[ToroRosso]

Originally Posted by Jomz

Acura TL and G37X are about to get new models. There are some excellent deals on them right Now.
.

Thanks Bunch Jomz. He is getting a good deal on the G37x.

Originally Posted by Superleggera

Ask him to test drive the new Avalon...
Acura's are more porne to have transmission problems.

Thanks Bud, He currently has a Camary and doesn't want to go for the T Badge again.
Regarding Acura tranx issue, those were for pre 2007 models right?

Originally Posted by Technocrat

How tall is he, I find the 3 series to be small for a tall person (I am 5'11)

The TSX handles better than TL is what i have heard on Acura forums but the TL has got more juice, not sure which is better between G37 & TL.
.

Thanks Mod, he is 6 2, i am 6 ft and found 335 to be slighly cramped. Its between 37x and TL/TSX the confusion now.

Originally Posted by NinadJoshi

If your Uncle has shortlisted the three above, I wouldn't blink to recommend the TL. ..

Heh, He loves the Acura front end, and even I love it. If I were to upgrade to an SUV, it would be either Explorer Sport or Acura MDX.

Originally Posted by kraft.wagen

e, TR do ask your uncle to check out the new Avalon,.

Thanks KW, he doesnt really want to go for the TBadge, still will ask him to give it ashot.

Thanks for all the advices, Much appreciated.

[kraft.wagen]

Originally Posted by josejoseph

I
1 day in Universal Studio, and the next day planning to visit Catalina Island. Not decided, still working on itinerary.

The tickets for the ferry usually gets sold out soon. You might want to book it in advance.

[Jomz]

Originally Posted by ToroRosso

Thanks Mod, he is 6 2, i am 6 ft and found 335 to be slighly cramped. Its between 37x and TL/TSX the confusion now.

The TSX is about to be discontinued. There are even better deals on the TSX than the TL.

[chevelle]

Originally Posted by ToroRosso

Need a bit of advice. This is a kind of uncharted territory for me.

My uncle is planning to upgrade his sedan and has eyes set on either Acura TL/ 335i/ Infinity G37x. Coupes are ruled out and he wants only Sedan.
Requirements
- Good Handling/Power
- Reliability and Maintenance

He already has an MDX and is inclined towards the TL.
I have only driven the 335 before and have no idea about the other 2. Could you guys kindly chip in with the best option that he should be upgrading to.

You haven't mentioned this but is TL gonna be SH-AWD? If yes, its a good option if he wants to stay in Acura family.

G37X already has successor Q50 in market. So price of G37 have gone down to 320i levels - ~$33k or so for base without negotiating. I expect one to get a good discount on G37s.

Performance of all 3 is good but if he values even some amount of driving pleasure, 335xi and G37x will be better bet compared to TL. Have seen transmission issues on TL once it reaches 100k or more.

You didn't mention which sedan he drove before or may be i missed it somewhere. Also how long is he planning on keeping it?

335xi with some options will be expensive - easily will reach $52k or more. Compared to that TL and G37 will be atleast $10k-$15k less with better equipment levels.

My vote from price, driving, ownership perspective of 5 years - G37x=335xi > TL - SH-AWD.

I just cannot shake off the notion that TL is essentially a accord beneath. Also, it will have a new model next year so expect healthy discounts.

[ToroRosso]

Originally Posted by chevelle

My vote from price, driving, ownership perspective of 5 years - G37x=335xi > TL - SH-AWD.
.

Thanks bunch Chev, This more or less sums up my requirement and the answer as well .

His daily driver is a 2008 Camary and he racks up a lot of miles , his Camary is has currently done 168K miles.

Reliability perspective - there isnt any difference between Infinity vs BMW right?

[Jomz]

Originally Posted by ToroRosso

Thanks bunch Chev, This more or less sums up my requirement and the answer as well .

His daily driver is a 2008 Camary and he racks up a lot of miles , his Camary is has currently done 168K miles.

Reliability perspective - there isnt any difference between Infinity vs BMW right?

Well i would say Infiniti is better than BMW. A newly leased 328Xi of a friend has is taillights falling off (the one on the boot lid), after just 15k Miles.

Fixed once and it is happening again.

Chev has good results with his G35, I think. He had only some sensor failures or so, not bad for almost 100k miles.

Arent BMW & G37 much smaller than the Acura?? From the rear seat, I felt the TL has tons of space.

[maddy42]

Nothing like a serious choice topic but just for my knowledge.

Was having a discussion with a colleague who owns a Acura MDX on her next car. She loved the Lincoln navigator but am curious as what are the other options? No american big 3 though

I could think of the following:
Porsche Cayenne
BMW X5
Range Rover
??? Is there something am missing out here?


Also in other topics has anyone out here driven or checked out the Mercedes CLA Class coupe? Pricing looks very much in the get them young range. Any reviews? Know of one guy who just cleared his edu loan who is curious

[DexterMorgan]

Originally Posted by Technocrat

I am close by too, lets have a meet. let me know if any day on the coming long weekend works for you guys. We can probably ask Aah78 if he can join as well.

Sure. I am going to Lancestar, PA on Saturday and be back on Sunday. Monday works for me.

[VIPER_SRT]

Originally Posted by maddy42

Nothing like a serious choice topic but just for my knowledge.

Was having a discussion with a colleague who owns a Acura MDX on her next car. She loved the Lincoln navigator but am curious as what are the other options? No american big 3 though

I could think of the following:
Porsche Cayenne
BMW X5
Range Rover
??? Is there something am missing out here?

Audi Q7 (A bit rough ride compared to ML and GL)
Merc GL (Air Suspension, Comfy ride)
Infiniti QX56

[chevelle]

Originally Posted by maddy42

Nothing like a serious choice topic but just for my knowledge.

Was having a discussion with a colleague who owns a Acura MDX on her next car. She loved the Lincoln navigator but am curious as what are the other options? No american big 3 though

I could think of the following:
Porsche Cayenne
BMW X5
Range Rover
??? Is there something am missing out here?


Also in other topics has anyone out here driven or checked out the Mercedes CLA Class coupe? Pricing looks very much in the get them young range. Any reviews? Know of one guy who just cleared his edu loan who is curious

Considering that your colleague owns a MDX, a 7-seater would be a priority.You also didn't mention budget so i am gonna cover as much ground as i can.

- JX35 *
- Pilot
- GL350 *
- XC90
- Q7 *
- CX-9 *
- Highlander
- Santa Fe
- Sorento
- QX56 AKA QX80 *

If 5-seats are ok, a few more

- ML350 *
- X5 *
- RX350 *
- Pathfinder *

* denotes ones i prefer.

I like CLA. Its gonna be interesting. Is it already in dealer lots available for test drive?

Originally Posted by Jomz

Well i would say Infiniti is better than BMW. A newly leased 328Xi of a friend has is taillights falling off (the one on the boot lid), after just 15k Miles.

Fixed once and it is happening again.

Chev has good results with his G35, I think. He had only some sensor failures or so, not bad for almost 100k miles.

Arent BMW & G37 much smaller than the Acura?? From the rear seat, I felt the TL has tons of space.

I have around 35k on odo and i have owned it 2 years (got it at 90k). Just a bank sensor failure is not bad for a 8 yr old car that was probably abused by both the owners.

Originally Posted by ToroRosso

Thanks bunch Chev, This more or less sums up my requirement and the answer as well .

His daily driver is a 2008 Camary and he racks up a lot of miles , his Camary is has currently done 168K miles.

Reliability perspective - there isnt any difference between Infinity vs BMW right?

Reliability i kept equal considering 4 years warranty on both. If he plans to keep it long term, i would say BMW goes at the back especially upwards of 100k. In that case G37x and TL will be better bet.

Considering he comes off Toyota, you may as well as suggest Lexus ES350 that he may like. IS350 is also a good consideration. He will find these two appealing, will be reliable and get good resale. The downside will be very boring to drive but your uncle will love it.

Maintenance scare of BMW was what stopped me from going for a used one when i was looking for one 2 years back. Yes, many BMW owners say that its reliable, you haven't owned so you don't know, but there are many around me and online that has burned their fingers so why should i do the same?

Reliability of G37x is pretty good. I had 120k miles when one of the sensor failed. That is not bad for reliability when everything else works without failing off or leaving me stranded on road.

[Sahil]

My sister's C350 in Boston is due for it's 3'rd year service. It has clocked around 20,000 miles.

Herb Chambers; the Mercedes service has quoted 600$ for this service, is the price ok? What's the next best option?

[Redline Shooter]

My brother is planning to buy an entry level sports saloon in the U.S.The cars that we have shortlisted is BMW 328i xDrive and Mercedes Benz C300 4matic Sports

We both are keen on picking up the BMW which has been the benchmark for years now. And with the F30 generation, the level has only gone up north. But there is almost a difference of 6ooo$ on the out of the gate price.Hence second thought on buying the Beemer. We are looking at the 2013 models because 2014 models for both the cars are not much different but 2013 models have attractive discounts on them.

MB C300 is a lovely car,looks good with the sports package and premium package. But then it looks very dated before the super aggressive F30. I believe C300 is due for a replacement in mid-2014 or 2015.
As for the BMW we are planning to take the sports trim, the M-kit is on the cards too. But this will solely depend on the availability.
Both cars are quite fast and fun to drive but the chassis on the BMW has the charm of its own.Even the rear seats are broader,has got better legroom now and more comfortable.Merc on the other hand is very comfortable,more practical and matured and hassle free.

Both in AWD versions will not be much "fun" but having both types I find the Benz 4matic to be less hassle then the BMW version.He will have to drive in snow and that's why we are considering AWD versions, but hands down RWD of the Beemer is such a peach.

Lastly i want another suggestion,should we go ahead and buy AWD cars. how important it is to have a RWD car in daily usuage. And how important are winter tyres. Sorry but i have absolutely no idea about them and will rely on my fellow friends to suggest.

We are planning to buy it this week off the inventory of the available showrooms because my brother doesn't want to wait even thou i have been insisting on configuring the car and waiting for 3 months.
Kindly pour in your suggestions.

[Fraz33r]

Originally Posted by Redline Shooter

My brother is planning to buy an entry level sports saloon in the U.S.The cars that we have shortlisted is BMW 328i xDrive and Mercedes Benz C300 4matic Sports.

As for the BMW we are planning to take the sports trim, the M-kit is on the cards too. But this will solely depend on the availability.

but hands down RWD of the Beemer is such a peach...

We are planning to buy it this week off the inventory of the available showrooms because my brother doesn't want to wait even thou i have been insisting on configuring the car and waiting for 3 months.
Kindly pour in your suggestions.

Redline, This question could not have come at a better time: Reason I have ordered a 328i RWD and yes I stay in New England and drive in snow too and awaiting delivery. You can PM me for more detailed questions if need be.

But here is a short answers for all your questions.

1) Cannot speak about MB much, but the BMW warranty is to vouch for. Their A.S.S. is near perfect and hassle free. That being said it is an "Automobile" with some high tech engineering going on there and is definitely bound to failure as compared to the Toyotas, Hondas and Hyundais.

2) AWD: Depends where he stays and who his passengers are : I stay in an area with moderate to heavy snowfall region where accumulations are not drastic as compared to the interiors. If he has a family/kids he would need a AWD to drive around in snow/emergencies. That being said an RWD with snow tires such as Continental/Blizzaks would do fine. I am planning to keep separate set of wheels ( Alloys + tires) for upcoming winter with me to be safe. I picked up an RWD for having FUN the rest of the year minus snow.

3) As far as buying it of inventory, just remember you are plonking 50K+ ( Assuming you are gunning for Msport ) a thorough research is a must. I would rather rent a car for a month and repent later. Additionally the I-drive system has got an upgrade in 2014 with a new touch pad interface if you are planning to add a Navigation option to it.

So in short: Please do extensive research on BMW specific forums before you make a decision.

Just my 2 and 1/2 cents.

[maddy42]

Originally Posted by chevelle

Considering that your colleague owns a MDX, a 7-seater would be a priority.You also didn't mention budget so i am gonna cover as much ground as i can.

A lady was asking, thats the reason i didnt include the budget . A smile or a tear could open wallets quick.

I like CLA. Its gonna be interesting. Is it already in dealer lots available for test drive?

I need to check on this as am not sure if it is available in the lots for a drive. Would be interesting to see how much it would be OTD.

Originally Posted by Redline Shooter

My brother is planning to buy an entry level sports saloon in the U.S.The cars that we have shortlisted is BMW 328i xDrive and Mercedes Benz C300 4matic Sports

You may want to check out the CLA Class coupe. Its got 4 doors. Not sure if it will fit in your search but looks interesting.


In other news was pulled over a couple of weeks back for speeding. It was a citation and was asked to take the defesive driving course.

Opinions on the course:
1) very detailed so can get boring. Been taking it over the past two days and spent about 5 hours but am still not done.

2) The stats and the explanation they give is amazing that it will scare you to drive in your limits. Accidents can happen to anyone is what i learnt!! A couple of mins lost is better than a life lost.

3) Do not DO NOT drink and drive. It can end lives, career, bank balances. If you do a analysis of the positives and the negatives the stack of negatives is pretty high. I know this sounds preachy but just fyi.


Lastly i did mention on the alloys of mine having a crack. I will be getting this checked when i go in for service as i feel i am not the only one out there who faced it. Will keep you posted.


One thing i forgot. Incident happened today at our office parking lot. We were going for lunch in my friends car and he saw a note on his car. It had a note from the towing company which was a warning.
"Do not reverse and park, park head in. Phoenix PD." With a note that car will be towed.

I called the Towing company to know the reason and they mentioned that in AZ as we do not have front number plates the car when parked should have the rear facing the road so the cops can look at your regn.

Interesting.

Maddy

[aah78]

Originally Posted by Sahil

My sister's C350 in Boston is due for it's 3'rd year service. It has clocked around 20,000 miles.

Herb Chambers; the Mercedes service has quoted 600$ for this service, is the price ok? What's the next best option?

Can you list what they are quoting in the service? I'll be able to help you better if you can.

Basic dealer prices:
Oil service & filter should cost between $90 to $120.
Brake fluid flush costs around $90.
Brake pads can cost around $360 ($180 front +$180 rear).
Tire balance & rotation should cost around $90.
Wheel alignment around $160-$200.
Replacing cabin filter $70.

At 20,000 miles, depending on how hard the car is driven, it shouldn't need more than an oil change and a general inspection.
Maybe a brake flush and a cabin filter replacement.


As far as next best option is shopping around, unless your sister has the time or inclination to look for an independent mechanic.
Brake flushes, cabin filter replacements, etc. can be done by any competent mechanic or self.

Originally Posted by Redline Shooter

Both in AWD versions will not be much "fun" but having both types I find the Benz 4matic to be less hassle then the BMW version.He will have to drive in snow and that's why we are considering AWD versions, but hands down RWD of the Beemer is such a peach.

Lastly i want another suggestion,should we go ahead and buy AWD cars. how important it is to have a RWD car in daily usuage. And how important are winter tyres. Sorry but i have absolutely no idea about them and will rely on my fellow friends to suggest.

If the area he's in has considerable accumulation or icing, then an AWD with all-seasons isn't much better than an RWD.

I've always driven RWD with snow/winter tires without any issues and I've had the best results with studded Nokian Hakkas.

Studdless winter tires are a little easier to drive with on a drier road (more grip, less road noise).

Winter tires are important and recommended as their compound is designed to grip better in cold temperatures than a summer/performance tire.

Originally Posted by Fraz33r

2) AWD: Depends where he stays and who his passengers are : I stay in an area with moderate to heavy snowfall region where accumulations are not drastic as compared to the interiors. If he has a family/kids he would need a AWD to drive around in snow/emergencies. That being said an RWD with snow tires such as Continental/Blizzaks would do fine. I am planning to keep separate set of wheels ( Alloys + tires) for upcoming winter with me to be safe. I picked up an RWD for having FUN the rest of the year minus snow.

An issue with the 3-Series when it comes to snow driving with heavy accumulation is the low ground clearance. Because the tires are already low profile, the car bottoms out much easier.

Originally Posted by maddy42

to take the defesive driving course.

You can also do this online at your own pace. You have a month to finish the course.


I highly recommend taking this course even if you don't have any points on your license as it heavily reduces your insurance rates. You can take it once every 3 years.
Try this one -> http://ndss.idrivesafely.com/