I got a note from the moderator, saying my prior post on this was deleted since I gave some initials of the guy I was working with at Tampa Infiniti, and that violated the spirit of giving names. Checking just now, the post is still there, but I'll repost and X the original initials I gave. I think I can say this: The Internet Sales Manager's initials are consecutive in, and close to the middle of the alphabet. That's just to try to allow you to determine if it's the same person I corresponded with, without identifying him publicly.
Here's the prior post, (1884) in case it disappears as promised.
Nirvanaor --
We're not supposed to post names of individuals at dealerships.
However, if you go to infiniti.com and do an inquiry from that site, it will go to the Internet Sales Manager, who is the guy I corresponded with. His initials are XX and he works with another fellow whose initials are YY.
You may already be dealing with one or the other of those guys. Remember, though, that there is $1,000 dealer cash on the sedan, which is what I was dealing with. A comparable deal on a coupe, which has no dealer incentive, would be dead invoice. In fact, that might be even a bit better than the deal I was offered, since my perception is that all dealers are a bit tighter on the coupes.
Maybe without knowing it, you're getting as good a deal as I was offered. Depending on where you live, you could try several other dealerships to get a comparison and an idea of whether you're getting a good deal. I feel reasonably knowledgeable about current sedan deals, but not about the coupe. And things change quickly with changing inventory and factory support.
You are right. I am out of luck. Unfortunately there is no Acura dealer in town either. The closest one is 65 miles away right next door to the Infiniti dealer. Acura does offer a loaner car program though for out of town clients.
I am going to look at the TL now and maybe a used 5 series. I am really not a big fan of Cadillacs, so I don't know about that one. It is unfortunate because I was pretty excited about the G35.
If you drive the Cadillac you may be pleasantly surprised. It's not a 5-series, but it's not bad, either. My last car is a 1995 540i, 6-speed. Engine and transmission are great, but minor other problems. I would like to sell it, but don't know how to contact you outside of this forum. I could deliver it to Roanoke over the holidays.
I'm planning on buying an '05 G35X with the premium package. I contacted two dealers in my area last week and both gave me a price close to $35,000. The offers were assuming I'd take delivery by the end of the year. I never got around to a counter-offer because I since found out I'm eligible for the VPP discount so I decided to wait until January to complete the deal.
Purchased a 2005 G35x w/ prem C and trunk mat for $35,400 out-the-door.
Bought from Jim Coleman Infiniti in Bethesda, Md.
Negotiated for exact car I wanted and ended up about 1.5% over invoice. Overall, a great and fast buying experience.
There was a tiny scratch in the car when I took delivery, but they buffed it out quickly with no argument.
Got Twilight blue with tan interior. Love the car and the way it drives. The '05 changes on the interior and exterior are great.
Conditioned the leather seats and now they're as soft and smooth as anything I've felt (other than Lexus).
Good luck on your buying. I know you can get some great deals right now...but if you're in DC, give the dealers an email...someone will be willing to sell.
Yep. Good math! It was like $34,2xx.xx + TTL, but we only have 3% tax in VA. (you pay for it later though!)
I got an offer for $34,000 flat in Richmond, VA. Their internet dept is really willing to deal. I think my deal was really good and fair...and the dealer was only 10 miles from home. I'm sure the deals only get sweeter until the end of the year.
This forum was a great help to me in making this deal so I thought that I'd take the time to return the favor. Here's my deal: 2004 G35 Sedan, Diamond Graphite, Graphite Interior, Premium Package, Aero Pkg W/Spoiler. MSRP $37,060
I received $5,780 off the sticker - $31,280 plus tax & lic. I took advantage of the 2.9 financing and with $5,000 down walked out with payments just north of $500/month. I was very happy with the deal and the way I was treated at this Southern California Dealership. I don't want to "give up" this dealer, but they are near a Pier. There are ton's of '04's on the lots. Good luck to everyone who's trying to make a deal.
It would be in your own interest to 'give up' the dealership if you already have your car. Making it known that they're giving good deals will cause people to go there, increasing local demand. That tends to prop up the local price of the cars. In the extreme, if that local dealer still has the '04s languishing on the lot a year from now because no one heard about their deals, it will hurt the trade in value of the car you just bought.
Makes no difference to me, since I already have my '04 and live thousands of miles away, but 'giving up' the dealer will make them happy because they'll sell more cars; it will perhaps help a fellow member of this forum; and in the long run, it will help the resale value of your car. No one loses except other dealers who aren't giving the good deals.
In the end, that's what this forum is all about -- helping buyers have the best info on actual selling prices and helping them to get better deals.
Yes, please "give up" your dealership! We like for folks to know who treats customers right, and the dealership can benefit by getting more customers. That's why they're in business!
Most people understand that they may not be able to get the *exact* deal that you got, since no two deals are exactly alike. But if they dealt with you fairly and you're happy with their style, I'm sure other members would like to know where to find a good dealership.
kirstie_h
Roving Host & Future Vehicles Host
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
I'm a newbie totally and I'm at a crossroads. I'm trading my Lexus GS300 in and am considering the G35 as its replacement. I've always lusted after the coupe but like the way a sedan feels. So basically, since I haven't test driven the coupe can anyone give me some ideas? I currently have a deposit on a 2003 G35 sedan with navigation and under 20K miles for about $26K but I spoke with another dealer who can get me just about the same deal on a coupe. Any and all feedback is welcome!! Also, does anyone think the pricing is too high? I want to negotiate some more but don't really know how much more room there is.
It's a personal choice. The coupe looks a bit nicer and has 20 more ponies under the hood. Some of the interior is laid out better, as well.
But the sedan was easily my personal choice, even though I very rarely have more than one other person in the car with me.
It will be cheaper to replace the tires on the sedan, and you CAN rotate the tires. The coupe's trunk couldn't come close to holding an item I carry around some of the time, even with the rear seat folded down. It fits in the sedan with PLENTY of room to spare.
I think the coupe's higher power comes with a slight fuel economy penalty, and the coupe is probably going to be more expensive, even though you were told you could get 'just about' the same deal on a coupe. Insurance costs MAY be higher on the coupe, as well.
If I had a GS300, I might want to stick with that, but I favor the G35 sedan way more than the coupe. But personal preferences are one of the things that make the world go 'round.
If you think you are on the fence, and the deals are identical, flip a coin. If you're happy, go with the result. If you find yourself wanting to go two out of three, that will give you a different answer.
The new (05) sedan now matches the coupe in power (280hp). If you're looking at used, I'd give the nod to the coupe. But if you're planning on carrying more than a golf bag and a friend, I'd think twice about the coupe. If you've got another car, the coupe is perfect. It's all personal choice.
The coupe's resale is higher though...and I think the $26k number is good.
I actually went in looking to buy a 6MT coupe and ended up with an 05 G35x. So, my advice is to drive them back-to-back, assess your needs, check your wallet, and buy whatever suits you the best.
Even though the coupe looked better, I couldn't see myself still liking 2 doors in 3 years.
OK Kirstie, your the Host. My deal was from Santa Monica Infinity. I just asked for the Fleet Manager, made sure that he knew that I had thoroughly researched the vehicle. I asked for a price that I knew was below his "invoice" (including the Manuf. to Dlr $'s) and he came back with his "one shot" offer. It was a great deal. I wish everyone this kind of experience!
Thanks for sharing! Thanks to you, others in your area just might have a similar experience.
kirstie_h
Roving Host & Future Vehicles Host
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
I recently purchased an Infiniti and wanted to pass on info about a very bad experience I had. This is my opinion, but all true. You can take it or leave it.
I sent this message to the dealer (with no response after 3 weeks):
_____________________
Dear.xxxxxx
since you both sent me letters asking to write you, I thought I'd take you up on your offer. I'll start by simply copying a post I made on an Infiniti owners website, then I'll add a few additional remarks at the end
START MESSAGE:
I usually do not post messages, but I am so angry that I have to tell you about Jim Coleman Infiniti in Bethesda, MD. They are the worst dealer I have ever seen. In fact, leasing my FX was one of the worst experiences I've ever had in dealing with any organization.
I started out calling around the Washington, DC area. There are 3 dealers in the area. I wanted a black 2004 FX35 with tech and touring.
I started out by offering $1500 below invoice, figuring that I wanted between $1000-1500 below in the end.
The first dealer said no and countered with $500 over. I said “no thanks, have a great day”.
The second dealer was Rosenthal Infiniti in Tyson’s Corners. They were very polite but denied knowing anything about the $1500 rebate. They still offered $500 under invoice, but they only had silver, which I didn’t want.
The third dealer was Jim Coleman in Bethesda. What I am about to write is 100% accurate:
I called and asked to speak with new car sales. I was greeted on the phone by a saleman and made my offer. He told me to hold on and he would get the sales manager. I got the manager, said hello and began to make my offer again. I BEGAN to ask for $1500 below invoice and was rudely interrupted. He said “stop right there- there is no way you’re getting that deal. No one in the country will ever get that deal” (by now he was screaming). He continued yelling for about 3 minutes, saying there are no such thing as the rebates and I must be desperate for calling Maryland if I live in Virginia (The dealership is only about 10 miles away?!?!)
I told him there are many people on Edmunds.com that reported getting $1500 off or MORE. He called them liars, saying I was ignorant and foolish. I said “OK, don’t get offended, if you don’t want to do it just tell me no and have a good day”. The salesman was still screaming, telling me how offended he was. Finally I said goodbye and hung up.
About 10 minutes later the original person called me back (remember I was handed off). He apologized for my treatment, saying that it was uncalled for. He said to make it up to me, they would do the deal for $1000 under invoice.
Normally, I would have told them to take a hike, but they had the only black FX with tech and touring in the area, plus I really needed to purchase the car within a few days at most.
I finally signed the deal with Jim Coleman infiniti, but it was at night, so I told them I had to come back the next day to inspect the FX and drive it off.
I came back the next day and they immediately brought me into the finance office. They told me they made a mistake and I could not have the deal I SIGNED the night before. They said they could only go $1000 under on a purchase, not a lease. (even though I had already signed the lease paperwork). They told me I had to buy the car if I wanted the same deal.
Now I was furious but said calmly “you have 2 minutes to get the lease paperwork ready or I’m leaving”. I then got out my credit card and told them to refund my down payment and I was leaving.
They came back 2 minutes later and said, “OK, we’ll lose money on this car and give you the lease”. I was even more furious now because obviously there was nothing wrong in the first place and they continued to lie about it.
END MESSAGE
I want you to know that my actual experience was much worse than what I wrote. I understand you are a business and you have the right to make money- but screaming at customers??? Threatening to undo the deal after I already signed a lease??? and the worst is the continuous lies- even after I signed the lease!
My final comment is that during both trips to the dealer- I was in my military uniform. I know the military is not a rare sight in Washington, but I do expect at least a little courtesy since I am defending your freedom to work in a free and capitalist country. I feel you took advantage of me because you knew I had to travel within just a few days and I needed to purchase the vehicle ASAP.
In conclusion, please do not offer to "make this right" with any monetary compensation. I do not want anyone to think that I am trying to get a free service or rebate from the dealer.
You should be hearing from Infiniti customer service about this and I look forward to hearing your comments.
That's funny...I emailed the Internet sales manager, offered a price, he accepted, and went to pick up my car in the morning. Car was ready, signed the papers, paid cash, and left.
I just got through a bidding war between two dealers on a 2004 g35X premium and aero kit. The MSRP on the car is $39,400. Im leasing the car for 42 months and 20K miles/year. Im putting down $8000 and payment is $250/mth. The math works out to be about $428/mth with no money down (other than 1st month and doc fees - $500). A $39K car lease with 20K miles per year for $428/mth. Includes everything and taxes. Godd deal?
I guess my only comment is that putting a down payment on a lease may not be a good idea. Technically, you are prepaying your lease payments with really no equity since the vehicle belongs to the leasing company. So, if (God forbid) the vehicle was totaled the minute you drove off the dealer lot, your prepayment (or $8,000)would disappear. The reverse would apply where the vehicle is worth less than the residual and totaled. Gap insurance would kick in and you would not be liable for that difference. You may want to look into it further. Good luck!
You can still trade and have the dealership cut you a check for the trade in value. They should do this I would NOT put 8k into a lease. that would nearly pay half your monthly lease payments.
Excellent point! Dealerships are perfectly capable of paying for trade-in's and for awhile with zero percent financing, people actually borrowed more than they actually paid for the car since it was "free" money from the manufacturer's financing company.
which does a very good job of explaining exactly why it's a bad idea.
Ask for a check, or sell it privately. You usually get more $$ by selling it privately, but sometimes it's more hassle than it's worth to you.
kirstie_h
Roving Host & Future Vehicles Host
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
I am very interested in a certain new '04 g35X. The dealership is 150 miles away.
The service report which the dealer faxed to me states, "AT TIME OF DELIVERY [~ 8/1/04], NOTED MAJOR DAMAGE TO ROOF PANEL -- MULTIPLE LARGE DENTS AND SCRATCHES ALL OVER. SUBLET TO ______ [a body shop, I suppose] FOR REPAIRS."
The service guy mentioned that the damage occurred as they were unloading the car from the delivery truck. The internet manager looked at the car and told me that in his opinion, one could not tell there had been any work done at all: no visible evidence of the damage remained.
Do you think I should pass on this car because of the repairs? Everything else about the car suits me just fine.
Well, for how long do you plan to keep this vehicle? Since the damage was just to the roof (body), it's not going to affect how the vehicle performs for you, and it's only the appearance that could be affected. However, this will likely show up again at trade-in time, and no matter how well it's been repaired, the used car manager is likely to know.
This is not a big problem for you if you plan to keep the vehicle at least until it's paid off. You will lose some value at resale, but you're also getting a discount up front. However, if you plan to sell before the loan is paid off, it may be one to avoid.
The best advice is to ask to take the vehicle to an independent mechanic and pay a few bucks to have it looked over by a pro. They can spot stuff that you & I would never notice, and they've got no reason to tell you it's fine if it isn't.
kirstie_h
Roving Host & Future Vehicles Host
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
Just took home a 2005 G35x, premium, trunk mat and splash guards. I wanted to post my experience, since this discussion was very helpful. I'm from Chicago, but checked all over for the best price. All prices are before taxes & doc fees.
Chicago dealership: MSRP - $1250 for wood package & prem,
Another Chicago dealer: MSRP - $1000
Costco program: $34,850
Quirk, MA: MSRP - $500
Ramsey, NJ: MRSP - $1500 = $35,100
Herb Chambers, MA: $34,200
Grubbs, TX: $34,658
Pfeiffer, MI:
I ended up going to Pfeiffer, in Grand Rapids. Grubbs didn't sell that many AWDs, so I had to wait until February 2005 to get one. Herb didn't have my color in stock (white/stone), and also wasn't sure how I could drive back to Illinois (MA doesn't issue transit tags). I was going to go with Costco program when someone recommended Pfeiffer in Grand Rapids, MI. I gave them a call, gave my price, and they actually beat my price. They also found my color combination without a problem.
Just came back from the dealership yesterday - pleasant
buying experience. The dealer asked me not to post the actual price. But, if you're looking for a 2005 G35, give them a call! I highly recommend them. You can check the previous posts about this dealership, too.
Okay,if you dont want to give up the price, can you give us a hint ? Was it lower than the other prices you posted ? Can you give us your price that you wanted ?
Well, my final price was lower than all of the others I listed. I started with $34,200, as this was from Herb Chambers. The other message about Pfeiffer also had a similar price, I believe.
Looking to lease a 2005 G35 Sedan most likely for 36mo., premium pkg, RWD, wood trim. What deals are people getting for these lately (what is reasonable to ask for)?
I'm part of the VPP program as well- any experience with VPP at Houston dealerships?
Also-what kind of residuals is everyone getting on their leases?
Congrats! Hope you enjoy your new ride!!!You may want to visit our Owners' cLub now that you have purchased! Enjoy! There is a link at the top of the page and in the Browse by Message Board to your left!
I've been reading these posts for a while looking for info on leasing a g35 coupe. Now I am not looking to disagree with anyone here who advises against putting down large cap cost reduction payments (e.g. $8000), I do not think it's wise at all but I have to add a little inside advice on how the real world works once a leased car is considered a total loss when an insurance claim is submitted on behalf of the leasee. Hopefully this info will help clear up an often misundertstood urban legend. I am an auto damage appraiser for a large ins. company in Long Island and have handled more total losses than I care to remember. I have to personally settle the losses with insureds by contacting finance and lease companies where the insured still has a loan or lease. Putting down a large cap cost will not necessarily kill you if the car is a recent total loss after inception. PLEASE remember that the insurance company is required to settle the loss within accordance of the state's insurance regulations and all the regs are the same in all states. The company is absolutely in no way shape or form required to pay any balance on any loan or lease, ONLY THE FAIR MARKET VALUE for the car in question. The company is obligated to pay the insured first, but usually we make a courtesy call to the lienholder/leasee to put them on notice and they cooperatively stop the interest on the lease/loan as of the date of the loss. The ins. company advises of what they are paying on behalf of the insd (acv less insd's ded), and then the lease company must accept this figure whatever the remaining balance of the lease is. In most cases, because the depreciation of the car is so drastic, and the leasee owes more than the current market value, after the ins co. pays the settlement direct to the lease company, the lease company then makes an individual claim to it's gap ins policy provider. This is why when settling losses on an individual basis, the lease company asks us to send them a fax of the settlement amount offered by the insurance policy and the actual acv report. They use this to show their gap company the amount they were paid and the balance still owed on the lease is paid by the gap policy, which the leasing company took out for themselves. Point of the story is, a large down payment will result in a lower lease balance, since much of the depreciated cost is paid up front, the equity of the insurance settlement will go to the insured. I have been involved in settling total loss for people who recently got into leases, made large cap cost payments, and the ins settlement was higher than the lease balance. The ins company pays the lease balance direct and the equity would go direct to the insured. Again, not advisable to put down a large amount, good equity on leasing only seems to happen on cars with very high residuals, as we all know. I wouldn't personally want to take a chance with most of these substandard insurance carriers with great rates and terrible claims service, especially when one needs them to understand the complexities of their lease agreement with a large cap cost reduction. One other thing, in most cases, if an insured has a total loss within the first six months of the date of sale, the state ins dept demands that a carrier not use the acv or fair market value method of determining the settlement amount, but rather the mileage depreciation method is used. For example a car that had a purchase price of $28000, would incur a per miles used depreciation figure of, let's say .35 cents a mile. If the owner drove a 1000 miles after buying/leasing the car, the depreciation is only $350. The ins. co. is obligated to verify the purchas price, (cap cost for leases) and pay that pruchase price less the $350. Local tax would then be added for purchased cars, taxes for leases depends if leasee paid same up front or not. The per mileage depreciation figures depends on the original purchase/cap cost price. There are ranges etc., and the higher the cost, the higher the "cents" is per mile driven. That mileage depreciation method is a built in protection that the insurance industry (through state regualtion of course), applies to help protect individuals from the wild flucuation in resale values of private cars shortly after they are purchased.
preminum package, wood, sirius radio, automatic start ( dealer installed option @ 600 bucks but very well worth the comfy warm interior on those cold nyc moornings)
I can stretch the budget a bit to get into the coupe, but can I expect to get any kind of discount on a '04 coupe in So Cal, given that it is the end of the month and end of year. I would settle for 4 door, but with only one kid in the house and less need for the 4 door, I would rather not.
Is this from Pfeifer in Michigan? That price is the lowest I was able to get (see my previous post) among several dealers across the country. Not sure about the Navi and wood, as I wasn't interestered in those options. You can check Edmund's prices for these. The salespersion at Herb Chambers said that the wood package sells at a bit of a premium - meaning, that premium + wood is above invoice price more than the cost of the premium + invoice price for wood. Not sure why, but wood did jump the price by $500 or so. Don't know if this applies to all dealerships.
Just got my 2005 G35x too. Went with one in Garnet Fire exterior and graphite leather interior. Premium package, wood, and trunk mat. MSRP was $36,910. Checked all dealerships within 80 miles of home. Turns out the Infiniti.com site doesn't always show the inventory found on the dealership website. For example, the dealership I purchased from had 3 g35x's on its website and 30 on the Infiniti website. Car I got was on Infiniti's site...new shipments don't show up very quickly on dealer sites. Other dealers I checked with were all over the place too when comparing inventories.
Started out getting quotes online from the dealers...particularly those furter out of the area. Got a couple of good ones too. Best offer was invoice +$500 for same options. Dealer was 45 miles away. Dealer 11 miles away is where I test drove the car. Went back to see what they could do...started out that this was a pretty popular car- $300 under MSRP. I started with Comsumer Reports Wholesale price, that got a good laugh. But, dealer matched the online offer. To me, looking the the Edmund's TMV and other sites (which the dealership was using too), feel as though I got a deal.
I'm in SoCal, too, and have been calling & e-mailing around to most of the dealerships in LA County & Ventura County. I have pretty much gotten the same response on the coupe--only $500-$1000 off MSRP. The sedan -esp 2004- is another story. I've found dealers to be much more amenable to negotiating off invioce on sedans. For me personally, I am going to have to decide if style (coupe v. sedan) is worth the x-tra couple thousand dollars.
o, another thing abt buying a coupe in SoCal, i did check edmund's TMV for my zip code, and it was right on with what the dealers were quoting me (give or take $100).
After much back and forth between several sedans I purchased a G35x last night. Here is the rundown.
2005 G35x
Premium Pkg C
Trunk Mat
Rosewood Interior
Color - Lakeshore Slate
MSRP was 36,910
Got the car for 34,250 plus TTL (6% in NJ plus a $325 fee to Register and License the car for the next 4 years with the Tire Tax.) I did not finance the car.
I really like the car and am very happy with the purchase. This car definitely has some juice !!!
I worked with Douglas Infiniti (Summit, NJ) and had a very positive experience. Liked the dealer, the sales consultant, and the way I was treated. I did not get jerked around and did the majority of the work via email and the internet quoting process.
I got a lot of help from the posts here and on the other Edmunds forums. (Thanks so much to the knowledgeable population and the hosts.) I hope this helps anyone else.
Funny, thats almost the same deal I got. Only difference is I got the splash guards as well. Interestingly enough, they threw in the sirrus radio @ no charge. Seems they wanted to move the cars off the lot , rather than get one from another dealer. I was willing to wait but I guess they were not. Dealt w/ Inskip in RI, all good and a positive experience. I was out of there in 35 minutes. Highly recommend doing business w/ them.
just helped a good friend last night purchase a 2005 G35 (2wd), premium package "C" only, silver mettallic with black interior: price paid, $31,000, plus TLL, no joke.
go to serramonte infiniti, about 15 miles south of san francisco.
they are willing to deal, it being the end of the year and all, I guess.
just stay firm, we started at 30,800, they started at MSRP, then to $500 above invoice ($32,349), then to invoice ($31,849), then to $31,500, then to $31,400, then $31,250, then $31,100, they didn't move on that for a while, until we got up to leave, then they gave us $31,000.
good luck and thanks for all of the help in here, it was very helpful.
I am a newbie trying to buy a G35 sedan with sports suspension package in northern Virginia. When I tried looking at dealer inventory, I did not find any vehicles with sports suspension package.
I considered buying a coupe ( I really like a coupe ) but need to buy a 4 door sedan.
Is sports suspension package factory installed option or is this something that the dealer can install?
This question may sound really silly.. I am a newbie and this will be my first nice car :-)
Sounds like you managed to get a great deal - you really got a 05 G35 under invoice!
Did you end up negotiating on a car that did not match exactly what you wanted or did you find the exact car you wanted and just held firm on your initial offer?
Comments
which city/dealership did u go to?
Here's the prior post, (1884) in case it disappears as promised.
Nirvanaor --
We're not supposed to post names of individuals at dealerships.
However, if you go to infiniti.com and do an inquiry from that site, it will go to the Internet Sales Manager, who is the guy I corresponded with. His initials are XX and he works with another fellow whose initials are YY.
You may already be dealing with one or the other of those guys. Remember, though, that there is $1,000 dealer cash on the sedan, which is what I was dealing with. A comparable deal on a coupe, which has no dealer incentive, would be dead invoice. In fact, that might be even a bit better than the deal I was offered, since my perception is that all dealers are a bit tighter on the coupes.
Maybe without knowing it, you're getting as good a deal as I was offered. Depending on where you live, you could try several other dealerships to get a comparison and an idea of whether you're getting a good deal. I feel reasonably knowledgeable about current sedan deals, but not about the coupe. And things change quickly with changing inventory and factory support.
I am going to look at the TL now and maybe a used 5 series. I am really not a big fan of Cadillacs, so I don't know about that one. It is unfortunate because I was pretty excited about the G35.
If you drive the Cadillac you may be pleasantly surprised. It's not a 5-series, but it's not bad, either. My last car is a 1995 540i, 6-speed. Engine and transmission are great, but minor other problems. I would like to sell it, but don't know how to contact you outside of this forum. I could deliver it to Roanoke over the holidays.
Bought from Jim Coleman Infiniti in Bethesda, Md.
Negotiated for exact car I wanted and ended up about 1.5% over invoice. Overall, a great and fast buying experience.
There was a tiny scratch in the car when I took delivery, but they buffed it out quickly with no argument.
Got Twilight blue with tan interior. Love the car and the way it drives. The '05 changes on the interior and exterior are great.
Conditioned the leather seats and now they're as soft and smooth as anything I've felt (other than Lexus).
Good luck on your buying. I know you can get some great deals right now...but if you're in DC, give the dealers an email...someone will be willing to sell.
I got an offer for $34,000 flat in Richmond, VA. Their internet dept is really willing to deal. I think my deal was really good and fair...and the dealer was only 10 miles from home. I'm sure the deals only get sweeter until the end of the year.
Good luck everyone.
PS - The AWD works GREAT on ice!
I received $5,780 off the sticker - $31,280 plus tax & lic. I took advantage of the 2.9 financing and with $5,000 down walked out with payments just north of $500/month. I was very happy with the deal and the way I was treated at this Southern California Dealership. I don't want to "give up" this dealer, but they are near a Pier. There are ton's of '04's on the lots. Good luck to everyone who's trying to make a deal.
That appears to be a really good deal on the G35.
It would be in your own interest to 'give up' the dealership if you already have your car. Making it known that they're giving good deals will cause people to go there, increasing local demand. That tends to prop up the local price of the cars. In the extreme, if that local dealer still has the '04s languishing on the lot a year from now because no one heard about their deals, it will hurt the trade in value of the car you just bought.
Makes no difference to me, since I already have my '04 and live thousands of miles away, but 'giving up' the dealer will make them happy because they'll sell more cars; it will perhaps help a fellow member of this forum; and in the long run, it will help the resale value of your car. No one loses except other dealers who aren't giving the good deals.
In the end, that's what this forum is all about -- helping buyers have the best info on actual selling prices and helping them to get better deals.
Most people understand that they may not be able to get the *exact* deal that you got, since no two deals are exactly alike. But if they dealt with you fairly and you're happy with their style, I'm sure other members would like to know where to find a good dealership.
kirstie_h
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I'm a newbie totally and I'm at a crossroads. I'm trading my Lexus GS300 in and am considering the G35 as its replacement. I've always lusted after the coupe but like the way a sedan feels. So basically, since I haven't test driven the coupe can anyone give me some ideas? I currently have a deposit on a 2003 G35 sedan with navigation and under 20K miles for about $26K but I spoke with another dealer who can get me just about the same deal on a coupe. Any and all feedback is welcome!! Also, does anyone think the pricing is too high? I want to negotiate some more but don't really know how much more room there is.
Thanks!
But the sedan was easily my personal choice, even though I very rarely have more than one other person in the car with me.
It will be cheaper to replace the tires on the sedan, and you CAN rotate the tires. The coupe's trunk couldn't come close to holding an item I carry around some of the time, even with the rear seat folded down. It fits in the sedan with PLENTY of room to spare.
I think the coupe's higher power comes with a slight fuel economy penalty, and the coupe is probably going to be more expensive, even though you were told you could get 'just about' the same deal on a coupe. Insurance costs MAY be higher on the coupe, as well.
If I had a GS300, I might want to stick with that, but I favor the G35 sedan way more than the coupe. But personal preferences are one of the things that make the world go 'round.
If you think you are on the fence, and the deals are identical, flip a coin. If you're happy, go with the result. If you find yourself wanting to go two out of three, that will give you a different answer.
The coupe's resale is higher though...and I think the $26k number is good.
I actually went in looking to buy a 6MT coupe and ended up with an 05 G35x. So, my advice is to drive them back-to-back, assess your needs, check your wallet, and buy whatever suits you the best.
Even though the coupe looked better, I couldn't see myself still liking 2 doors in 3 years.
Best of luck!
kirstie_h
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I recently purchased an Infiniti and wanted to pass on info about a very bad experience I had. This is my opinion, but all true. You can take it or leave it.
I sent this message to the dealer (with no response after 3 weeks):
_____________________
Dear.xxxxxx
since you both sent me letters asking to write you, I thought I'd take you up on your offer. I'll start by simply copying a post I made on an Infiniti owners website, then I'll add a few additional remarks at the end
START MESSAGE:
I usually do not post messages, but I am so angry that I have to tell you about Jim Coleman Infiniti in Bethesda, MD. They are the worst dealer I have ever seen. In fact, leasing my FX was one of the worst experiences I've ever had in dealing with any organization.
I started out calling around the Washington, DC area. There are 3 dealers in the area. I wanted a black 2004 FX35 with tech and touring.
I started out by offering $1500 below invoice, figuring that I wanted between $1000-1500 below in the end.
The first dealer said no and countered with $500 over. I said “no thanks, have a great day”.
The second dealer was Rosenthal Infiniti in Tyson’s Corners. They were very polite but denied knowing anything about the $1500 rebate. They still offered $500 under invoice, but they only had silver, which I didn’t want.
The third dealer was Jim Coleman in Bethesda. What I am about to write is 100% accurate:
I called and asked to speak with new car sales. I was greeted on the phone by a saleman and made my offer. He told me to hold on and he would get the sales manager. I got the manager, said hello and began to make my offer again. I BEGAN to ask for $1500 below invoice and was rudely interrupted. He said “stop right there- there is no way you’re getting that deal. No one in the country will ever get that deal” (by now he was screaming). He continued yelling for about 3 minutes, saying there are no such thing as the rebates and I must be desperate for calling Maryland if I live in Virginia (The dealership is only about 10 miles away?!?!)
I told him there are many people on Edmunds.com that reported getting $1500 off or MORE. He called them liars, saying I was ignorant and foolish. I said “OK, don’t get offended, if you don’t want to do it just tell me no and have a good day”. The salesman was still screaming, telling me how offended he was. Finally I said goodbye and hung up.
About 10 minutes later the original person called me back (remember I was handed off). He apologized for my treatment, saying that it was uncalled for. He said to make it up to me, they would do the deal for $1000 under invoice.
Normally, I would have told them to take a hike, but they had the only black FX with tech and touring in the area, plus I really needed to purchase the car within a few days at most.
I finally signed the deal with Jim Coleman infiniti, but it was at night, so I told them I had to come back the next day to inspect the FX and drive it off.
I came back the next day and they immediately brought me into the finance office. They told me they made a mistake and I could not have the deal I SIGNED the night before. They said they could only go $1000 under on a purchase, not a lease. (even though I had already signed the lease paperwork). They told me I had to buy the car if I wanted the same deal.
Now I was furious but said calmly “you have 2 minutes to get the lease paperwork ready or I’m leaving”. I then got out my credit card and told them to refund my down payment and I was leaving.
They came back 2 minutes later and said, “OK, we’ll lose money on this car and give you the lease”. I was even more furious now because obviously there was nothing wrong in the first place and they continued to lie about it.
END MESSAGE
I want you to know that my actual experience was much worse than what I wrote. I understand you are a business and you have the right to make money- but screaming at customers??? Threatening to undo the deal after I already signed a lease??? and the worst is the continuous lies- even after I signed the lease!
My final comment is that during both trips to the dealer- I was in my military uniform. I know the military is not a rare sight in Washington, but I do expect at least a little courtesy since I am defending your freedom to work in a free and capitalist country. I feel you took advantage of me because you knew I had to travel within just a few days and I needed to purchase the vehicle ASAP.
In conclusion, please do not offer to "make this right" with any monetary compensation. I do not want anyone to think that I am trying to get a free service or rebate from the dealer.
You should be hearing from Infiniti customer service about this and I look forward to hearing your comments.
sincerely,
William Marks
Same dealership. Totally different experience.
Car_man, "Lease Questions - Ask Here" #15525, 19 Dec 2004 3:18 pm
which does a very good job of explaining exactly why it's a bad idea.
Ask for a check, or sell it privately. You usually get more $$ by selling it privately, but sometimes it's more hassle than it's worth to you.
kirstie_h
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The service report which the dealer faxed to me states, "AT TIME OF DELIVERY [~ 8/1/04], NOTED MAJOR DAMAGE TO ROOF PANEL -- MULTIPLE LARGE DENTS AND SCRATCHES ALL OVER. SUBLET TO ______ [a body shop, I suppose] FOR REPAIRS."
The service guy mentioned that the damage occurred as they were unloading the car from the delivery truck. The internet manager looked at the car and told me that in his opinion, one could not tell there had been any work done at all: no visible evidence of the damage remained.
Do you think I should pass on this car because of the repairs? Everything else about the car suits me just fine.
This is not a big problem for you if you plan to keep the vehicle at least until it's paid off. You will lose some value at resale, but you're also getting a discount up front. However, if you plan to sell before the loan is paid off, it may be one to avoid.
The best advice is to ask to take the vehicle to an independent mechanic and pay a few bucks to have it looked over by a pro. They can spot stuff that you & I would never notice, and they've got no reason to tell you it's fine if it isn't.
kirstie_h
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Uh, how do I say this in a nice way.?
Are you Nuts..!
1st, last and security, a fee here and there ..... $8,000..?!? .. Never.! ....
If that bad boy gets stolen or wrecked your out of the $8,000, gone, zero, less than 1 -- it only lowers your payment, thats all ...... Yikes.!
Terry.
Chicago dealership: MSRP - $1250 for wood package & prem,
Another Chicago dealer: MSRP - $1000
Costco program: $34,850
Quirk, MA: MSRP - $500
Ramsey, NJ: MRSP - $1500 = $35,100
Herb Chambers, MA: $34,200
Grubbs, TX: $34,658
Pfeiffer, MI:
I ended up going to Pfeiffer, in Grand Rapids. Grubbs didn't sell that many AWDs, so I had to wait until February 2005 to get one. Herb didn't have my color in stock (white/stone), and also wasn't sure how I could drive back to Illinois (MA doesn't issue transit tags). I was going to go with Costco program when someone recommended Pfeiffer in Grand Rapids, MI. I gave them a call, gave my price, and they actually beat my price. They also found my color combination without a problem.
Just came back from the dealership yesterday - pleasant
buying experience. The dealer asked me not to post the actual price. But, if you're looking for a 2005 G35, give them a call! I highly recommend them. You can check the previous posts about this dealership, too.
This car is a blast to drive!
anyone have any advice on Infiniti dealers here?
Looking to lease a 2005 G35 Sedan most likely for 36mo., premium pkg, RWD, wood trim. What deals are people getting for these lately (what is reasonable to ask for)?
I'm part of the VPP program as well- any experience with VPP at Houston dealerships?
Also-what kind of residuals is everyone getting on their leases?
42 mo 15k/year 04 g35x demo dealer model
$2000 out of pocket
preminum package, wood, sirius radio, automatic start ( dealer installed option @ 600 bucks but very well worth the comfy warm interior on those cold nyc moornings)
$435 mo
dealer in nassau
did i get a good deal?
I am in the market for a '04 4 door or coupe.
I can stretch the budget a bit to get into the coupe, but can I expect to get any kind of discount on a '04 coupe in So Cal, given that it is the end of the month and end of year. I would settle for 4 door, but with only one kid in the house and less need for the 4 door, I would rather not.
What do you guys think?
Started out getting quotes online from the dealers...particularly those furter out of the area. Got a couple of good ones too. Best offer was invoice +$500 for same options. Dealer was 45 miles away. Dealer 11 miles away is where I test drove the car. Went back to see what they could do...started out that this was a pretty popular car- $300 under MSRP. I started with Comsumer Reports Wholesale price, that got a good laugh. But, dealer matched the online offer. To me, looking the the Edmund's TMV and other sites (which the dealership was using too), feel as though I got a deal.
I'm in SoCal, too, and have been calling & e-mailing around to most of the dealerships in LA County & Ventura County. I have pretty much gotten the same response on the coupe--only $500-$1000 off MSRP. The sedan -esp 2004- is another story. I've found dealers to be much more amenable to negotiating off invioce on sedans. For me personally, I am going to have to decide if style (coupe v. sedan) is worth the x-tra couple thousand dollars.
After much back and forth between several sedans I purchased a G35x last night. Here is the rundown.
2005 G35x
Premium Pkg C
Trunk Mat
Rosewood Interior
Color - Lakeshore Slate
MSRP was 36,910
Got the car for 34,250 plus TTL (6% in NJ plus a $325 fee to Register and License the car for the next 4 years with the Tire Tax.) I did not finance the car.
I really like the car and am very happy with the purchase. This car definitely has some juice !!!
I worked with Douglas Infiniti (Summit, NJ) and had a very positive experience. Liked the dealer, the sales consultant, and the way I was treated. I did not get jerked around and did the majority of the work via email and the internet quoting process.
I got a lot of help from the posts here and on the other Edmunds forums. (Thanks so much to the knowledgeable population and the hosts.) I hope this helps anyone else.
Regards,
Cdost.
go to serramonte infiniti, about 15 miles south of san francisco.
they are willing to deal, it being the end of the year and all, I guess.
just stay firm, we started at 30,800, they started at MSRP, then to $500 above invoice ($32,349), then to invoice ($31,849), then to $31,500, then to $31,400, then $31,250, then $31,100, they didn't move on that for a while, until we got up to leave, then they gave us $31,000.
good luck and thanks for all of the help in here, it was very helpful.
They have me $2K off the sticker and got it with the 2.9% financing. The car is fast and sweet.
Mission Viejo Infiniti. They apparantly have bought coupes from many of the Northern States so they have a good inventory of '04's.
Got it for $32.9 K + taxes/Fees.
I am a newbie trying to buy a G35 sedan with sports suspension package in northern Virginia. When I tried looking at dealer inventory, I did not find any vehicles with sports suspension package.
I considered buying a coupe ( I really like a coupe ) but need to buy a 4 door sedan.
Is sports suspension package factory installed option or is this something that the dealer can install?
This question may sound really silly.. I am a newbie and this will be my first nice car :-)
Did you end up negotiating on a car that did not match exactly what you wanted or did you find the exact car you wanted and just held firm on your initial offer?
Thanks...