Looking to buy a newer car
 

Hello all! I’m currently trying to replace my older BMW for a newer car, be it a newer BMW, Mercedes, or Lexus. To start off, I’d probably buy used from private seller because I would be saving the most money this way. With this said, could you guys recommend me with the best top-notch pre-purchase inspections around with the best prices? I just don’t want to buy a lemon aha.

Some car models currently in my mind include:
2012-2013 BMW 3 Series (320i/328i) – private seller prices I’ve seen are around the $20000-$25000 range
2012-2014 Mercedes C Class (C250/C300/C350) – private seller prices I’ve seen are around the $20000-$25000 range
2013-2014 Lexus ES350 – private seller around $30000-$37500 range
2014-2015 Lexus IS (250/350) – private seller around $32500-$42500 range

Now my question is which brand I should pursue if I wish to have limited problems and issues over the years of driving. I wish to drive the car at least 5 years. In my research, Lexus is pretty much Toyota in disguise which means those cars are bulletproof. But is it worth the price to pay more for Lexus when I can get a similar nicer-looking BMW/Mercedes at a lower price?

To be honest, I’m leaning towards the ES or IS, but I really love the look of F30 BMW and C-Class Benz and they’re cheaper, so I’m not sure which one I should go for.

For maintenance on these newer models, how much do you guys approximately spend a year if you guys own these cars? A comparison between BMW 3 Series (F30) vs Mercedes C Class vs Lexus IS?

Also, for whatever reason I decide to step foot at a dealership, which dealerships (BMW/Mercedes/Lexus) are the best among its competitors in terms of best deals and customer satisfaction? I hear that The BMW Store Burrard and North Shore are good but I just need some confirmation.

One more thing, I was browsing at new 2016 cars and I noticed that the 2 Series (228i) is cheaper than the 3 Series (320i) in comparison. I was curious to know why that is? I thought a typical 2 door coupe is a little more expensive than a 4 door sedan. But I could be wrong.

Anyways, thank you for those that have read this long post. If you guys have suggestions and what not for me, please let me know down below! I want the next car purchase experience to be a good one!

save yourself the grief.

brian jessel bmw pre owned. pm tofu1413 here on revscene. he will find you what you need, bmw or otherwise.

Your username kinda tells me your mind is made up so why make this thread?

2012 tsx
2013 TL

to decide between ES and IS Kappa

There are a couple of 06 IS350 that are pretty damn nice and a lot cheaper. I don't see a whole lot of difference compared to the 2014/15 model in terms of engine performance or styling to be honest but I'm no Lexus expert. First one comes with 3 sets of wheels ... I think he is on this board, saw it on the FS section. Really reasonable mileage for a 10 year car. And you can save yourself ~$20K.

2006 SR Motorsports Lexus IS350 IS 350

2006 Lexus IS 350 *No Accidents*

No difference in engine but the 3rd gen rwd 350s come with the 8 speed box in the F with a real manual mode. I'm pretty 99.9% of people just drive on D mode but I would rip my hair out if I had to drive an auto daily without a manual mode

Speaking from strictly an economic and financial standpoint, the Lexus will retain the best resale value out of all the vehicles you listed. More so, your cost of ownership will be minimal. The biggest drawback is the initial cost to purchase the vehicles.

I've owned enough BMWs and will not buy another one. Exploding water pumps, radiator fans, leaking power steering hoses are factory features I am not interested in pouring my money in to for a depreciating liability.

I've been following the Mercedes-Benz C-class market for a while. I don't feel they are worth the premium that is being asked on the used market especially after the warranty period is up. I don't know enough about how reliable they are unfortunately.

If you want a fun car, the BMW is your best bet. I would not call the Lexus ES a fun car, but I think the IS will be your best compromise. :)

bmw ownership is a different type of hipster animal altogether.KappaPride

#1 thing to consider is finances.

Can you afford the cost of ownership of these? In my experiences, and I have owned multiples from each auto maker your listing, the Lexus is the cheaper to live with and still very nice to own.

For what I want and need from a car the only ones I would consider there are the Lexus options.

BMW's are great but when were talking about cars that are being sold that are 4 years old with sealed transmissions and diffs you will need to think down the line about things like replacing transmissions and other parts as they are no longer serviced items in some BMW models. IMO when a manufacturer builds in a flaw or an expected lifespan is when I no longer buy from them.

Planned obsolescence is a bitch.

We have a 2010 c300 4matic and its ok to drive. Nothing that will blow your socks off.

Electrical problems are a given, after a few years.

Our drivers seat has a pretty big tear from the seams. Doing a google search, it appears to be decently common on w204's, something about the shitty composition of the mercedes leather. We don't have that problem in our 2001 C240, minus a little wear, but hey it's a 15 year old car with leather that has not been conditioned.

In terms of mechanical issues...nothing so far, but we have only had the car for 2 and a half years.

I agree with others that Lexus or Acura would be my choice, if you are thinking longer term and financially.

Vouch for nabs. Although the 4G TL (2012+) lacks low end torque, you exchange that for an extremely comfortable ride and overall amazingly reliable. Not many things known to go wrong with it's generation. As others will suggest, go into the dealership and test-drive each car to get a sense of what YOU want in a car...

Get the Lex, your name says it all.

If you decide to go with the Mercedes, my neighbour is a technician from Mercedes and he works on private vehicles all the time. I can refer you to him. Just shoot me a PM

If you go BMW or Mercedes be prepared for this one.

BMW, Mercedes or Lexus. Wow such creativity..