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High End Luxury Cars

24723 messages,  Last post on Jan 28, 2013 at 6:55 PM

You are in the Sedans Forum.

What is this discussion about? Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ-Series, Lexus LS 460, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Volkswagen Phaeton, Maserati Quattroporte, Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, Sedan



Let's try to define this forum as being limited to luxury performance vehicles where the mainstream version in a typical configuration has an MSRP of at least $60k.

A luxury vehicle with a base price of $59k qualifies because it would typically be bought with some additional equipment, bringing the MSRP over $60k.

Vehicles like the E, 5, A6, M, or GS, even if available in certain versions over $60k, don't qualify because they are cars from companies that have higher end cars in their lineups.

Messages Page 2425 of 2473

#24236 of 24723 Re: Hpowders [anthonyp] by hpowders

Mar 17, 2007 (6:30 pm)

Replying to: anthonyp (Mar 17, 2007 1:08 pm)
I know that it's hard to tell from a photo, Tony, but one of the 2008 550 interior shots unfortunately looks like more of the tired "same old, same old." In the brochure, BMW admits that it would be hard to tell the current 550i from the 2008 version.
 
I guess BMW is satisfied to rest on their considerable performance laurels which had me hooked since 1993 despite their boring interiors.
 
Since BMW offers the best balanced and exciting to drive vehicles in all sedan segments, they must figure that prospective and continuing customers will overlook their drab interiors, and the company's explosive and continuing success proves they are correct.
 
I just may have to go with an SUV next time around. I really need a vehicle with at least 70 cubic feet of space out back. The folding rear seats in the 545 just don't do it.
So sedans will be off my list since I only have room for one vehicle in my garage and my wife doesn't drive.
 
I hate the X5, having sat in it recently and having already driven the choppy 2005 version, which left me unimpressed.
 
The only vehicles I would consider are the Audi Q7, the Porsche Cayenne or dare I say it, a loaded Acura MDX; although this last choice would have to REALLY impress me with its driving dynamics to be seriously considered.
 
I hope diesel versions of one or more of the above are available by the summer of 2008, when I have to part company with the 545.
 
So, that's the reason for my restricted posting here lately.
Looks like no HELC in my immediate future....

#24237 of 24723 Re: Hpowders [hpowders] by anthonyp

Mar 17, 2007 (6:48 pm)

Replying to: hpowders (Mar 17, 2007 6:30 pm)
How come you need so much storage room? Is it you anticipate a return to the North East? I saw a Porsche-as you describe, down in Miami...The one I saw had the absolutely best looking interior--to my just brief glimpse--I have ever seen in a suv...I would think the price to match...I also took a look at the Audi when I was getting the mmi fixed..The interior was refined and comfortable and the price (Ithink)was say mid forties...I`m sure with the larger engine and interior improvements, it would be sixtys.Frankly the most reasonable probably would be the MDX, as they build an all around good vehicle(from my military days)..Knowing how you check things out I am sure whatever you choose will be smart and the best...I`m counting on you to help me with my next car...Tony

#24238 of 24723 Re: Hpowders [anthonyp] by hpowders

Mar 17, 2007 (7:22 pm)

Replying to: anthonyp (Mar 17, 2007 6:48 pm)
I'm heavy into road biking, Tony and will be traveling a lot in the future with my bikes. Since I'm a leasee and not a buyer, I won't take the chance of scratching a vehicle by attaching bikes outside on any vehicle. Less risky loading them in the back with rear seats down.
 
I agree with you about the MDX-a good buy or lease now that it's been "out there" for a while, and the reviews have been positive, but faux wood?
 
Porsche charges an outrageous 7.3% to lease a Cayenne and I have a feeling there would be limited wiggle room with them.
 
I'm sure I could do well on a Q7 lease.
 
Next year at this time, I will check these three out.
 
As an admirer of great engines and exciting performance, I'm sure I will like the Porsche best, but as a serious and unwavering value shopper, the choice will most likely come down to Audi vs Acura.

#24239 of 24723 Re: BMW X7 [erobbins] by tagman

Mar 17, 2007 (8:01 pm)

Replying to: erobbins (Mar 17, 2007 9:44 am)
I do like the rims on the supercharged, but I live in the city so it's overkill.
 
Yeah, definately always better to change the rims on the vehicle you actually like... and then add the rims you like to make it just right. It's amazing what a great set of rims will do for almost any vehicle. If you get that Range Rover, be sure to let us know. I'll be jealous, cause I really want one.
 
TagMan

#24240 of 24723 Re: Hpowders [hpowders] by tagman

Mar 17, 2007 (8:12 pm)

Replying to: hpowders (Mar 17, 2007 7:22 pm)
hpowders - when it comes to the BMW, you typically have indicated that you don't care too much about the interior because the car has a higher priority. But when it comes to the MDX, why do you care so much about the interior? From the same perspective, the MDX also has a higher priority and does it very well, just like the Bimmer does what it is supposed to do very well.
 
Also, IMO, the BMW interiors are to-the-point, not overly gaudy, and they are purposeful, no-nonsense, and deliberate, without detracting from what the cars are all about... driving. There is something to be said for that, and many seem to agree.
 
Questions for you --- What about the X5? It's got the improved interior, that's for sure, and it's a Bimmer. Aren't there any good leases on the X5? I was under the impression that the X5 is one of the models that is getting the latest round of super lease deals.
 
TagMan

#24241 of 24723 Re: Hpowders [tagman] by hpowders

Mar 18, 2007 (6:26 am)

Replying to: tagman (Mar 17, 2007 8:12 pm)
It's more the principle of the thing. Who wants to get a "luxury" vehicle with faux wood? However, upon driving it and checking the front seat comfort and 83 cc ft of space and the price, I may just forget about the phony wood. The 2008 version may have real wood, but I doubt it.
 
The interest rate on the X5 4.8 right now is 5.04%, fairly high for a BMW lease.

#24242 of 24723 Re: Hpowders [hpowders] by tagman

Mar 18, 2007 (9:32 am)

Replying to: hpowders (Mar 18, 2007 6:26 am)
The interest rate on the X5 4.8 right now is 5.04%, fairly high for a BMW lease.
 
But, I had thought that the residual was being pumped up to more than make up for that... resulting in a very attractive monthly payment.
 
TagMan

#24243 of 24723 Re: Hpowders [hpowders] by sellaturcica

Mar 18, 2007 (12:53 pm)

Replying to: hpowders (Mar 17, 2007 7:22 pm)
You know the VW Touareg, Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7 are all based on the same SUV platform? From what I had heard, the Cayenne was tanking badly in the markeptlace- I would think Porsche dealers would be willing to deal.
 
"Porsche charges an outrageous 7.3% to lease a Cayenne and I have a feeling there would be limited wiggle room with them.
  
I'm sure I could do well on a Q7 lease. "

#24244 of 24723 Re: Hpowders [hpowders] by anthonyp

Mar 18, 2007 (1:24 pm)

Replying to: hpowders (Mar 17, 2007 7:22 pm)
How many bike do you carry (usually) at a time?? You really owe yourself a trip up to western N.C as I see pretty large groups biking folks, and they have alot of designated roads up there....If by chance you do come that way I`l be there to welcome you Tony ps be prepared for some up hill going, and some exciting bmw driving

Messages Page 2425 of 2473

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