Hyundai had a strong year in 2009, and it hopes to keep its momentum strong moving forward with the Genesis and upcoming Equus (To be renamed upon official launch in the U.S.) luxury sedans. A new memo distributed to existing Hyundai dealerships by corporate says that the automaker would like to section off areas at existing dealers to sell the upscale sedans, rather than creating a new brand and dealer network.
Interesting to see if this strategy leads to even higher sales.
Interesting to see if this strategy leads to even higher sales.
I wouldn't doubt it a bit. I wonder if all the naysayers are finally seeing the light regarding Hyundai. We had some serious discussions here in the past regarding the automaker.
As before, when only a handful of guys agreed with me, I continue to anticipate growth from Hyundai. I am glad that they are going to section off Genesis and any other upscale vehicles they introduce... it makes perfect sense to me... especially at this stage in the game for them.
Some sort of special red-carpet service treatment would be a good idea as well for Genesis owners, IMHO.
Your BMW 335i has been a gem? Wow now I really do hate you! My BMW 335i would definitely be a gem if it got to point A to B without the monthly dealership visits.
The Audi S4 is a car that I am really looking forward to. Though it may end up being an A6 since I really do need the space.
Wish you the very best with the new chapter in your life.
A legendary car indeed and I wish your grandfather could of enjoyed uninterrupted ownership with that Horch without the hideously tragic history that happened back in those days.
A volunteer Horch fire engine? Yikes!! That can result only th government coercion.
One mistake on VW's part was to call their large recent flop a Phaeton. That shows a great degree of disrespect for such a legacy like a Horch Phaeton.
So, now I understand. Your previously perfect Prius (say that three times fast) is now conveniently flawed... Toyota's recall has given you the ideal excuse and opportunity to justify dumping your Prius for that seductively gorgeous Audi S4. You can now save face. Let's all say "Thank you Toyota".
Frankly... I can't say I blame you at all. The S4 is fabulous, and would work well through your winter snow as well. Unless you somehow get the world's only S4 lemon,... haha... the only downside will be your accumulation of speeding tickets... which will result in the loss of your license... meaning that you will watch tour latest dream car.sit in the garage. Undriven, due to your loss of license, your S4 will never become a lemon, making it the perfect car for you.
Dewey, all joking aside, I hope you get that S4... it's a terrific machine.
...when I hit a bump or pothold I feel the unintended acceleration when I press the brake. ...
dewey, I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that what you're experiencing is actually in your head. I don't mean that in an insulting way, but in a scientific way. Based on how you've described it, I've had the same thing happen to me with several different brands of cars. I used to think it was acceleration, too. Then I realized that, under those parameters, what was happening is the brake was being depressed and I was expecting a certain amount of deceleration; however, the ABS was just slightly kicking in to prevent the wheel that hit the bump/pothole from locking up, thereby reducing the amount of expected deceleration. Since the brain is expecting deceleration at a certain rate based on the amount of pedal effort applied, you subconsciously pull back with your neck and back to counter the continued forward momentum of your head and body. As the ABS steps in, it makes those calculations that your brain made incorrect. In which case your body has now overcompensated for the amount of [expected] deceleration, thereby "slamming" your head/body back into the seat which your brain then translates as acceleration.
So, the only unintended acceleration is coming from your mind and body. :shades:
Remember my recommmendation regarding Ford... and your reply? Look at Ford's value today, after Ford announced their sales numbers. :P
BTW, I tend to disagree with Tayl0rd's interesting suggestion and analysis that the acceleration is all in your head... not to say that there aren't legitimate situations that are exactly as he described. My take on the situation is that a small percentage of Toyota's are actually defective... but I'm not so sure that yours is actually one of those. My own "analysis" suggests that you are in love with the S4 and your "mind" needs a legitimate reason to justify getting rid of the Prius... haha.
Personally, I think the S4 is justification enough... even if the Prius were running 100%... but who knows? If you actually take it to the dealer, you had better be prepared that they can't duplicate your concerns and you will go round and round with them forever, and then end up with a nasty-looking service record on the car, and lots of frustration in the process.
I suggest that you don't officially document your complaint that your Prius has any type of acceleration defect if you are actually planning on selling it or trading it towards an S4. Consider that you would harmfully impact your Prius' value by giving it an officially negative service record.
Just drive it until you buy the S4... which hopefully will be very soon!
I will respond to both your posts as soon as I recover from the post-holiday catch up work I have to do right now. In fact I dont even have the ttime to watch my new TV or visit an Audi dealership for another S4 test drive. :lemon: Which is good because with the continued recurrence of my visits I think Audi will put out a restraining order on me.
Thanks...I couldn't agree with you more regarding VW trying to use the name Phaeton which should only be reserved for an Audi. Too bad there was not way to save the car. It would have been an amazing classic!
Also, some "modern" news to report. Having waited almost 6 months, this past weekend I took position of MY new S4 in black with burgunday and ebony alcantara leather interior and 19 inch RS6 rims. I have a constant smile on my face as it is my new daily driver replacing my TT 2.0T (2008) which I gave to my nephew for his 18th birthday. I wasn't planning on getting the S4 initially, but couldn't resist getting it after reading about it last year. The S4 is fully loaded (every option in the book was thrown in it) and it came in at $62,000. The price is up there considering a loaded V8 S4 was about $58,000, but I went for all options. It joins my 2007 S6 and 2005 A8L W12. It is a total blast to drive. Anyone one here considering a "driver's" sports sedan, definitely take a test drive in the new S4. You'll be very, very pleased you did.
Always a great day when I read a post here that one of the gang has acquired a new ride!... one of life's cherished moments. I say that sincerely... as a man who truly loves cars... Congrats again!... and I wish you the very best experience with it for as long as you decide to keep it.
I took position of MY new S4 in black with burgunday and ebony alcantara leather interior and 19 inch RS6 rims.
Congrats! The S4 is IMO the premier entry lux sport sedan. It solves pretty much all of the issues of the A4 2.0T, and the 335xi and G37x are simply no match for it. It's also a 10 Best car this year.
More my cup of tea is the upcoming A7/S7. Audi is promising an interior that rivals the A8's, in a package much closer to the A6. I think this car is going to be good.
Perhaps will look at some of the '10's to replace the SC but still like the ride/look of this little car. Perhaps the Porsche but we have 2 goldens that we take in the cars and no back room in the Porsche.
Perhaps will look at some of the '10's to replace the SC but still like the ride/look of this little car. Perhaps the Porsche but we have 2 goldens that we take in the cars and no back room in the Porsche.
When I joined the Edmunds forums, I drove an 01 LS430 and my wife had an 01 RX300. I had a bad relationship with Mercedes in the '80s and '90s, and Lexus was a welcome respite from a bad dealer and bad service. At the time, Audi and BMW were still in the technological dark ages, and I just wanted a car that was reliable. Lexus came to pick up the LS and RX when it was maintenance time, and dropped them off when they were done. That was about all I could ask for.
I wasn't enough of a Lexus person to buy an SC430 to replace my Jag XK though. My previous gen XKs had some problems, but the SC.. ugh. It may be one of the most reliable cars ever created, but it seemed to me like Lexus either forgot or ignored every single rule about how to make a sports car or GT coupe, which is strange because they got the SC400 mostly right.
The SC430 looks like a fat first gen Audi TT, with none of the Bauhaus charm. The "Bugatti inspired" manhole cover wheels did it no favors. Don't get me wrong, it isn't my intention to insult anyone who happens to like the SC430 with this post. I just have to be honest, I've never been one for being diplomatic about cars I don't like, and I struggle to think of I car that I dislike more than the SC430. The first year example I drove with its run flats had a ride harder than a 911, with all the handling of a mid '90s Buick.
Recently I, and I think a lot of others as well, have left Lexus and gone back to Germany. The Germans have not only caught up but IMO have surpassed Lexus in technology, while still retaining their edge in making the drive interesting. Lexus cars are as boring as ever, many of them still come with cassette decks, and they are far less reliable than they used to be.
We currently have an '08 S6, a '10 Q5, and an '07 XK. When it comes time to retire the Jag, I'll be looking at their XE and whatever happens with the XK, possibly a Maserati, or something else. Lexus originally was just going to kill off the SC, but now they are saying they are going to do a back to the drawing board replacement. Somehow I doubt that it will be up to the likes of the Gran Turismo, DB9, XKR, etc. Only the British and the Italians seem to really get what the GT is all about.
The Germans can do sports cars as well as anybody, but IMO the 6 and the SL have never measured up to the best. Japan can do the NSX, the GT-R, and the rather silly LFA, but I just don't see them doing a real GT either.
I believe Toyota has caught the GM virus and Lexus is going to loose even more sales as the Germans and even Hyundai are designing and marketing correctly of late.
I agree with your view of the SC430...funny how my wife actually saw me driving in one of them. She liked the look!? :sick:
Thanks everyone for the well wishes! Greatly appreciated I will try to give some details of the driving experience as we break "Hugo" in. I am looking forward to some nice SoCal back roads in the near future and test out that sport differential. I will be tracking him at Sears Point in March. However, I am going to buy some cheap rims with specific sports tires. I do not want to damage those new RS6 rims. Oh, I meant to spell burgundy...guess I was excited.
More my cup of tea is the upcoming A7/S7. Audi is promising an interior that rivals the A8's, in a package much closer to the A6. I think this car is going to be good
I have to admit I am eying the new A8L. The A7 should be quite nice especially if they carry over the interior and the sport diff to it as in the new A8L.
Sounds interesting coming from a dead brand. Will it really be produced?
Buick announced that the buick Regal GS show car features a 255 horsepower, 295 pound-feet of torque, direct-injected, turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission that distributes its power to all four wheels through an adaptive all-wheel-drive system. If that wasn’t enough, the GS also features an electronic limited-slip rear differential, a lowered suspension, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, performance tires, massive Brembo brakes, sport steering wheel and pedals and Recaro racing-style seats.
I guess I might give them some credit for making it, and maybe somehow there are buyers out there for a Buick like that... but at the end of the day, I would never be one of 'em.
IMO, when it comes to forking over the green, there are better choices.
I see there have been some purchases made around these parts. Congrats to all who have made the big plunge!
I finally got the R8 back from the speed shop. Exhaust, wheels, and brakes are all new. Picked up a carbon fibre sideblade from Audi. Now she's ready for the spring.
I am really anticipating what Audi will be doing with A7/8! Can't wait!
The S4 is driving superb. Loving every single mile in it and still trying to figure how I said nothing should be able top my 335i. WRONG!!!
Saw a guy getting into his R8--the new one, and I think it is really the best deal out there for that type car...Really nice so I know you are enjoying yours...... It has been really cold down here in Miami--more so than I have ever experienced .....Tony
The result is a concept that's slightly less capable than the original e-tron (0-62 mph takes an estimated 5.9 seconds) but potentially more fun thanks to its small size - it looks positively diminutive next to an R8 -- and relatively light weight (less than 3000 pounds). It would also presumably be less expensive, though that too, would be relative given the price tag of more than $150,000 Audi will likely place on the first e-tron when it goes on sale in 2012. As in the Frankfurt concept, lithium-ion batteries mounted behind the driver provide an estimated 155 miles driving range.
The R8 is perhaps the best performance bargain the side of a Porsche 911 Turbo and possibly the GTR(reliabilty issues aside). I think i represents the best of both worlds: Reliabilty and ease of driving in the city with ferocious performance when needed. I am so happy with the 4.2 that the 5.2 seems like overkill on what is as close to perfection in this realm of cars.
Yeah, I've been hearing about the Florida Icebox! My brother stays in Boca and he says it's been a long time since it has gotten that cold there. Oh and he has a SLS AMG on order to complement his 300sl. Lucky dog!
How's the A8 doing? Sure she's still running smooth. The W12 is my pride and joy as you all know, but when thw new A7 comes out, depending upon the final product, that may be the next must have for me! Until then, the S4 it is!
Haven't had much time to read or post I'm afraid. I've spending a lot of time frustrating myself with remodel plans for the shack (never design for yourself) and trying to keep this new toy airborne as much as possible: :shades:
I tried to play a little catch up, but ran into a long knot of posts about BMW's failings with crossover expression. I skipped ahead. BTW, to Euro mfrs, the wagon expression of the platform is as important as, if not moreso than, the sedan variant. Just thought I'd throw that in.
Won't be that long until my anniversary with the TTS. I have nothing negative of real note to report, other than service techs are service techs are service techs, no matter the marque or mfr. I noticed a rear-hatch receiver plate (simple adhesive-backed plastic pad on which the stop rests) that was slightly wrinkled and commented on it. They ordered a new one and replaced it. On the wrong side. On the first service the rotated the tires but obviously never checked pressure, as the rears were now at 34psi and the fronts at 31, or the reverse of how I set it up; I had asked them to check and reset the TPM, but none ever do.
Those RS rims are a delight to the eyes, but soft as butter. I'm not prone to sloppy parking practises and scrubbing, but I've added some nasty abrasions to two of them and one other has a few scratches. Before all is said and done, I may have to find someone to add a thin brushed stainless rim protector!
I have had two recall notices: one for the speed sensor progamming in the DSG and one for the fuel vent. I have not experienced any issues with either prior to notification, but after the software fix on the DSG, the indicator no longer shows gear selection in either automatic mode. I liked seeing which gear the thing was in. I haven't had the fuel vent replaced yet - that's this week's task. Supposedly it can leak under hard cornering. Obviously I'm not pushing the car hard enough as I haven't noticed any fumes!
Oh, and they sent me a notice that the DSG warranty has been extended to 10 years.
I love the car. If this fist year of ownership is any indication, I will probably own Audis for the foreseeable future.
First the Insight, and now another concept to production botch job from Honda in the CR-Z. The proportions of the production car are a complete mess, apparently because Honda had to try and fit the body onto the Insight's platform. The looks aren't even the worst part though. The engine is a 122hp 1.5L four, mated to the Insight's 13hp electric motor, so obviously performance is not a priority. A tiny hybrid engine should deliver great fuel economy though right? Nope! Fuel economy numbers are 36/38 for the CVT, and 31/37 for the manual.
For such a fuel-economy range I've got—with an "older" technology, i.e., that of the 335d coupe—286 hp, 428 lb•foot and 127 gr•km of CO2 emissions. :confuse:
We keep sharing the same cars! First, the A8L W12 and now the S4. Congrats on the S4 and the R8 of course! I'm loving the S4 from just immersing myself in the cabin to its driving pleasure. What color combination is yours?
I am seriously eyeing the new A8L next year - though not the W12. I'll stick with the 4.2 I think this time, but who knows. This car is some serious high-tech and big! I am anxiously waiting the reviews on how it handles and feels. The interior is stunning and the exterior is sleek and low (must have 21"s on it though). Enjoy your new rides!
Loving this concept of the latest E-Tron. The lines and looks are much better than the mini-R8 of the original E-Tron. This body style is definitely either the next generation TT or R4 (though I do not see why Audi would do both). The A8L in the background looks quite impressive in terms of presense. Looks "Bentley" like.
LG, I think you have jumped the gun on the CR-Z, and you may have missed the whole point of the car. There may in fact be a legitamate market for this thing, and it is too early to tell yet.
Of the two pics you posted, the top one in red is the actual car, the other being a concept. It was originally hoped to accomodate 4 passengers, but a reality check led Honda to make it a 2-passenger coupe.
The premise behind the vehicle isn't any type of genuine performance, but rather something more sporty in terms of style and approach then the current Prius, Civic Hybrid, or the Insight. In that regard it accomplishes the mission. I personally think the vehicle is interesting from a style perspective, and I look forward to seeing it in person. I might be the minority, but I'll go out on a limb and say that I tend to like it. I remember the CR-V got a lot of nasty remarks when it first came out, but I stood up for it back then and still think it is one of the best SUVs ever made in its class. So, I'm going to stick up for the CR-Z for now.
I also like the fact that something like this will exist, because it gives further credibility to the whole idea of producing a sporty looking hybrid. Regardless of whether or not we like this one, it still makes a good statement in the right direction as far as I am concerned, and I applaud Honda for taking the initiative to build it. I hope that there are enough buyers, because it's success would certainly give other manufacturers, including some of our favorites, more incentive to go further into the sporty hybrid market, and ulitmately we might get something that actually excites us behind the wheel... at least I hope so.
For anyone interested, here is a terrific link that has tons of in-depth factory information about the all-new Honda CR-Z... link title
I hope that there are enough buyers, because it's success would certainly give other manufacturers, including some of our favorites, more incentive to go further into the sporty hybrid market, and ulitmately we might get something that actually excites us behind the wheel... at least I hope so.
I'm not sure. The problem is the traditional sporty car is meant to be driven aggressively. That doesn't mean a V8 is required, the Miata for instance is a very sporty car that has never had a lot of power. What makes the Miata fun is using what power there is.
In order for a hybrid system to be effective, aggressive driving has to be discouraged. This is fine in cars like the Fusion or Camry hybrid, but I just don't think a Miata hybrid or Nissan Z hybrid would work very well.
I'm not sure. The problem is the traditional sporty car is meant to be driven aggressively. That doesn't mean a V8 is required, the Miata for instance is a very sporty car that has never had a lot of power. What makes the Miata fun is using what power there is.
In order for a hybrid system to be effective, aggressive driving has to be discouraged. This is fine in cars like the Fusion or Camry hybrid, but I just don't think a Miata hybrid or Nissan Z hybrid would work very well.
Well, the Toyota FT-HS comes to mind. But regardless I have little doubt that a performance hybrid is plausible. Currently, in the CR-Z, the balance between electric motor and ICE is too heavily weighted towards the ICE, due to the car's use of the currently mass-produced parts coming from the company's IMA system. Honda seems hell-bent on installing the IMA in all it's hybrids... no doubt to keep the old "hybrid premium" costs contained.
Honda gets credit for offering the CR-Z with a manual tranny, making it the first hybrid with a stick... a further step in the right direction, IMO.
Anyway, I have confidence this is the very beginning of better things to come.
My BMW135i will now need to be towed to a dealership for service since it decided to break down during a quick drive to the grocery store yesterday. The engine suddenly sounded like an old truck, and felt like it was limping along on only a couple of cylinders before dying. The engine icon lit up in the information display, obviously informing me that there was something wrong with the engine. Shortly thereafter it somehow allowed me to start it back up and I managed to get it to my driveway where it now sits until I arrange for a flatbed to take it to the shop.
The engine sounded horrible, and I am anxious to learn what has happened to this BMW. Is it now time for that Prius Dewey?
The concept of a sporty hybrid is perhaps worthy of some praise, though I personally see hybrid tech as a bandaid, but I have to differ with you: the execution is unsightly at best, IMO, building on a couple of years of highly questionable styling philosphy at Honda. The concept car has some yummy to it, but the market version?
There's a del Sol character of lost direction to it, from my perspective...
Well, if the cars noted in this piece are any indication, how long will it take to return to the "old normal"?
When automakers revealed 2009 full-year sales on January 4, data analysts from Edmunds.com unearthed a remarkable fact: sales of General Motor Co.'s seminal Chevrolet Corvette sports car fell to a low not seen in almost 50 years
The Corvette's 13,934 sales were the worst for the nameplate since 1961, when Chevrolet sold 10,939 models - and the car was still in its first generation.
As recently as 2006, Chevrolet sold more than two-and-a-half times as many Corvettes - 36,518 - as it did last year, as sales for almost all premium sports cars were pummeled.
One of the Corvette's primary competitors in market, the Porsche 911, dropped a less-precipitous 17.8 percent last year, but its 6,839 units accounts for only about half of the Corvette's segment-leading 27.7 percent market share, the Chevrolet spokesman told AutoObserver. Porsche's Boxster and Cayman were off 35.7 percent and 44 percent, respectively, in 2009.
The sportscar market suffered the effects of the poor economy with dismal sales across the entire segment in 2009. The Audi TT - a comparatively new design - fell 56.9 percent last year to just 1,935 sales for the year. Even sales for Audi's R8, launched in 2008 and revered for being a relative bargain, dropped by 22.3 percent.
At Mercedes, sales for the SLK plunged 48.1 percent to 2,566, and sales for the pricey SL were off 26.3 percent.
The Dodge Viper, which the Chrysler Group LLC announced would cease production later this year, fell 58.9 percent last year and just 482 were sold.
Don't know. And, unfortunately, I don't have the time to deal with it right now... I'll have to take care of it next week. I do hope it's not anything major, as that will dampen my spirits regarding the car.
I will definitely keep you posted on what they find out, and in the meantime I'll refrain from any BMW bashing... at least for now.
Thanks. I have little doubt that your Toyota was reliable, and I agree that it looks like Dewey might actually go from that Prius to an Audi S4 in the near future. TM
Never happened to my Toyota in 4years I t I know x5,x6 have problems but I always thought the 1,3,5,6,7 are better built
Don't forget the X3 It seems to be a bit of a crap shoot with any BMW these days. CR says the 135i is 36% below average. Traditionally the 3 series has been the most reliable BMW, but we all know what happened to Dewey's example. The 328i is apparently the best of the lot, and the 335i is the worst. Both versions of the 535i are also rated as having very poor reliability.
It seems like the 3.0TT engine is a major culprit in all cases.
Are we talking CR here for your source? With my '08 535, with more than 36,000 miles, NOT one problem, minor or major.
Unfortunately one car is not statistically significant. If a particular car has a 30% transmission failure rate it would be considered to have terrible reliability, but that still means that 70% of owners will never have a problem. Based on the data that's available, it seems like the 3.0TT engine is much more problematic than its normally aspirated cousin. That doesn't mean every 35i BMW is going to explode in a shower of cogs and springs, or even that most of them will. It's just something to keep in mind.
Unfortunately one car is not statistically significant. If a particular car has a 30% transmission failure rate it would be considered to have terrible reliability, but that still means that 70% of owners will never have a problem. Based on the data that's available, it seems like the 3.0TT engine is much more problematic than its normally aspirated cousin. That doesn't mean every 35i BMW is going to explode in a shower of cogs and springs, or even that most of them will. It's just something to keep in mind.
Agreed. I was just surprised at your statement with my experience and wondered about the source.
Wouldn't surprise me if that's been a problem, but the nature of this seems more like the HPFP or something much worse. I'll let you and everyone here know as soon as I get it over to the dealer's service department and they tell me what's wrong with it.
In the meantime, I was about to sell the Jag, and glad I didn't pull the trigger yet. It will fill in for now plus I'll be able to use it to drive over to the Toyota dealership and take a good look at a new Prius.
In the meantime, I was about to sell the Jag, and glad I didn't pull the trigger yet. It will fill in for now plus I'll be able to use it to drive over to the Toyota dealership and take a good look at a new Prius.
WHAT??? :surprise:
Pull the trigger on the S4 that LG recommends and Dewey knows he really wants! Or, wait for this:
The MR2 Sports Hybrid Concept utlizes a combination of a 3.3-liter V6, used to drive the rear wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and an electric motor for the front wheels. Total output for the hybrid system is around 400 horsepower, and the concept has an estimated zero-to-60 time under 4.5 seconds.
Pull the trigger on the S4 that LG recommends and Dewey knows he really wants! Or, wait for this:
I'll eat my hat if Toyota actually puts anything like that into production. As with the Infiniti Essence, I think this is just another case of engineers having fun. The M35 hybrid on the other hand is actually going to exist in a few years. I have no idea what it will be like (the track record for large hybrid sedans with big gasoline engines is shall we say "not good"), but I could see going to one of those after driving an XJ a lot more than going to a Prius.
Comments
Hyundai had a strong year in 2009, and it hopes to keep its momentum strong moving forward with the Genesis and upcoming Equus (To be renamed upon official launch in the U.S.) luxury sedans. A new memo distributed to existing Hyundai dealerships by corporate says that the automaker would like to section off areas at existing dealers to sell the upscale sedans, rather than creating a new brand and dealer network.
Interesting to see if this strategy leads to even higher sales.
No New Dealers
Regards,
OW
I wouldn't doubt it a bit. I wonder if all the naysayers are finally seeing the light regarding Hyundai. We had some serious discussions here in the past regarding the automaker.
As before, when only a handful of guys agreed with me, I continue to anticipate growth from Hyundai. I am glad that they are going to section off Genesis and any other upscale vehicles they introduce... it makes perfect sense to me... especially at this stage in the game for them.
Some sort of special red-carpet service treatment would be a good idea as well for Genesis owners, IMHO.
TM
The Audi S4 is a car that I am really looking forward to. Though it may end up being an A6 since I really do need the space.
Wish you the very best with the new chapter in your life.
I have to have it checked but I will check it when something else arises. After my BMW I've become dealership phobic.
A volunteer Horch fire engine? Yikes!! That can result only th government coercion.
One mistake on VW's part was to call their large recent flop a Phaeton. That shows a great degree of disrespect for such a legacy like a Horch Phaeton.
Frankly... I can't say I blame you at all. The S4 is fabulous, and would work well through your winter snow as well. Unless you somehow get the world's only S4 lemon,... haha... the only downside will be your accumulation of speeding tickets... which will result in the loss of your license... meaning that you will watch tour latest dream car.sit in the garage. Undriven, due to your loss of license, your S4 will never become a lemon, making it the perfect car for you.
Dewey, all joking aside, I hope you get that S4... it's a terrific machine.
This link is just for you...
link title
TM
dewey, I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that what you're experiencing is actually in your head. I don't mean that in an insulting way, but in a scientific way. Based on how you've described it, I've had the same thing happen to me with several different brands of cars. I used to think it was acceleration, too. Then I realized that, under those parameters, what was happening is the brake was being depressed and I was expecting a certain amount of deceleration; however, the ABS was just slightly kicking in to prevent the wheel that hit the bump/pothole from locking up, thereby reducing the amount of expected deceleration. Since the brain is expecting deceleration at a certain rate based on the amount of pedal effort applied, you subconsciously pull back with your neck and back to counter the continued forward momentum of your head and body. As the ABS steps in, it makes those calculations that your brain made incorrect. In which case your body has now overcompensated for the amount of [expected] deceleration, thereby "slamming" your head/body back into the seat which your brain then translates as acceleration.
So, the only unintended acceleration is coming from your mind and body.
Remember my recommmendation regarding Ford... and your reply? Look at Ford's value today, after Ford announced their sales numbers. :P
BTW, I tend to disagree with Tayl0rd's interesting suggestion and analysis that the acceleration is all in your head... not to say that there aren't legitimate situations that are exactly as he described. My take on the situation is that a small percentage of Toyota's are actually defective... but I'm not so sure that yours is actually one of those. My own "analysis" suggests that you are in love with the S4 and your "mind" needs a legitimate reason to justify getting rid of the Prius... haha.
Personally, I think the S4 is justification enough... even if the Prius were running 100%... but who knows? If you actually take it to the dealer, you had better be prepared that they can't duplicate your concerns and you will go round and round with them forever, and then end up with a nasty-looking service record on the car, and lots of frustration in the process.
I suggest that you don't officially document your complaint that your Prius has any type of acceleration defect if you are actually planning on selling it or trading it towards an S4. Consider that you would harmfully impact your Prius' value by giving it an officially negative service record.
Just drive it until you buy the S4... which hopefully will be very soon!
TM
I will respond to both your posts as soon as I recover from the post-holiday catch up work I have to do right now.
In fact I dont even have the ttime to watch my new TV or visit an Audi dealership for another S4 test drive. :lemon:
Which is good because with the continued recurrence of my visits I think Audi will put out a restraining order on me.
Also, some "modern" news to report. Having waited almost 6 months, this past weekend I took position of MY new S4 in black with burgunday and ebony alcantara leather interior and 19 inch RS6 rims. I have a constant smile on my face as it is my new daily driver replacing my TT 2.0T (2008) which I gave to my nephew for his 18th birthday. I wasn't planning on getting the S4 initially, but couldn't resist getting it after reading about it last year. The S4 is fully loaded (every option in the book was thrown in it) and it came in at $62,000. The price is up there considering a loaded V8 S4 was about $58,000, but I went for all options. It joins my 2007 S6 and 2005 A8L W12. It is a total blast to drive. Anyone one here considering a "driver's" sports sedan, definitely take a test drive in the new S4. You'll be very, very pleased you did.
Always a great day when I read a post here that one of the gang has acquired a new ride!... one of life's cherished moments. I say that sincerely... as a man who truly loves cars... Congrats again!... and I wish you the very best experience with it for as long as you decide to keep it.
New S4!!... and loaded, too... Freakin' awesome!
TM
Congrats! The S4 is IMO the premier entry lux sport sedan. It solves pretty much all of the issues of the A4 2.0T, and the 335xi and G37x are simply no match for it. It's also a 10 Best car this year.
More my cup of tea is the upcoming A7/S7. Audi is promising an interior that rivals the A8's, in a package much closer to the A6. I think this car is going to be good.
I see you "were" a Lexus person.
We had (all bought new):
02 RX
04 LS
04 SC
04 RX
07 LS
07 RX
We now have (bought new):
04SC
09A8L
10Q5
Perhaps will look at some of the '10's to replace the SC but still like the ride/look of this little car. Perhaps the Porsche but we have 2 goldens that we take in the cars and no back room in the Porsche.
But, no comparison to the Audi's.
Good luck.
Regards,
OW
When I joined the Edmunds forums, I drove an 01 LS430 and my wife had an 01 RX300. I had a bad relationship with Mercedes in the '80s and '90s, and Lexus was a welcome respite from a bad dealer and bad service. At the time, Audi and BMW were still in the technological dark ages, and I just wanted a car that was reliable. Lexus came to pick up the LS and RX when it was maintenance time, and dropped them off when they were done. That was about all I could ask for.
I wasn't enough of a Lexus person to buy an SC430 to replace my Jag XK though. My previous gen XKs had some problems, but the SC.. ugh. It may be one of the most reliable cars ever created, but it seemed to me like Lexus either forgot or ignored every single rule about how to make a sports car or GT coupe, which is strange because they got the SC400 mostly right.
The SC430 looks like a fat first gen Audi TT, with none of the Bauhaus charm. The "Bugatti inspired" manhole cover wheels did it no favors. Don't get me wrong, it isn't my intention to insult anyone who happens to like the SC430 with this post. I just have to be honest, I've never been one for being diplomatic about cars I don't like, and I struggle to think of I car that I dislike more than the SC430. The first year example I drove with its run flats had a ride harder than a 911, with all the handling of a mid '90s Buick.
Recently I, and I think a lot of others as well, have left Lexus and gone back to Germany. The Germans have not only caught up but IMO have surpassed Lexus in technology, while still retaining their edge in making the drive interesting. Lexus cars are as boring as ever, many of them still come with cassette decks, and they are far less reliable than they used to be.
We currently have an '08 S6, a '10 Q5, and an '07 XK. When it comes time to retire the Jag, I'll be looking at their XE and whatever happens with the XK, possibly a Maserati, or something else. Lexus originally was just going to kill off the SC, but now they are saying they are going to do a back to the drawing board replacement. Somehow I doubt that it will be up to the likes of the Gran Turismo, DB9, XKR, etc. Only the British and the Italians seem to really get what the GT is all about.
The Germans can do sports cars as well as anybody, but IMO the 6 and the SL have never measured up to the best. Japan can do the NSX, the GT-R, and the rather silly LFA, but I just don't see them doing a real GT either.
I agree with your view of the SC430...funny how my wife actually saw me driving in one of them. She liked the look!? :sick:
Regards,
OW
I have to admit I am eying the new A8L. The A7 should be quite nice especially if they carry over the interior and the sport diff to it as in the new A8L.
Buick announced that the buick Regal GS show car features a 255 horsepower, 295 pound-feet of torque, direct-injected, turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission that distributes its power to all four wheels through an adaptive all-wheel-drive system. If that wasn’t enough, the GS also features an electronic limited-slip rear differential, a lowered suspension, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, performance tires, massive Brembo brakes, sport steering wheel and pedals and Recaro racing-style seats.
Regal GS Show Car
Regards,
OW
I guess I might give them some credit for making it, and maybe somehow there are buyers out there for a Buick like that... but at the end of the day, I would never be one of 'em.
IMO, when it comes to forking over the green, there are better choices.
TM
I see there have been some purchases made around these parts. Congrats to all who have made the big plunge!
I finally got the R8 back from the speed shop. Exhaust, wheels, and brakes are all new. Picked up a carbon fibre sideblade from Audi. Now she's ready for the spring.
I am really anticipating what Audi will be doing with A7/8! Can't wait!
The S4 is driving superb. Loving every single mile in it and still trying to figure how I said nothing should be able top my 335i. WRONG!!!
It has been really cold down here in Miami--more so than I have ever experienced .....Tony
The result is a concept that's slightly less capable than the original e-tron (0-62 mph takes an estimated 5.9 seconds) but potentially more fun thanks to its small size - it looks positively diminutive next to an R8 -- and relatively light weight (less than 3000 pounds). It would also presumably be less expensive, though that too, would be relative given the price tag of more than $150,000 Audi will likely place on the first e-tron when it goes on sale in 2012. As in the Frankfurt concept, lithium-ion batteries mounted behind the driver provide an estimated 155 miles driving range.
Regards,
OW
Yeah, I've been hearing about the Florida Icebox! My brother stays in Boca and he says it's been a long time since it has gotten that cold there. Oh and he has a SLS AMG on order to complement his 300sl. Lucky dog!
How's the A8 doing? Sure she's still running smooth. The W12 is my pride and joy as you all know, but when thw new A7 comes out, depending upon the final product, that may be the next must have for me! Until then, the S4 it is!
I tried to play a little catch up, but ran into a long knot of posts about BMW's failings with crossover expression. I skipped ahead. BTW, to Euro mfrs, the wagon expression of the platform is as important as, if not moreso than, the sedan variant. Just thought I'd throw that in.
Won't be that long until my anniversary with the TTS. I have nothing negative of real note to report, other than service techs are service techs are service techs, no matter the marque or mfr. I noticed a rear-hatch receiver plate (simple adhesive-backed plastic pad on which the stop rests) that was slightly wrinkled and commented on it. They ordered a new one and replaced it. On the wrong side. On the first service the rotated the tires but obviously never checked pressure, as the rears were now at 34psi and the fronts at 31, or the reverse of how I set it up; I had asked them to check and reset the TPM, but none ever do.
Those RS rims are a delight to the eyes, but soft as butter. I'm not prone to sloppy parking practises and scrubbing, but I've added some nasty abrasions to two of them and one other has a few scratches. Before all is said and done, I may have to find someone to add a thin brushed stainless rim protector!
I have had two recall notices: one for the speed sensor progamming in the DSG and one for the fuel vent. I have not experienced any issues with either prior to notification, but after the software fix on the DSG, the indicator no longer shows gear selection in either automatic mode. I liked seeing which gear the thing was in. I haven't had the fuel vent replaced yet - that's this week's task. Supposedly it can leak under hard cornering. Obviously I'm not pushing the car hard enough as I haven't noticed any fumes!
Oh, and they sent me a notice that the DSG warranty has been extended to 10 years.
I love the car. If this fist year of ownership is any indication, I will probably own Audis for the foreseeable future.
Hyudai will make even more inroads!
Regards,
OW
Regards,
Jose
PS. Congrats to the new car owners in this forum!
Somewhere in Minato there's a very unfulfilled design team, I'm thinkin'...
I am seriously eyeing the new A8L next year - though not the W12. I'll stick with the 4.2 I think this time, but who knows. This car is some serious high-tech and big! I am anxiously waiting the reviews on how it handles and feels. The interior is stunning and the exterior is sleek and low (must have 21"s on it though). Enjoy your new rides!
Of the two pics you posted, the top one in red is the actual car, the other being a concept. It was originally hoped to accomodate 4 passengers, but a reality check led Honda to make it a 2-passenger coupe.
The premise behind the vehicle isn't any type of genuine performance, but rather something more sporty in terms of style and approach then the current Prius, Civic Hybrid, or the Insight. In that regard it accomplishes the mission. I personally think the vehicle is interesting from a style perspective, and I look forward to seeing it in person. I might be the minority, but I'll go out on a limb and say that I tend to like it. I remember the CR-V got a lot of nasty remarks when it first came out, but I stood up for it back then and still think it is one of the best SUVs ever made in its class. So, I'm going to stick up for the CR-Z for now.
I also like the fact that something like this will exist, because it gives further credibility to the whole idea of producing a sporty looking hybrid. Regardless of whether or not we like this one, it still makes a good statement in the right direction as far as I am concerned, and I applaud Honda for taking the initiative to build it. I hope that there are enough buyers, because it's success would certainly give other manufacturers, including some of our favorites, more incentive to go further into the sporty hybrid market, and ulitmately we might get something that actually excites us behind the wheel... at least I hope so.
For anyone interested, here is a terrific link that has tons of in-depth factory information about the all-new Honda CR-Z... link title
TM
I'm not sure. The problem is the traditional sporty car is meant to be driven aggressively. That doesn't mean a V8 is required, the Miata for instance is a very sporty car that has never had a lot of power. What makes the Miata fun is using what power there is.
In order for a hybrid system to be effective, aggressive driving has to be discouraged. This is fine in cars like the Fusion or Camry hybrid, but I just don't think a Miata hybrid or Nissan Z hybrid would work very well.
In order for a hybrid system to be effective, aggressive driving has to be discouraged. This is fine in cars like the Fusion or Camry hybrid, but I just don't think a Miata hybrid or Nissan Z hybrid would work very well.
Well, the Toyota FT-HS comes to mind. But regardless I have little doubt that a performance hybrid is plausible. Currently, in the CR-Z, the balance between electric motor and ICE is too heavily weighted towards the ICE, due to the car's use of the currently mass-produced parts coming from the company's IMA system. Honda seems hell-bent on installing the IMA in all it's hybrids... no doubt to keep the old "hybrid premium" costs contained.
Honda gets credit for offering the CR-Z with a manual tranny, making it the first hybrid with a stick... a further step in the right direction, IMO.
Anyway, I have confidence this is the very beginning of better things to come.
TM
The engine sounded horrible, and I am anxious to learn what has happened to this BMW. Is it now time for that Prius Dewey?
TM
Regards,
Jose
There's a del Sol character of lost direction to it, from my perspective...
Regards,
OW
Never happened to my Toyota in 4years :surprise: I t :surprise: I know x5,x6 have problems but I always thought the 1,3,5,6,7 are better built
The engine sounded horrible, and I am anxious to learn what has happened to this BMW. Is it now time for that Prius Dewey?
He has his mind set on the S4
Good luck
When automakers revealed 2009 full-year sales on January 4, data analysts from Edmunds.com unearthed a remarkable fact: sales of General Motor Co.'s seminal Chevrolet Corvette sports car fell to a low not seen in almost 50 years
The Corvette's 13,934 sales were the worst for the nameplate since 1961, when Chevrolet sold 10,939 models - and the car was still in its first generation.
As recently as 2006, Chevrolet sold more than two-and-a-half times as many Corvettes - 36,518 - as it did last year, as sales for almost all premium sports cars were pummeled.
One of the Corvette's primary competitors in market, the Porsche 911, dropped a less-precipitous 17.8 percent last year, but its 6,839 units accounts for only about half of the Corvette's segment-leading 27.7 percent market share, the Chevrolet spokesman told AutoObserver. Porsche's Boxster and Cayman were off 35.7 percent and 44 percent, respectively, in 2009.
The sportscar market suffered the effects of the poor economy with dismal sales across the entire segment in 2009. The Audi TT - a comparatively new design - fell 56.9 percent last year to just 1,935 sales for the year. Even sales for Audi's R8, launched in 2008 and revered for being a relative bargain, dropped by 22.3 percent.
At Mercedes, sales for the SLK plunged 48.1 percent to 2,566, and sales for the pricey SL were off 26.3 percent.
The Dodge Viper, which the Chrysler Group LLC announced would cease production later this year, fell 58.9 percent last year and just 482 were sold.
Full Piece: Blown Away
Regards,
OW
Don't know. And, unfortunately, I don't have the time to deal with it right now... I'll have to take care of it next week. I do hope it's not anything major, as that will dampen my spirits regarding the car.
I will definitely keep you posted on what they find out, and in the meantime I'll refrain from any BMW bashing... at least for now.
Thanks.
TM
I have little doubt that your Toyota was reliable, and I agree that it looks like Dewey might actually go from that Prius to an Audi S4 in the near future.
TM
Don't forget the X3
It seems like the 3.0TT engine is a major culprit in all cases.
Are we talking CR here for your source? With my '08 535, with more than 36,000 miles, NOT one problem, minor or major.
Unfortunately one car is not statistically significant. If a particular car has a 30% transmission failure rate it would be considered to have terrible reliability, but that still means that 70% of owners will never have a problem. Based on the data that's available, it seems like the 3.0TT engine is much more problematic than its normally aspirated cousin. That doesn't mean every 35i BMW is going to explode in a shower of cogs and springs, or even that most of them will. It's just something to keep in mind.
Unfortunately one car is not statistically significant. If a particular car has a 30% transmission failure rate it would be considered to have terrible reliability, but that still means that 70% of owners will never have a problem. Based on the data that's available, it seems like the 3.0TT engine is much more problematic than its normally aspirated cousin. That doesn't mean every 35i BMW is going to explode in a shower of cogs and springs, or even that most of them will. It's just something to keep in mind.
Agreed. I was just surprised at your statement with my experience and wondered about the source.
In the meantime, I was about to sell the Jag, and glad I didn't pull the trigger yet. It will fill in for now plus I'll be able to use it to drive over to the Toyota dealership and take a good look at a new Prius.
TM
WHAT??? :surprise:
Pull the trigger on the S4 that LG recommends and Dewey knows he really wants! Or, wait for this:
MR2 Sports Hybrid
The MR2 Sports Hybrid Concept utlizes a combination of a 3.3-liter V6, used to drive the rear wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and an electric motor for the front wheels. Total output for the hybrid system is around 400 horsepower, and the concept has an estimated zero-to-60 time under 4.5 seconds.
Regards,
OW
I'll eat my hat if Toyota actually puts anything like that into production. As with the Infiniti Essence, I think this is just another case of engineers having fun. The M35 hybrid on the other hand is actually going to exist in a few years. I have no idea what it will be like (the track record for large hybrid sedans with big gasoline engines is shall we say "not good"), but I could see going to one of those after driving an XJ a lot more than going to a Prius.