My dad's lease on the X3 ends within the next few weeks so we headed out today to test drove some potential replacements...
He's going to be leasing (for tax purposes) and is looking for cars in the $500-$700/mo. range (assuming $0 down other than first month and security deposit) for a 36-42 month lease at 12K miles a year.
Today we drove...
Volkswagen Touareg2 V6
Impressions... Pretty nice, especially for the money. For a model with roughly $40K MSRP we were getting around $530 a month, give or take, which is a pretty good deal. It drove nice enough, the interior is a good place, and I found the seats to be really comfortable. Not nearly as roomy as the X5 or Q7 (about as roomy in the back as the X3). Probably the best bang-for-the-buck prospect.
Audi A6 3.2 quattro
My dad drives my car a lot and so even though he's been driving mainly SUVs for nearly 20 years, he said he wanted to make an effort to get a sedan. After driving the Touareg, A6, and Q7 back-to-back he went back and said he'd definitely prefer an SUV - the seating position seems to be more comfortable for him. So that sort of took the A6 out of this, even though we both agreed it was a really nice car. It's not as tossable as the 5er (to me it was sorta reminiscent of the E320 4Matic I drove a couple years back) but I liked the way it drove. Lots of room in the back, too.
Audi Q7 3.6 quattro
This was the all-around favorite. After we drove the A6 he really wasn't considering it but I convinced him to take a look and after we ran the numbers (we think we can get them down to around $750 for a Premium model with a fair amount of options) we decided to drive it as well. We both liked it a lot. It feels really solid, he liked the seating position a lot, and it's really spacious in the back. I was surprised by how well it handled - I had been driving the X3 today (which handles really well for an SUV) and I really felt like the Q7 was comparable. We both think it's probably worth ~$200 more than the Touareg. The only problem is that at 200" long, it's 10" longer than even my mom's 4Runner, and so it's a little bigger than what he'd really want. It's also not a speed demon but none of these are either.
BMW X5 3.0si
This was my personal favorite, and with similar numbers he'd probably go with this one over the Q7. It drives really well, better than the Q7, the interior is a really nice place to be, there's a lot of room in the rear, and it's a sharp-looking car. The push-button start, strange turn signal (both of which I also have in my car) and the weird shifter are all answers to a question no one asked, but that's not really an issue. The main problem is that BMW's lease offers are strangely terrible on the X5. They have some really good deals on 3ers (my dad said that had we not already had an E90 he would have signed the lease on a 335xi immediately even though it's not an SUV) but for some reason the offers they have on the X5 make it insanely expensive even for a car cheaper by MSRP than the Q7 (strange considering that the X5's residuals are probably very strong). So that sorta knocks the X5 out of it, but we're waiting to see what happens.
Overall I'd have to say it's probably going to be the Touareg. Neither of us liked it nearly as much as we liked the Q7 and X5, but it really is the best deal. We're waiting to see what the BMW dealership and Audi dealerships can come up with. He might even turn in his car and take mine for a while and wait to see what turns up (since I really don't need my car, I could take the train home).
He might also check out the MDX (there's a decent lease offer on that) soon. I was trying to get him to drive an ML350 but for similar money we'd rather have the Q7.
Comments/suggestions welcome.
A 528xi would fall nicely in your range.
ML320 CDI.
Touareg! :rockon: :rockon: :rockon:
Quote from: CALL_911 on October 27, 2007, 09:50:30 PM
A 528xi would fall nicely in your range.
I'll run it by him but he pretty much ruled sedans out and doesn't like the way the 5er looks that much. The lease calculator is also giving me low to mid $700s and for that money he'd probably rather have the Q7.
Quote from: CJ on October 27, 2007, 09:51:50 PM
ML320 CDI.
Not worth it, lease calculator is giving me high 700s for a model with next to no options. That's X5 territory. And free maintenance on the BMW would almost negate any cost advantage that the ML would have due to being more fuel efficient.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on October 27, 2007, 09:52:01 PM
Touareg! :rockon: :rockon: :rockon:
It probably is the frontrunner at this point, but if the BMW ends up costing similar money to the Q7 (we still haven't gotten real numbers on the X5) I'm going to push him to go for that (he probably won't need much motivation though).
Hmm I just built an X5 with only cold weather package (which is really all he wants) and a 36 month at 12K with 0 down came out to $750...
That means it's basically similar to the Audi, although it'll end up being somewhat cheaper because I believe returning customers don't have to pay destination charge, and if we get another BMW we also don't have to pay the return fee on the X3 so that's roughly $1K right there, and another ~$1K over 36 months because maintenance on the X5 would be free. And like I said, he felt for some reason that the Q7 was a little too big (it is roughly 10" longer and 2" wider).
Hmmmmmmm :devil:
The Audi, however, IS better equipped. And finding an X5 with that level of equipment (or lack thereof) won't be easy. The X5 is question is also MY 2007 (although that really doesn't matter).
I really have to question, though, if either of them are really worth $200+/month over the Touareg.:huh:
I guess that comes down to how much more he likes them.
Hmm... A base Cayenne, which is faster and from what I've read/heard handles better than any of these SUVs, can be had for $730, but that's a 48 month thing... Compelling. Although it is an overweight bastard.
He DID mention he'd love to have a manual SUV for some reason...
Quote from: 850CSi on October 28, 2007, 12:32:32 AM
I'll run it by him but he pretty much ruled sedans out and doesn't like the way the 5er looks that much. The lease calculator is also giving me low to mid $700s and for that money he'd probably rather have the Q7.
Hmm, nicely equipped ones are going for like $569 a month around here. But I don't know what the down payment's like, so that could make a difference.
Quote from: 850CSi on October 28, 2007, 02:49:16 AM
Hmm... A base Cayenne, which is faster and from what I've read/heard handles better than any of these SUVs, can be had for $730, but that's a 48 month thing... Compelling. Although it is an overweight bastard.
He DID mention he'd love to have a manual SUV for some reason...
It's fugly, and I don't think there are that many manual Cayenne V6's. But isn't that a little expensive for what is essentially a V6 Touareg in a Porsche wrapper?
I would want a 955. They're great looking.
They have the distinct title of "ugly Porsche".
The first ugly Porsche. Damn.
Quote from: CALL_911 on October 28, 2007, 09:16:33 AM
They have the distinct title of "ugly Porsche".
The first ugly Porsche. Damn.
In your head, maybe.
(http://www.pistonheads.com/pics/news/13894/P06_0195.jpg)
Quote from: TheIntrepid on October 28, 2007, 09:18:23 AM
In your head, maybe.
(http://www.pistonheads.com/pics/news/13894/P06_0195.jpg)
Pic don't work, n00b.
Quote from: CALL_911 on October 28, 2007, 09:19:27 AM
Pic don't work, n00b.
Sorry. It's a Cayenne Turbo S, silver with roof rack, in the dunes.
Look at a Cayenne! Despite the common angst against them here, if I was buyin' a luxury SUV that's what I'd go for...
Quote from: TheIntrepid on October 28, 2007, 09:20:23 AM
Sorry. It's a Cayenne Turbo S, silver with roof rack, in the dunes.
Better, but ugly. Why the hell does a soccer mom need 520 hp?
Quote from: CALL_911 on October 28, 2007, 09:20:57 AM
Better, but ugly. Why the hell does a soccer mom need 520 hp?
You go imagine Catherine Zeta-Jones offloading the children at school, brandishing 520hp, and tell me that a soccer 'mom' doesn't need 520hp.
Buying a Cayenne or Q7 doesn't make sense over a Touareg. Plenty of people do it, but it doesn't make sense.
Quote from: Raza on October 28, 2007, 12:35:11 PM
Buying a Cayenne or Q7 doesn't make sense over a Touareg. Plenty of people do it, but it doesn't make sense.
I'd buy the Cayenne in a heartbeat....either get the stick...or get some sweet motors...
Quote from: Raza on October 28, 2007, 12:35:11 PM
Buying a Cayenne or Q7 doesn't make sense over a Touareg. Plenty of people do it, but it doesn't make sense.
Having driven both, the Q7 is much nicer car than the Touareg.
Quote from: 850CSi on October 28, 2007, 12:51:26 PM
Having driven both, the Q7 is much nicer car than the Touareg.
In what ways?
Also, you should look at an XC90. Why is he so set on an SUV?
Cayenne V6 6 speed would be awesome.
Do it.
Quote from: Raza on October 28, 2007, 12:53:06 PM
In what ways?
Also, you should look at an XC90. Why is he so set on an SUV?
Seating position.
He's driven an XC90 before, he likes the Touareg more.
Cayenne 6-speed :rockon:
I love doing test drives.
I didn't really test drive anything when I bought my current car (2006). I just took the path of least resistance in getting another 5er, though I did try out the 530xi. It drove fine, but I decided the 4-wheel drive wasn't worth the extra money for the 2-3x per year when it might be useful.
But before I got my 2001 5er, I test drove a bunch of cars, including an Audi, Saab, Volvo, BMW and Mercedes. I was originally looking at the 3-series and its comparables, but I decided to step it up to the 5er.
Best of luck Faris, and have fun.
The MDX and SRX lead the bang-for-the-buck luxury SUV category. Definitely drive both. I have never been particularly impressed with anything about the Touareg but the interior myself.
Quote from: ifcar on October 28, 2007, 08:07:03 PM
The MDX and SRX lead the bang-for-the-buck luxury SUV category. Definitely drive both. I have never been particularly impressed with anything about the Touareg but the interior myself.
I put aside my personal anti-Acura sentiment and have been trying to convince him to test drive the MDX. I'll mention the SRX as well but I doubt he'll go for a Caddy.
Quote from: 850CSi on October 28, 2007, 08:30:53 PM
I put aside my personal anti-Acura sentiment and have been trying to convince him to test drive the MDX. I'll mention the SRX as well but I doubt he'll go for a Caddy.
Anti-Acura :nono:
Quote from: 850CSi on October 28, 2007, 08:30:53 PM
I put aside my personal anti-Acura sentiment and have been trying to convince him to test drive the MDX. I'll mention the SRX as well but I doubt he'll go for a Caddy.
All those cars are pieces of shit. What you want is an Infiniti G35!!! :rockon:
Mercedes E320CDI Bluetec. Or dou you really need a gas burning SUV?
Can you people read? 3-4 people have asked why he doesn't just get a sedan, yet it says so quite plainly in the original post and he has repeated the point numerous times.
My choice would be the Q7, it is just so pretty.
How expensive are ML350s these days?
Quote from: the Teuton on October 29, 2007, 01:09:40 PM
How expensive are ML350s these days?
ML320 CDI Bluetec ftw
I posted something on the ML350/320 CDI on the last page. Basically they're not worth it compared to the Q7.
What about an Infiniti FX35 or 45?
Have you ever ridden in one of those? The ride is awful.
The ride in the FX is firm. But it's not horrible IMO.
It's a pretty nice SUV. I've always thought it looked great.
I'd pick the X5 out of all of them: It has a great interior, great handling and is a good size. The Q7 as a close second. I find the Audi too big for my tastes (Does your father really need that much space? He is coming from a significantly smaller X3). Although, I admit the Q7 is beautiful inside and out.
Quote from: CJ on October 29, 2007, 07:28:55 PM
Have you ever ridden in one of those? The ride is awful.
It's a tight, firm ride, as AKL said. It's not horrible, it's a matter of taste. I like a softer ride so I don't like the FX's.
Quote from: AKL on October 29, 2007, 08:30:30 PM
I find the Audi too big for my tastes (Does your father really need that much space? He is coming from a significantly smaller X3).
That was actually his main gripe with the Q7. 10" longer than even my mom's 4Runner. Although it feels shockingly smaller than it is.
It's a done deal.
He negotiated with the BMW people today. Got the X5 for mid 700s, 36 month lease, 12K miles. I'm not sure what he put down, but I know it was in the $1K range. Black/Black (warned him about Black but it shouldn't be as bad on an SUV as it is on my car... 2 Black BMWs, will take pictures :lol:), Leather, Xenons, Cold weather, Panaromic sunroof. He got a good deal because they did something like having him buy off the X3 and treat it as a trade-in (saved big on taxes, in IL they have a retarded rule that you pay sales tax on the MSRP of the car even on a lease).
First time I'm remotely jealous of my dad's car :lol:
Quote from: 850CSi on October 29, 2007, 10:05:11 PM
It's a done deal.
He negotiated with the BMW people today. Got the X5 for mid 700s, 36 month lease, 12K miles. Black/Black (warned him about Black but it shouldn't be as bad on an SUV as it is on my car... 2 Black BMWs, will take pictures :lol:), Leather, Xenons, Cold weather, Panaromic sunroof. He got a good deal because they did something like having him buy off the X3 and treat it as a trade-in (saved big on taxes, in IL they have a retarded rule that you pay sales tax on the MSRP of the car even on a lease).
First time I'm remotely jealous of my dad's car :lol:
Don't be jealous. The 3er is t3h pwnz0r.
Kidding, congrats. That's a very nice SUV, or SAV. :lol:
So it's sitting in your driveway right now?
No, I believe he's getting it tomorrow. I'll drive it this weekend when I go home.
Quote from: 850CSi on October 29, 2007, 10:07:12 PM
No, I believe he's getting it tomorrow. I'll drive it this weekend when I go home.
BTW, I thought the shifter would give my dad a hard time, as he has a facelifted E60. It's simple, and very intuitive.
Did he get the I6 or the V8?
Quote from: CALL_911 on October 29, 2007, 10:08:52 PM
BTW, I thought the shifter would give my dad a hard time, as he has a facelifted E60. It's simple, and very intuitive.
I guess it saves some space but it's still an answer to a question no one asked (sorta like the push button and the weird turn signal). Not something I really love or hate.
Quote from: 850CSi on October 29, 2007, 10:11:21 PM
I guess it saves some space but it's still a question to an answer no one asked (sorta like the push button and the weird turn signal). Not something I really love or hate.
Yeah, it's weird, but it's really easy to use.
Quote from: Colonel Cadillac on October 29, 2007, 10:10:10 PM
Did he get the I6 or the V8?
I6. V8 was way more than he wanted to spend.
It's no speed demon (~7.8 to 60) but it's enough. He doesn't care much about straight-line speed.
Quote from: 850CSi on October 29, 2007, 10:14:10 PM
I6. V8 was way more than he wanted to spend.
It's no speed demon (~7.8 to 60) but it's enough. He doesn't care much about straight-line speed.
True. The X5 is probably close to best in class, if not best in class.
What's different about the shifter?
Quote from: Raghavan on October 29, 2007, 10:15:36 PM
What's different about the shifter?
It's retarded, some sort of weird electronic shifter...
(http://www.edmunds.com/media/advice/buying/vehicle.features.organized/07.x5.shifter.500.jpg)
OK, that's horrible.
Quote from: 850CSi on October 29, 2007, 11:02:57 PM
It's retarded, some sort of weird electronic shifter...
(http://www.edmunds.com/media/advice/buying/vehicle.features.organized/07.x5.shifter.500.jpg)
How exactly does that work? Is it like a joy stick where you have to pop it back 3 times to get to D?
Oh and mabrook on the new ride :praise: I'm sure your dad will have a blast in it, and for whatever it's worth, it is possible to power slide in an X5 without tipping it over :mask: You can thank my friend Basel for that tip :lol:
Congrats! Though I would have gone for the 3.0d. Sounds like a good buy though!
It looks like they want to make all their automatics at least "look" like the SMG automatics.
Quote from: Lazerous on October 30, 2007, 01:50:58 AM
How exactly does that work? Is it like a joy stick where you have to pop it back 3 times to get to D?
Oh and mabrook on the new ride :praise: I'm sure your dad will have a blast in it, and for whatever it's worth, it is possible to power slide in an X5 without tipping it over :mask: You can thank my friend Basel for that tip :lol:
We get them at valet a lot, the 7-series has this but it's on the right side of the steering column. The higher end MB's have this as well.
Pull down once for Drive, Push up for Reverse. Push the P button for park. It always returns to the middle position (doesn't stay down like traditional shifters).
Quote from: nickdrinkwater on October 30, 2007, 06:43:04 AM
Congrats! Though I would have gone for the 3.0d. Sounds like a good buy though!
Thanks
I think he would have also liked a 3.0d but I don't think that's coming to our side of the pond for another few months, if at all.
Nice! Congratulations! :ohyeah:
Very nice, Farris. Remember to post pics.
Quote from: Raghavan on October 29, 2007, 11:08:13 PM
OK, that's horrible.
Not really. Same one my dad has in his 5er. You pull back once for Drive, Push up for Reverse, and to the side for Tiptronic. For an auto, it does fine.
Quote from: CALL_911 on October 30, 2007, 02:11:18 PM
Not really. Same one my dad has in his 5er. You pull back once for Drive, Push up for Reverse, and to the side for Tiptronic. For an auto, it does fine.
But what was wrong with the normal gear selector?
Nothing.
Quote from: Raghavan on October 30, 2007, 04:18:04 PM
But what was wrong with the normal gear selector?
Nothing.
It's the same thing that was wrong with buttons.
Quote from: Raghavan on October 30, 2007, 04:18:04 PM
But what was wrong with the normal gear selector?
Nothing.
True.
Quote from: Raghavan on October 30, 2007, 04:18:04 PM
But what was wrong with the normal gear selector?
Nothing.
Just like turn signals since whenever those were invented.
It's only a matter of time until BMW literally reinvents the wheel.
He went and got it today. Called me with his bluetooth gizmo in the car. More info Saturday when I drive it.
I need to get color stickers for the keys...
Quote from: 850CSi on October 31, 2007, 10:12:26 PM
He went and got it today. Called me with his bluetooth gizmo in the car. More info Saturday when I drive it.
I need to get color stickers for the keys...
Get different keychains or keep them in different places.
Quote from: 850CSi on October 31, 2007, 10:12:26 PM
He went and got it today. Called me with his bluetooth gizmo in the car. More info Saturday when I drive it.
I need to get color stickers for the keys...
How does your family deal with keys? We have one keychain for everyone in the house, each with a key to their respective car and a house key. My parents have a mailbox key and some other shit for their work.
The spare key to each car (all our cars have 2 keys), is in one big keychain hanging in the main foyer.
My parents have the fob for my car so they can lock, unlock, and warm up my car, but the spare key for my car is actually on a separate link. It's weird.
Quote from: the Teuton on November 01, 2007, 09:38:22 AM
My parents have the fob for my car so they can lock, unlock, and warm up my car, but the spare key for my car is actually on a separate link. It's weird.
Remote on a 1993? Hell, my 99 Camry CE or 00 Accord LX didn't have remotes. :cry:
edit: Remote to warm up the car? Do you have remote start?
Quote from: TheIntrepid on November 01, 2007, 09:39:33 AM
Remote on a 1993? Hell, my 99 Camry CE or 00 Accord LX didn't have remotes. :cry:
edit: Remote to warm up the car? Do you have remote start?
I got the remote starter for Christmas 2 years ago.
Quote from: the Teuton on November 01, 2007, 09:41:58 AM
I got the remote starter for Christmas 2 years ago.
I'm accepting donations for one now.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on November 01, 2007, 09:42:38 AM
I'm accepting donations for one now.
They're not that expensive. I got one from a specialty car store back home, but you could just as easily get a little lower grade system that does the same thing for around $100 or so.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on November 01, 2007, 09:24:53 AM
How does your family deal with keys? We have one keychain for everyone in the house, each with a key to their respective car and a house key. My parents have a mailbox key and some other shit for their work.
The spare key to each car (all our cars have 2 keys), is in one big keychain hanging in the main foyer.
We just keep em all next to the garage (i always keep my keys on me, though). The X5s key is identical to the 3er's. Probably will separate them by keychain.
Congratulations! Sounds like he got a pretty good deal, and now you're a 2 Bimmer family. Now be careful when you're out there trying to power slide this thing, no matter what they say! :devil:
^Thanks Ron
... Drove it for the first time today... Sweet ride. He likes it a lot. One of my favorite things about it is that it's really roomy and comfortable. It's also really nice on the inside. It looks pretty good in black, but, like my car, it'll probably also look really bad once it gets dirty.
I'll try to get pictures tomorrow.
Quote from: saxonyron on November 01, 2007, 08:44:47 PM
Congratulations! Sounds like he got a pretty good deal, and now you're a 2 Bimmer family. Now be careful when you're out there trying to power slide this thing, no matter what they say! :devil:
I never recommended that he do a power slide. Just that it was possible if he ever got the urge :lol:
Okay, we're looking for yet another SUV...
My mom recently got into a bad accident in the 4Runner and so we got rid of it. We're looking for something smaller and less expensive than the X5 (which, by the way, is badass)
Some of the cars we're considering:
CX-7
RDX
EX-35 (I personally think this is the best option)
I don't think you want a 3rd Bimmer (I mean, I wouldn't mind.)
EX35 looks like ass. If it weren't for that, it would be my pick. I suppose RDX is a nice choice.
Could she do an A4 Avant?
Quote from: 850CSi on December 15, 2007, 03:42:54 PM
Okay, we're looking for yet another SUV...
My mom recently got into a bad accident in the 4Runner and so we got rid of it. We're looking for something smaller and less expensive than the X5 (which, by the way, is badass)
Some of the cars we're considering:
CX-7
RDX
EX-35 (I personally think this is the best option)
Does she really want a sporty car? If not, a wide variety of mainstream compact SUVs would make the most sense. RAV4, Forester, CR-V, Rogue, Santa Fe, etc.
Quote from: ifcar on December 15, 2007, 03:51:55 PM
Does she really want a sporty car? If not, a wide variety of mainstream compact SUVs would make the most sense. RAV4, Forester, CR-V, Rogue, Santa Fe, etc.
I'm sure she would want something a bit more "premium".
Quote from: CALL_911 on December 15, 2007, 03:52:32 PM
I'm sure she would want something a bit more "premium".
Like a 4Runner?
Quote from: TheIntrepid on November 01, 2007, 09:24:53 AM
How does your family deal with keys? We have one keychain for everyone in the house, each with a key to their respective car and a house key. My parents have a mailbox key and some other shit for their work.
The spare key to each car (all our cars have 2 keys), is in one big keychain hanging in the main foyer.
For us, the keys look very different, so there is no confusion. :lol:
How many SUVs do your family need? I think you're the human element of global warming.
Oh, and the EX isn't out yet.
Quote from: 850CSi on December 15, 2007, 03:42:54 PM
Okay, we're looking for yet another SUV...
My mom recently got into a bad accident in the 4Runner and so we got rid of it. We're looking for something smaller and less expensive than the X5 (which, by the way, is badass)
Some of the cars we're considering:
CX-7
RDX
EX-35 (I personally think this is the best option)
Out of those three I would look at the CX-7 and RDX. The EX does not interest me much...
I personally think the EX looks great. It would be my pick. But then I don't like the look of the Acura at all.
I checked out the EX35 at the LA auto show, and that car is ub3r nifty :)
I really like the seats and some of the unique color combos available for the car, and the 360' top-down camera view.
According to the Infiniti product rep, it won't be out until January-February, though
Try out a Santa Fe Limited with the Touring Ultimate package. Gives you some really nice features.
Quote from: CJ on December 15, 2007, 08:56:39 PM
Try out a Santa Fe Limited with the Touring Ultimate package. Gives you some really nice features.
Yeah right. :lol:
She's probably looking for something with a premium make.
I don't see why it would matter.
Quote from: CJ on December 15, 2007, 09:02:37 PM
I don't see why it would matter.
To most of us, it wouldn't. To some people it does. To each his own.
Again, this isn't a BMW being traded in, it's a 4Runner.
Eh, both options are open but we're looking to go a little more upmarket on this one than the 4Runner, it seems. I'm having a tough time gauging what exactly my dad wants. We're not sure yet how this is going to work out, she may end up driving the X5 and this car may go to my dad. I'm sort of pushing for the EX because it's supposedly the best combination of drive and luxury in the range. I think we might end up going with the CX-7, if only because it seems to be a little more upmarket than some of its competitors. My dad test drove the RDX and he liked it, he actually negotiated with the dealer but they couldn't reach a number they agreed on.
We bought the 4Runner back in '04 in part because it was big and had a 3rd row. My parents finally realized we don't need something with those capabilities. When the 4Runner got banged up really bad, they decided to collect the insurance money and sell it as-is to a body shop.
This situation would be a lot simpler if we didn't have the 3er. My dad's driving it now but he doesn't like driving it all the time, my mom only drives stick when she has to, and both of them don't like driving small cars for some reason (I dunno, maybe when you drive an SUV for like 10 years straight it gets to you). I kept it parked on the street at school up until recently (I used it only to go home, which I liked because it was getting a major break on mileage after last year's 300 mile round trips every weekend); they came and took it after the accident. But even if my parents didn't need it I probably wouldn't take it up to school now because moving it whenever it snows is a pain in the ass. There's a bit of hesitation because once we get a new car mine is going to spend all of its time sitting outside on the driveway. We could sell it, I suppose - I'm really not going to need a car until I graduate, because me and my sister can easily share the 6er when she doesn't have school / I'm at home.
Quote from: CALL_911 on December 15, 2007, 03:47:02 PM
I don't think you want a 3rd Bimmer (I mean, I wouldn't mind.)
Could she do an A4 Avant?
The X3 is a lot more expensive than the RDX or EX, mainly due to the fact that the 2.5i model is gone. That, and we just got rid of ours. My dad liked it, but I always thought that it had very few endearing qualities, other than the fact that it was absurdly tossable for an SUV.
They like SUVs because of the seating position, so something like an A4 Avant is out.
The X5, btw, has one of the best manumatic functions I've encountered. Crisp, quick shifts.
I think my parents are starting to regret buying it in black, though. :lol:
Quote from: 850CSi on December 15, 2007, 11:57:25 PM
The X3 is a lot more expensive than the RDX or EX, mainly due to the fact that the 2.5i model is gone. That, and we just got rid of ours. My dad liked it, but I always thought that it had very few endearing qualities, other than the fact that it was absurdly tossable for an SUV.
They like SUVs because of the seating position, so something like an A4 Avant is out.
Volvo XC70.
Quote from: 850CSi on December 15, 2007, 11:59:01 PM
The X5, btw, has one of the best manumatic functions I've encountered. Crisp, quick shifts.
I think my parents are starting to regret buying it in black, though. :lol:
The 5er's "manumatic" is decent, but it won't always let you downshift, and it has a mind of its own. Manumatics just plain suck.
Update:
Well, we went and test drove the CX-7 and RDX today. We also checked out the Pathfinder.
She decided she wanted something more upmarket than the CX-7 (which was alright, but the engine was absurdly thrashy and loud, and the interior looked/felt really cheap for the money) and Pathfinder.
She liked the RDX. I drove it as well... The steering is light and the brakes could use some more feel, but it's quick and handles nicely. It's likely going to be it.
She should really drive the Hyundai Santa Fe. It stresses comfort/refinement over sportiness more than the other upscalish compact SUVs. Much nicer inside and quieter than the CX-7.
Quote from: 850CSi on December 18, 2007, 01:45:50 PM
Update:
Well, we went and test drove the CX-7 and RDX today. We also checked out the Pathfinder.
She decided she wanted something more upmarket than the CX-7 (which was alright, but the engine was absurdly thrashy and loud, and the interior looked/felt really cheap for the money) and Pathfinder.
She liked the RDX. I drove it as well... The steering is light and the brakes could use some more feel, but it's quick and handles nicely. It's likely going to be it.
Check out the XC70 and XC90. I don't know if you lease, but there are attractive lease deals on those right now.
Quote from: ifcar on December 18, 2007, 01:46:47 PM
She should really drive the Hyundai Santa Fe. It stresses comfort/refinement over sportiness more than the other upscalish compact SUVs. Much nicer inside and quieter than the CX-7.
She wants something more "upmarket" than a Mazda and a Nissan so you recommend a Hyundai?
Quote from: 850CSi on December 18, 2007, 01:45:50 PM
Update:
Well, we went and test drove the CX-7 and RDX today. We also checked out the Pathfinder.
She decided she wanted something more upmarket than the CX-7 (which was alright, but the engine was absurdly thrashy and loud, and the interior looked/felt really cheap for the money) and Pathfinder.
She liked the RDX. I drove it as well... The steering is light and the brakes could use some more feel, but it's quick and handles nicely. It's likely going to be it.
That RDX is a good choice. I hope she goes for one of those.
I must say, I wish my family was as good at buying cars as yours. I doubt mine will replace the Allroad until right after it's serviced and they will, yet again, realize how expensive it is to own a fairly complex Audi with 120,000 miles.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on December 18, 2007, 03:05:16 PM
She wants something more "upmarket" than a Mazda and a Nissan so you recommend a Hyundai?
He complained not about the badge, but about the interior quality and the engine noise.
Quote from: ifcar on December 18, 2007, 03:12:09 PM
He complained not about the badge, but about the interior quality and the engine noise.
Upmarket usually refers at least partially to the badge.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on December 18, 2007, 03:05:16 PM
She wants something more "upmarket" than a Mazda and a Nissan so you recommend a Hyundai?
The Santa Fe is a more upmarket vehicle than the CX-7 and Pathfinder, those two put their main focus on either performance or capability, the Santa Fe is much more luxurious. There is far more to upmarket than the badge, though I wouldn't expect you to understand.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on December 18, 2007, 03:05:16 PM
She wants something more "upmarket" than a Mazda and a Nissan so you recommend a Hyundai?
He isn't badge shopping.
"(which was alright, but the engine was absurdly
thrashy and loud, and the
interior looked/felt really cheap for the money)"
The Santa Fe is much more luxurious then the CX-7 and Pathfinder. It's a great recommendation for people who want luxury.
It's funny how you automatically discount Hyundai just because it's a Hyundai. Even if he does want to equate "badge shopping" into his purchase (like you seem to think). He should at least give Hyundai a consideration (seeing it fits his criteria pretty well).
Quote from: TBR on December 18, 2007, 03:17:32 PM
The Santa Fe is a more upmarket vehicle than the CX-7 and Pathfinder, those two put their main focus on either performance or capability, the Santa Fe is much more luxurious. There is far more to upmarket than the badge, though I wouldn't expect you to understand.
The term "upmarket" isn't synonymous with more luxurious and less performance orientated. I don't think the Santa Fe is any more upmarket than the C7 or Pathfinder.
Quote from: MrH on December 18, 2007, 03:53:11 PM
The term "upmarket" isn't synonymous with more luxurious and less performance orientated. I don't think the Santa Fe is any more upmarket than the C7 or Pathfinder.
Thank you.
Upmarket hasn't been clearly defined by the original poster.
But from his comments, it seems that he wants something with better interior quality and engine noise.
"(which was alright, but the engine was absurdly thrashy and loud, and the interior looked/felt really cheap for the money) and Pathfinder."
Thus, recommending the Santa Fe seems like a reasonable choice.
Edit:
Also, when looking at a post before that.
"I think we might end up going with the CX-7, if only because it seems to be a little more upmarket than some of its competitors"
It seems his definition of upmarket may not solely be based upon the badge alone.
Quote from: MrH on December 18, 2007, 03:53:11 PM
The term "upmarket" isn't synonymous with more luxurious and less performance orientated. I don't think the Santa Fe is any more upmarket than the C7 or Pathfinder.
In this context it is.
They should still drive one to see if they like it.
The Santa Fe is hardly up-market. It's a very nice car but there is some evidence of cost cutting. I really like it, but it's no BMW.
Quote from: nickdrinkwater on December 19, 2007, 12:56:45 AM
The Santa Fe is hardly up-market. It's a very nice car but there is some evidence of cost cutting. I really like it, but it's no BMW.
No one said it was a BMW.
There has been a confusion over the definition of upmarket.
When TBR said the Santa Fe was more upmarket. He meant in comparison to the CX-7 and the Pathfinder. He was referring to interior quality and essentially the amount of luxury the car holds (in comparison to the two vehicles). He did not mean it was at Audi, BMW, or Mercedes standards.
I don't think it's more upmarket than the Pathfinder.
Quote from: nickdrinkwater on December 19, 2007, 10:56:11 AM
I don't think it's more upmarket than the Pathfinder.
Well IMO, it is.
The Pathfinder is a more performance focused SUV. It focuses on its off-road abilities, towing capacity etc. It's basically a much more rugged SUV.
While the Santa Fe focuses more on the interior quality, road noise etc. It basically focuses more on pampering the driver/passenger.
The Pathfinder still lags behind in interior quality (even after the update). But it isn't designed to be a SUV that focuses on luxury. The Pathfinder is basic in style but high on utility.
I see your point!
UPDATE
We went and saw some more cars today, we were considering some stuff a little more expensive.
Touareg - She liked it, but not more than the RDX; still doesn't impress me very much, either. Doesn't seem to do anything particularly well.
EX35 - Too car-like. In person, it really does look like an ill-proportioned G35 wagon.
FX35 - Too loud, too sporty, and she didn't like the seating position. We all hated how the gauges move up and down with the steering wheel.
XC90 - I don't understand how Volvo sells ANY of these. They look fairly nice IMO, I like the seats, I like the interior layout, and they're supposed to be extremely safe, but the interior materials look and feel remarkably cheap, and for the money you're getting real damn close to an X5 or Q7.
I also suggested the Santa Fe, which we checked out, but they didn't seem to think much of it. On a somewhat related note, Hyundai's interiors seem to use fairly nice materials but the layouts are all weird, uncoordinated, just plain bad. It's like they're trying to be creative but it all ends up wrong. Acura seems to have this problem too, like they pick out random stuff and throw it all together, a lot of their interiors lack cohesion, especially the RDX.
So far I'm not too thrilled with anything we've seen (I guess it could be because I'm spending a lot of time in the X5). The RDX is still the frontrunner. Personally, I think it's smallish on the inside, has one of the ugliest rear ends I've ever seen, and interior-wise could be a lot better, but it's decent for the money.
I thought the layout in the Santa Fe was nice. Different strokes for different folks, I guess.
What about the little Land Rover suv? (I think it is the LR2)
Quote from: 850CSi on December 21, 2007, 04:27:50 PM
I also suggested the Santa Fe, which we checked out, but they didn't seem to think much of it. On a somewhat related note, Hyundai's interiors seem to use fairly nice materials but the layouts are all weird, uncoordinated, just plain bad. It's like they're trying to be creative but it all ends up wrong. Acura seems to have this problem too, like they pick out random stuff and throw it all together, a lot of their interiors lack cohesion, especially the RDX.
So far I'm not too thrilled with anything we've seen (I guess it could be because I'm spending a lot of time in the X5). The RDX is still the frontrunner. Personally, I think it's smallish on the inside, has one of the ugliest rear ends I've ever seen, and interior-wise could be a lot better, but it's decent for the money.
I think the RDX seems to be the best choice for your mom.
The only other SUV i'd suggest now is the X3 and maybe the LR2. Except the X3 is pricey as hell and not worth it. Your dad owned one before to right? I did really like my friends 3.0SI though. I spent a lot of time being both the passenger and driver in it and I was really impressed. It felt better then the RDX.
It's worth checking out the Land Rover LR2 though. I don't think it'll be better then the RDX.
Quote from: TBR on December 21, 2007, 05:02:45 PM
What about the little Land Rover suv? (I think it is the LR2)
I believe the LR2 is even smaller than the RDX and seems to target a different crowd...
Quote from: AKL on December 21, 2007, 06:52:15 PM
The only other SUV i'd suggest now is the X3 and maybe the LR2. Except the X3 is pricey as hell and not worth it. Your dad owned one before to right? I did really like my friends 3.0SI though. I spent a lot of time being both the passenger and driver in it and I was really impressed. It felt better then the RDX.
My dad just gave back his X3. He had an '04. He liked it, I personally thought it was a poor effort on BMWs part. Sure, it handled very well and drove nicely for an SUV, but the interior materials were crap, it rode very harshly, and it wasn't particularly good looking. The newer models are a lot nicer in every way but they're also a lot more expensive than an RDX (mainly because they got rid of the 2.5 model).
Quote from: 850CSi on December 21, 2007, 10:00:07 PM
My dad just gave back his X3. He had an '04. He liked it, I personally thought it was a poor effort on BMWs part. Sure, it handled very well and drove nicely for an SUV, but the interior materials were crap, it rode very harshly, and it wasn't particularly good looking. The newer models are a lot nicer in every way but they're also a lot more expensive than an RDX (mainly because they got rid of the 2.5 model).
Yeah, the older X3's were not that great IMO. It's only the newer BMW X3 (particularly the 3.0SI) that impressed me. But the sticker price is way too high.
The RDX isn't bad. I kind of like it despite its kind of awkward styling. The only thing I'd really complain about is its suspension. It's kind of rough, I preferred the (newer) X3's balance between ride/handling.
Quote from: 850CSi on December 21, 2007, 09:51:37 PM
I believe the LR2 is even smaller than the RDX and seems to target a different crowd...
I don't know about the size, but from your other comments it sounds like your mom would like something a little softer and more like a traditional suv. It should at least be worth a look, it is a really sharp looking car.
***UPDATE***
It's a done deal.
My parents for whatever reason decided that they favored the Touareg. VW had a lease offer and we decided to go with that, it was $499/mo. for 39 months at 12K miles with zero down and they take care of the first month's payment. We decided that it closed the price gap with the RDX to a level where it was worth getting the more expensive VW, since it's a lot bigger inside and out and has two more cylinders.
The next decision was how well equipped we wanted it. We noticed that the models with the lux package (which gives you wood trim, real leather, xenons, and a power passenger seat for ~$2900) looked worlds nicer on the inside than the base models with silver trim. We basically told them that we'd be willing to go to 520 on a car with the lux package (which is pretty reasonable), but they couldn't do it, mainly because it seems VW Credit's lease special is on that certain base Touareg model. Instead, they gave us it at $492/mo for the base model. Not a bad deal IMO. The dealership will be holding onto the car until 1/1 when we'll pick it up, we did it that way mainly because we really don't need the car. We would probably have made it even later until the end of January but the lease offer stipulates that you have to take delivery by 1/3. Like I said, the main reason we're getting a car before the end of winter is because my dad wants to drive his car as opposed to being stuck with my car every day, especially with the snow. He also liked the 39 month lease because it means that we won't have to replace the Touareg and X5 at roughly the same time (the X5 being a 36 month lease).
The car we leased happened to be the one in the showroom (my mom liked the Cranberry/Beige combination, which I also think looks very nice on the Touareg). Personally, it also made a huge difference in my perception. The gray interiors of the Touaregs I had driven and sat in before were drab and uninspiring. This car definitely looked nicer from the outside than the silver examples and felt warmer on the inside.
They also had this offer that saves you a fair amount of money if you already have a WV... I tried to get my dad to convince them to grant the offer since we have a Passat overseas... :lol: (I guess it probably wouldn't have gone through anyways since it's ours but is registered under a different name in a different country)
Since the Touareg happened to be in the showroom, I got to take a couple pictures:
(http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/3932/12222007012or8.jpg)
(http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/956/12222007013jf3.jpg)
Here's the lease offer if anyone wants to see what I'm talking about
http://www.vw.com/specialoffers/en/us/?#touareg
Oh, and I will TRY to take some pictures of the X5 tomorrow. I'm very lazy.
It is a truly lovely car, although I drove the 3er today (it's been spending a lot of time sitting in the garage) and was pleasantly reminded why I don't have a car that big.
Nice choice! The interior does look a little plain, though.
Quote from: CJ on December 22, 2007, 11:01:24 PM
Nice choice! The interior does look a little plain, though.
Thanks.
It's worlds nicer with wood trim but it just wasn't worth the extra money to us.
What all is justifies the price difference besides wood?
Wood, xenons, and real leather.
Quote from: CJ on December 22, 2007, 11:06:05 PM
Wood, xenons, and real leather.
Wood...not worth it.
Xenons...cool, but not necessary.
Real leather...I wouldn't buy or lease a car with a vinyl interior. School buses have vinyl interiors. Luxury cars do not.
Random factoid: People will pay hundreds of dollars on the used market more for European E30 plaid cloth seats than they will for even the Recaros in the "sport" models. Me personally, I would rather have a nice cloth like what comes standard in the Passat or a plaid cloth than fake leather. Luxury means leather.
Have you had any experience with leatherette? But my car and the X5 also have leatherette and you really can barely tell the difference (the X3 had real leather). The leather smells a bit nicer, but it's also harder to clean, harder to maintain, and wears out.
Quote from: 850CSi on December 22, 2007, 11:23:58 PM
Have you had any experience with leatherette? But my car and the X5 also have leatherette and you really can barely tell the difference (the X3 had real leather). The leather smells a bit nicer, but it's also harder to clean, harder to maintain, and wears out.
But it's
vinyl!?!?
Have you ever seen an Acura or Cadillac with vinyl seats?
A luxury car without leather is like a Ferrari without RWD, a Land Rover or Jeep that can't go off-road (I know, I know...), a Perodua that someone actually likes. None of those will ever happen in a sane world!
It's like a Chinese car that someone besides 2o6 would ACTUALLY buy!
Quote from: CJ on December 22, 2007, 11:43:56 PM
It's like a Chinese car that someone besides 2o6 would ACTUALLY buy!
EXACTLY!!!!
What's more important: what is accomplished or how it is accomplished? Is the point of leather to say "I have leather!" or to have...well, whatever people like so much about leather?
If you get the same exact thing, what difference does it make?
Quote from: ifcar on December 23, 2007, 06:53:07 AM
What's more important: what is accomplished or how it is accomplished? Is the point of leather to say "I have leather!" or to have...well, whatever people like so much about leather?
If you get the same exact thing, what difference does it make?
Because no one ever bragged about having vinyl seats in their BMW or other German car...except Raza.
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 11:49:04 AM
Because no one ever bragged about having vinyl seats in their BMW or other German car...except Raza.
I brag about having premium cloth upholstery in my late model dumbestic.
Quote from: the Teuton on December 22, 2007, 11:30:05 PM
But it's vinyl!?!?
Have you ever seen an Acura or Cadillac with vinyl seats?
It's worlds better. In fact, there is no comparison.
Congrats on the choice, BTW. Great car. My aunt has an 05' V8 an loves it, as do I.
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 11:49:04 AM
Because no one ever bragged about having vinyl seats in their BMW or other German car...except Raza.
Is the point of leather to brag about it?
Quote from: 850CSi on December 22, 2007, 11:23:58 PM
Have you had any experience with leatherette? But my car and the X5 also have leatherette and you really can barely tell the difference (the X3 had real leather). The leather smells a bit nicer, but it's also harder to clean, harder to maintain, and wears out.
If you can't tell the difference between BMW's vinyl and leather their leather must be complete and utter shit, because the leatherette is complete and utter shit.
BMW leatherette is quite good.
Quote from: 93JC on December 23, 2007, 01:13:07 PM
If you can't tell the difference between BMW's vinyl and leather their leather must be complete and utter shit, because the leatherette is complete and utter shit.
Their leatherette is actually pretty good. We had it in our E90 323i and it was very niec.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on December 23, 2007, 12:03:01 PM
I brag about having premium cloth upholstery in my late model dumbestic.
You also have them covered with NOS seat covers, so I don't want to hear it.
Quote from: Submariner on December 23, 2007, 12:25:20 PM
It's worlds better. In fact, there is no comparison.
Congrats on the choice, BTW. Great car. My aunt has an 05' V8 an loves it, as do I.
Personally, I think the leather in the E65 is utter rubbish, so I hope that VW vinyl is at least a little better.
Quote from: ifcar on December 23, 2007, 01:00:39 PM
Is the point of leather to brag about it?
Says the person who probably has a vinyl jacket because there's no marked difference between leather and vinyl.
Personally, my jacket, as are my seats, is fabric.
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 02:21:13 PM
You also have them covered with NOS seat covers, so I don't want to hear it.
My seat covers are gone. :tounge:
I didn't even notice the Touareg pics!!!
OMG it's beautiful!
:wub: :wub: :wub:
I love my 2005 V8 that I bought last December, it's amazing. Oh wait...
:cry: :cry: :cry:
Nah seriously, it's an amazing car. I really love my family's Touareg and it's one of the best vehicles i've ever driven.
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 02:38:12 PM
Bullshit.
They are. The dog scratched a tear into one of them so they're in my laundry room now. I'm going to get some new ones asap.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on December 23, 2007, 02:40:02 PM
They are. The dog scratched a tear into one of them so they're in my laundry room now. I'm going to get some new ones asap.
With NOS ones? Or are you going to get, oh, maybe the ones with kanji on them or "Powered by VTEC"?
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 02:42:58 PM
With NOS ones? Or are you going to get, oh, maybe the ones with kanji on them or "Powered by VTEC"?
I was thinking of just getting whatever's cheapest at Wal Mart.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on December 23, 2007, 02:46:26 PM
I was thinking of just getting whatever's cheapest at Wal Mart.
No powered by VTAK then. Oh well. When are you getting your LEATHER 300M seats?
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 02:49:22 PM
No powered by VTAK then. Oh well. When are you getting your LEATHER 300M seats?
This summer. I simply don't have the will to bolt them in the winter since some minor modifications are necessary, it's not plug and play. I also don't have the space to store them until the summer, or the money to buy them right now. It'll set me back about $400.
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 02:21:13 PM
Says the person who probably has a vinyl jacket because there's no marked difference between leather and vinyl.
Personally, my jacket, as are my seats, is fabric.
If you can't tell a difference, then for all practical purposes there is no difference.
Quote from: ifcar on December 23, 2007, 03:08:19 PM
If you can't tell a difference, then for all practical purposes there is no difference.
I don't think I'm going to win this argument with you. I think it is moot.
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 03:15:37 PM
I don't think I'm going to win this argument with you. I think it is moot.
You just didn't tell me a single reason why real leather is better than a top-notch imitation indistinguishable from the real thing. If you can't think of one either, I can understand that, but if there is a legitimate reason, out with it already!
If there is no legitimate reason, of course, I can see why you're trying to end discussion.
Vinyl tends to get hotter in the sun than leather.
Quote from: CJ on December 23, 2007, 04:16:14 PM
Vinyl tends to get hotter in the sun than leather.
I thought it was the other way around. We've had cars with leather before, but the 323i was the only car we ever had with leatherette, and it didn't seem to get too hard.
I live in Texas. I'm pretty sure that I would know what gets hotter in the summer.
That's fine, but you've never had a car with leatherette at the same time as having a car with leather. I have. :ohyeah:
(http://photos-072.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v82/167/69/808720649/n808720649_611072_6232.jpg)
That's the 323i's temperature guage.
33* C is equivalent to 91.4* Fahrenheit. That's one of the colder days last summer.
Hmm...then why have I experienced both in 105 degree heat? Oh, right, because I went with my uncle to pick up their 550i from the dealer after getting a service. It had the window sticker in it, and it said it had leatherette. Her car has leather and had been sitting outside for who knows when. All I know was that it was HOT in there. The leather was cooler and the vinyl was hotter.
BTW, I always check to see if the window sticker of loaner/rental cars have their window stickers. Our rental Accord had its sticker, and the Magnum we had in SF had it too.
Quote from: CJ on December 23, 2007, 09:42:19 PM
Hmm...then why have I experienced both in 105 degree heat? Oh, right, because I went with my uncle to pick up their 550i from the dealer after getting a service. It had the window sticker in it, and it said it had leatherette. Her car has leather and had been sitting outside for who knows when. All I know was that it was HOT in there. The leather was cooler and the vinyl was hotter.
I'm not going to get into an argument with you, but there are many variables to that scenario. From my experience, vinyl/leatherette stays slightly cooler.
You also live in Canada.
Quote from: CJ on December 23, 2007, 09:50:24 PM
You also live in Canada.
That means what, exactly? Canada gets really hot here in the summer. Are you one of those oblivious, ignorant Americans who think we all live in igloos?
No, I'm not. I'm saying that it doesn't get as hot as it does in Texas.
Quote from: the Teuton on December 23, 2007, 02:21:13 PM
You also have them covered with NOS seat covers, so I don't want to hear it.
Personally, I think the leather in the E65 is utter rubbish, so I hope that VW vinyl is at least a little better.
Says the person who probably has a vinyl jacket because there's no marked difference between leather and vinyl.
Personally, my jacket, as are my seats, is fabric.
Well it's not great compared to the real thing, but compared to Vinyl of years past...
Quote from: CJ on December 23, 2007, 04:16:14 PM
Vinyl tends to get hotter in the sun than leather.
Leather's main advantage over even the best vinyl applications is that it stays cooler when it's hot and warmer when it's cold. Temperature-wise, it's a lot better than the fake stuff.
Quote from: 850CSi on December 24, 2007, 12:10:38 AM
Leather's main advantage over even the best vinyl applications is that it stays cooler when it's hot and warmer when it's cold. Temperature-wise, it's a lot better than the fake stuff.
Thank you. Evidently the fact that my current daily driver has cloth seats discounts my opinion on the matter.
When did I say that? Besides, he just reiterated my point.
Quote from: CJ on December 23, 2007, 01:17:23 PM
BMW leatherette is quite good.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on December 23, 2007, 01:37:46 PM
Their leatherette is actually pretty good. We had it in our E90 323i and it was very niec.
Sorry, wrong, it's crap.
Quote from: CJ on December 23, 2007, 09:42:19 PM
Hmm...then why have I experienced both in 105 degree heat? Oh, right, because I went with my uncle to pick up their 550i from the dealer after getting a service. It had the window sticker in it, and it said it had leatherette. Her car has leather and had been sitting outside for who knows when. All I know was that it was HOT in there. The leather was cooler and the vinyl was hotter.
One small problem...
The 550i is leather only. Unless you were talking about their loaner car, which was probably a 325i/328i
Quote from: CALL_911 on December 29, 2007, 01:49:56 PM
One small problem...
The 550i is leather only. Unless you were talking about their loaner car, which was probably a 325i/328i
Talking about the loaner. It was a 328i.
Quote from: CJ on December 29, 2007, 03:14:55 PM
Talking about the loaner. It was a 328i.
Chip, chip, cheerio. Run along now and go enjoy your school bus vinyl interior then.[/British accent]
You guys are all a bunch of weenies for arguing over whose location gives them better testing conditions on the cooling effects of leather and leatherette.
We took delivery of the Touareg today. I got to drive it. I like it a lot. My mom is pleased. And my dad likes the fact that the X5 is now his.
My poor car is sitting outside in the snow. I think I'm going to buy a car cover.
Wow, you guys go through cars pretty fast.
Quote from: Raghavan on January 02, 2008, 12:00:58 AM
Wow, you guys go through cars pretty fast.
Yeah, sorta. Typically around 3-4 years each. That will hold up with at least the X5 and Touareg since they're both ~3-year leases. I'll probably hold onto my car for a while (I've already had it for more than 2 years) but it depends on my own financial situation after I graduate (I'm guessing I'll end up holding onto it for at least 6 years all in all). No idea how long the 6s will stay in the family.
The 6s? You guys have a Mazda 6s too? Or is it something else?
Quote from: MrH on January 02, 2008, 12:51:15 AM
The 6s? You guys have a Mazda 6s too?
Yeah, sister's car.
Now, I love Mazda's. I love the 6 too.
But she got a Mazda6 and you got a 3-series?
Somebody got hosed. :lol:
:lol:
My car was kind of the result of a bet between me and my dad, I don't think I would have gotten something quite that nice otherwise.
Quote from: 850CSi on January 02, 2008, 03:24:22 PM
:lol:
My car was kind of the result of a bet between me and my dad, I don't think I would have gotten something quite that nice otherwise.
Elaborate on this "bet".
Also, pics of Touareg? :wub:
Quote from: TheIntrepid on January 21, 2008, 10:13:26 PM
Elaborate on this "bet".
Also, pics of Touareg? :wub:
Something related to high grades, IIRC.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on January 21, 2008, 10:13:26 PM
Elaborate on this "bet".
Also, pics of Touareg? :wub:
It had to do with him saying "you get certain ACT score, I'll get you a 3-series". I don't know if he thought I would really do it, but I ended up getting that exact score and he didn't back down. :lol:
I'm not at home, no way of getting more pics.