Shopping for Next Car - Best Choices, Recommendations & Expereinces???

[CTS-Veo]

I have a SRT Grand Cherokee, and I live near Rochester (fingerlakes area). It handles our winters quite well, but unless you're comparing it to a funny car; saying it gets "ok gas mileage" is a big stretch. I don't mind it, and I knew how it was before I bought it. If you want even decent fuel economy, the whole SRT line-up is not for you. My dad has the Charger and it's not much better.... Good luck with your decision. I would never tell someone what kind of car to get. You have to live with it not me...

 

[tenorplayer23]

Yea, that's what I would expect.............not for me. Plus, prefer an automobile, not an SUV. BTW, do you have a CTS?? Well, anyway, no SRT Jeep for me.

Looks like most haven't actually read my original post.......I have a 'vette.....no need for a Challenger or Camaro or toy boy racer (somebody recommended a Cobalt SS/is Chrevr. still making that?). When I'm in the market for another performance car, it will be the new Corvette Grand Sport (and not sure how long I can actually wait ).

Right now I'm shopping for something a "little" more practical......at least 4 doors, guys.

Keep the input coming...............

See ya.

I have a SRT Grand Cherokee, and I live near Rochester (fingerlakes area). It handles our winters quite well, but unless you're comparing it to a funny car; saying it gets "ok gas mileage" is a big stretch. I don't mind it, and I knew how it was before I bought it. If you want even decent fuel economy, the whole SRT line-up is not for you. My dad has the Charger and it's not much better.... Good luck with your decision. I would never tell someone what kind of car to get. You have to live with it not me...

 

[RTexasF]

The new Fusion Sport with the six cylinder is a nice handling ride, four doors, plenty of scoot, and good mpg. I saw Fusion mentioned previously but not the new V-6.

 

[sullysdetailing]

Lexus IS 250, 350
Lexus GS 300
BMW 135i , 130i
Dodge Charger
Lancer Ralliart
Benz C 300

 

[Superdutytd]

The new Taurus SHO is a pretty killer machine. The new Fusion V6 is a pretty nice car too, I was pleasantly surprised when I looked at them.

An AWD Charger V8 wouldn't be too bad either.

 

[CTS-Veo]

Yea, that's what I would expect.............not for me. Plus, prefer an automobile, not an SUV. BTW, do you have a CTS?? Well, anyway, no SRT Jeep for me.

Looks like most haven't actually read my original post.......I have a 'vette.....no need for a Challenger or Camaro or toy boy racer (somebody recommended a Cobalt SS/is Chrevr. still making that?). When I'm in the market for another performance car, it will be the new Corvette Grand Sport (and not sure how long I can actually wait ).

Right now I'm shopping for something a "little" more practical......at least 4 doors, guys.

Keep the input coming...............

See ya.

I do. It's a 2005 CTS-V. Not exactly setup for a Rochester winter... My Jeep handles the snow surprisingly well. Especially after I put different wheels/tires that are a little narrower in the rear, and have winter tires.

Here's my V:

and the Jeep:

If I where in the market for a vehicle that meets your criteria, it would probably either be a Chrysler 300C (not SRT) or a Dodge Magnum (again, not SRT). The 5.7l hemi gets decent mileage for the motor size (decent is a relative word), and I think they both can look really sharp with a little work. Lots of interior room too...

Good luck in your search!

 

[gwilo]

Take a look a the Subaru's most have been re-styled, or should I say, "Subaru has finally hired a stylist".

The Legacy 3.6R (256hp) is a nice looking car. Also in comes standard with AWD.

 

[ScottB]

As you know I dealt with this same issue a couple months back. Wanted a daily driver, paying cash, and wanted 2007-2008. I chose the Aura XR as I prefer GM and wanted big six cylinder, remote start, leather, sunroof, front/side/rear curtin airbags, warranty, and 18's. Didnt care to much on color but deal had to be good and was. Its an ok "company car" as we call it, and it sits outside 24/7 so it needed to be durable.

Neighbor already offered me more than I paid for it by several thousand dollars. If I had to do it again ... and will in 12/18 months I would have gotten a used Cadillac.

Having the new CTS around the house (dads), having owned the previous CTS, owning an SRX and wanting an STS-V for past two years -- they are just build better, feel more solid, and offer alot of bang for the buck on used versions. The DI 3.6 CTS with 300hp and performance package is just a perfect example of GM doing it right. The only thing better would be a CTS-V.

The SHO is nice, but at 40k and being a Ford likely means huge depreciation which effects resale or residual if leasing.

I suggest used ... pay cash, consider gas/insurance and that all cars are depreciating so the daily driver needs to be less and will make the Corvette in the garage more special.

 

[Blackfire]

Genesis.

 

[Wolf-Strong]

Well have you considered a 2007 BMW 5 series? They run in the mid to low 30s now with a good amount of equipment. Still probably have like 4 years left on the warranty (100k miles) and maybe 2 years left for free maintenance.

I'm a BMW man, so theres my suggestion.

 

[tenorplayer23]

Probably not a CTS-V for me this time around......awesome car though. I like the idea of a CTS, however, depending on the 'fit". Any feedback on a non-V version?

Re: the Jeep.........no SUV's. Even around here. I think winter performance is all in the tires, anyway. Have driven AWD w/o dedicated snows and they still are somewhat lacking. AWD w/snows would be awesome......but, overkill since I want just a car.

But, tell me more about the CTS line....used or new, may be a good choice.

Thx in advance.

See ya.

.

I do. It's a 2005 CTS-V. Not exactly setup for a Rochester winter... My Jeep handles the snow surprisingly well. Especially after I put different wheels/tires that are a little narrower in the rear, and have winter tires.

Here's my V:

and the Jeep:

If I where in the market for a vehicle that meets your criteria, it would probably either be a Chrysler 300C (not SRT) or a Dodge Magnum (again, not SRT). The 5.7l hemi gets decent mileage for the motor size (decent is a relative word), and I think they both can look really sharp with a little work. Lots of interior room too...

Good luck in your search!

 

[tenorplayer23]

Scott, you're probably on my wavelength........I like the GM's and agree about the Taurus. Maybe a hot car, but likely too much of a hit in depreciation. Interesting other recommendations - VW CC, Audi, Fusion V6 Sport, etc..

Some of the other suggestions aren't too bad, some are kid cars (& don't need another sports car unless I come into a lot more money) - not in keeping with the need for some utilitarian value, as well. I like your Aura having driven them.....and the Mailbu/same platform....but, the Aura I think is a better implementation. And one fine detail about the Mailbu........somehow, they have the retractor level for the shoulder belt in the wrong place (too low) and it digs into the shoulders.

Given your experience with the CTS, what else can you tell me about them......years/vintage pluses & minuses..........????

Thx.

See ya.

As you know I dealt with this same issue a couple months back. Wanted a daily driver, paying cash, and wanted 2007-2008. I chose the Aura XR as I prefer GM and wanted big six cylinder, remote start, leather, sunroof, front/side/rear curtin airbags, warranty, and 18's. Didnt care to much on color but deal had to be good and was. Its an ok "company car" as we call it, and it sits outside 24/7 so it needed to be durable.

Neighbor already offered me more than I paid for it by several thousand dollars. If I had to do it again ... and will in 12/18 months I would have gotten a used Cadillac.

Having the new CTS around the house (dads), having owned the previous CTS, owning an SRX and wanting an STS-V for past two years -- they are just build better, feel more solid, and offer alot of bang for the buck on used versions. The DI 3.6 CTS with 300hp and performance package is just a perfect example of GM doing it right. The only thing better would be a CTS-V.

The SHO is nice, but at 40k and being a Ford likely means huge depreciation which effects resale or residual if leasing.

I suggest used ... pay cash, consider gas/insurance and that all cars are depreciating so the daily driver needs to be less and will make the Corvette in the garage more special.

 

[ScottB]

The newest version 08-10 CTS comes in two flavors, both with 3.6 V6's. One is used in Aura/Previous CTS/previous SRX and a VVT motor with some nice torque down loan. The high model the DI version offers direct injection for same size motor and 304hp over like 255hp. It pulls harder than my old IROC-Z !!! The performance package comes with tranny cooler and Pirelli PS2 tires amongst a tighter suspension. Resale value is good , very good for the GM.

If choosing the previous model CTS, consider the SPORT package which came out the final two years. It is noted by a color coded nose with small wire inserts. Dont remember if they used the same DI motor last year of its production but the 3.6 VVT is plenty peppy. Car has all the toys, all power features, and one feature I miss on Saturn the remote entry and memory seats !

 

[jake66]

I like the CTS too. Also, my nephew just got a loaded Pontiac G8 that is pretty sweet.

 

[img]

I love the MB, Audi, BMW, Lexus, Acura recommendations, but for your needs,
take a close look at the Genesis

 

[tenorplayer23]

Thx for the add'l input.

Definitely will look into the CTS..........might be just right. Plus I like the idea of RWD again.....just need dedicated snows.

A lot of nice recommendations for the imports. I just saw an article about the Audi S4 in Winding Road......very favorable review. they liked it better than BMW, MB & Acura. Also, they discussed the Buick Lacrosse.....seemed to be a nice "in-between" ride re: handling response & cruising. Plus a big car............aka, the Chinese think of it as a limo on the mainland (GM used it's Chinese design center for much of the work on the Lacrosse.....big market there.....and nice results).

Another vote for a Hyundai.......nice car. That would be a stretch.....buying a Genesis as the first import. But, nice looks and supposed to be very unique. Will take a look.

BTW, wish I could find a new/lightly used G8. That is a real sleeper......plus RWD platform. If GM would only follow through with their plans for an Impala named RWD car. Supposed to be on the horizon.....they just started advertising a RWD Caprice to police departments. Maybe we'll be lucky & it will come quicker than I would normally think.

Thx..

See ya.

I like the CTS too. Also, my nephew just got a loaded Pontiac G8 that is pretty sweet.

I love the MB, Audi, BMW, Lexus, Acura recommendations, but for your needs,
take a close look at the Genesis

 

[tenorplayer23]

KW, that's what I'd like to do........love to get a RWD performance version CTS w/the 3.6L. Pretty pricey when new........have to look into locating a low mileage cream puff. That would be the smart financial move. Just have to locate it..........our area is pretty big, but not as many outlets as where you are. May have to look far & wide. But....would be worth it.

Thx.

See ya.

The newest version 08-10 CTS comes in two flavors, both with 3.6 V6's. One is used in Aura/Previous CTS/previous SRX and a VVT motor with some nice torque down loan. The high model the DI version offers direct injection for same size motor and 304hp over like 255hp. It pulls harder than my old IROC-Z !!! The performance package comes with tranny cooler and Pirelli PS2 tires amongst a tighter suspension. Resale value is good , very good for the GM.

If choosing the previous model CTS, consider the SPORT package which came out the final two years. It is noted by a color coded nose with small wire inserts. Dont remember if they used the same DI motor last year of its production but the 3.6 VVT is plenty peppy. Car has all the toys, all power features, and one feature I miss on Saturn the remote entry and memory seats !

 

[ScottB]

I too wanted the G8 but worried the value will tank as soon as Pontiac closes shop the way Olds did. Surprisingly the GTO has held its value well to date ...

We just sat in the new Lacrosse at the Miami Autoshow. Due to the rounded dash into doors there is less room than it looks outside. It looks to be priced well, initial fit/finish is great, and FWD with Stabilitrak standard. Mid 30's for a highly optioned CRX model with sunroof and chrome wheel upgrade.

Should note ... all Cadillacs (CTS) come with Stabilitrak and Traction Control as standard. Must have in winters and unfortunately an option in most other GM rides. That was something else the Saturn offered as standard in XR model. Keeps insurance premiums down too. Now if only they transfer the HUD from Vette to all Cadillacs.

 

[tenorplayer23]

Need an objective test drive in the Buick. Still think the Impala, as mundane as it is is probably a better value for the eqt./size. The CTS is something else, though.....now we're talking a sports sedan.

Anything else at the car show worth noting.............you saw the latest live!!

Thx.
See ya.

I too wanted the G8 but worried the value will tank as soon as Pontiac closes shop the way Olds did. Surprisingly the GTO has held its value well to date ...

We just sat in the new Lacrosse at the Miami Autoshow. Due to the rounded dash into doors there is less room than it looks outside. It looks to be priced well, initial fit/finish is great, and FWD with Stabilitrak standard. Mid 30's for a highly optioned CRX model with sunroof and chrome wheel upgrade.

Should note ... all Cadillacs (CTS) come with Stabilitrak and Traction Control as standard. Must have in winters and unfortunately an option in most other GM rides. That was something else the Saturn offered as standard in XR model. Keeps insurance premiums down too. Now if only they transfer the HUD from Vette to all Cadillacs.

 

[2old2change]

Before jumping off the deep end pick out between two or three cars and and try a three day weekend rental of your choices. Once thought I wanted a certain model and after a weekend trial was glad I didn't buy it. As I age my taste have changed and for a DD I find myself favoring a few of the new Lincoln and Ford offerings as well as Buick. Ten years ago if it didn't go fast or sit a mile high , I never would have given it a second look. On imports , I think my teamster decal would be out of place. Good luck on your choice.