree. And that is essentially, the plan. My one car will be the XJ. The wife will have her MDX (or maybe I can convince her to trade it in for the new Prius?), and the daughter will have her Escape Hybrid.
TM
I would think that the RX450h or the upcoming Q5 hybrid might be easier sells.
Mechanically it wasnt so bad, despite turbo lags of course. However the body was terrible inside out. I saw it once in LA and I wasn't impressed at all by the el cheapo cabin. Worse yet, the body used too many parts from Ford's bin (the use of Ford Escort's tailights was the easiest to spot).
If that's the best Jag can do...... I dont know what to say...
Most of the surfaces were covered in leather, it was the IP and center stack that ruined it. The actual switchgear wasn't really any worse than the crap in the Aston Martin DB7, but somehow the Aston was able to get away with it. The DB7 was just an XJ-S in a fancy dress, and the Vanquish was almost entirely parts binned, and look where Aston is now. I would give Jag another chance to get it right.
That reminds me of the Austin Healey "Mk IV" concept from a few years ago. I think that car could've been a big hit - provided it was given a proper interior and a real engine. The lesson from Ford's very short lived new Thunderbird (as well as the Prowler and the SSR) is that you cannot fool all of the people all the time.
I would have thought your new car would have been here by now?? any problems? It won`t matter if traffic is heavy, as your car will have that wonderful feel--as all good new cars have
good to hear from you (& forget this Mr. Rock stuff, Phil will do fine, ha!)
I expected the car by now, but latest word is perhaps Monday. It arrived in GA port, but are now at mercy of the car carrier, or so I'm told. Long story short, it had to wait to leave Europe on a full ship & perhaps the same to fill a car carrier. Victim of the economic climate I suppose.
I still have my friend West of the Ash doing drive bys looking out for the car should it arrive early. Monday would work well for me as it's a holiday.
Don't curse me with the fender bender talk, ha! I'm going to nurse her the 1st K for break-in. I'm usually on the road pre & post rush hours & plan to take Francis Marion roads on the way home. ;-)
Lookout BMW here comes a Inifiniti GT-R super sedan?
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=139967
2010 E-Class
Opinions?
Well, having seen the XF in person, yes I'd give Jag another chance. I remember the F-type concept from early 2000. Simple yet muscular, I liked it and I hope the upcoming product will have the same look.
Enter Google Earth
Activate 3D in Preferences
Fly to El Prado Museum
Place the cursor on the Museum outline until illuminating it
Click on the outline
Click on one of the appearing paintings
Click then on "Explore this image in super high resolution" legend below the painting
And enjoy
Luxurious. I have been hours exploring the paintings at a detail one never could have dreamed of.
Regards,
Jose
Jose, thank you for posting this. I am amazed at the resolution. I can see me spending a lot of my time this weekend looking at these masterpieces.
Gary, I've got to be honest about this.
The 2010 E-class isn't working for me. Sure, it will please many Mercedes fans, and your wife will hopefully love it... but when I take a close look...
It looks more like a nasty cocktail made up of too many mixed-up ingredients instead of one really great design statement.
The interior has a trim surrounding the center dash vents that obviously resembles the front grill. Someone thought that was a good idea, but its weird, and it unfortunately made its way into production.
Sitting above the front-grill-trimmed vents is the navigation screen which is clearly lost in space. It sits there in a void, which has an unusual shape.
The exterior front foglight LEDs are pitiful looking.
I usually like Mercedes, and I apopogize to those of you that like this new E-Class... but my gut reaction tells me that an Audi, or even a Jag, would be a better choice.
TM
Outside, there are some obvious Lexus GS styling cues up front, droopy instead of swoopy profile, and a rear end that's a combination between current Sclass trunk and previous gen's Lexus LS tail lights. Like you said, too much ingredients.
Inside, the ultra boxy design dates back to the 80s and 90s when MB's cabins were stark, bland and very old looking. Only the current C-class imo got this design somewhat acceptable. The nav. screen that sits high on the dash clearly resembles the S-class, but whereas the Sclass' dash is curvy, the boxy dash on the E makes me feel like I'm looking at a TV screen on a fridge.
The LED lights are a blatant Audi A6 ripoff at best.
What happened, MB??? Why the huge step back in design???
It only makes sense for the carrier to carry a full load,unless an extra charge were to levied