Chronic Car Buyers Anonymous (Archived)

28firefighter · December 2017

Drove a 2015 MB C300 Sport 4MATIC today. Pretty loaded - Nav, Premium Package, BLIS, Sport Pack and Burmester Audio. 43k miles. Listed for $27,8 at a local luxury no haggle lot. Original MSRP was $52k (window sticker in the glove box).

Absolutely loved it. I’ll share more thoughts later...but wow.

kyfdx · December 2017

28firefighter said:
Drove a 2015 MB C300 Sport 4MATIC today. Pretty loaded - Nav, Premium Package, BLIS, Sport Pack and Burmester Audio. 43k miles. Listed for $27,8 at a local luxury no haggle lot. Original MSRP was $52k (window sticker in the glove box).

Absolutely loved it. I’ll share more thoughts later...but wow.

That's the new body style, right?

28firefighter · December 2017

kyfdx said:

Drove a 2015 MB C300 Sport 4MATIC today. Pretty loaded - Nav, Premium Package, BLIS, Sport Pack and Burmester Audio. 43k miles. Listed for $27,8 at a local luxury no haggle lot. Original MSRP was $52k (window sticker in the glove box).

Absolutely loved it. I’ll share more thoughts later...but wow.
That's the new body style, right?

Yup

Sandman6472 · December 2017

Funny, I drove a new one at work yesterday and was underwhelmed. Took a bit to figure out how to turn on the radio, why can't they all have knobs like mine does, push it in and it starts...easy peasy!! Do know one thing, if I do look at a MB, gonna be the GLA 250 but deep down, prefer a BMW.
Was at the Honda store yesterday looking at the stickers of some Accords. Crazy pricing!! Saw a 1.5 LX for like $24,360 plus some add on crap. Then saw a top of the line Touring for $36,640 which I thought was ridiculous!! For that kinda dough, ain't no way I'd get a Honda as that's BMW/MB territory. Plum crazy.
Lastly was at the Nissan/Mitsubishi store and saw a new Rogue Sport and a gussied up Sentra. Both nice enough but, a $500 ADM. FEE!!! SAY WHAT???? I almost [non-permissible content removed] right there as who'd look at this and not laugh in the dealers face. An adm. fee on a Nissan product? Must be smoking that weed or something else because that's past stupid. Guess one can ask whatever they want, it's gettin' it that really counts and doubt anyone with half a brain would pay that ridiculous fee!!! What a dumb [non-permissible content removed] dealer!!

The Sandman

suydam · December 2017

Doubt anyone pays anything close to sticker on any of those vehicles. That’s not a benchmark to go on.

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Sandy wow those dealers or not charging those fees I’m sure most people I hope you’re smart enough not to P then I heard Florida dealers are really bad not sure about other states I know there’s bad and good dealers everywhere prefer knobs to do to my circumstances or this touchscreen stuff no good for me do you think I’ll tolerate is my phone or iPad that’s about it

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Nice on the Benz you drove earlier today firefighter

Sandman6472 · December 2017

Get that it's not a benchmark by any means but why would any dealer do something so stupid in this day and age of the internet? I write off any dealer who'd pull that crap as there are plenty of others who don't need to do it and I'd rather give them my business. Just makes zero sense in 2018 to do dumb stuff like that, all I'm sayin' here!!

The Sandman

28firefighter · December 2017

OK - now that I have a few minutes to catch up. Somehow on my days off, I am way busier than during my workdays.

So as you know, I'm half-looking at a GTI replacement for next year. Wife has decided she wants to continue being the SUV driver and would like for me to ultimately end up in some kind of a sedan. She doesn't really care what I drive, but I do, obviously. I've started my search with some off-lease examples of the Audi A4, BMW 3 series and, despite having never considered it before, I added a C300 to the list. I figured these would be good places to start and if I could find a CPO example, I would likely have 12-18 months of manufacturer warranty and another 1-2 years of CPO warranty on top of that. We all know it won't last that long anyway. I figure buying used will help curb some of the depreciation hit.

There is a local store not far from me that deals in high-line off-lease cars from the major companies. Supposedly they are one of a small number of used car dealers that have direct ability to buy from MBFS and BMWFS, for example. They're also no haggle, which means the test drive process is pretty low pressure.

I will preface this by saying that traditionally, I am not a Mercedes guy but I stopped by today and took a look at a 2015 C300 4Matic that was pretty well loaded up including the Sport Package, P1, Multimedia Package, Burmester Audio, Park Assist, and Lane Departure/Blind Spot monitoring.

My first impressions are that I find the exterior styling to be a little wonky, but the Sport package helps to mitigate some of that. It is not bad looking, just a bit more...overt...than the A4 or 328. The interior however, is outstanding. It just fits like a glove from the second you get in the car. The infotainment component took some getting used to, but once I figured it out it was intuitive enough. During the test drive I was able to drive on both city streets and a nice stretch of low-traffic I-5. On the first part of the drive, I kept the car in "comfort" and it felt quick but not particularly aggressive - it definitely tried to upshift more and was clearly geared for economy. On the second part, we flipped it over to S+, and it was like a totally different car. Much more torque available at the low end, held gears a little longer, and really a hoot to drive with the sport upgrades. Despite it being a turbo-4, it never felt buzzy, even when it was holding the higher gears. Once we were back, I played with the Burmester audio a bit - man that is a great sounding system. I normally don't care about that stuff, but I was very impressed. Lastly, the backseat of the C300 seems to be designed really well to hold car seats and the like - it was very room and wide.

Overall, I love the car. Tomorrow I'm going to look at the 3 series and the A4.

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Agreed Sandy don’t know why dealers pull that in this day and age crazy but like you said above many other places to choose from that’s for sure

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Good firefighter that you care about car you want to drive I think all of us in here too I think it’s very important not just to settle for anything just to drive something without caring just to get it over with think it’s quite silly if you ask me you’re spending all that money get what you want and like the first time

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Let us know how the test drive tomorrow of the three series goes or any other car that you opened up the striving in the coming days

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Coworker of mine is treating in her Corolla and getting a brand new row of four and some blue color with a black interior sunroof cloth seats and a bunch of other options it has probably see you on Friday or next week will go out to lunch with her and her to ride in it she asked me what color should she get I said OK but you want but if were up to me my two choices would be as you all know read first then a blue color of some sort but I told her since you’re paying for it and it’s your car

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Continuation of what I was writing above because you are certain amount of time to write then stops you have to do it again with saying told my coworker get whatever color makes you happy since you’re paying for it

fintail · December 2017

Lighting package? That's a must-have for me. I also like pano.

Is this a "broker"? If so, and if you are in for the long haul (LOLOLOLOOOOL), beware of east coast cars, which may have seen a harder life than local cars. I know one place has a rep for east coast lease returns.

28firefighter said:

I will preface this by saying that traditionally, I am not a Mercedes guy but I stopped by today and took a look at a 2015 C300 4Matic that was pretty well loaded up including the Sport Package, P1, Multimedia Package, Burmester Audio, Park Assist, and Lane Departure/Blind Spot monitoring.

Overall, I love the car. Tomorrow I'm going to look at the 3 series and the A4.

28firefighter · December 2017

fintail said:

Lighting package? That's a must-have for me. I also like pano. Is this a "broker"? If so, and if you are in for the long haul (LOLOLOLOOOOL), beware of east coast cars, which may have seen a harder life than local cars. I know one place has a rep for east coast lease returns.
I will preface this by saying that traditionally, I am not a Mercedes guy but I stopped by today and took a look at a 2015 C300 4Matic that was pretty well loaded up including the Sport Package, P1, Multimedia Package, Burmester Audio, Park Assist, and Lane Departure/Blind Spot monitoring. Overall, I love the car. Tomorrow I'm going to look at the 3 series and the A4.

Yes. LED lighting.

This particular car was from California. You’d probably know the store - it has “brokers” in the name.

stickguy · December 2017

28, I agree with your review based on when I test drove a nicely loaded, low mile, 2016 C300. Drove great, lovely interior. Just not cheap.

fintail · December 2017

Ah yeah that's them, I see "your" car on their site

Maybe they are shopping more local now. I like the white one with the multi spoke wheels in their listings, and the luxury trim car with Distronic - that's quite a rarity (but not ordered with lighting, why?!?!?!).

MB of Bellevue has a C400 on the lot, but they want 38K for it.

28firefighter said:

Yes. LED lighting.

This particular car was from California. You’d probably know the store - it has “brokers” in the name.

28firefighter · December 2017

MB Lynnwood has a CPO 2015, similarly equipped to the one I drove, with 22k miles listed for $31,9. Even figuring the MB dealer premium and CPO, that feels high. CarMax is selling similar 2015s for 25-26.

We shall see. It’s a step up in budget even with the equity in the GTI.

fintail · December 2017

There's also a mileage gap, which is probably worth a couple grand to a seller anyway. There will definitely be a dealer premium.

Did you try it on rough roads? I suppose even there, it might be smoother than a GTI, but the surfaces around here don't seem to be getting better with age (or expected for such an affluent area), I noticed a new crater on my commute this morning. Even the E "sport" suspension with runflats can seem harsh. It's something I try to take account these days when car browsing.

28firefighter said:
MB Lynnwood has a CPO 2015, similarly equipped to the one I drove, with 22k miles listed for $31,9. Even figuring the MB dealer premium and CPO, that feels high. CarMax is selling similar 2015s for 25-26.

We shall see. It’s a step up in budget even with the equity in the GTI.

tjc78 · December 2017

28firefighter said:

fintail said:

Lighting package? That's a must-have for me. I also like pano. Is this a "broker"? If so, and if you are in for the long haul (LOLOLOLOOOOL), beware of east coast cars, which may have seen a harder life than local cars. I know one place has a rep for east coast lease returns.
I will preface this by saying that traditionally, I am not a Mercedes guy but I stopped by today and took a look at a 2015 C300 4Matic that was pretty well loaded up including the Sport Package, P1, Multimedia Package, Burmester Audio, Park Assist, and Lane Departure/Blind Spot monitoring. Overall, I love the car. Tomorrow I'm going to look at the 3 series and the A4.

Yes. LED lighting.

This particular car was from California. You’d probably know the store - it has “brokers” in the name.

We have a chain of those type of dealers here in NJ. I’m Sure Stick and Q have been there. I sold my 09 Genesis to them. Great to deal with. They always seem a little on high end of pricing (no haggle) but always have nice stock.

28firefighter · December 2017

fintail said:

There's also a mileage gap, which is probably worth a couple grand to a seller anyway. There will definitely be a dealer premium. Did you try it on rough roads? I suppose even there, it might be smoother than a GTI, but the surfaces around here don't seem to be getting better with age (or expected for such an affluent area), I noticed a new crater on my commute this morning. Even the E "sport" suspension with runflats can seem harsh. It's something I try to take account these days when car browsing.
MB Lynnwood has a CPO 2015, similarly equipped to the one I drove, with 22k miles listed for $31,9. Even figuring the MB dealer premium and CPO, that feels high. CarMax is selling similar 2015s for 25-26.

We shall see. It’s a step up in budget even with the equity in the GTI.

Yes. I drove it on Seattle city streets as well as the city portions of 5. It still feels harsh but not nearly GTI harsh. I need to drive it again paying closer attention to those things. I think I was stuck on “wow this is surprisingly great” the whole time.

stickguy · December 2017

Great place to test drive. Prices always high. Sometimes dealer CPO list cheaper. But they sell a lot of cars based on good detailing and pleasant experience.

breld · December 2017

@28firefighter - thanks for the review of the C300; look forward to your impressions of the A4 and 3-series in comparison.

With the recent (yet brief) ownership of the GLC300, I agree with your assessments on the similar C300. It's a very smooth, elegant vehicle. The interior is beautiful and I suspect that compared to that, the A4 (I assume you'll be looking at the previous gen) and 3-series will feel a little outdated. Though from my experience with the S4 and SQ5, I still really liked that interior - may not have looked as snazzy as the MB, but I grew to really appreciate its functionality.

On the C300, make sure you are comfortable with your right knee positioning - that higher central console makes for a nice cockpit feel, but I thought it also infringed a bit on "side-to-side" leg room.

Personally, I have a soft spot for the A4 - it's surprisingly roomy for the class, and has the right "balance" between luxury and sport. It'd be nice if you could find one with the sport package, though those seem somewhat few and far between.

laurasdada · December 2017

Greetings, folks. The sneaks on the XF are down to 4/32, so time to start thinking of new rubber. Have been considering the Conti DWS06 to replace the OEM Contis, but my tire guy ("Laurasdada, your car looks fast just sitting in the parking lot") quoted me on Nokian Z Line AS tires as a slightly cheaper alternative. Anyone have any experience/knowledge of the Nokian Z Line AS tires?

Will probably go with the Contis, but am curious. Of course, if history repeats, within 6 months of new tires, they're traded for a new car...

So, the XF turns four at New Year's and the warranty strikes midnight. A minor consideration, wouldn't mind a smaller, better mpg (yet still beautiful, comfortable, fast, great ride handling/nvh mix...) car. But, not sure anything is setting my heart a flutter (within budget, that is!). "International" Auto Show here in a couple of weeks, I"ve already taken that Friday off. I'll hold off on the tires until after the show! So far, no issues in the snow with the semi-baldies!

stickguy · December 2017

Pops, I just consulted for SIL this weekend on new tires for a 2011 BMW 550. And recommended the DWS continentals, out of the limited options she could get this week From Mavis. Haven’t heard if they got on yesterday.

For you, what about a new Jag XE? Maybe the 2.0t. Should hit your criteria, while staying in the family.

laurasdada · December 2017

XE has been on my list since it arrived, but I'd get the big boy engine. But, is it really worth moving from the XF to the XE? Much as I did four years ago, could likely get a screamin' deal on a remaining '17. I'm encouraged by more recent reviews of the Giulia (regarding cars not breaking!). I like the new Audi A5, old BMW M240. But, maybe financial reality is slapping me in the face, not a lot of motivation to set the XF on an ice flo yet.

Perhaps auto show will light a fire! Or, wait for the June Greenwich Concours/Bonhams auction and totally mortgage my retirement!

stickguy · December 2017

I’m hoping something at philly auto show next month lights my fire. Or the wife’s. Can always initiate the multi step plan.

28firefighter · December 2017

Somewhat ironically, I have a 330e as a loaner while my wife's X1 is in for routine maintenance. I have it through tomorrow, so I'll provide some thoughts on it then.

I took a look at the 2014 328 xDrive I posted about earlier this week - looks nice from the outside, but the interior is really beat up and it smells like a smokers car. I drove it and wasn't overly impressed. Just seemed really sluggish - if I didn't know any better I'd say someone put 87 in it instead of 92/93.

tifighter · December 2017

What about the 3GT? That thing has a lot more room than a 3 sedan.

28firefighter · December 2017

tifighter said:
What about the 3GT? That thing has a lot more room than a 3 sedan.

Frankly, I'm not all that impressed so far. It is definitely quick, especially in EV, but I don't know - it feels like a step down from the Merc.

tbirdmarco · December 2017

My brother called me tonight having problems with his diesel truck in the extreme cold decided he’s going to get a new truck guess model instead he’s had this one for number of years think he might keep it anyway not sure what is going to do with it I want new brand of truck he’s going to go with now

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Firefighter nice write up on 300 E that you have as a loaner while your wife’s car is in the shop for routine maintenance and ice other cars everyone’s talking about above the Jag sounds nice

roadburner · December 2017

Tomorrow I'm heading over to my BMW dealer to see what kind of lease numbers we can put together on a loaner and/or check out some CPOs that are eligible for low interest loans. I might find something for RB Jr. yet.

28firefighter · December 2017

Good luck, @roadburner!

Michaell · December 2017

Greetings, folks.

I returned today from my holiday trip to CA, where I had the pleasure of renting the 2017 A4 from Silvercar.

I put about 325 miles on it over the course of the 5 days I had the car. I refilled it this morning before heading back to LAX. Got about 27 MPG in mixed driving on the tank, split pretty evenly between city and highway driving.

So, a few thoughts and comments, in no particular order:

It has the stop/start technology on it, which freaked me out the first few times it shut off at traffic signals. But, I discovered that if I put the car into "dynamic" driving mode, it shut that feaure off.
Speaking of which, it was nice to be able to switch the driving mode. I used comfort with my 79 year old mother in the car (she liked the ability to get in and out of it pretty easily, unlike my sister's Lexus RX). I used dynamic mode the rest of the time, which firmed up the transmission, the suspension and the steering.
I took the PCH to the aiport today, so got a little bit of a chance to exericse the handling. Very nice, is all I can say
The "iPod on a dash" setup for the infotainment didn't annoy me as much as I thought it would. But, it wasn't touchscreen, which seemed like a step backward from my Jetta, which does offer touchscreen. I did eventually get familiar with the central controller knob, though I didn't explore all the features.
Apple CarPlay was enabled, which made the interface similar to my Jetta
Seats were comfortable on the hour plus drive to/from the airport
Rear seat room seemed a bit tight, given the size of the car.
Good trunk space.
It didn't seem like there were any active safety measures installed - or, I was unable to turn them on.
It didn't have the configurable dash, but I could add the nav map to the screen between the tach and speedo

Overall, I really liked it. Would love to find a reasonably priced (and well equipped) CPO unit when my Jetta lease is up in a couple of years.

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Nice I’m the only you had is a rental

tbirdmarco · December 2017

Happy Friday. All

breld · December 2017

Welcome back @Michaell!

breld · December 2017

Happy Friday to you too Marco!

kyfdx · December 2017

Needs advice:
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/49806/general/x/car-suggestions#latest

breld · December 2017

I’ve been eyeing this as part of one of my routine searches and the price keeps getting lowered. I’m not ready to make the move yet, but the thought of potentially a straight swap on the Civic has its appeal considering what it is.

Manual S5

ab348 · December 2017

breld said:
I’ve been eyeing this as part of one of my routine searches and the price keeps getting lowered. I’m not ready to make the move yet, but the thought of potentially a straight swap on the Civic has its appeal considering what it is.

Manual S5

"Routine searches", I love it. He never ever stops!

carnaught · December 2017

CCBA guru, @breld, by definition, is in constant search mode, LOL.

stickguy · December 2017

Nice looking Audi. I just have a problem paying that much for a 3 YO car with 30k miles on it. And not fan of color combo. But I would rather drive that than a civic R.

stickguy · December 2017

Oh, and still time to get the deal in under the wire of my New Year’s Day prediction.

kyfdx · December 2017

stickguy said:
Oh, and still time to get the deal in under the wire of my New Year’s Day prediction.

That won't exactly make you Nostradamus...

jpp75 · December 2017

breld said:
I’ve been eyeing this as part of one of my routine searches and the price keeps getting lowered. I’m not ready to make the move yet, but the thought of potentially a straight swap on the Civic has its appeal considering what it is.

Manual S5

I like it. I'd be happy to stop by and do a PPI and test drive for you on my way to work next week.

pensfan83 · December 2017

breld said:
Personally, I have a soft spot for the A4 - it's surprisingly roomy for the class, and has the right "balance" between luxury and sport.

Well said, I agree 100%.

pensfan83 · December 2017

Finally turned over 1,500 miles in the TLX this past week between the drive to the mountains and then over to the ski resort. Put around 250 miles on altogether. The drive from the resort to the slopes was on twisty 2 lane and 4 lane road, which brings out the fun in that car. Surprisingly the roads were clear and dry most of the time aside from some patches here and there. AWD worked flawless when traction was needed in the snow and I really like the adaptive cruise. The only downfall to this week is we didn't get a chance to head over to Fallingwater, which we have been dying to see but otherwise it was a much needed week of relaxation.

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