The Sentra is in the garage but just by inches, guess my Golf is that much smaller. Waiting to hear back about the GLA 250 that had to go for a "PM", aka oil change. Told the rep that if it's within the parameters of what Safeco will pay/day for my rental, to give me a holler. It's black over black but hell, would just like to live with one for a week or two and see if it fits my life. It needs to be able to fit on my side of the garage, as if not, couldn't see owning one in the future. Keeping a vehicle outside 24/7 just ain't something that I'd ever do since we have the bloody garage which is pretty empty. And any vehicle needs to be somewhat economical, at least 33 on the highway and 29 in the city. My Safeco lady called this morning that the collision place already spoke with her and the Golf will be inspected on Tuesday sometime. Guess they need to get the tires pulled off and the doors off to se what's up with the bent frame. Asked her to call Enterprise to extend the rental for as long as they need to get my vehicle back. Since I doubt they'll total it, hoping it's done within 30 days or so. Have never had a vehicle totalled, so have no idea how that works. Do they just give one a check and say return the rental in a certain time frame or what. Maybe I should take a few test drives just in case I have to get something new. Really have no clue what I'd want right now to be honest.
The Sandman :@
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Just got home after bringing the Sentra back. For the same outlay for my rental, I was upgraded into a black over black GLA 250! Saw it there last night and told the guy to give me a call when it came back from it's oil change. Of course, no call, so I called. Still there so went over and it's in the driveway now. Figured might as well get an extended test drive on their dime, so making lemonade out of lemons!! Safeco already has a rep going over to the collision shop on Tuesday and then we'll have some idea of what's really going on. They hopefully will see the bent frame and decide if it's indeed fixable or not. So, decided to take an extended test drive with the MB and see if I can live with it day to day. Will do the garage test later and see if it fits on my side. The Sentra turned out to be a long vehicle, at least 8" or more than the Golf but about as wide. Will have to look up everything I'm interested in and get their measurements so I can see what's up. I still prefer the Golf size so doesn't give me much to choose from. A Golf, Ford Ecosport and Mini Cooper are the three I can think of off hand. Maybe a Kia Soul or a Hyundai Elantra GT, and I do like the GT like Stick did also. So, guess it's really up to Safeco at this point what my vehicle future becomes. They fix and I keep the Golf. Will check it out real good if this does happen as I hate to have to swap out tires yearly because it can't be aligned properly. Or do they hand me a check and a time frame as to when the rental goes back. So, odds are on choice #1 but what happens if it becomes #2? I gotta be ready to act on something. Saw a white over beige Acura ILX last night at dinner and the owners love it, they are leasing. But, again, will it fit in my garage? So, think some test drives are in order these next few weeks just in case. And if it turns out to be unnecessary? Fun just to see what's out there. Won't go on weekends because that's not fair to serious folk but weekdays are a different story. Luckily working at Hertz has exposed me to so many vehicles, just a few left I really need to try. Then, just sit and wait till Safeco renders a judgement!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
Just look under subcompact cars and CUVs. That should give you a pretty good list. I think the Sentra is a compact car. The Versa is the subcompact version.
you should really like the Elantra GT. comes in at 170" long. Bigger than the Golf, but not by much. Definitely shorter than Sentra which is 182", so a full foot longer (my elantra to compare is 179").
I did forget to list the Buick Encore as a possible replacement candidate. Funny, I like the exterior of last years model but prefer the new interior of the '18 model. They integrated the infotainment center nicely in the dash this time, it fits better. But think I could live with an Encore or even a Cruze hatch, the only two domestics I care for. And since the kid is getting a Cruze hatch, probably next year after they move into their new house, don't want the same vehicle as she has. But, it's a nice hatch, really fits the Cruze. Suydam, just curious about the fit and finish of your Encore? Honestly, what are your overall impressions of ownership? I trust word of mouth on these things because it's a great way to find out how cars behave months into ownership. Are trim pieces coming off, carpets peeling back, pieces of plastic warping or getting discolored? Little things like this that can only be found after months of ownership.
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
@sandman, we’ve had the Encore for 3 years now. What a great purchase it’s turned out to be! It helps that it replaced a Pontiac Vibe that was really a bare bones economy car.
Pluses: The Encore is solid as a rock. No trim issues and it’s extremely quiet. Feels very luxe inside. No rattles or squeaks. We got the mid trim level which has everything I want. Very comfortable seats. Two years free maintenance, so we have paid for one oil change. That’s it so far. Also I love how it handles. Easy to maneuver and park. Love the higher seating. We have a good friend in a wheelchair and she is able to get from her chair to the seat easily. The mid level trim has the stereo upgrade which is very good. Although it’s small, we find it very comfortable for two in the front. Only the dog sits in the back most of the time,, so can’t speak to that. It feels very safe even though it’s small. Although it’s small it is quite flexible. We have fit at various times, a 55 inch flat screen TV, a power washer, 2 good size bar stools, many plants and pots and mulch bags of various sizes, and three large dogs. The seats are very easy to fold flat and the front passenger seat folds as well. I call it the Swiss Army knife of vehicles. You would never guess looking at it how versatile it is.
Minuses: I would like better gas mileage but for most of you it would be fine: 26-32 or so. If you like a lot of power all the time this might not be the vehicle for you. It is totally fine around town, merging on a freeway, gets up to speed quickly. The turbo works very well. Where it is a little problematic is if you have to cross a steep grade the engine has to work hard. For example, I don’t really like taking it over Highway 154 to the Santa Ynez valley. However it was the vehicle that we and the dog moved with cross country from Ohio to California and it chugged along like a champ at speeds of over 80 mph or so most of the way (it’s dangerous to do less traveling through Missouri and Oklahoma!). And it manages the Conejo Grade here just fine as well. We have taken it on several trips up and down the coast because it’s such a comfortable vehicle. The Volt definitely has way more power though. That said, because it doesn’t have a CVT you don’t get that whine on hard acceleration. Even when our little engine is working hard the cabin is quiet. For us the trade off of better gas mileage is worth it.
We are very happy with our Encore and hope it lasts a long time!
Sandy, if you're intrigued by the MB GLA, maybe check out the Infiniti version, the QX30. A nicer ride from what (little) I've read, a bit more stylish IMO. Interior basically the same as the Merc. And, I think a bit less $$$.
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
sandy, my wife really likes her GLA; i found the DCT fun; the engine is robust but a bit louder than the audi.vw 2 liter turbo BTW, she did not like the infiniti qx30 -- but that may have been as much as the dealer as car
A friend works for the MB dealer. Likes most of their lineup but I s not fond of the CLA/GLA. Take that for what you will. Did not argue at all when I referred to them as the “Mercedes Jetta.”
Hi everyone! Edmunds employee here looking for some opinions/advice. I'm a car guy at heart and have worked at Edmunds for just shy of five years now. I like to think I'm capable of making a decision but you know how it goes with cars
Here's my situation: I have a lease expiring in early September and I'm not sure if I should finance the car and keep it long-term or just turn it in. It's a 2015 Lexus IS 350 F-Sport (Atomic Silver w/ Red interior).
The car has everything I need: sporty driving (not perfect but still sporty to me), I love the color combo and overall style, absolutely love the interior quality and Lexus ownership (reliability) and dealership experiences. It also has all the options I care about (navigation, blind spot, ventilated seats for Florida, etc.)
I leased the car for 36 months/45k miles. Turns out I didn't need that many miles because I only have 31,500 miles and only 6 more months to go. I'll probably have about 35k at most when September rolls around. I feel that I got a great deal on the car - $499/month with 15k annual miles. Residual is $28k at expiration.
I tell myself the pros and cons of keeping vs. turning it in. I'm completely torn. This is a car that I could see myself having for many more years (while likely being trouble-free too). It still feels brand new. Not a scratch on it, nor a wrinkle on the seats.
Here's the kicker: I also have two other vehicles. A 2015 VW GTI Autobahn (black exterior) (my fiancé drives this to and from work every day) and I recently purchased a random 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7L GLS (blue exterior). The Santa Fe was very random but I couldn't pass it up since it was a 1-owner, accident-free, 85k mile vehicle for $2k.
A few other things to keep in mind: 1) I work from home - so do I really need three cars? 2) We have upcoming expenses (wedding, home, etc) in the next 1-3 years, so not having this payment would help 3) Admittedly, I care about appearance and luxury items - one thing I know I will miss if I turn this car in 4) I worry that if I turn the car in, 6-12 months later I will have the itch for another "luxury" car - likely a lease and will obviously cost much more down the road. I tend to have expensive taste... 5) The car has two "accidents" on the report which hurt the value if I ever want to sell the car. One accident was from a car backing into mine in a parking lot, and the other being a metal bucket flying out of a truck and hitting my car. Nothing major, but still shows 2 accidents on the CarFax.
@JustinS_Edmunds I'll just get my $0.02 in here before the pros take over.. I'd let that car go back. Nothing ruins a great lease deal like buying it out at lease end,
The fiancee gets the Santa Fe, and you start driving that sweet GTI.
This might also take care of that wedding/home expense issue, Win/Win!!
Hi everyone! Edmunds employee here looking for some opinions/advice. I'm a car guy at heart and have worked at Edmunds for just shy of five years now. I like to think I'm capable of making a decision but you know how it goes with cars
Here's my situation: I have a lease expiring in early September and I'm not sure if I should finance the car and keep it long-term or just turn it in. It's a 2015 Lexus IS 350 F-Sport (Atomic Silver w/ Red interior).
The car has everything I need: sporty driving (not perfect but still sporty to me), I love the color combo and overall style, absolutely love the interior quality and Lexus ownership (reliability) and dealership experiences. It also has all the options I care about (navigation, blind spot, ventilated seats for Florida, etc.)
I leased the car for 36 months/45k miles. Turns out I didn't need that many miles because I only have 31,500 miles and only 6 more months to go. I'll probably have about 35k at most when September rolls around. I feel that I got a great deal on the car - $499/month with 15k annual miles. Residual is $28k at expiration.
I tell myself the pros and cons of keeping vs. turning it in. I'm completely torn. This is a car that I could see myself having for many more years (while likely being trouble-free too). It still feels brand new. Not a scratch on it, nor a wrinkle on the seats.
Here's the kicker: I also have two other vehicles. A 2015 VW GTI Autobahn (black exterior) (my fiancé drives this to and from work every day) and I recently purchased a random 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7L GLS (blue exterior). The Santa Fe was very random but I couldn't pass it up since it was a 1-owner, accident-free, 85k mile vehicle for $2k.
A few other things to keep in mind: 1) I work from home - so do I really need three cars? 2) We have upcoming expenses (wedding, home, etc) in the next 1-3 years, so not having this payment would help 3) Admittedly, I care about appearance and luxury items - one thing I know I will miss if I turn this car in 4) I worry that if I turn the car in, 6-12 months later I will have the itch for another "luxury" car - likely a lease and will obviously cost much more down the road. I tend to have expensive taste... 5) The car has two "accidents" on the report which hurt the value if I ever want to sell the car. One accident was from a car backing into mine in a parking lot, and the other being a metal bucket flying out of a truck and hitting my car. Nothing major, but still shows 2 accidents on the CarFax.
You will get lots of opinions about what to do next.
One thing I would recommend is for you to hit the Real World Trade in Values thread here - we've got an in-house expert who can tell you, with uncanny accuracy, what the Lexus is worth in trade. With the dings on CarFax, it's likely to be way less than the residual value, but you'll want to find out for sure.
Would you be happy only having the Santa Fe available to drive? You can return the lease and stand fast for a while, saving up the money for the other life expenses. Then, if the itch gets to strong to do something, you can lease whatever you want - we'll be happy to point you in the right direction. If you were in the market now, we'd all recommend a leftover 2017 MB C-class - the residual values on these went up 6% from February, which is unheard of. Saves you $80-100/mo on the payment.
And, nothing wrong with a GTI - that's almost a default car here in this group.
@JustinS_Edmunds Welcome to the jungle. My $.02 is to return it. Drive what you have until after your wedding and other life expenditures. If in 12-24 months you still have the luxury itch, you can pick up a very reasonable lease on a Mercedes or BMW former loaner for probably a lot less than you were paying on your Lexus.
For what it's worth, I'm leasing a 54k MB C300 former loaner with P3 and Sport for under $300/month with drive offs and security deposits at signing. Lot of car for the money...
2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
Hi everyone! Edmunds employee here looking for some opinions/advice. I'm a car guy at heart and have worked at Edmunds for just shy of five years now. I like to think I'm capable of making a decision but you know how it goes with cars
Here's my situation: I have a lease expiring in early September and I'm not sure if I should finance the car and keep it long-term or just turn it in. It's a 2015 Lexus IS 350 F-Sport (Atomic Silver w/ Red interior).
The car has everything I need: sporty driving (not perfect but still sporty to me), I love the color combo and overall style, absolutely love the interior quality and Lexus ownership (reliability) and dealership experiences. It also has all the options I care about (navigation, blind spot, ventilated seats for Florida, etc.)
I leased the car for 36 months/45k miles. Turns out I didn't need that many miles because I only have 31,500 miles and only 6 more months to go. I'll probably have about 35k at most when September rolls around. I feel that I got a great deal on the car - $499/month with 15k annual miles. Residual is $28k at expiration.
I tell myself the pros and cons of keeping vs. turning it in. I'm completely torn. This is a car that I could see myself having for many more years (while likely being trouble-free too). It still feels brand new. Not a scratch on it, nor a wrinkle on the seats.
Here's the kicker: I also have two other vehicles. A 2015 VW GTI Autobahn (black exterior) (my fiancé drives this to and from work every day) and I recently purchased a random 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7L GLS (blue exterior). The Santa Fe was very random but I couldn't pass it up since it was a 1-owner, accident-free, 85k mile vehicle for $2k.
A few other things to keep in mind:
1) I work from home - so do I really need three cars?
2) We have upcoming expenses (wedding, home, etc) in the next 1-3 years, so not having this payment would help
3) Admittedly, I care about appearance and luxury items - one thing I know I will miss if I turn this car in
4) I worry that if I turn the car in, 6-12 months later I will have the itch for another "luxury" car - likely a lease and will obviously cost much more down the road. I tend to have expensive taste...
5) The car has two "accidents" on the report which hurt the value if I ever want to sell the car. One accident was from a car backing into mine in a parking lot, and the other being a metal bucket flying out of a truck and hitting my car. Nothing major, but still shows 2 accidents on the CarFax.
What would you do?
Ok, first, dump the Lexus. It is only worth $28k right now RETAIL and with CLEAN HISTORY. That means I'd personally hit your dirty car at $22k retail MAX. And that will only be lower come Sept. So this is a case where you are lucky you leased and can walk away from it.
Second, buying a house is tricky. You'd be so much better off having your credit report clear of that debt. Drive the Hyundai and/or GTI for now. You can scratch that itch AFTER you close on a home. Please trust me on this one.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
@JustinS_Edmunds I'll just get my $0.02 in here before the pros take over.. I'd let that car go back. Nothing ruins a great lease deal like buying it out at lease end,
The fiancee gets the Santa Fe, and you start driving that sweet GTI.
This might also take care of that wedding/home expense issue, Win/Win!!
Or making her drive the Santa Fe might take care of the wedding issue entirely!
An IS350 F-Sport in those colors would be pretty hard to walk away from. What would be the market value on one like that?
@JustinS_Edmunds I'll just get my $0.02 in here before the pros take over.. I'd let that car go back. Nothing ruins a great lease deal like buying it out at lease end,
The fiancee gets the Santa Fe, and you start driving that sweet GTI.
This might also take care of that wedding/home expense issue, Win/Win!!
Or making her drive the Santa Fe might take care of the wedding issue entirely!
An IS350 F-Sport in those colors would be pretty hard to walk away from. What would be the market value on one like that?
See Q's post right above yours.
2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
Ok, first, dump the Lexus. It is only worth $28k right now RETAIL and with CLEAN HISTORY. That means I'd personally hit your dirty car at $22k retail MAX. And that will only be lower come Sept. So this is a case where you are lucky you leased and can walk away from it.
Second, buying a house is tricky. You'd be so much better off having your credit report clear of that debt. Drive the Hyundai and/or GTI for now. You can scratch that itch AFTER you close on a home. Please trust me on this one.
I fully agree with Q. While it can be difficult to let go of that desire for a fancy machine, anyone who holds it against you will likely realize in short order that you are far wiser than they.
Take that Santa Fe and drive it for all it is worth for the next 12-18 months, (after Sept), and then reassess your situation then to decide what makes sense for your new budget paradigm. Maybe your wife (at that point?) will even let you have a ride in that GTI once in a while.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
Sandy, congrats on getting a hold on that GLA! My only piece of advice, as far as looking at other options, is to measure your side of the garage and use those dimensions to inform your shopping. MUCH easier that way just to write things off the list early and not worry about the whole "will it fit?" game.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
QX30 has some of the most egregious DLO fail on the market, not sure I could live with this:
It's the fakiest fake window that ever windowed. Please stop. Not a fan of this design language, or this trend.
Agreed! Mostly because of the blind spots, but then I could just be spoiled from 11 years with a Volvo wagon. That design cue may be even more effective at keeping me away from a Murano than the CVT.
QX30 has some of the most egregious DLO fail on the market, not sure I could live with this:
It's the fakiest fake window that ever windowed. Please stop. Not a fan of this design language, or this trend.
I'm not a fan of Infiniti styling in general, and have felt that way for a long time. Today I encountered their big V-8 SUV, the QX80, in traffic and my initial thought upon seeing it was "Who could ever think that design looked good?". The old FX45 always reminded me of a turtle from certain angles. They may drive nice, but the styling is pretty awful IMO.
I don't mind the first FX, but the second one (still in production, dating back to 2009 or 2010) looks like a puffy catfish to me. QX80 is a baleen whale. Earlier Infinitis were clean basic designs, then they got a little JDM or edgy, now it is flamboyance to compete with Lexus. Some of it (Q50/60 are OK) works better than others.
I'm not a fan of Infiniti styling in general, and have felt that way for a long time. Today I encountered their big V-8 SUV, the QX80, in traffic and my initial thought upon seeing it was "Who could ever think that design looked good?". The old FX45 always reminded me of a turtle from certain angles. They may drive nice, but the styling is pretty awful IMO.
Haven't driven the GLA much yet as am still recovering from my freak car accident. Saw one up the street in white over beige...stunning vehicle! Black over black like my rental is classic but not a fan really. Don't have a time frame about how long it'll be here, thinking about 21 days or so. But could be wrong on that also. If the Golf is really bent out of shape that much, they might decide to just total it and hand me over a check. Still not over the whole chain of events yet as when ever I close my eyes, I see and hear the crash...driving me a bit crazy actually! Interesting what life throws ones way out of the blue. I keep thinking if I had gone to Walgreens first like I was planning, this might not be my current situation! But kinda crazy to keep thinking this way because what's done is done! Will be on pins & needles come Tuesday when the adjuster comes and sees the damage first hand. My biggest fear is them fixing the vehicle but it never being quite right. I know that when the wife had her '92 Camry t-boned, they fixed it but she was never comfortable in it again. Adding that she found some glass shards a couple days later, she traded it in for a '95 Camry and never looked back. Will history play out that way again? Beats me but will wait and see what they decide. That's why I swapped the Sentra out for the GLA, might as well enjoy the wait and test drive at the same time...a win/win!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
No dissenting opinion here, though. Let the Lexus go. As Q said, the residual is too high (not sure if Lexus is open to offers on their lease residuals, though). I like the IS350, particularly in F Sport guise. And, even more so with that color combo. I’ve come close to buying one a couple of times over the years.
But, life changing events have a way of reshuffling priorities. Having the Lexus off the credit report will help with buying your house. And, the GTI is pretty darned sweet. I’ve had a wealth of cars in the past. Can only drive one at a time, though. So, two cars for two drivers makes a lot of sense.
Before long, you’ll be looking for purchase advice on something with a big back seat to carry the family. Then, you can ask us about trade values and how to get a good deal on your next sedan (we’re really good with advice about that, too....just ask any of us...we are wealthy with opinions)!
Fin, I think the biggest DLO fail might be the Miata RF! But, to each his own. Simply a styling element, language. Infiniti's Hoffmeister kink, if you will. I like the look of the QX30, Q50/60. Just offered it as an option to Sandy because isn't much of the fun shopping and test driving!
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Just another day in the life of a Chronic Car Owner:
Life is good; my '13 XF is a virgin no more.
Whilst lunching with the GF and her mother, some fine upstanding young man/woman defiled the Jags near pristine exterior. Might have been two incidents, a very strange dent in the driver side rear door, possibly a door slam or shopping cart. Paint isn't cracked, but a raised "scar" in the steel in the middle of the concave area of dent. More noticeable, and maybe more egregious, the lovely mesh grill now has a mangled mesh hole in the drivers side portion. As well as cracked frame. Either someone intentionally kicked it in, a trailer hitch, or very corner of a bumper hit? No paint left in either damage area. Needless to say, no note left, no cameras in the parking lot.
I'll drop by the local Jag dealer, see how much for a new grille. May just live with it. As Jags are known to hold their value so strongly, I'm afraid these cosmetic imperfections my really hurt at trade/sale time!
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Yep. the fake window on that Mazda is pretty extreme. I doubt I would even be comfortable in one of those though, so it is even more off my radar than a soft-roader Infiniti.
I think it is lazy styling, trying to add dynamism but not being able to fit it on the canvas - fake it til you make it (but you won't make it). I see few highline German cars with DLO fail, wonder why that is. To be fair, it doesn't impact the way the car will drive or age, it is just a vanity thing for me.
Fin, I think the biggest DLO fail might be the Miata RF! But, to each his own. Simply a styling element, language. Infiniti's Hoffmeister kink, if you will. I like the look of the QX30, Q50/60. Just offered it as an option to Sandy because isn't much of the fun shopping and test driving!
hurts on any car. Was out with the wife today in the RDX since the roads were dirty, and stopped at Kohls, and when we were getting out, she mentioned there were some scratches on the passenger side that never noticed before. Nor had I, the last time I washed it. Light and short but straight. Someone must have rubbed against it with something, since not something that looked like a door ding.
so, was due for a detail anyway once winter was over, so will be getting a dose of the scratch remover stuff I have before the clay and wax. Hopefully that takes them out. If not, well, it is an almost 6 YO car so, oh well.
hurts on any car. Was out with the wife today in the RDX since the roads were dirty, and stopped at Kohls, and when we were getting out, she mentioned there were some scratches on the passenger side that never noticed before. Nor had I, the last time I washed it. Light and short but straight. Someone must have rubbed against it with something, since not something that looked like a door ding.
so, was due for a detail anyway once winter was over, so will be getting a dose of the scratch remover stuff I have before the clay and wax. Hopefully that takes them out. If not, well, it is an almost 6 YO car so, oh well.
My Enclave has taken a beating this winter... between the damage to the door I have to have fixed and all the fine scratches it needs a lot of work to be back up to my standards
I am going to get the “wife” damage fixed in April or May and I’m sure my body guy will buff out the whole car for me.
The GLA is a bigger vehicle than I had thought. Decided to park it outside so no chance of hitting the right side of the garage. Not sure what the mpg figures are but have a feeling it'll be a bit thirsty. No idea why no Sirius/XM to be honest as it's only got around 5600 miles on it. Luckily I found some of my old cd's so I can listen to them again. Miss my Golf to be honest, miss it more than I ever thought!! Glad once I get it back. But if things go a different way, will shop something compact again. And think I'm gonna go for some safety nannies just because. Not sure if they would've helped this time because the kid just floored his vehicle for some odd reason, you'd think in a parking lot, one would use more due care just in case a person entered the picture. Still can not understand his need to stomp on his accelerator like he did? Luckily the cop knew he was at fault but doesn't help me none as his 2004 Accord probably came out o k and his having [non-permissible content removed] insurance placed all the leg work on my new company! Life just ain't fair sometimes. Luckily, I'm feeling less sore today though a bit beat up. Guess it could've been much worse but if they do total my Golf, will be a very unhappy camper as I'd rather trade out when I'm ready to do so, not when someone else tells me to!!
The Sad Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
The wife and I shared this with @michaell and @jpp5862 over lunch earlier this week, but we are really intent on consolidating our fleet and reducing the number of vehicles. The i3 sort of was the straw that broke the camel's back, and with 5 cars for 2 drivers, we decided we are tired of paying for insurance, repairs, maintenance, etc. on extra cars we seldom use.
So....
I am going to combine the budget for the Durango and Civic into a nicer SUV.
The wife is selling the Mini and keeping the Polestar.
We'll keep the i3 as the "fun" car that we...gasp!...SHARE!
So we'd like to stick with that plan of 3 cars for the two of us - one primary daily driver for each of us and one fun car (whatever form that takes), the fun car being relatively free to be traded in and out. But we want to commit a bit more to our primary vehicles.
Having said that, I did of course turn this into a shopping opportunity - you know...one last time for awhile.
The three candidates have been pretty static for awhile - XC90, Q7 and Discovery.
I've said it before...the Q7 is the best driver of the 3, but I feel it lacks a bit of character. It's conservative styling will age well, and I can appreciate it's classiness, but it doesn't do a lot for me.
The Discovery has character in spades, and the desire is there, but after a few more test drives, including a diesel version, I decided the lust for it has more to do with the look of the vehicle (inside and out) than the way it drives. Not that it drives poorly - it's an upgrade in refinement from the Durango, but the Audi and Volvo are both more engaging to drive in most conditions, I'd say.
The XC90 strikes a nice balance between the two - it's not quite as adept at impersonating a sports sedan as the Audi, but still great in that area; and (personal opinion), it offers styling and interior choices that give it character and a personal touch, more so than the Audi and more in line with the Land Rover.
But...my primary reservation with the Volvo was its 4 cylinder engine - while turbo and supercharged, I wasn't sure if it would be as entertaining as the 6's in the other two.
@michaell and @jpp5862 joined my wife and I at the Volvo dealership this morning for a solid test drive of an XC90 Inscription. We all packed in it, with my wife and stepson trying out the 3rd row (which, by the way, is virtually useless in the Q7), @michaell and the salesman in the 2nd, and @jpp5862 riding shotgun.
With a particular focus on the engine power and responsiveness of the transmission, I came away from the test drive more than satisfied that the Volvo suffers little from "only" having 4 cylinders (other than maybe the sound of the engine). That, combined with all the other features I love about it, has me pretty much settled on it.
I haven't pulled the trigger yet, but I did find a perfectly optioned one with the right colors at another dealership - the dealership we visited this morning, which was great to deal with, is looking to trade for it. I'll know more Monday.
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My Safeco lady called this morning that the collision place already spoke with her and the Golf will be inspected on Tuesday sometime. Guess they need to get the tires pulled off and the doors off to se what's up with the bent frame. Asked her to call Enterprise to extend the rental for as long as they need to get my vehicle back. Since I doubt they'll total it, hoping it's done within 30 days or so. Have never had a vehicle totalled, so have no idea how that works. Do they just give one a check and say return the rental in a certain time frame or what. Maybe I should take a few test drives just in case I have to get something new. Really have no clue what I'd want right now to be honest.
The Sandman :@
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
So, decided to take an extended test drive with the MB and see if I can live with it day to day. Will do the garage test later and see if it fits on my side. The Sentra turned out to be a long vehicle, at least 8" or more than the Golf but about as wide. Will have to look up everything I'm interested in and get their measurements so I can see what's up. I still prefer the Golf size so doesn't give me much to choose from. A Golf, Ford Ecosport and Mini Cooper are the three I can think of off hand. Maybe a Kia Soul or a Hyundai Elantra GT, and I do like the GT like Stick did also.
So, guess it's really up to Safeco at this point what my vehicle future becomes. They fix and I keep the Golf. Will check it out real good if this does happen as I hate to have to swap out tires yearly because it can't be aligned properly. Or do they hand me a check and a time frame as to when the rental goes back. So, odds are on choice #1 but what happens if it becomes #2? I gotta be ready to act on something. Saw a white over beige Acura ILX last night at dinner and the owners love it, they are leasing. But, again, will it fit in my garage? So, think some test drives are in order these next few weeks just in case. And if it turns out to be unnecessary? Fun just to see what's out there. Won't go on weekends because that's not fair to serious folk but weekdays are a different story. Luckily working at Hertz has exposed me to so many vehicles, just a few left I really need to try. Then, just sit and wait till Safeco renders a judgement!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Suydam, just curious about the fit and finish of your Encore? Honestly, what are your overall impressions of ownership? I trust word of mouth on these things because it's a great way to find out how cars behave months into ownership. Are trim pieces coming off, carpets peeling back, pieces of plastic warping or getting discolored? Little things like this that can only be found after months of ownership.
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
Pluses: The Encore is solid as a rock. No trim issues and it’s extremely quiet. Feels very luxe inside. No rattles or squeaks. We got the mid trim level which has everything I want. Very comfortable seats. Two years free maintenance, so we have paid for one oil change. That’s it so far.
Also I love how it handles. Easy to maneuver and park. Love the higher seating. We have a good friend in a wheelchair and she is able to get from her chair to the seat easily. The mid level trim has the stereo upgrade which is very good. Although it’s small, we find it very comfortable for two in the front. Only the dog sits in the back most of the time,, so can’t speak to that. It feels very safe even though it’s small.
Although it’s small it is quite flexible. We have fit at various times, a 55 inch flat screen TV, a power washer, 2 good size bar stools, many plants and pots and mulch bags of various sizes, and three large dogs. The seats are very easy to fold flat and the front passenger seat folds as well. I call it the Swiss Army knife of vehicles. You would never guess looking at it how versatile it is.
Minuses: I would like better gas mileage but for most of you it would be fine: 26-32 or so. If you like a lot of power all the time this might not be the vehicle for you. It is totally fine around town, merging on a freeway, gets up to speed quickly. The turbo works very well. Where it is a little problematic is if you have to cross a steep grade the engine has to work hard. For example, I don’t really like taking it over Highway 154 to the Santa Ynez valley. However it was the vehicle that we and the dog moved with cross country from Ohio to California and it chugged along like a champ at speeds of over 80 mph or so most of the way (it’s dangerous to do less traveling through Missouri and Oklahoma!). And it manages the Conejo Grade here just fine as well. We have taken it on several trips up and down the coast because it’s such a comfortable vehicle. The Volt definitely has way more power though.
That said, because it doesn’t have a CVT you don’t get that whine on hard acceleration. Even when our little engine is working hard the cabin is quiet. For us the trade off of better gas mileage is worth it.
We are very happy with our Encore and hope it lasts a long time!
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
BTW, she did not like the infiniti qx30 -- but that may have been as much as the dealer as car
It's the fakiest fake window that ever windowed. Please stop. Not a fan of this design language, or this trend.
Here's my situation: I have a lease expiring in early September and I'm not sure if I should finance the car and keep it long-term or just turn it in. It's a 2015 Lexus IS 350 F-Sport (Atomic Silver w/ Red interior).
The car has everything I need: sporty driving (not perfect but still sporty to me), I love the color combo and overall style, absolutely love the interior quality and Lexus ownership (reliability) and dealership experiences. It also has all the options I care about (navigation, blind spot, ventilated seats for Florida, etc.)
I leased the car for 36 months/45k miles. Turns out I didn't need that many miles because I only have 31,500 miles and only 6 more months to go. I'll probably have about 35k at most when September rolls around. I feel that I got a great deal on the car - $499/month with 15k annual miles. Residual is $28k at expiration.
I tell myself the pros and cons of keeping vs. turning it in. I'm completely torn. This is a car that I could see myself having for many more years (while likely being trouble-free too). It still feels brand new. Not a scratch on it, nor a wrinkle on the seats.
Here's the kicker: I also have two other vehicles. A 2015 VW GTI Autobahn (black exterior) (my fiancé drives this to and from work every day) and I recently purchased a random 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.7L GLS (blue exterior). The Santa Fe was very random but I couldn't pass it up since it was a 1-owner, accident-free, 85k mile vehicle for $2k.
A few other things to keep in mind:
1) I work from home - so do I really need three cars?
2) We have upcoming expenses (wedding, home, etc) in the next 1-3 years, so not having this payment would help
3) Admittedly, I care about appearance and luxury items - one thing I know I will miss if I turn this car in
4) I worry that if I turn the car in, 6-12 months later I will have the itch for another "luxury" car - likely a lease and will obviously cost much more down the road. I tend to have expensive taste...
5) The car has two "accidents" on the report which hurt the value if I ever want to sell the car. One accident was from a car backing into mine in a parking lot, and the other being a metal bucket flying out of a truck and hitting my car. Nothing major, but still shows 2 accidents on the CarFax.
What would you do?
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
The fiancee gets the Santa Fe, and you start driving that sweet GTI.
This might also take care of that wedding/home expense issue, Win/Win!!
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You will get lots of opinions about what to do next.
One thing I would recommend is for you to hit the Real World Trade in Values thread here - we've got an in-house expert who can tell you, with uncanny accuracy, what the Lexus is worth in trade. With the dings on CarFax, it's likely to be way less than the residual value, but you'll want to find out for sure.
Would you be happy only having the Santa Fe available to drive? You can return the lease and stand fast for a while, saving up the money for the other life expenses. Then, if the itch gets to strong to do something, you can lease whatever you want - we'll be happy to point you in the right direction. If you were in the market now, we'd all recommend a leftover 2017 MB C-class - the residual values on these went up 6% from February, which is unheard of. Saves you $80-100/mo on the payment.
And, nothing wrong with a GTI - that's almost a default car here in this group.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
For what it's worth, I'm leasing a 54k MB C300 former loaner with P3 and Sport for under $300/month with drive offs and security deposits at signing. Lot of car for the money...
Second, buying a house is tricky. You'd be so much better off having your credit report clear of that debt. Drive the Hyundai and/or GTI for now. You can scratch that itch AFTER you close on a home. Please trust me on this one.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
An IS350 F-Sport in those colors would be pretty hard to walk away from. What would be the market value on one like that?
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
Take that Santa Fe and drive it for all it is worth for the next 12-18 months, (after Sept), and then reassess your situation then to decide what makes sense for your new budget paradigm. Maybe your wife (at that point?) will even let you have a ride in that GTI once in a while.
Agreed! Mostly because of the blind spots, but then I could just be spoiled from 11 years with a Volvo wagon. That design cue may be even more effective at keeping me away from a Murano than the CVT.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
Will be on pins & needles come Tuesday when the adjuster comes and sees the damage first hand. My biggest fear is them fixing the vehicle but it never being quite right. I know that when the wife had her '92 Camry t-boned, they fixed it but she was never comfortable in it again. Adding that she found some glass shards a couple days later, she traded it in for a '95 Camry and never looked back. Will history play out that way again? Beats me but will wait and see what they decide.
That's why I swapped the Sentra out for the GLA, might as well enjoy the wait and test drive at the same time...a win/win!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
No dissenting opinion here, though. Let the Lexus go. As Q said, the residual is too high (not sure if Lexus is open to offers on their lease residuals, though). I like the IS350, particularly in F Sport guise. And, even more so with that color combo. I’ve come close to buying one a couple of times over the years.
But, life changing events have a way of reshuffling priorities. Having the Lexus off the credit report will help with buying your house. And, the GTI is pretty darned sweet. I’ve had a wealth of cars in the past. Can only drive one at a time, though. So, two cars for two drivers makes a lot of sense.
Before long, you’ll be looking for purchase advice on something with a big back seat to carry the family. Then, you can ask us about trade values and how to get a good deal on your next sedan (we’re really good with advice about that, too....just ask any of us...we are wealthy with opinions)!
Anyway, let us know what you decide.
That said, I do like the current and upcoming QX50. Be interested to see the ‘19 in the flesh.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Life is good; my '13 XF is a virgin no more.
Whilst lunching with the GF and her mother, some fine upstanding young man/woman defiled the Jags near pristine exterior. Might have been two incidents, a very strange dent in the driver side rear door, possibly a door slam or shopping cart. Paint isn't cracked, but a raised "scar" in the steel in the middle of the concave area of dent. More noticeable, and maybe more egregious, the lovely mesh grill now has a mangled mesh hole in the drivers side portion. As well as cracked frame. Either someone intentionally kicked it in, a trailer hitch, or very corner of a bumper hit? No paint left in either damage area. Needless to say, no note left, no cameras in the parking lot.
I'll drop by the local Jag dealer, see how much for a new grille. May just live with it. As Jags are known to hold their value so strongly, I'm afraid these cosmetic imperfections my really hurt at trade/sale time!
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
I think it is lazy styling, trying to add dynamism but not being able to fit it on the canvas - fake it til you make it (but you won't make it). I see few highline German cars with DLO fail, wonder why that is. To be fair, it doesn't impact the way the car will drive or age, it is just a vanity thing for me.
so, was due for a detail anyway once winter was over, so will be getting a dose of the scratch remover stuff I have before the clay and wax. Hopefully that takes them out. If not, well, it is an almost 6 YO car so, oh well.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I am going to get the “wife” damage fixed in April or May and I’m sure my body guy will buff out the whole car for me.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Glad once I get it back. But if things go a different way, will shop something compact again. And think I'm gonna go for some safety nannies just because. Not sure if they would've helped this time because the kid just floored his vehicle for some odd reason, you'd think in a parking lot, one would use more due care just in case a person entered the picture. Still can not understand his need to stomp on his accelerator like he did? Luckily the cop knew he was at fault but doesn't help me none as his 2004 Accord probably came out o k and his having [non-permissible content removed] insurance placed all the leg work on my new company! Life just ain't fair sometimes.
Luckily, I'm feeling less sore today though a bit beat up. Guess it could've been much worse but if they do total my Golf, will be a very unhappy camper as I'd rather trade out when I'm ready to do so, not when someone else tells me to!!
The Sad Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2015 Golf TSI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
So....
I am going to combine the budget for the Durango and Civic into a nicer SUV.
The wife is selling the Mini and keeping the Polestar.
We'll keep the i3 as the "fun" car that we...gasp!...SHARE!
So we'd like to stick with that plan of 3 cars for the two of us - one primary daily driver for each of us and one fun car (whatever form that takes), the fun car being relatively free to be traded in and out. But we want to commit a bit more to our primary vehicles.
Having said that, I did of course turn this into a shopping opportunity - you know...one last time for awhile.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I've said it before...the Q7 is the best driver of the 3, but I feel it lacks a bit of character. It's conservative styling will age well, and I can appreciate it's classiness, but it doesn't do a lot for me.
The Discovery has character in spades, and the desire is there, but after a few more test drives, including a diesel version, I decided the lust for it has more to do with the look of the vehicle (inside and out) than the way it drives. Not that it drives poorly - it's an upgrade in refinement from the Durango, but the Audi and Volvo are both more engaging to drive in most conditions, I'd say.
The XC90 strikes a nice balance between the two - it's not quite as adept at impersonating a sports sedan as the Audi, but still great in that area; and (personal opinion), it offers styling and interior choices that give it character and a personal touch, more so than the Audi and more in line with the Land Rover.
But...my primary reservation with the Volvo was its 4 cylinder engine - while turbo and supercharged, I wasn't sure if it would be as entertaining as the 6's in the other two.
So with that thought in mind...
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
With a particular focus on the engine power and responsiveness of the transmission, I came away from the test drive more than satisfied that the Volvo suffers little from "only" having 4 cylinders (other than maybe the sound of the engine). That, combined with all the other features I love about it, has me pretty much settled on it.
I haven't pulled the trigger yet, but I did find a perfectly optioned one with the right colors at another dealership - the dealership we visited this morning, which was great to deal with, is looking to trade for it. I'll know more Monday.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman