Drove one of these today. My lease is up in a couple months, so starting to shop around. Pretty cool car. But it's not a convertible. :'(
Looks nice - Mazda's version of the Honda FIT.
NICE!
My brother mike bought one last year - they really like it.
I have a Mazda 3, I really like it a lot. For the price it came with a lot of features.
Quote from: jedijeff on April 24, 2010, 07:24:25 PM
I have a Mazda 3, I really like it a lot. For the price it came with a lot of features.
Cool! What year do you have Jeff? And engine? Anything you don't like about it?
The guys at me previous job swear by their Mazada3's they love them.
Quote from: Rico on April 24, 2010, 08:06:23 PM
Quote from: jedijeff on April 24, 2010, 07:24:25 PM
I have a Mazda 3, I really like it a lot. For the price it came with a lot of features.
Cool! What year do you have Jeff? And engine? Anything you don't like about it?
I have a 2006 Mazda 3 GS, I believe it has a 2.3L engine.
For the most part, I don't have any complaints about it. It has been a reliable car so far, nothing outstanding in the maintenance. I do notice the brakes squeal a bit from time to time when I backup when it is cold. Also did not really care for the tires that came with it, they were terrible in the winter, and I have already replaced them as they needed replacing. I have two sets of tires now, winter tires, and summer tires, probably best way to go these days with the Winters.
I have a 4 door sedan version, I like it, but I think if I did it over again, I would get a hatch back like you are looking at.
Three things I noticed when I drove the Mazda 3, 2010 version:
Seems a bit "bouncy" on the road. Not terrible, just different than my G6.
Brakes really touchy, but that might just take some getting used to.
Very tight, sensitive steering - again might just need to adjust to that.
The ride concerns me most. Maybe it's the weight distribution but for a fairly smooth road the shocks just didn't seem to handle it real well. But, I'm still looking around. This is just the early stages of my car shopping. Actually drove a GMC Terrain about a week ago. Very nice SUV and good ride. Liked it. Definitely keeping it in mind if I go the SUV route. Want to try a Chevy Equinox too.
A buddy of mine had a Chevy Equinox until recently, not a bad SUV though the inside was definitely very 'plasticky' and I know he had some issues with the brakes before he traded it in. Had it for about 5 years and recently replaced it with a Honda Pilot.
Alos, keeping on the Mazda bandwagon, I just found out my mom picked up a new Mazda Tribute, it'll be her second one. She quite likes it. If I'm not mistaken this is a joint venture between Mazda and Ford (the Ford version being the Escape).
Quote from: billybob476 on April 25, 2010, 08:45:36 AM
A buddy of mine had a Chevy Equinox until recently, not a bad SUV though the inside was definitely very 'plasticky' and I know he had some issues with the brakes before he traded it in. Had it for about 5 years and recently replaced it with a Honda Pilot.
I've heard that a little, but think it's a bit better now. The appealing thing about the Equinox and Terrain SUV's is they get 32 mpg on the hwy. Very impressive for an SUV.
Quote from: Rico on April 25, 2010, 08:35:42 AM
Three things I noticed when I drove the Mazda 3, 2010 version:
Seems a bit "bouncy" on the road. Not terrible, just different than my G6.
Brakes really touchy, but that might just take some getting used to.
Very tight, sensitive steering - again might just need to adjust to that.
The ride concerns me most. Maybe it's the weight distribution but for a fairly smooth road the shocks just didn't seem to handle it real well. But, I'm still looking around. This is just the early stages of my car shopping. Actually drove a GMC Terrain about a week ago. Very nice SUV and good ride. Liked it. Definitely keeping it in mind if I go the SUV route. Want to try a Chevy Equinox too.
I think when you deal with Cars this size, that you will notice things like bumps a bit more. I found the brakes to be a bit sensitive as well, but I adjusted pretty quick, and actually prefer them that way. Same with the steering, I think this is similar to a lot of cars this size, as they have smaller wheel bases then larger cars. For me, I actually prefer my steering that way, sort of used to it. I was coming from a Cavalier, so a lot of the way the Car handled seem very familiar to me.
Mazda Tribute is something I would not mind getting some day, maybe next Vehicle possibly. I believe their is a lot of similarities between the Tribute and the Ford Escape.
If I may offer my unsolicited opinion, Katzekitty has a Pontiac Vibe which we both really like. The ride is pretty smooth, the cabin is relatively free of road noise and the mileage is a decent 28-30 mpg. The seats are comfy as well. It's also been trouble free for the three years that she's owned it. I'm considering selling my Scion xA and getting a Vibe for myself.
What I want to test drive next....
Chevy Camaro Snow Performance (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9cZ-Pbt21g#)
Bumblebee! If we're talking about what we'd LIKE to drive, I want an M3 :)
Quote from: Rico on April 29, 2010, 05:31:49 AM
What I want to test drive next....
Chevy Camaro Snow Performance (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9cZ-Pbt21g#)
We ALL know what you're thinking...
I've been thinking the same :)
You guys just have different cars to us.
Quote from: Feathers on April 29, 2010, 06:30:32 AM
You guys just have different cars to us.
Oh, definitely. When you drive A LOT over many miles, and in a lot of different road and weather conditions it makes your car your second home. At least that's the way I feel these days. I want to make sure I pick one I will love to drive.
Well, visited a Chevy dealer after work today. Drove a new Malibu and an Impala. The Malibu drives very nice and isn't bad looking. I really wanted to drive a Camaro. They only had one (which shocked me) in the showroom. They offered to pull it out for me to drive, but I passed. I wanted to drive the smaller engine version anyway. The big, monster engine just drinks the gas down. But it is fast. Anyway, couple of pics of the red one in the showroom. Kind of dark. All these pics lately are using my phone. Pretty car and I did jump inside and sit in it. It can even handle my 6'4" inch height.
When to a Honda dealer today and drove the Insight - a hybrid. Averages about 43 mpg. Batteries kick in when stopped at lights and stuff. It's kind of weird when the engine shuts off while driving. Pick up wasn't too bad but not sure I could get used to it. Neat car, hatchback, nice look I thought. Rides pretty nice. Not too bad.
I'm glad they made it look less like a spaceship :)
If you're looking at Honda Hybrids why not a civic? I have a non-hybrid Civic and it's not a bad car at all.
Quote from: billybob476 on May 03, 2010, 02:05:21 PM
I'm glad they made it look less like a spaceship :)
If you're looking at Honda Hybrids why not a civic? I have a non-hybrid Civic and it's not a bad car at all.
Funny you should suggest that. I only had time to drive the Hybrid but my next trip in I want to try a Civic. They get good MPG too.
This is the kind that charges the battery when you are driving? Great idea...when I looked at one the cargo area was dinky. Hope they changed it. You get a big tax credit for this?
Very cool - Al Gore would be proud :)
Yup much better mileage on my Civic then I had on my previous Jetta 1.8T.
It's definitely not an exciting car (unless you get the Si) but it does the job.
I'm still not convinced that Hybrids are worth the money at this point.
Quote from: billybob476 on May 03, 2010, 02:22:49 PM
Yup much better mileage on my Civic then I had on my previous Jetta 1.8T.
It's definitely not an exciting car (unless you get the Si) but it does the job.
I'm still not convinced that Hybrids are worth the money at this point.
The Insight cost isn't bad (yes the battery charges while you drive). They warranty the battery for 8 years. I did some rough calculations and it looks like it would save me about $800 - $1000 or so a year in gas. But I'm not sure I could get used to the engine shutting off and starting all the time around town.
When I was buying the Civic I ran some numbers between a comparable 'normal' Civic and a Hybrid Civic. With gas prices at the time (in 08 when they were insane) I figured out that it would take 13 years for me to 'break even' on paying the added cost for the hybrid vs. the savings I would get in fuel.
Not sure if you guys get a lot more government subsidies on hybrids or not.
Some of it depends on how far you drive (I think I put in 15K miles a year - current estimate) and what you compare it to (I used my current car which only averages about 25 mpg). Of course if you compare a hybrid to a car that already gets into the mid 30's for mpg it's a much different story.
I discovered the dealer in Michigan that I got my current G6 convertible from has several 2009 G6 convertibles. Technically used, but most have 100 miles or less. I am tempted to take one off their hands. :)
Went to a Hyundai dealership today and drove a Sonata and a Genesis. Both are nice cars. The Sonata is a four door sedan but I like the way it's styled more than other sedans and it has some nice features like keyless start. The Genesis is a two door coupe and rear wheel drive. A very slick car and fun to drive - and fast. Ahh, decisions,....
The coupe is nice but sometimes those heavy doors can wear. That's what happened with the celica.
I vote for the sedan.
Get the Civic SI. :)
The doors are very light on the Genesis, it's not like older two-doors. But just like the Camaro, it wouldn't be good in the snow. I did like the Sonata quite a bit. Nice ride. They have a few more coming in next week with a few more bells and whistles. And I do like my bells and whistles. :)
P.S. I need to try a Civic sometime too. Couple more pics of the Sonata....
I'm a coupe man myself, that's what I would go for. You don't need a sedan, no kids to lug around, usually just you and the sweet sound of an a inline 16V 4-banger. :)
And if I get the Genesis coupe I can do this....
http://www.treksinscifi.com/video/Hyundai_Genesis_Coupe_3.8_Track_Fun_in_the_Snow.flv (http://www.treksinscifi.com/video/Hyundai_Genesis_Coupe_3.8_Track_Fun_in_the_Snow.flv)
This was my ride back in 2001 when I was still living in Fairfield, CT. The 2001 Audit TT, 215hp, inline 1.8 liter turbo, quattro all wheel drive. I used to tack it out on the track at Lime Rock Park. :)
That's awesome Bryan. Great looking car.
Oh, here's a nice write up on the Genesis coupe:
http://www.tflcar.com/2009/09/review-2010-hyundai-genesis-coupe-20t-track-the-budget-turbo-racer.html (http://www.tflcar.com/2009/09/review-2010-hyundai-genesis-coupe-20t-track-the-budget-turbo-racer.html)
And then when I got divorced I realized the "stuff" didn't matter and I sold the TT and bought this. A POS 1990 Jeep Wrangler off my Uncle for $3K. And I was happy. I felt free. :)
..and then when I moved to Arizona 7 years ago, I bought this one and still drive it to this day. A 1999 Wrangler Sport with a 4" lift. Lot's of great off roading memories in this bad boy, although every now and then, now that we could easily afford it, a used 1987 Porsche 911 still pulls at my sports car heart strings. :) Maybe a Boxster.
Wow, excuse me while I take this wake down memory lane, but here's my old house. A Dutch Colonial built in 1939. I loved that house. the first one I bought. :)
Nice Bryan. Well, frak! Even Jack Bauer drives a Genesis coupe! Dang it - now I really want one!
24.S08E15 Hyundai 3/4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5qqk27T1zo#)
24.S08E15 Hyundai 4/4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JysZSMNmhZ8#)
Quote from: Rico on May 15, 2010, 04:50:32 PM
And if I get the Genesis coupe I can do this....
http://www.treksinscifi.com/video/Hyundai_Genesis_Coupe_3.8_Track_Fun_in_the_Snow.flv (http://www.treksinscifi.com/video/Hyundai_Genesis_Coupe_3.8_Track_Fun_in_the_Snow.flv)
Did you forget Lynn is on the forum now?
Quote from: sheldor on May 15, 2010, 08:54:25 PM
Quote from: Rico on May 15, 2010, 04:50:32 PM
And if I get the Genesis coupe I can do this....
http://www.treksinscifi.com/video/Hyundai_Genesis_Coupe_3.8_Track_Fun_in_the_Snow.flv (http://www.treksinscifi.com/video/Hyundai_Genesis_Coupe_3.8_Track_Fun_in_the_Snow.flv)
Did you forget Lynn is on the forum now?
Nope. I even told her to check this thread out. :)
Oh - this is the car I really want....
Iron Man 2 Audi R8 V10 Spyder Commercial (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxfByTX84HM#)
Nice comments about the Sonata....
Completely redesigned for 2011, the new Hyundai Sonata is one of the most unusual-looking midsize sedans we've seen in years. But that's not the only reason it stands out. The Sonata is now one of the cheapest cars in its class and continues to carry one of the longest powertrain warranties. It also comes with impressive standard features like XM satellite radio and Bluetooth. Reviewers like it so much that at press time, the Sonata was ranked at the top of its class.
Hyundai offers the Sonata with only a four-cylinder engine, though almost every other car in its class is available with a V6. Still, since the Sonata is a light car, it offers plenty of power. Even better is its impressive fuel economy. The 2011 Sonata is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car in its class.
source:
http://autos.yahoo.com/articles/autos_content_landing_pages/1438/best-new-cars-for-2011/ (http://autos.yahoo.com/articles/autos_content_landing_pages/1438/best-new-cars-for-2011/)
P.S. The more I read about this car the more I like it.
Quote from: Rico on May 16, 2010, 09:34:28 AM
Nice comments about the Sonata....
Completely redesigned for 2011, the new Hyundai Sonata is one of the most unusual-looking midsize sedans we’ve seen in years. But that’s not the only reason it stands out. The Sonata is now one of the cheapest cars in its class and continues to carry one of the longest powertrain warranties. It also comes with impressive standard features like XM satellite radio and Bluetooth. Reviewers like it so much that at press time, the Sonata was ranked at the top of its class.
Hyundai offers the Sonata with only a four-cylinder engine, though almost every other car in its class is available with a V6. Still, since the Sonata is a light car, it offers plenty of power. Even better is its impressive fuel economy. The 2011 Sonata is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car in its class.
source:
http://autos.yahoo.com/articles/autos_content_landing_pages/1438/best-new-cars-for-2011/ (http://autos.yahoo.com/articles/autos_content_landing_pages/1438/best-new-cars-for-2011/)
P.S. The more I read about this car the more I like it.
I drove the 2010 on a work trip. It was a nice little car. There were no bells and wistles at all though.
I think you're having more fun trying than you will buying :D
Quote from: Feathers on May 17, 2010, 01:35:35 AM
I think you're having more fun trying than you will buying :D
Oh, definitely. My plan is to drive anything I am remotely interested in buying. Make these guys work for my money! ;)
New car that caught my eye awhile back - Nissan Altima coupe. I like the look a lot and want to drive one. But they seem in short supply at dealerships.
And even one further idea. A Mini Cooper! I kind of dig this.
I like the Cooper but really only the "S" version. I find the base model looks a little crappy.
You better be getting a manual transmission. :)
Quote from: billybob476 on May 20, 2010, 07:23:51 AM
I like the Cooper but really only the "S" version. I find the base model looks a little crappy.
The S version also has a bigger/more peppy engine too I think. That's what I want to go test drive sometime soon.
Wow. I didn't expect you to be able to get those over there.
Yeah we can definitely get the Cooper. We get all the German manufacturers and some UK stuff that's owned by Ford or GM but that's about it. Nothing much from France or Italy (aside from Ferrari :) )or anything else.
Quote from: Feathers on May 20, 2010, 09:26:52 AM
Wow. I didn't expect you to be able to get those over there.
Oh, yeah. Friend of mine has had one for years. Worth a test drive.
Quote from: billybob476 on May 20, 2010, 09:45:30 AM
Yeah we can definitely get the Cooper. We get all the German manufacturers and some UK stuff that's owned by Ford or GM but that's about it. Nothing much from France or Italy (aside from Ferrari :) )or anything else.
Maseratti, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin, Lotus, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bugatti all have dealership respresentation here in Scottsdale. :)
Quote from: Bryancd on May 20, 2010, 12:31:05 PM
Quote from: billybob476 on May 20, 2010, 09:45:30 AM
Yeah we can definitely get the Cooper. We get all the German manufacturers and some UK stuff that's owned by Ford or GM but that's about it. Nothing much from France or Italy (aside from Ferrari :) )or anything else.
Maseratti, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin, Lotus, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bugatti all have dealership respresentation here in Scottsdale. :)
Rich buggers! ;)
I've been watching too much Top Gear but I do love me a nice Aston Martin.
Quote from: billybob476 on May 20, 2010, 12:53:57 PM
I've been watching too much Top Gear but I do love me a nice Aston Martin.
My Dad used to have a 1965 Aston Martin DB5 convertible. It was gorgeous. Before that he had a 1964 Jaguar XKE since college.
Sadly, the only Mini dealer is about 80 min. or so away from me in Illinois. But, I might run by the Nissan dealer and try and drive an Altima coupe after work today. Think it's more my style anyway...
Well, I drove two Nissan Altima coupes yesterday. Basically a base version - 2.5 4 cyl. engine, not many extras, and a loaded 3.5 V6. Both pretty nice, but I'm still not sold. Frankly, every time I test drive a car and then get in my present car to drive home I like it better. Kind of like a nice pair of sneakers that fit you really well. I'm very mixed on what to get right now. I hope to do some more looking at home in Michigan this coming weekend.
Looks like the Chevy Malibu is the closest you'd get to another G6 unfortunately. Personally I've never been a fan of the Malibu.
Quote from: billybob476 on May 26, 2010, 05:04:42 AM
Looks like the Chevy Malibu is the closest you'd get to another G6 unfortunately. Personally I've never been a fan of the Malibu.
The current Malibu is really a great car. I test drove one a few weeks back. Very nice ride and well built - good MPG, but - I'm not sure I want a 4 door sedan. I really like my 2-door style and look much better. My biggest problem is I want my ride to look cool! I know that sounds kind of silly, but it's important to me. Especially for the money cars cost. I want to love the look and always love driving it. They have some basically new, 2009 Pontiac G6 convertibles still around (under 500 miles or less). I'm still tempted to get one of those.
Is your current car a lease? (You may have already mentioned) Would it be possible/worth it to just buy it out?
Quote from: billybob476 on May 26, 2010, 09:28:53 AM
Is your current car a lease? (You may have already mentioned) Would it be possible/worth it to just buy it out?
Yeah, it's a lease. Even though I like the car it's really a bit of a rip off to buy it out. If I want the same car I would just buy one of those 2009's I mentioned above. Cost difference is not that much and it will be brand new.
Quote from: Rico on May 26, 2010, 09:43:05 AM
Quote from: billybob476 on May 26, 2010, 09:28:53 AM
Is your current car a lease? (You may have already mentioned) Would it be possible/worth it to just buy it out?
Yeah, it's a lease. Even though I like the car it's really a bit of a rip off to buy it out. If I want the same car I would just buy one of those 2009's I mentioned above. Cost difference is not that much and it will be brand new.
That's why I gave up on leasing a while ago. I don't need a new car every 3 years if I like it, I would just keep it. Leases are great if you can write off the depreciation if you use it for business.
Yeah - it's the first time (and probably last time) I'll lease. I just was unsure of how well the hard-top convertible would hold up. But it's been awesome. I also like to hang on to things too that I enjoy.
WOW! How did I miss finding this car so far? The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder. Me want! :wub
I know what you'll be driving this weekend...
Hmm..if it drives nice then you may have a winner.
Quote from: billybob476 on May 27, 2010, 07:34:56 AM
Hmm..if it drives nice then you may have a winner.
Going to try and find a place nearby to test one out.
The Eclipse is a nice car, drive the V6, it's a heavy car and the 4 banger is way under powered. And it has all wheel drive for the bad winters!
Quote from: Bryancd on May 27, 2010, 09:17:01 AM
The Eclipse is a nice car, drive the V6, it's a heavy car and the 4 banger is way under powered. And it has all wheel drive for the bad winters!
This.
I always maintain that you will NOT get the best fuel economy by always buying the smallest engine. You have to look at power/weight. A big heavy car with a wee little engine will leave you revving high and burning up fuel just to get the car moving.
Quote from: billybob476 on May 27, 2010, 09:22:46 AMI always maintain that you will NOT get the best fuel economy by always buying the smallest engine. You have to look at power/weight. A big heavy car with a wee little engine will leave you revving high and burning up fuel just to get the car moving.
I didn't know the words 'Fuel' and 'Economy' even went together on that side of the pond ;)
I think the Eclipse is only front wheel drive Bryan. Yeah - I have read the 4 cylinder is a bit under powered, but I'm not sure I want to take the hit on gas that the six cylinder for this one brings. I like the looks a lot, but man, this car does like the gas. We'll see how I feel after driving one. I think I found one close by and will try and go for a spin after work today.
Huh, they used to make an all wheel drive version, but myabe that was the previous model of Elipse.
Well, drove an Eclipse after work. Actually an a 2009 one (but new, only 50 miles on it). Pretty cool, little car. I like the color actually too. Not sure if I would feel to cramped on long car rides though. Handles well and I thought the pick up was just fine. Also went to a Honda place after and drove a 2 door, Accord coupe. Nice car. I think I'm getting more confused though. Here's a couple cell phone pics of the Eclipse I drove.
nice ride!!
The big yellow smiley worried me for just a moment - right in front of the drivers head in this country!
Quote from: Feathers on May 28, 2010, 03:16:34 AM
The big yellow smiley worried me for just a moment - right in front of the drivers head in this country!
Anything to sell a new car!
My only issue with the Eclipse is that it's kind of like sitting in a dark cave, it has a very high beltline. If you do consider it, get the cabrio. :)
Quote from: Bryancd on May 28, 2010, 06:00:02 AM
My only issue with the Eclipse is that it's kind of like sitting in a dark cave, it has a very high beltline. If you do consider it, get the cabrio. :)
Cabrio?? The Eclipse is a cool car, but I don't think it's for me really. Frankly, I think it's coming down to the Altima coupe or another G6 convertible. Going out looking some more today.
Cabrio as in convertible, not Cabrio as in the Volkswagen :)
Quote from: billybob476 on May 31, 2010, 06:04:30 AM
Cabrio as in convertible, not Cabrio as in the Volkswagen :)
The current Eclipse convertible is called the Spyder.
Yeah, convertible, cabriolet, spyder, they're all different ways to say the same thing. Just like how in the UK they they say "two dorr coupé" instead of "two door coupe" and they call a 4 door a "saloon" instead of a "sedan" :)
Oh, I was talking about the actual brand name for it. Doesn't really matter, because the Nissan Altima coupe is the more likely candidate right now anyway.
Yeah the new Altimas are really nice. They really 'sported' them up.
Quote from: billybob476 on May 31, 2010, 06:13:29 AM
Yeah, convertible, cabriolet, spyder, they're all different ways to say the same thing.
You forgot drop head. :)
Quote from: Bryancd on May 31, 2010, 10:51:58 AM
Quote from: billybob476 on May 31, 2010, 06:13:29 AM
Yeah, convertible, cabriolet, spyder, they're all different ways to say the same thing.
You forgot drop head. :)
Sounds dirty... :D
Quote from: billybob476 on May 31, 2010, 10:56:01 AM
Quote from: Bryancd on May 31, 2010, 10:51:58 AM
Quote from: billybob476 on May 31, 2010, 06:13:29 AM
Yeah, convertible, cabriolet, spyder, they're all different ways to say the same thing.
You forgot drop head. :)
Sounds dirty... :D
So the Italians created Spyder, the Germans use Cabriolet, and the Brits use Drop Head. Now that we have that straight, we can move on. :)
Come on guys - I barely know English! ;)
Go with a BMW 328i w/overdrive. Fun car.
Quote from: Bryancd on May 31, 2010, 03:19:14 PM
Quote from: billybob476 on May 31, 2010, 10:56:01 AM
Quote from: Bryancd on May 31, 2010, 10:51:58 AM
Quote from: billybob476 on May 31, 2010, 06:13:29 AM
Yeah, convertible, cabriolet, spyder, they're all different ways to say the same thing.
You forgot drop head. :)
Sounds dirty... :D
So the Italians created Spyder, the Germans use Cabriolet, and the Brits use Drop Head. Now that we have that straight, we can move on. :)
We use what???
Never heard that one before!
Quote from: Blackride on May 31, 2010, 06:40:11 PM
Go with a BMW 328i w/overdrive. Fun car.
Bit out of my price range.
Quote from: Feathers on June 01, 2010, 01:44:16 AM
We use what???
Never heard that one before!
If memory serves, which it often does not, I seem to recall MG, Triumph, Jaguar, and Aston Martin at some point using that term for the convertible cars.
Quote from: Rico on June 01, 2010, 05:19:56 AM
Quote from: Blackride on May 31, 2010, 06:40:11 PM
Go with a BMW 328i w/overdrive. Fun car.
Bit out of my price range.
Luckily I get them at cost with 0% financing. Helps when your step sis used to work for their Formula 1 team.
My current family car is a Mazda Tribute, it's a great car never had a problem. My next car will also be a Mazda, great product and great product support.
Been tempted by the Mazda 3 and drove one a few weeks back. But seem to like the Nissan coupe better.
Still haven't heard back from the Nissan sales guy - two days later. Now, I'm thinking of going back to one of my original picks - the Camaro!
I just saw a truckload of Camaros and Chargers drive by the office. They are nice looking cars.
Quote from: billybob476 on June 03, 2010, 12:44:39 PM
I just saw a truckload of Camaros and Chargers drive by the office. They are nice looking cars.
Tell them to send me one! I'm really shocked the Nissan guy hasn't called back. I know I gave him a hard color to find, but I thought he would have at least checked in with me. Well, weekend is coming. Time to shop around some more. :)
Quote from: Rico on June 03, 2010, 12:58:40 PM
Quote from: billybob476 on June 03, 2010, 12:44:39 PM
I just saw a truckload of Camaros and Chargers drive by the office. They are nice looking cars.
Tell them to send me one! I'm really shocked the Nissan guy hasn't called back. I know I gave him a hard color to find, but I thought he would have at least checked in with me. Well, weekend is coming. Time to shop around some more. :)
Maybe business is so good for them they don't need new customers! I'd go with the Camaro!!
Well, finally heard back from the Nissan guy today (actually after I left him a message). Looks like they can pretty much get the car I'm interested in. I just need to settle on which exact version and of course price. Now I'm getting a little excited! :)
What are your trim level options? Those Nissan V6's are beasts.
Quote from: billybob476 on June 04, 2010, 01:57:48 PM
What are your trim level options? Those Nissan V6's are beasts.
Have you driven any of them Joe? Basically it comes down to either a 2.5 engine, 4 cyl., with about 170hp. OR - the 3.5 V6 with about 270 hp. I've gone back and forth on them. The 4 cyl. is pretty peppy and gets pretty good MPG. The V6 is very fast (even more than the V6 I have now). And of course MPG is a bit less. There are other options, but the big question is the engine. If I went with the four, I could get the car pretty loaded up, but if I went with the V6 I would drop an item or two. Anyway, I'd like to settle this and get things rolling. Going to sleep on it and either go in tomorrow or Monday to start the whole price negotiation thing.
I love those engine sizes. They're just about twice as big as anything you'd get in a 'normal' car over here. I shudder to think what the annual tax rate would be to own one here!
Quote from: Feathers on June 04, 2010, 03:44:17 PM
I love those engine sizes. They're just about twice as big as anything you'd get in a 'normal' car over here. I shudder to think what the annual tax rate would be to own one here!
What is the annual tax rate you mention and how is it calculated?
Haven't driven them myself though I've been in a V6 Maxima and the thing flew. I guess you'll get a lot more low end torque on the V6, the I4 will be less fun but more economical.
At the end of the day it's really a preference thing. I love my Civic but I really with it had a bit more pep, but I bought it when gas prices were peaking so fuel economy was foremost on my mind.
For fuel economy comparisons I like http://www.fueleconomy.gov/ (http://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
Think I'm going with the V6. It should actually get slightly better MPG than my current car. And I know if I went with the 4 I would regret it.
Quote from: Rico on June 04, 2010, 04:30:53 PM
What is the annual tax rate you mention and how is it calculated?
Road Tax? It's the annual fee we get to pay the government for the privilege of owning a car.
It used to be a flat rate thing but these days it's based on emissions which roughly translates as 'the bigger the engine, the more you pay'.
Highest rate looks to be £435 (or £950 for the first year).
I was pretty sure the US States had their own systems?
You pay 500 - 1000 pounds a year?? WOW! We just have an annual license tab/registration fee. Varies from state to state a bit. Illinois is like $95. Michigan it varies a little up to about maybe $140. This is more for road costs, etc. Nothing to do with engine. Frankly older cars are the worst offenders for emissions - not bigger engines on new cars. A well tuned new car has pretty low emissions. They do know that emissions don't stay hovering over the UK when cars emit them don't they? ;)
Who knows? ;)
Those are the top end figures for CO2 emissions over 255 g/km. I pay £235 for the family car and £115 for the smaller, new one.
(I only just realised - we drive in miles but pay tax in kilometres)
For what it's worth, talking tax, fuel is about £1.20 per litre at the moment.
Well, I think I'm going to the dealer after work and get the ball rolling on this. Here are some excerpts from some reviews of the Altima coupe:
For 2010, the Nissan Altima Coupe sports a four-wheel independent suspension, with MacPherson front struts, front and rear stabilizer bars, and a multi-link rear suspension. The 2.5 S rides on 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, while the 3.5 SR boasts 18-inch alloys. All this combines to create what virtually all reviewers claim is one nimble and fun automobile to take through its paces.
Most reviewers find the CVT a good fit with either the I4 or the V6 powerplant. Acceleration is adequate with either engine, no matter the transmission, but things get downright exciting behind the wheel of the CVT-equipped 3.5 SR, which did 0-60 in 6.7 seconds in one test.
Driving
This is where the Altima really shines. Handling and suspension are crisp and tight even in the 2.5 S. Despite the sporty suspension, it never felt too bumpy on the road. The 2.5-liter engine and CVT are good for regular driving, and provides a smooth and easy drive in a stylish everyday driver.
Driver and front passenger have tons of room in front, though adults will be cramped in the rear seats. Trunk space is fairly limited as you would expect; a small price to pay for such a sexy car.
http://www.automoblog.net/2009/12/19/2010-nissan-altima-coupe-review/ (http://www.automoblog.net/2009/12/19/2010-nissan-altima-coupe-review/)
So would you go for the CVT transmission?
Quote from: billybob476 on June 07, 2010, 07:33:28 AM
So would you go for the CVT transmission?
Yep. Pretty slick and slightly better on gas.
I know they feel strange initially, there's no gear shifting!
Quote from: Rico on June 07, 2010, 07:16:42 AM
with MacPherson front struts
Is this a Warehouse 13 reference?
I have a Prius at the moment (2005) - and in 2 more months it will be all mine. I am tempted to get a new model, but there are all sorts of pluggable hybrid electrics just on the horizon - some coming out in 2011 - so I will try to hold out till then.
Well - the deed is pretty much done. Should have the car on Friday. Pretty happy with the price and all that. Sales guy was pretty cool to deal with on it all.
As the other is a lease, I guess that means they simply take it back from you?
Quote from: Feathers on June 08, 2010, 03:13:34 AM
As the other is a lease, I guess that means they simply take it back from you?
Actually, the General Motors dealer will take it back from me. I'll drop it off there before picking up the new car.
- Maybe because of the recent Voyager episode "Alice" that I reviewed but I'm trying to come up with a good "personal name" for the new ride. Have to think on that some.
don't go nueral interfacing with her Rico!
Since it's a Japanese car you should name her Midori or Yuki or something.
Hoshi!
What do you guys think?
Nice!!
Nice to be able to do it! Are your plates completely free format?
For Michigan, they allow up to seven characters - only letters or numbers (no special characters). And it costs a little extra (and can't be already taken). It's how I got the JEDI K plate I have had for awhile now. I like this one too:
Quote from: Feathers on June 10, 2010, 09:09:44 AM
Nice to be able to do it! Are your plates completely free format?
No, you have to apply to DMV and pay more for a vanity plate (that's what they call them) and only if it already isn't in use. Rico, people will see that plate and assume that's your name, drive up alongside expecting to wink at a cute Asian woman, only to be shocked by your 6+" of white guy! LOL!
Quote from: Bryancd on June 10, 2010, 09:16:08 AM
Quote from: Feathers on June 10, 2010, 09:09:44 AM
Nice to be able to do it! Are your plates completely free format?
No, you have to apply to DMV and pay more for a vanity plate (that's what they call them) and only if it already isn't in use. Rico, people will see that plate and assume that's your name, drive up alongside expecting to wink at a cute Asian woman, only to be shocked by your 6+" of white guy! LOL!
Yeah - I thought of that. So, while I may call the new ride Hoshi, I'm not so sure that's the way to go with the plate. So, I'm testing alternate ideas here: http://services.sos.state.mi.us/plates/papstep2.asp?plateType=STANDARD&plateID=bluebar&hndCap=false&vtype=&Clear=TRUE (http://services.sos.state.mi.us/plates/papstep2.asp?plateType=STANDARD&plateID=bluebar&hndCap=false&vtype=&Clear=TRUE)
(It also checks if the plate is taken - or not too).
I really like your current Jedi K one.
Quote from: Bryancd on June 10, 2010, 09:27:06 AM
I really like your current Jedi K one.
Well, that is getting moved to the new car for now at least. WOW! This is available. My initials...
We have the same thing here however it costs about 250 dollars vs 50 for normal plates.
If you want to represent, I'd just do this:
It doesn't cost that much here. About $100 when I got mine and I've used it for many years now. I am tempted by the TREK SF one. I am having too much fun with the plate tester thing though. Hehe! :metallica:
Ha. Over here we're stuck with the age/date format so for my new car the plates must be of the form:
XX 59 XXX
which tends to limit things a bit. (Actually, I can use a numeric that makes the car look older so I guess it's a little more free but it does need to be a 2 digit number, 51 - 59 or 02 - 09.)
Alternatively, you can go for the older style plate but you're still constrained to a:
X NNN XXX
format wher the Ns need to be numbers.
Quote from: Feathers on June 10, 2010, 10:11:37 AM
Alternatively, you can go for the older style plate but you're still constrained to a:
X NNN XXX
format wher the Ns need to be numbers.
Hmmm, it's a bit of a struggle but you could do " 1 NCC 170" :)
Quote from: Bryancd on June 10, 2010, 11:03:04 AM
Quote from: Feathers on June 10, 2010, 10:11:37 AM
Alternatively, you can go for the older style plate but you're still constrained to a:
X NNN XXX
format wher the Ns need to be numbers.
Hmmm, it's a bit of a struggle but you could do " 1 NCC 170" :)
Or more like I 701 NCC
Quote from: Just X on June 10, 2010, 04:46:14 PM
Quote from: Bryancd on June 10, 2010, 11:03:04 AM
Quote from: Feathers on June 10, 2010, 10:11:37 AM
Alternatively, you can go for the older style plate but you're still constrained to a:
X NNN XXX
format wher the Ns need to be numbers.
Hmmm, it's a bit of a struggle but you could do " 1 NCC 170" :)
Or more like I 701 NCC
I think people might "get" mine more...and that's not saying much. :)