Buying a new car - BMW/Audi

[DaveNV]

Did you notice I 'borrowed' the slogan?

I just saw that. Hilarious!

There is a jewelry/touristy type store on Kauai at the junction of Koloa Road and Kaumuali'i Highway, (Routes 530 and 50.) The owner drives an Isetta, and parks it right by the door so visitors can check it out. Pretty cool!

Dave

 

[Deb from NC]

I know the OP is into Eurocars, but would suggest looking at a Toyota Avalon- or, of course the Lexus variant. Our experience with them is that one can reliably expect 300,000 miles.

Jim[/QUOTE]

A couple of months ago I bought a Toyota Avalon Hybrid. I absolutely love it!
In addition to being extremely comfy, I'm getting 38-40 mpg and it runs on regular. It also has a great radio I hope it lasts forever.....
Deb

 

[Passepartout]

A couple of months ago I bought a Toyota Avalon Hybrid. I absolutely love it!
In addition to being extremely comfy, I'm getting 38-40 mpg and it runs on regular. It also has a great radio I hope it lasts forever.....
Deb

TUGger Blues bought one last June as well. The thread where he announced that bemoans getting 0% financing on it. What's not to like about that? 40mpg and free financing.

Jim

 

[Deb from NC]

TUGger Blues bought one last June as well. The thread where he announced that bemoans getting 0% financing on it. What's not to like about that? 40mpg and free financing.

Jim

I must have missed that thread, I'll have to check it out! (And we got the 0% financing too :whoopie It was the most painless car purchase I've ever gone through !

 

[Blues]

Here's the thread: http://www.tugbbs.com/forums/showthread.php?t=212832

I have to admit that it was partially tongue-in-cheek; but only partially. My hesitation is that I'm retiring in 2 1/2 years, and have been totally debt-free in anticipation (no mortgage, no car loans). So it feels weird to take on a car loan at this point in time. But we've all gotta do what we've gotta do :hysterical:

Anyway, yes I'm still thoroughly enjoying my Avalon Hybrid. I almost seconded the recommendation to GregT, but it seems that he really prefers Beemers. Chacun a son gout But anyway, the last couple of days our sister-in-law and niece visited for a couple of days. I used the Avalon to drive them around Monterey, sightseeing. SIL got in the back seat and started oohing and aahing about how cushy it was and the leather seats. That made me feel especially good, as she drives a really fancy Lexus sports car which I've also drooled over.

My long-term average gas mileage has been 39.1 mpg, including a mix of city and highway. And Deb, I'm sure it will last for around 300k miles. I gave my old '97 Avalon to my daughter-in-law, and it was still going strong at 225k. The only reason I bought a new one was because I really wanted it. Nothing wrong with the old one. I could have driven it for a good lot longer, I'm sure.

-Bob

 

[Chrispee]

I'm now getting other electronics gremlins, which is bumming me out. This includes it not-starting on occasion, which I don't love.

I don't like buying cars because I do it once every ten years.

As a former BMW owner (x4 cars) I would suggest that because of the above two statements you should not be looking at BMW/Audi. I loved all of my BMWs, but it was refreshing to move to a japanese car afterwards and remember what it's like to have truly trouble free motoring.

 

[vacationhopeful]

I should NOT read these types of threads -- I used to have a 944 Porsche YEARS ago. It was great driving and waving at solo guys or honking while driving by construction sites - okay, amusing. I even ONCE did a "training the interstate hi-way construction surveyors" crew -- I picked out just ONE guy and every trip to work would honk the Porsche distinctive horn and wave. After 10+ days, his helpers and other crew members would keep an eye out for my white 944, yell at him and he would look up & wave back. When I drove my pickup truck, no one looked or noticed the horn beep. I kept this up for almost 2 years. It truly was amusing. Simple FUN ....

 

[Deb from NC]

My long-term average gas mileage has been 39.1 mpg, including a mix of city and highway. And Deb, I'm sure it will last for around 300k miles. I gave my old '97 Avalon to my daughter-in-law, and it was still going strong at 225k. The only reason I bought a new one was because I really wanted it. Nothing wrong with the old one. I could have driven it for a good lot longer, I'm sure.

-Bob


This is good to hear! I am loving mine so far, I'm so glad i finally broke down and got a new car! .
Deb

 

[rickandcindy23]

I am getting an Avalon again next time. We test drove every car before buying it. I mean the Audi models, the Acura options (not BMW because our kids are crazy about those, and I am not a fan of the repair costs), and the Infiniti sedans, and some others I cannot remember right now.

I was blown away by Avalon's quiet ride, and I still am blown away, 125K miles and two sets of tires later, it's still so quiet, Rick and I have a nice conversation while in the car. I love it. A hybrid Avalon would be IDEAL for us. We drive a long way to see those adorable grandkids.

Maybe I should go looking. It's been a while. Oh, Rick will say no, of course. But the body of the car is in need of some work. I have found a few dings, and some of the paint has chipped off the body of the car, mostly the doors and the fenders on the side. Ugh! What a turnoff. I am pretty upset over those dings.

 

[capjak]

I have had a lot of cars but the BMW is by far the most fun to drive.

 

[Elan]

I don't imagine too many folks interested in a BMW or Audi are going to seriously consider a Toyota as a viable option.

 

[Ken555]

I don't imagine too many folks interested in a BMW or Audi are going to seriously consider a Toyota as a viable option.

Exactly. It's simply not the same drive, and that's what we enjoy.


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[Elan]

Exactly. It's simply not the same drive, and that's what we enjoy.


Sent from my iPad

To many here, all cars with leather interiors are "luxury cars", and are therefore comparable. Cars are simply point a to point b transportation, and the more the ride resembles sitting on their living room sofa, the better. There's nothing wrong with that, but that's not what most BMW/Audi shoppers are after.

 

[Steve]

I don't even think Lexus compares with BMW and Audi. I think of a Lexus as basically a Japanese Cadillac. They are fine cars, but they are not fun or cool. If you want a smooth ride, plush interior, and being as detached from the road as possible, then a Lexus is a solid choice. But they are just not for me.

Steve

 

[Passepartout]

To many here, all cars with leather interiors are "luxury cars", and are therefore comparable. Cars are simply point a to point b transportation, and the more the ride resembles sitting on their living room sofa, the better. There's nothing wrong with that, but that's not what most BMW/Audi shoppers are after.

I suppose that's true on one level. Owners of higher end Japanese cars miss the fun, adventure, and uncertainty associated with parts that break unexpectedly, electronics that stop working (see post #1), teutonic mechanics, and premature failure.

Owning a higher end Japanese import just gives quiet, comfortably, reliable transportation for many, albeit somewhat tranquil years.

Jim

 

[Deb from NC]

My 2 cents worth....I traded an 8 year old Mercedes E class for the Avalon Hybrid. I loved my Mercedes but after $3500 in repairs in one month (including $800 for a seat belt that wouldn't retract and $1000 for an electric gremlin) I said, enough! I want reliability and comfort !!!! (The MB was low miles too, it wasn't like it had been driven into the ground).
I must say, I am thrilled with my decision so far and really don't miss the Benz. The Avalon has a much nicer ride and I'm not spending time worrying about the next major repair bill!! And my gas mileage has doubled :whoopie:
Deb

 

[mpizza]

A6 Quattro fan here - 7 years and no issues. Still in love the dependable accelleration when merging on our NJ highways! You know us NJ/NY drivers, just put on your blinker and go!

Alot has to do with your individual dealer/repair department - our local BMW was unorganized and always recommending expensive "fixes." In contrast, I've got the same wonderful go-to service guy at Audi who I trust, always on-time for maintenance appointments, loaner cars waiting, freebies for little things like windshield washer arm or bulb replacements. My saleswoman checks in once a year or so to see if I'm still happy - I know its her job, but since she's diligent without being pushy, I have recommended her to co-workers, family and friends.


Maria

 

[Elan]

I suppose that's true on one level. Owners of higher end Japanese cars miss the fun, adventure, and uncertainty associated with parts that break unexpectedly, electronics that stop working (see post #1), teutonic mechanics, and premature failure.

Owning a higher end Japanese import just gives quiet, comfortably, reliable transportation for many, albeit somewhat tranquil years.

Jim

Well, I guess I underestimate the exhilaration that comes from a spirited 30mph, 38.7mpg jaunt to the Piggly Wiggly for a loaf of bread.

Cars that are driven for the sake of driving and are pushed hard are more prone to fail. In other breaking news, the sun came up this morning.

If I want boring reliability, I'll buy a Honda. I've owned two, and they've both been trouble free. Both of my Toyotas suffered fairly major mechanical failures at relatively low miles. Having said that, I wouldn't suggest a Honda to anyone considering an Audi or BMW either.

 

[DaveNV]

I agree with Elan. OP was asking for comments about BMW and Audi. I didn't see him asking for recommendations about other brands. My previous comments were confined to those two choices. It is not my place to try and change anyone's mind.

Having said that, I will again mention that I own and drive BMWs, and like what they provide me - a great driving experience. Enough so, that my spouse also owns a BMW - a 645ci, the hottest convertible on the road - as a purchase I didn't even know was happening until papers were being signed. The car is 10 years old, has been unplanned maintenance/repair free, and turns heads wherever it is driven. It is a VERY nice car, and very fun to drive.

One thing I like about Tug is that everyone has reasonable opinions about things, even if it wasn't what the OP was asking about.

Dave

 

[Kal]

For those of us who only purchase an automobile once in 10 or so years, you can't help but to feel like a newbie. Granted, dealers are more "transparent" but they are pros in the game and are good at slight of hand techniques.

It becomes a real problem at a certain stage when your sitting there staring at various printouts of their proposed prices. You tend to look at their bottom line rather than the OTD [out the door)] price and get caught up in the "need" to get it over with. In my most recent adventure I was holding conversations with 9 different dealers, some 80 miles away. It's too easy to take the deal in front of you rather than play all of them against each other.

Then once you're driving the new ride off the lot, you are certain you've been HAD but don't know how bad.

Advice: Do very, very serious homework then just when you're ready to pull the trigger, sleep on it another day or so.

 

[MuranoJo]

Well, now, Greg did invite other suggestions:

All,

...I've started to do research on a new car, focused on BMW and Audi. I've done a fair amount of research to narrow to these cars, but always welcome comments.

... I don't like buying cars because I do it once every ten years. Any comments are appreciated. Thanks very much!

Best,

Greg

...Advice: Do very, very serious homework then just when you're ready to pull the trigger, sleep on it another day or so.

I agree, Kal. Do your homework, narrow it down, test drive and then sleep on it.

As I mentioned, I was a Bimmer fan, but in '07 when I wanted to upgrade, I wanted a roomier interior without going above the BMW 500 series, but with a fun driving experience and performance. Of all the ones I tried at the time, the Acura TL-S fit the bill. They currently don't offer the same model, but a few of their newer Acura models are a good comparison.

I'm sure there are great options out there now, but I plan to keep mine the full 10 years or so.

Passion about car models might be a close rival to passion about timeshares.

 

[Kal]

... Of all the ones I tried at the time, the Acura TL-S fit the bill. They currently don't offer the same model, but a few of their newer Acura models are a good comparison...

My last car was an Acura TL. The attention to detail in achieving such a fine quality really pays off. I really loved that ride and will certainly hold it as an important measuring stick to any other vehicle.

 

[jimf41]

Currently I own a 2006 A4 Cabriolet and a 2005 A6 sedan. I looked at BMW, Saab, Jag and Audi when we were shopping. I don't like the style of Mercedes so I didn't really research them. Prior to the Audi's my wife drove a Jag X Type and I had a Saab 9-5, 6 cyl turbo. The Jag looked beautiful and my bride loved driving around town with that Jag ornament on the hood. Other than that it was uncomfortable, slow and drove like a brick. The Saab on the other hand was probably the best car I've ever owned. They went out of business but I really do wish somebody would have bought those seats.

OK, back to the Audi's and BMW's. The only two reasons to choose one over the other are style and drive system. Both are fast, reliable, have good dealer support and great snob appeal although I think the BMW has the edge here. Audi has an edge in electronic tech. The MMI system is much easier to manipulate than BMW's system. When I bought the Audi's they came with free service throughout the 48K warrantee period and the A6 even gave you one brake job on the house. They don't do that currently but I think BMW does at least the service.

As I said there are only two reasons to choose. Style is in the eye of the beholder. If you like the way one looks over the other go for it. Audi however has something no other car has. Quattro. Originally developed for racing the system is a fantastic option on street vehicles. I could give a lengthy explanation of why it's not all wheel drive like many other autos are featuring but I suggest you do the research yourself. It is truly an amazing system and has saved my tush on at least two occasions.

 

[Ken555]

had a Saab 9-5, 6 cal turbo. The Saab on the other hand was probably the best car I've ever owned. They went out of business but I really do wish somebody would have bought those seats.

Absolutely agree! I had a Saab 900S and then a Saab 9-5, both were great cars. Had they stayed in business it's likely I'd still be driving a Saab.

Audi however has something no other car has. Quattro. Originally developed for racing the system is a fantastic option on street vehicles. I could give a lengthy explanation of why it's not all wheel drive like many other autos are featuring but I suggest you do the research yourself. It is truly an amazing system and has saved my tush on at least two occasions.

I like the Quattro (my bother has it on his A4) though I had thought it was similar to the BMW x option. I'll have to look it up...


Sent from my iPad

 

[jimf41]

BMW's X drive is just AWD with a fancy name. Quattro is full time 4WD. All four wheels drive all the time. There's no button to shut it off and no switching of the drive wheel from one wheel to another.

AWD is a good system. IMO it's better than PT 4WD on most SUV's and pickups. But Audi's Quattro is the best of all of them.