We test drove these two in their 4 cylinder variants. The Audi saleman asked my wife, "So, what's the one thing you like about your Maxima?". "I like my heated steering wheel". Salesman replies, "Ooooo, yeah, that's the only option we can't get in the Q5". LOL
Anyway, the Q5 is a nicer package overall. The interior had better materials overall and the power delivery was smoother and, at least to my wife, felt a little more powerful than the BMW. The BMW felt like it lacked the quality heft of the Audi. The Audi dealer seems to want to option out the Q5 until they are priced too high, I might look at a dealer with a bigger inventory when we're ready.
We're not buying yet but still looking around. Small luxury SUV's is what she wants. Might not bother with Lexus as there's no dealer close by and the Infiniti EX is tiny inside.
XC60
She doesn't like Volvos but maybe we can look
Quote from: Catman on March 09, 2013, 01:15:08 PM
The Audi saleman asked my wife, "So, what's the one thing you like about your Maxima?". "I like my heated steering wheel". Salesman replies, "Ooooo, yeah, that's the only option we can't get in the Q5". LOL
It's probably a $ 15,000 option. You know, German cars... :ohyeah:
Yes, if it was up to me I wouldn't be paying 45 grand for a car.
Quote from: 68_427 on March 09, 2013, 01:30:34 PM
XC60
Still better then the XC90 ... but still ....
My friend just got a S-Line Q5 (2.0T) .... niiiiiiiiiiiiice
Quote from: AltinD on March 09, 2013, 05:31:07 PM
My friend just got a S-Line Q5 (2.0T) .... niiiiiiiiiiiiice
No question its a nice vehicle
Why not just get a 1974 Ford LTD? I'm sure it has a heated steering wheel as standard. :praise:
Are you also looking at the X1, or is that too small?
Quote from: 68_427 on March 09, 2013, 01:30:34 PM
XC60
(http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-review.jpg)
Q5 and X3 are both perfect combination of luxury, size, and nimbleness. Also, unlike the lexus rx, i wouldn't be embarassed to drive one.
I actually like the new RX. The F-Sport looks pretty decent and the seats seem wonderful.
Tiguan SEL? All the bells the whistles and a few grand less. That's what my mom ended up with.
Very recent C/D comparo of these two + Evoque: http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2013-bmw-x3-xdrive28i-vs-2013-audi-q5-20t-2013-land-rover-range-rover-evoque-comparison-test (http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2013-bmw-x3-xdrive28i-vs-2013-audi-q5-20t-2013-land-rover-range-rover-evoque-comparison-test)
RDX looks like a good value maybe we can try one though she does not like Honda.
I wouldn't even glance at an RDX. The interior's just not nice enough. It's all standard Honda but marginally nicer.
Tiguan is great though it doesn't have the brand panache.
In this price/class I'd be looking at the new RDX or a used RX (still expensive though - ouch).
Quote from: CJ on March 10, 2013, 10:28:24 PM
I wouldn't even glance at an RDX. The interior's just not nice enough. It's all standard Honda but marginally nicer.
I noticed. The BMW is a bit stark as well. No one beats Audi on the interior.
How is a Touareg priced in the US, compared to the Q5?
My one question for everyone looking at the Q5 is "why not consider the Tiguan?" The interior might not be as nice as the Audi's but I bet the options packs are similar and I'd also wager that the interior is nicer than the BMW's. And unless I'm mistaken, they're the same car mechanically.
Quote from: Raza on March 11, 2013, 09:15:01 AM
My one question for everyone looking at the Q5 is "why not consider the Tiguan?" The interior might not be as nice as the Audi's but I bet the options packs are similar and I'd also wager that the interior is nicer than the BMW's. And unless I'm mistaken, they're the same car mechanically.
Not sure I like the styling but let me check it out.
Quote from: Raza on March 11, 2013, 09:15:01 AM
My one question for everyone looking at the Q5 is "why not consider the Tiguan?" The interior might not be as nice as the Audi's but I bet the options packs are similar and I'd also wager that the interior is nicer than the BMW's. And unless I'm mistaken, they're the same car mechanically.
The Tiguan is on the A platform. Q5 is on the B.
I second Galaxy with his Touareg suggestion.
Hell, I don't get the hate for the RX. Its bland and not terribly good looking, but for a luxo-ute for my wife, I'd totally go for one. Well made, comfortable, powerful, luxurious. Its not like the Q5 and X3 are that exciting either.
Quote from: CALL_911 on March 11, 2013, 10:29:24 AM
The Tiguan is on the A platform. Q5 is on the B.
I second Galaxy with his Touareg suggestion.
Oh, did not realize it was built off the A4 platform. Still, the Tig is worth checking out.
the cars you've initially test driven are the best there is to offer in that size range. the tiguan and rdx are going to feel noticeably inferior. the touareg is noticeably larger and not as agile. the lexus rx is the quintessential woman's car. cabin is nice, the ride is probably softer and quieter, but again its not as agile. another option is the cadillac srx, which is similar to the lexus rx. the srx is more the size of the touareg however.
if the x3 and q5 suit your backseat and cargo needs (not a ton of room due to relatively smaller dimensions), i'd suggest testing the lexus rx for a different take on driving. less road feel but better ride. if she likes the rx, then i'd suggest also testing the cadillac.
i like the look of the mercedes glk but i don't think it compares well with the x3 and q5.
The tig seemed way small when I drove it... Wasn't a fan
Tiguan is smaller in every dimension and its kind of ugly. She wants the q5 and has wanted an Audi for as long as I can remember. So I just need to pay off the CX9 which won't take long and we will get one.
Quote from: Galaxy on March 11, 2013, 07:10:22 AM
How is a Touareg priced in the US, compared to the Q5?
I am not sure if they are still selling it in USA ... last I read they were just moving a couple of thousands a year, which is a total shame for such a nice vehicle :(
Quote from: TurboDan on March 09, 2013, 11:32:19 PM
Tiguan SEL? All the bells the whistles and a few grand less. That's what my mom ended up with.
I will take a Passat (not the US model) over a A4, the GTI over the A3, but I would not recommend the Tiguan to anyone, certainly not to those looking at the Q5
The Touareg pricing seems higher than the others.
My wife saw an RDX parked at work today and hated it. :lol:
I'd choose the XC60, methinks, with the Q5 as a runner up.
Quote from: Catman on March 11, 2013, 03:37:36 PM
The Touareg pricing seems higher than the others.
It's indeed a very expensive vehicle. V8 is now gone too.
Quote from: Catman on March 12, 2013, 08:09:26 AM
My wife saw an RDX parked at work today and hated it. :lol:
Acura has not made a decent looking car in a long time ... I wouldn't want an RDX either.
Quote from: AltinD on March 11, 2013, 03:08:19 PM
I am not sure if they are still selling it in USA ... last I read they were just moving a couple of thousands a year, which is a total shame for such a nice vehicle :(
The 2013 US-spec VW Touareg is available with either a 280 HP 3.6 litre gasoline V6 or a 240 HP 3.0 litre turbo diesel V6. Prices start at $43,945 for the gas V6 "Sport" and top out at $59,175 for a TDI "Executive" model. That's pretty pricey over here for anything wearing a VW badge. Touaregs were somewhat popular back when gasoline was cheap but, like all big SUVs these days, dealers can't move them.
They are really, really fucking nice, however. I'd buy one over a Q7 (and a Q5).
isn't the touareg and the porsche cayenne structurally nearly identical?
hardly ever see a regular cayenne where I live. almost always cayenne "S", which is mucho more money.
Quote from: Catman on March 12, 2013, 08:09:26 AM
My wife saw an RDX parked at work today and hated it. :lol:
Current model or previous?
Is the toureg very big on the inside? The cayenne has always seemed small to me.
Quote from: ifcar on March 13, 2013, 08:49:31 AM
Current model or previous?
No idea but I don't think it would matter she hates Acura styling.
Quote from: r0tor on March 11, 2013, 02:11:59 PM
The tig seemed way small when I drove it... Wasn't a fan
You also went with a Grand Cherokee, which is at least a size up from the X3 and A5.
Quote from: Raza on March 13, 2013, 10:57:43 AM
You also went with a Grand Cherokee, which is at least a size up from the X3 and A5.
By A5, you mean Q5, correct?
And I disagree with that. Those three are all very similar in size. In fact, I might say the Grand Cherokee might be a hint smaller.
Quote from: veeman on March 12, 2013, 01:01:21 PMhardly ever see a regular cayenne where I live. almost always cayenne "S", which is mucho more money.
That's the case almost everywhere. The V6 Cayenne has always been the slow seller. Actually it even got introduced a few years after the car first came out.
Quote from: MrH on March 13, 2013, 01:13:02 PM
By A5, you mean Q5, correct?
And I disagree with that. Those three are all very similar in size. In fact, I might say the Grand Cherokee might be a hint smaller.
The Grand Cherokee is seven inches longer, two inches wider, four inches taller, and 800 pounds heavier than the Q5 and X3.
Quote from: Raza on March 11, 2013, 09:15:01 AM
My one question for everyone looking at the Q5 is "why not consider the Tiguan?" The interior might not be as nice as the Audi's but I bet the options packs are similar and I'd also wager that the interior is nicer than the BMW's. And unless I'm mistaken, they're the same car mechanically.
My mom's Tiguan went for $36K and included nav, leather, all the accessories known to man. Not a bad deal. It was down to that and the GLK and X3 for her. She liked the GLK a lot but the options packages and price didn't correlate for her, and she thought the X3 was a little too big - plus my family has a HUGE VW/Audi history going back to before I was even born. (We all remember the story of my dad taking me home from the hospital without my mom so my first car ride could be in his Audi Coupe GT lol.)
Truthfully, I like driving her Tiguan. On a few long trips for business, I've taken her Tiguan because of the better gas mileage and have really liked the agility of it. A feature-laden Tiguan competes in every sense with the X3 (assuming badge snobbery isn't an issue). I'd take it over the Beamer... just a better deal overall. For the record, my mom thinks my LR2 is a tank and hates driving it when we trade cars for a few days. :lol:
Quote from: Raza on March 13, 2013, 10:57:43 AM
You also went with a Grand Cherokee, which is at least a size up from the X3 and A5.
I wanted something smaller... just happened to be that the JGC was the best. I liked the dynamics of the X3 but the transmission was horrendous and the interior was lousy.
I would have went with a WRX hatchback over a tiguan if I wanted something that small... probably would have been more capable offroad too.
Quote from: r0tor on March 17, 2013, 07:32:21 PM
I wanted something smaller... just happened to be that the JGC was the best. I liked the dynamics of the X3 but the transmission was horrendous and the interior was lousy.
I would have went with a WRX hatchback over a tiguan if I wanted something that small... probably would have been more capable offroad too.
Yeah, I'd take a JGC over both the X3 and the Tiguan. The X3's interior is too "spartan" for a vehicle in that class. They have to admit it's not a sports car or off-road machine.
WRT to a Subie, I think the interiors generally blow on Subarus, though purely as vehicles, I really like them a lot. Except in extremely small doses, I don't think anyone looking to drive off the tarmac would really be looking at Tiguans anyway. My mom's is not AWD, so can't comment on that aspect.
Buick Encore.
Only kidding!
Quote from: ifcar on March 09, 2013, 06:01:49 PM
Are you also looking at the X1, or is that too small?
X1 isn't even an SUV. I saw one on the road yesterday and it's barely taller than my G37. It's a station wagon.
Is this replacing your CX-9? Didn't you just get that like 2 years ago?
Quote from: SVT666 on March 19, 2013, 12:56:59 PM
Is this replacing your CX-9? Didn't you just get that like 2 years ago?
No, my CX9 is going strong. 72,000 miles and its been great. I haven't even done the brakes yet. This is going to replace our 07 Maxima.
So you'll have two SUVs? What kind of unenthusiast household is this?!
Quote from: MrH on March 19, 2013, 01:33:42 PM
So you'll have two SUVs? What kind of unenthusiast household is this?!
LOL. Too many carpools and hockey bags!
Easy. Kick the kids to the street. Life's too short to drive cargo boxes full of kids' shit.
Quote from: MrH on March 13, 2013, 01:13:02 PM
By A5, you mean Q5, correct?
And I disagree with that. Those three are all very similar in size. In fact, I might say the Grand Cherokee might be a hint smaller.
Yeah, Q5. It's definitely bigger than an A5.
It's 7" longer, but 4 cu ft more passenger space and 6 cu ft more cargo space. According to the EPA, the Q5 is a "small" SUV and the JGC is "standard".
On topic: i really, really want a Grand C4 Picasso. A loaded `12 is being auctioned now. It's got everything, including an awesome brown leather interior.
Quote from: CJ on March 09, 2013, 06:23:13 PM
(http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-review.jpg)
My Car (ABOVE)! I love it (My 2013 Volvo R-Design), as you know...
I also was very pleased with the BMW X3. The Audi road roughest of all but I was later told by Audi owners and fellow Spinners that it must've been the setting. I was too green and the salesperson even greener to the Q5 to know that the suspension is adjustable. All three are amazing vehicles. Each are different but I would not put down any of them. The MB GLK also exceeded my greatest expectations. I wasn't crazy about the styling of the '12 but the mild facelift since then corrected some of my minor dislikes. In fact, they improved upon the car in every way. It all boils down to personal preference, dealership/service and your deal, IMO.
Quote from: TurboDan on March 09, 2013, 11:32:19 PM
Tiguan SEL? All the bells the whistles and a few grand less. That's what my mom ended up with.
As we discussed many weeks/even months ago, this VW is a hidden treasure! An amazing car. It was very Audi-like. It even seemed more comfortable than the Q5 and far more affordable, even though pricey loaded. Still a bargain with all options compared to other German makes and models. Lots of room!
Quote from: Atomic on March 20, 2013, 04:45:01 PM
As we discussed many weeks/even months ago, this VW is a hidden treasure! An amazing car. It was very Audi-like. It even seemed more comfortable than the Q5 and far more affordable, even though pricey loaded. Still a bargain with all options compared to other German makes and models. Lots of room!
That's what it kinda came down to for my mom. There was no justifying the premium for a BMW or MB after driving the Tiguan. She's not a badge snob, so it worked out perfectly for her.
Quote from: Catman on March 11, 2013, 03:37:36 PM
The Touareg pricing seems higher than the others.
Think you are right about higher prices... But far better deals! When I was looking (pre-Volvo XC60 T6 purchase), the non-diesel and hybrid VW's were being discounted roughly $8,000-12,000 at a muti-brand import dealership in CNY! They were not so generous with their Audi's and other vehicles as I recall. BTW: I am speaking of brand new models. I was tempted to buy one of the VWs at that time but I had already decided on ordering a new '13 Volvo R-Design by then.
Catman: My thinking, why not have your wife pick out exactly what she wants (no compromise) in replacing the Maxi, then you doing the same when it comes time to trade the Mazda? You will both have the vehicles of your dreams and more than likely enjoy using each other's cars. Just a thought.
Tested Mercedes GLK today. Too small ugly inside and out. Rode and drive nice though but wouldn't consider it even if it was cheaper.
Tried a Lexus RX and she loves it. A little more isolated ride but not too isolated. We tried a new ES as well and it was a beautiful car. Huge amount of room and the interior was excellent.
If you liked the ES, try the Avalon - supposedly it out-Lexuses the Lexus.
We were thinking about doing that. I really think a sedan is unlikely.
Quote from: Laconian on April 27, 2013, 03:00:56 PM
If you liked the ES, try the Avalon - supposedly it out-Lexuses the Lexus.
Nice lamps too! ;)
Quote from: 280Z Turbo on April 27, 2013, 03:27:28 PM
Nice lamps too! ;)
The most luxurious feature of all. The reviews are all abuzz about the lamps.
GLK is so ugly inside and stinks outside. Lousy. Needs moar shiney wood and Pontiac vents.
(http://www.truedelta.com/images/mk_reviews/1362256592-2013-Mercedes-GLK-interior.JPG)
Quote from: Laconian on April 27, 2013, 04:03:23 PM
The most luxurious feature of all. The reviews are all abuzz about the lamps.
Quad projector HIDs with LED DRLs available and laser welded LED tail lamps standard!
I really dig the RX F-Sport.
Quote from: CJ on April 27, 2013, 06:46:26 PM
I really dig the RX F-Sport.
Looks nice but not any performance advantage I guess.
Quote from: Catman on April 27, 2013, 04:57:58 PM
GLK is so ugly inside and stinks outside. Lousy. Needs moar shiney wood and Pontiac vents.
(http://www.truedelta.com/images/mk_reviews/1362256592-2013-Mercedes-GLK-interior.JPG)
Yeah, it looks like it's styled for oil sheikhs.
I've never been a fan of the GLK. Something about it just looks so awkward. It almost looks like a 1980s design that have been facelifted a few times in a desperate attempt to make it look modern. And that interior? YUCK! Even if the wood is real (is it?) it is so over-polished it looks like plastic. Overall, this thing screams "I've been built down to a price", something which no Mercedes should ever do.
Before I bought the Volvo and enjoyed looking at various vehicles, including the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes GLK, I was amazed at "deceptive" a nearby MB dealer. I recall this establishment, i.e., sales personnel and manager trying to pass off cars with leatherette as having real leather. He didn't stop there, either.
The entire experience at the one Benz dealership left me with a very sour taste about a business trying to fool potential customers... My thought was that they were pushing whatever they had in stock and not caring to give the consumer what he was looking for. I think leather may be standard now (not certain) but it was the "distributer" (dealership, not brand) that really turned me off.
Quote from: Atomic on April 29, 2013, 04:42:42 AM
Before I bought the Volvo and enjoyed looking at various vehicles, including the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes GLK, I was amazed at "deceptive" a nearby MB dealer. I recall this establishment, i.e., sales personnel and manager trying to pass off cars with leatherette as having real leather. He didn't stop there, either.
The entire experience at the one Benz dealership left me with a very sour taste about a business trying to fool potential customers... My thought was that they were pushing whatever they had in stock and not caring to give the consumer what he was looking for. I think leather may be standard now (not certain) but it was the "distributer" (dealership, not brand) that really turned me off.
The sales woman at the dealer I went to was very nice and she pointed out the leatherette in the GLK we were looking at and I actually liked it better than real leather. :lol: Too bad the vehicle was terrible, aesthetically.
That ES350 is a really nice car, not for someone that wants a sports sedan but a roomy luxury car for a relatively affordable price.
Quote from: Catman on April 29, 2013, 03:22:27 PM
That ES350 is a really nice car, not for someone that wants a sports sedan but a roomy luxury car for a relatively affordable price.
But the wife has final say, eh? :evildude:
Quote from: Atomic on April 30, 2013, 05:17:59 AM
But the wife has final say, eh? :evildude:
Its her car so whatever she likes, they are both nice.
Yeah, count me as one of those that likes the new Avalon better than the ES.
I really like the way the GLK looks.
Quote from: MrH on April 30, 2013, 07:36:00 AM
Yeah, count me as one of those that likes the new Avalon better than the ES.
I like the Avalon's exterior more, but the ES's interior more.
I really like the outside of the GLK. It actually looks truck-like. I dig it. The interior is horrible though.
Quote from: SVT666 on April 30, 2013, 09:54:10 AM
I really like the outside of the GLK. It actually looks truck-like. I dig it. The interior is horrible though.
Could have lived with the exterior but not the interior. Its quite a bit smaller inside than the Q5 as well.
Quote from: Laconian on April 27, 2013, 09:16:29 PM
Yeah, it looks like it's styled for oil sheikhs.
GLK?
This is more like it:
(http://www.cecwheels.com/images/Blog/2012%20October%203/27-2013-mercedes-benz-g63-amg-fd.jpg)
Bought a Lexus RX350 today. They didn't have the one we wanted on the lot so we will have it mid week. Black with Saddle Tan interior. Has most options minus NAV. Not a fan of black but its her car so. :huh:
Pix!
What color?
Already said in my post we should have it in a couple days then I'll have pics
I was joking. You're not hip to the new car response memes!
Lol, I guess not!
When will you post pics?
Quote from: veeman on March 12, 2013, 01:01:21 PM
isn't the touareg and the porsche cayenne structurally nearly identical?
hardly ever see a regular cayenne where I live. almost always cayenne "S", which is mucho more money.
Yes. Both magnificent, IMO. VW really deals of the Touareg and you get a lot of car. Not certain about Porsche but to most, it's in a different stratosphere, I think.
Congrats. Did the dealer give you a complementary SAT prep class registration for your kids?
Quote from: Madman on April 27, 2013, 09:44:02 PM
I've never been a fan of the GLK. Something about it just looks so awkward. It almost looks like a 1980s design that have been facelifted a few times in a desperate attempt to make it look modern. And that interior? YUCK! Even if the wood is real (is it?) it is so over-polished it looks like plastic. Overall, this thing screams "I've been built down to a price", something which no Mercedes should ever do.
Upgraded for MY13, it's far nicer than the 2012 I test drove. I still cannot imagine buying a luxury SUV or crossover with anything other than real leather -- at least on all (4-5) seating surfaces. The fine aroma of the hides is worth it alone.
On something like the mighty Mercedes-Benz GL, I wouldn't expect anything less than full leather, i.e., seats, dashboard covering, armrest padding, door inserts, armrests. Obviously, it's too much to expect and likely having to pay for on more reasonably priced standard Q5, X3, GLK and XC60 models. Full leather interiors are optional on the Bimmer, Mercedes (I am nearly certain) and apart of the Inscription Package offered at Volvo. I assume Audi has an all leather option for the Q5, but not 100% certain.
To each his/her own, I just think luxury-sports and leather seating, steering wheel and gear shifter go hand and hand. After all, we are talking BMW, MB and the like...
Quote from: Catman on May 04, 2013, 02:39:55 PM
Bought a Lexus RX350 today. They didn't have the one we wanted on the lot so we will have it mid week. Black with Saddle Tan interior. Has most options minus NAV. Not a fan of black but its her car so. :huh:
SWEET! I missed this, buddy :ohyeah: I was so focused on the "BMW vs. Audi" comparison. Gotta see pics, Greg!
Saddle is my favorite color interior! Really into the richness of it. Not too light, not too dark... Perfect :tounge:
I look as closely at the interior color as that of the car's exterior. Thinking back at my many Nissan Maxima's, I couldn't bring myself to going too light with either Blonde (very light beige) or Frost (extremely light gray, but sweet). I was getting sick of their beautiful Charcoal (essential black), but it was the safest choice.
I am impressed with the two tone R-Design interior I drive now (Off-Black/Soft-Beige), as the lighter color brightens up the interior but is where it is far easier to keep spotless.
Quote from: Catman on May 04, 2013, 02:39:55 PM
Bought a Lexus RX350 today. They didn't have the one we wanted on the lot so we will have it mid week. Black with Saddle Tan interior. Has most options minus NAV. Not a fan of black but its her car so. :huh:
Couldn't find a car more stereotypical?
Its a good car for her. Not my style but its nice, no doubt. We haven't got it yet. They didn't have a black/saddle tan in the inventory so they are getting one from CT or NY or something.
Nice pics.
Lol
Quote from: Catman on May 06, 2013, 12:45:13 PM
Its a good car for her. Not my style but its nice, no doubt. We haven't got it yet. They didn't have a black/saddle tan in the inventory so they are getting one from CT or NY or something.
Which black did she choose? They off the RX in two shades.
Quote from: Atomic on May 06, 2013, 01:51:31 PM
Which black did she choose? They off the RX in two shades.
Its the straight black not the one with the metal flake.
Quote from: Catman on May 06, 2013, 02:08:12 PM
Its the straight black not the one with the metal flake.
Not an expert, but helping an individual in my small part-time auto consulting business. She's moving up into a Lexus so I learned the colors. Lol. But so true.
Two blacks: Obsidian and Stargazer
The Saddle Tan interior has Expresso Brown trim: The Premium Package (opt.) is with Birdseye Maple Trim, with the optional Luxury Package adding additional Birdseye Maple Trim to the steering wheel, gearshifter, etc.
My client is toying with buying one in either of the two black exterior colors or what I think is the choice of two white exterior colors. She, too, loves the Lexus RX. After years of being a Registered Nurse (RN) about to retire from thousands of carefree miles in a few Honda CR-V's doing her home care work, she had her mind set on a 2014 Acura RDX (fall delivery) or moving up and into the even larger all new MY14 MDX. However, she soon realized that what I told her was true. She could not order an Acura vehicle through her local tried-and-true small town Honda dealership. They simply do not carry Acura there and she can always visit the sales and service team for business when her spouse's Accord needs an oil change. I can related to the Honda-Acura faithful. Lol.
There is not an Acura dealership near her so that is likely out. She thinks driving either a BMW or Mercedes-Benz would call too much attention to a retiree caring for a husband 20 years her senior, plus the local MB dealer just sold its franchise. Needless to say, the Lexus RX sees to be perfect for her in every way without being too "ostentatious" and there ia a dealership about 45-60 minutes away. No word from Lexus on any changes for the 2014-MY, but that's what she wants: A brand new RX in either black, white or "maybe" silver.
BTW: Regarding the RX, she loves the location of the shifter -- on the dash (near the heating/air/steering wheel controls). The was a big selling point for her. Is it that unusual, I wonder?
(http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x246/1Atomic/image-188.jpg) (http://s185.photobucket.com/user/1Atomic/media/image-188.jpg.html)
Lexus RX Shifter that has Friend-Client Lori Especially Pleased
with Her Decision to Order a New Lexus RX for MY14
Sounds like an Audi Q5 or Volvo XC60 would be perfect for her.
Quote from: Madman on May 07, 2013, 11:54:53 AM
Sounds like an Audi Q5 or Volvo XC60 would be perfect for her.
They bought an RX350.
Quote from: Atomic on April 29, 2013, 04:42:42 AM
I recall this establishment, i.e., sales personnel and manager trying to pass off cars with leatherette as having real leather. He didn't stop there, either.
They probably didn't know the difference.
Quote from: Madman on May 07, 2013, 11:54:53 AM
Sounds like an Audi Q5 or Volvo XC60 would be perfect for her.
The RN or Greg's wife? As for my client-friend, I did not want to interject what I would do since I drive a Volvo and she never mentioned the brand. I think if I had shown her mine, she really would have expressed interest in one. I just took the XC60 out of strorage after driving the 2010 Honda Civic EX sedan (2,000 miles just prior to wintertime!) all winterlong. I wanted to put miles on the Civic, my mom's car (pre dementia). I was good to shield the R-Design and its unique wheels from the massive use of salt to clear Upstate New York roads each winter, too. BTW: The Honda's a beast in the snow with its winter tires.
As (her being) a Honda person, I had no trouble "promoting" the two Acura products she had her heart set on choosing between. She is an older individual but I would never call her elderly -- although I am certain she is in her 70's. This is her second retirement. If a bit more sophisticated with notion of cars and the complexity of some European vehicles in regards to serving and such, I would have introduced the notion of Audi and Volvo. The near perfect reliability record of many Lexus products should serve her well.
Quote from: SVT666 on April 30, 2013, 09:54:10 AM
I really like the outside of the GLK. It actually looks truck-like. I dig it. The interior is horrible though.
Same here. The vents would be the final straw for me. And I hate MB's penchant for "pop up" style nav/LCD touch screens.
Congrats on the RX, Greg!
I really gotta ask, what compels you people (giant, atomic) to store your Volvos and Audis over the winter? What the hell else is the purpose of buying one?
Quote from: CALL_911 on May 07, 2013, 03:36:05 PM
I really gotta ask, what compels you people (giant, atomic) to store your Volvos and Audis over the winter? What the hell else is the purpose of buying one?
Only having the extremely low mileage Civic and a mother with dementia with a spare set of keys to it hidden somewhere :lol:. Gotta laugh despite the horror of the disease process and seeing its effects on her. But that all aside, I never in a million years bought the Volvo (especially with its AWD) thinking of storing it for more than a night.
It was taking ownership of the 2010 Civic, having a low milage 2007 Accord EX sedan (since gifted to my niece) and needing to travel an unusually prolonged period of time for work (special assignment x3 months 7 days/week) and my mom saying "take my car" ~ the Civic was so practical for my out of town contractual gig. BTW: We still refer to the Civic has my mother's car and now she say's "let's take the Volvo" ~ the three months awarded me the opportunity to visit with her almost daily and helping maintain the house, lawn and gardens.
The Accord was my dad's who died just over a year ago. Other than those special circumstances, I could not think of a better all year vehicle for my needs than the Volvo XC60 T6. Post-MVA, I was pretty shaky driving anything but the Volvo but I did like the maneuverability of the Honda in tight parking spaces. I am making up for lost time having my R-Design out and about.
Also, 911, I think the only type of car I would purchase with the thought of storing winters is a convertible/roadster but owning a droptop doesn't make a lot of sense in NYS. For what seems like such a short season and linger PTSD associated with the near fatal vehicular accident, I do not know how much enjoyment I would get out of owning a convertible.
But if I did...
(http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x246/1Atomic/image-189.jpg) (http://s185.photobucket.com/user/1Atomic/media/image-189.jpg.html)
2013 Volvo C70 with Inscription Package, above :wub:
Quote from: Madman on May 07, 2013, 11:54:53 AM
Sounds like an Audi Q5 or Volvo XC60 would be perfect for her.
Quote from: Atomic on May 07, 2013, 03:31:12 PM
The RN or Greg's wife?
I meant the RN. Sorry, I should have been more clear.
Quote from: Atomic on May 07, 2013, 03:31:12 PM
As for my client-friend, I did not want to interject what I would do since I drive a Volvo and she never mentioned the brand. I think if I had shown her mine, she really would have expressed interest in one
Wait, if you're going to be a consultant, shouldn't you be presenting your client ALL her options? :huh:
Since she already said she found the the Merc and the BMW too flash for her tastes, I think the Q5 or XC60 would be a perfect fit for her. Both have a quality of understated elegance and I believe neither will draw unwanted attention.
Quote from: Madman on May 07, 2013, 05:52:13 PM
I meant the RN. Sorry, I should have been more clear.
Wait, if you're going to be a consultant, shouldn't you be presenting your client ALL her options? :huh:
Since she already said she found the the Merc and the BMW too flash for her tastes, I think the Q5 or XC60 would be a perfect fit for her. Both have a quality of understated elegance and I believe neither will draw unwanted attention.
I was waiting for that question. Well, I thought someone might ask anyway. It was rather clear that it had to be Asian make and model from praise for Honda and fear of delving into high service charges and repair repair bills. The questionnaire I devised ruled out everything except for the two Acura's actually but distance was a huge factor with an ill mate and his many local medical appointments keeping them close to home. There was also the "must have" minivan type center shifter that suddenly came into play when we looked at the Lexus.
Distance was a major factor for her, too, as I mentioned and not many new vehicle luxury dealerships in easy reach. Watching her help getting her frail husband in and out of their CR-V (to be replaced) and newer Accord, the Lexus was what she categorized as being the best of both worlds. In their lives, the term crossover fits them like few others. She sees the Honda Pilot as being a truck, but not its Acura brethren. I used the term friend and client loosely... The charge for my service in this case? A home cooked meal :praise:
Lori (client/friend) raved about this pics of the 2014 Acura MDX and its inviting interior. Even somewhat fixated on the desirable 2013 Lexus RX dash shifter, I could see where she would like the feeling of security of the "near driver" lever on the Acura, too. Again, all of this is from her perspective -- the many things I learned after hours of discussing HER likes and dislikes. She is a small lady and everything on both Acura's she loves (the 2013 RDX, MY14 MDX) and the RX seem straightforward and easy to reach from the commanding view of the driver's seat.
(http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x246/1Atomic/image-191.jpg) (http://s185.photobucket.com/user/1Atomic/media/image-191.jpg.html)
2014 Acura MDX Interior
Quote from: Atomic on May 07, 2013, 07:29:48 PM
I was waiting for that question. Well, I thought someone might ask anyway. It was rather clear that it had to be Asian make and model from praise for Honda and fear of delving into high service charges and repair repair bills. The questionnaire I devised ruled out everything except for the two Acura's actually but distance was a huge factor with an ill mate and his many local medical appointments keeping them close to home. There was also the "must have" minivan type center shifter that suddenly came into play when we looked at the Lexus.
Distance was a major factor for her, too, as I mentioned and not many new vehicle luxury dealerships in easy reach. Watching her help getting her frail husband in and out of their CR-V (to be replaced) and newer Accord, the Lexus was what she categorized as being the best of both worlds. In their lives, the term crossover fits them like few others. She sees the Honda Pilot as being a truck, but not its Acura brethren. I used the term friend and client loosely... The charge for my service in this case? A home cooked meal :praise:
Lori (client/friend) raved about this pics of the 2014 Acura MDX and its inviting interior. Even somewhat fixated on the desirable 2013 Lexus RX dash shifter, I could see where she would like the feeling of security of the "near driver" lever on the Acura, too. Again, all of this is from her perspective -- the many things I learned after hours of discussing HER likes and dislikes. She is a small lady and everything on both Acura's she loves (the 2013 RDX, MY14 MDX) and the RX seem straightforward and easy to reach from the commanding view of the driver's seat.
I have to say, the biggest downfall to any Acura is their exterior. Particularly the front end.
Quote from: NomisR on May 08, 2013, 04:08:01 PM
I have to say, the biggest downfall to any Acura is their exterior. Particularly the front end.
Yeah, the horrific styling and the knowledge that I'd be paying thousands more for a Honda with some chintzy tinsel tacked on are both deal breakers for me.
Just tell her to save her money and get another CR-V. The Acura badge and the phony sham-snobbery that goes with it are a waste of money.
Quote from: Madman on May 08, 2013, 05:37:08 PM
phony sham-snobbery
Huh, I would've expected you to love that part. :lol:
Here it is. The only lame thing is no xenon headlights. They usually pair that option with Nav.
Looks good!
Thanks I'll get some better pics. Hard to argue the quality of Lexus. Thing is put together excellent.
Quote from: Madman on May 08, 2013, 05:37:08 PM
Yeah, the horrific styling and the knowledge that I'd be paying thousands more for a Honda with some chintzy tinsel tacked on are both deal breakers for me.
Just tell her to save her money and get another CR-V. The Acura badge and the phony sham-snobbery that goes with it are a waste of money.
Everyone's entitled to his/her own opinion.
Quote from: CJ on May 08, 2013, 07:22:59 PM
Looks good!
I agree! It looks great in black, BTW. Congrats, Greg.
Quote from: Catman on May 08, 2013, 07:25:03 PM
Thanks I'll get some better pics. Hard to argue the quality of Lexus. Thing is put together excellent.
No doubt about that, Greg. I have been inspecting a few Lexus and Acura models for the client I mentioned and throwing in Infiniti into the mix, I have to admit -- the Japanese produce some really incredible luxury vehicles. Many have extraordinary quality and noted for superior reliability :ohyeah:
Best wishes and many, many safe and happy mies in it. Keep the pics coming. Cannot wait to see the Saddle interior.