[skiiipi]

So my roommate is in the market right now for a new car. Its going to be a daily driver, and he will NOT be modifying it in any way.

His commute to work is richmond to langley daily, he will be fiancing the car, so interest rate will make a difference. Some of his criterias are the car needs to be reliable, good on gas and relatively quiet on highways.

His currently looking at the VW Golf (I belive a mid trim model), or an almost loaded Hyundai Elantra. He asked me for my advice, but I'm not too familiar with either cars. My understanding of him picking those two as opposed to the corrolla and civics is due to the better interest rate offered on the elantra and golf at the moment (3.9% I believe).

Just wanted to get you guy's opinion on these two cars, or if there is another car he should look at?

Thanks in advance!
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[Mr.C]

From my personal experience with a 2008 Beetle, I would not touch a VW with a 10 foot pole.

[donjalapeno]

2011 VW Jetta.

Safe
Reliable
Good Warranty
Good Fuel Economy
German Engineering

maybe he can even get a amazing deal on the MK5 2010 Jettas, most dealerships have alot of them.

[!Aznboi128]

Chevy cruze. No I'm not joking. Reasonably priced, good rates, why not?

I would stay away from the Golf simply due to high maintenance costs. The elantra's not bad the new model looks really good as well.

Take the elantra and the cruze for a test drive and see for yourself.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[donjalapeno]

Elantra is good too.

[insomniac]

From my personal experience with a 2008 Beetle, I would not touch a VW with a 10 foot pole.

one car from the brand does not mean that all the cars from that brand sucks.
"oh i had such a bad experience from the audi a4, the r8 must be a bad car too" :blueguy:




:troll:

[Arash]

Why not finance a better looking used car? Like an NSX

[civic_rice]

fiesta ftw! but seriously there are a lot of cars with 0% financing right now. I would look into some of those options. my opinion would be to look at fords but that is simply because i work there and know what current deals are on right now

[CorneringArtist]

^^ :facepalm:
Is an NSX "good on gas"? Not likely. You still haven't learned. Get your head out of your ass and stop putting form over function.

That aside, Hyundai has been coming into its own as fairly decent economy cars. It's adequate enough. The Chevy Cruze has also had praise in Europe, and seems to be a great car. I would get the VW myself, despite the slightly higher maintenance costs. If you can somehow point your friend towards a reputable private shop that can do it for less, that can lower the cost of maintenance a bit.

edit//ford fiesta is a sweet option too. reasonably priced and probably decent. I'm a bit surprised that I haven't seen many around though.

[StylinRed]

ROFL oh shit... who gave Arash that avatar? i cant imagine it was him... :rofl:


My gut says the VW however if i didn't have a bias against Hyundai i would likely go with it especially if Interest rates are a concern 2.9% for the Hyundai (shame they were offering 0% i think before the new years)

[Jgresch]

I hate how people base most of there car buying off who gives the best interest rates.....

[skiiipi]

I hate how people base most of there car buying off who gives the best interest rates.....
Unfortunately when you have to fiance a car, the interest rate makes a big differance on the total price, and cost does make a differance to a lot of people.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[Jgresch]

Unfortunately when you have to fiance a car, the interest rate makes a big differance on the total price, and cost does make a differance to a lot of people.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

Yea I know... I finance for a living...

The way I see it is (And people may not agree with this but): Check out/research cars that you can see yourself driving. Weigh the pros and cons of each car. Warranty, reliabililty, saftey, features, performance etc. Completely ad every cent up, price, fees, taxes, interest until you have a final number. Then compare this number with the numbers from the other similar cars, and then weigh you options. Is $24,000 for the extra performance worth it? Is $20,000 for a safer drive a better option? Etc...

Every manufacturer marks their vehicles up differently, from the parts they use, from the factory and from the dealership. I find it weird that people will consider a car because, "oh shit, the current rate is 3.9%!" On a $20,000 car, thats approx. a savings of like $1500 maybe compared to a normal rate., if you pay it off within a reasonable amount of time. The majority of companies just ad in a couple grand to the bottom line, and then pay the bank to give the specials rates anyways.

Hell if you guys just want to save money off the sticker price I can mark my cars up $10 grand more before you come in if it makes you feel a bit better.....

[Arash]

Choose the one with the built in Blue Tooth! :haha:

I hate how people base most of there car buying off who gives the best interest rates.....
Maybe OP's friend see's automobiles as an appliance... it will do the horse work for a good 5 -10 years and will be disposed of for another new one after. Gone are the days where people save up cash to buy a car that they're passionate about.

ROFL oh shit... who gave Arash that avatar? i cant imagine it was him... :rofl:Shes got her knickers in a bunch I tell ya, and its not the way you would think :eek1:

[rawr]

How about a Mazda 3? Economical, reliable, good build quality. Drives pretty well too! AND finance rates are 0% right now, according to: http://www.mazda.ca/root.asp?path=eng-veh-mazda3-sport-offers--. However it's not the quietest car...

Definitely give it some consideration! :fullofwin:

[ae101]

well why not go for a kia since there cheap & really good on gas, plus they have really stepped up there game

(i might get a lot of fails for this)

[06TLer]

Tell your friend to go for a test drive. It will definitely help him with his decision making process.


Edit: I just checked out Hyundai's website and the 2011 Elantra definitely looks way way way better than the 2010 one. It's not butt ugly anymore and actually looks decent. I'm not sure how the 2011 one drives compare to the 2010 one. It's amazing how much Hyundai changed on a car in just a year's time.

I had a 2010 one for a loaner vehicle when my car was in the shop getting fixed and it was HORRIBLE. I'm not sure how a fully loaded one compares with the base, but the base Elantra I had is cheap looking, butt ugly IMO, acceleration is horrible, the (plastic?) steering wheel feels uncomfortable, the sound system is a joke (You have to sit in one and turn it up to understand what I mean).

When I picked it up from rental, it had 1/4 gas left in the tank, after two days of driving (which is no more than 80 kms) I had to fill it back up to 1/4 to return the car and it costed me a whopping $16!! Granted, the car only had 6k on it and probably was still in the break-in period (if that even applies anymore to modern cars), but it definitely was an horrible experience for me.

No offense to anyone with an Elantra, this is only my PERSONAL experience and opinion of this car.

[skiiipi]

Yea he test drove the elantra and golf today, he said the golf "felt" better, but the elantra was better equiped.

But I'll probably go with him to the automall in the next week or two, and I will test drive a few cars with him, and I'll definately pass on all your suggestions.

I personally told him mazda 3 as well, but I never thought about the cruze or fiesta, will definately have to tell him about those two. (Question, is a fiesta on the same chassie/platform as the mazda 2?, and is the cruze in the same class as the elantra/corolla/civic? Or is the cruze more in the same class as the fit/versa/yaris etc)
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[donjalapeno]

Yea he test drove the elantra and golf today, he said the golf "felt" better, but the elantra was better equiped.

But I'll probably go with him to the automall in the next week or two, and I will test drive a few cars with him, and I'll definately pass on all your suggestions.

I personally told him mazda 3 as well, but I never thought about the cruze or fiesta, will definately have to tell him about those two. (Question, is a fiesta on the same chassie/platform as the mazda 2?, and is the cruze in the same class as the elantra/corolla/civic? Or is the cruze more in the same class as the fit/versa/yaris etc)
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

Cruze i beleive is built on the sonata chassis and shares the same engine as the elantra?, im pretty sure i read somewhere that the cruze was engineered by kia motor company.



on a unrelated note...


props to arash for staying on revscene after endless amount of hate and fails.

[06TLer]

Has he considered a Mitsubishi Lancer? I think they have been doing 0% finance for quite a while now. They also offer the best warranty program which eliminates his concern for reliability given that mitsubishi vehicles don't break down that often.

Edit: One more suggestion. 2011 Scion tC? Seems to be around the price of a semi-loaded elantra. Has looks, horsepower, and the reliability of a toyota.

[MindBomber]

Why not finance a better looking used car?

This is intelligent.
Saving a bit of money by not buying a new car and picking up a lightly used 2008+ GTI, Sonota, Mazda 3 wouldn't be a bad idea.

like an NSX

This is idiotic.
An NSX is one of the least practical cars I can ever imagine being a daily driver.



props to arash for staying on revscene after endless amount of hate and fails.

+1 Arash keeps the site amusing with his occasional strange posts, and when he gets failed for making them he takes it like a man. No, threats of legal action action against rs members lol

[Arash]

:troll:


This is idiotic.
An NSX is one of the least practical cars I can ever imagine being a daily driverIve been thinking about it and yes you guys are right, it would be impractical because attractive women would be constantly messaging you trying to get your attention, looking and smiling in the streets distracting you from driving and where would op's friend put his golf clubs?

I dare someone to make an account on an NSX forum on which to purchase, a "practical" new car or a used NSX. These forum members should be level headed, mature and middle class individuals who would give better advice then the younger crowd here.

[smk]

Why not finance a better looking used car? Like an NSX

http://www.revscene.net/forums/customavatars/avatar59218_15.gif

[!e.lo_]

The things with VW, it's hit and miss. I know a few owners who love them to death. and a few who curse them to hell.

Your friend seems like one who want a nice, practical, no pain-in-the-ass car.
The Cruze is a good contendor, and I personally like the Mazda3.
The Ford Fiesta is quite a good package, recommend looking into that one as well. (hatch version preferably)

[MindBomber]

An Imprezza is also a great car, with a relatively low starting price.


:troll:
Ive been thinking about it and yes you guys are right, it would be impractical because attractive women would be constantly messaging you trying to get your attention, looking and smiling in the streets distracting you from driving and where would op's friend put his golf clubs?

I dare someone to make an account on an NSX forum on which to purchase, a "practical" new car or a used NSX. These forum members should be level headed, mature and middle class individuals who would give better advice then the younger crowd here.

I'd create a thread on Honda-Tech asking about an NSX being a DD, but I'd probably get banned. People lucky enough to own an NSX use it as a weekend car.

How many NSX's are there in Vancouver, a dozen?
You can't just go to a scrap yard or the dealership to buy parts, if you need something it will take a couple weeks to get it and during that time you won't have a car. The parts are also extremely expensive.

[orange7]

+1

for the cruze

it's all over the media.

I think it's a cool car.

[geeknerd]

:troll:


Ive been thinking about it and yes you guys are right, it would be impractical because attractive women would be constantly messaging you trying to get your attention, looking and smiling in the streets distracting you from driving and where would op's friend put his golf clubs?

I dare someone to make an account on an NSX forum on which to purchase, a "practical" new car or a used NSX. These forum members should be level headed, mature and middle class individuals who would give better advice then the younger crowd here.

is he just trolling or is he actually being serious....?

[Arash]

You, geeknerd, indulge use with a poll at NSX prime to see what they think
I'd create a thread on Honda-Tech asking about an NSX being a DD, but I'd probably get banned. People lucky enough to own an NSX use it as a weekend car.This is a forum dedicated to the NSX, read the last comment
http://www.nsxprime.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3451

How many NSX's are there in Vancouver, a dozen?
You can't just go to a scrap yard or the dealership to buy parts, if you need something it will take a couple weeks to get it and during that time you won't have a car. The parts are also extremely expensive.He could get a $300 beater if he had too, once you drive a new car off the lot it instantly depreciates +$5k. The NSX is a timeless classic where all the econoboxes that have been mentioned will still be worthless econoboxes 10years down the line.

This ones kind of close
http://www.cstatic-images.com/main/DMI/187177/9180.03.jpg
http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=48527731&listingRecNum=5&criteria=sf1Dir%3DASC%26alMdId%3D21685%26mkId%3D20 001%26stkTyp%3DU%26mdId%3D21685%26rd%3D100000%26cr SrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId%26zc%3D98255%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-0%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26alMkId%3D20 001%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national

[Matlock]

Check out Suzuki SX4.

I'm totally biased because I just got one, but its so fun I have 6 speed manual and AWD (2wd, iAWD, 4x4 lock switch)

I prefer it over a base model subaru impreza which doesn't have the option of switching awd modes and esp .

[CorneringArtist]

You, geeknerd, indulge use with a poll at NSX prime to see what they think
This is a forum dedicated to the NSX, read the last comment
http://www.nsxprime.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3451

He could get a $300 beater if he had too, once you drive a new car off the lot it instantly depreciates +$5k. The NSX is a timeless classic where all the econoboxes that have been mentioned will still be worthless econoboxes 10years down the line.

This ones kind of close
[IMG]http://www.cstatic-images.com/main/DMI/187177/9180.03.jpg[/IMG
http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=48527731&listingRecNum=5&criteria=sf1Dir%3DASC%26alMdId%3D21685%26mkId%3D20 001%26stkTyp%3DU%26mdId%3D21685%26rd%3D100000%26cr SrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId%26zc%3D98255%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-0%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26alMkId%3D20 001%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national

Do you EVER think before you type something? Yes you can buy an NSX, but it's NOT practical for someone who just needs a basic daily. Something breaks, and that person either has to get up early to take transit or could lose their job because they couldn't get to work on time because their car was out of commission. Again, STOP putting form over function.

Again, that aside, SX4 might be good, it sucks the Kizashi is a bit on the pricey side, I like that car.

[Matsuda]

everytime Arash makes a post, I get the same reaction as his avatar

[rawr]

everytime Arash makes a post, I get the same reaction as his avatar

sometimes? i get that reaction every post he makes :fuckyea:

[HollyZ32]

Tell your friend to go Kia great warranty and amazing financing right now lol
And kia is decent looking now lol

[rJZx]

+1 Cruze.

[MindBomber]

Anyone on the sight test driven a Cruze?

I'm getting more and more curious about it, I might need to stop by a dealership to check one out.

[donjalapeno]

1.8ltr turbo should be pretty good. Only negative i can think of is turbo lag.

[godwin]

No Cruze is not engineered by Kia, and no Ecotec is not related to Hyundai's engine.


Cruze i beleive is built on the sonata chassis and shares the same engine as the elantra?, im pretty sure i read somewhere that the cruze was engineered by kia motor company.



on a unrelated note...


props to arash for staying on revscene after endless amount of hate and fails.

[donjalapeno]

oh well then the article was wrong.

[CP.AR]

How about a Nissan Versa or Sentra?

the CVT in the automatic will also make a difference in terms of fuel economy, which will be a huge factor for your roommate since his commute is from Richmond to Langley. Though I haven't drove either of them - I think they are a worthy mention

[ilvtofu]

If you're buddy is looking at the golf I highly recommend the TDi, it has tremendous resale value and effortless fuel economy. Only problem is the wait for one is quite long unless he got lucky and someone didn't want theirs. The 2.5 is a very competent engine in it's own right, very powerful and smooth but fuel economy will realistically be using almost double the amount of gas so IMO the TDi is worth the investment.

I test drove the fiesta and I'd advise against it, the steering ruins what would otherwise be a great driving car, but the price is also a little steep for it's size.

All in all though I think the fit is the solid performer for it's price, I'm guessing your buddy wants a more premium feeling car though, I like the cruze but the interior is still a little rental car to me, mind you I think that way of a lot of entry level domestic and asian import cars

[baggdis300]

FIESTA

if iw as in the market for a cheap encobox id choose the fiesta in a heartbeat.

then again i got a thing for hatchbacks now....

[da-suu]

honda civic bro

[MindBomber]

I don't think anyone has mentioned Subaru yet, but you could get a base model Impreza for 20k or a Legacy for 23k. Those are both great options in my opinion.

[1exotic]

Hey Arash buy an NSX

[Arash]

I would love one when I have my finances in order... but I would also redesign it :o

[tegz]

If you're buddy is looking at the golf I highly recommend the TDi, it has tremendous resale value and effortless fuel economy. Only problem is the wait for one is quite long unless he got lucky and someone didn't want theirs. The 2.5 is a very competent engine in it's own right, very powerful and smooth but fuel economy will realistically be using almost double the amount of gas so IMO the TDi is worth the investment.

I test drove the fiesta and I'd advise against it, the steering ruins what would otherwise be a great driving car, but the price is also a little steep for it's size.

All in all though I think the fit is the solid performer for it's price, I'm guessing your buddy wants a more premium feeling car though, I like the cruze but the interior is still a little rental car to me, mind you I think that way of a lot of entry level domestic and asian import cars

+1 omg 1000 km per 50$ fill up is what you want... TDI eats hybrid pussy for breakfast!!!

Jetta/golf/A3 all got some decently priced TDI models, altho they are more than a 2.0T engine, it'll pay for itself in a year

[roastpuff]

Jetta TDI, cheaper than the Golf, almost as nice and quite a bit roomier, IMO.

I test drove one when they launched it, and it drove as nice as the Golf (even with that new weirdo rear suspension) and the TDI has GOBS and I mean GOBS of torque, especially combined with the DSG.

The suggestions for Mazda 3 and Cruze are quite good as well, I like those two cars. :)

[geeknerd]

I would love one when I have my finances in order... but I would also redesign it :o

why would u redesign it when you consider it a "timeless classic,"?

[godwin]

Since the price differential is about $2500 for a VW 2.5L vs TDI

The price differential between diesel and gas is $0.25/L
The fuel consumption difference between 2.5L and TDI is about 1.6L/100km

via their 2011 brochure (http://www.vw.ca/etc/medialib/vwcms/virtualmaster/en_ca/brochures.Par.0028.File.pdf/2011_golf_brochure.pdf).

You save 1.6*0.25 = $0.4/100km

So you need to drive = 2500 * 100 /0.4 = 625000km to break even.

I don't know about you, I don't drive that much a year to pay for itself in a year! Not to mention maintenance cost required in the interim to reach that mileage.

For a high demand vehicle like a TDI, you won't get a break on leasing either.

it'll pay for itself in a year

[godwin]

It depends what the OP's friend wants to do with the car in the end.

The CVT is designed for fuel savings, but not designed for longevity. They are extremely expensive to replace and they will die.

Japanese manufacturers move to CVT because their domestic market demands it, but one has to realise JDM life cycle is much shorter than North American cars. Yes, they save fuel while they are in service, but most Japanese cars ends up export and out of owners mind after about a decade of service.

How about a Nissan Versa or Sentra?

the CVT in the automatic will also make a difference in terms of fuel economy, which will be a huge factor for your roommate since his commute is from Richmond to Langley. Though I haven't drove either of them - I think they are a worthy mention

[Arash]

why would u redesign it when you consider it a "timeless classic,"?Because I have a designed lined up for it, a design that is a better timeless classic.
A secret design.

[godwin]

Subaru doesn't discount much in Canada, if OP's friend is price sensitive on interest rate, Subaru won't make the list.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/new-cars/auto-news/subaru-selling-cars-in-canada-without-deep-discounts/article1838971/

I don't think anyone has mentioned Subaru yet, but you could get a base model Impreza for 20k or a Legacy for 23k. Those are both great options in my opinion.

[CorneringArtist]

Because I have a designed lined up for it, a design that is a better timeless classic.
A secret design.

Ayrton Senna will be spinning in his grave when that starts.

[GLOW]

Why not finance a better looking used car? Like an NSX

i read the OP's post and when i saw this post i immediately thought of this

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWnAdB-vkXo

[Arash]

I dont even know why Im trying to help here, Im going against nature, like changing history by going back in time and having a date with op's friends mother and planting my own seed.
Dont you fools realize that a car can change your life? The friends that you attain, the girl that you attract and marry, or your out come in life by your occupation.
Its the plain truth we live in, this faux, materialistic society.
So Im just going to sit back and let Darwin's theory take its course.
Go into debt, compete with each other, envy each other, and sell your family for money and image.
Oh and buy that depreciating ugly car, government will always need working robots to push boxes around for peanuts to pay off their box on wheels.

rant\

[orange7]

2010 => AsNoobAsItGets
2011 => Arash

????????????????? :confused:


:troll:

[Jgresch]

I'm getting bored of failing arash time and time again...

[CorneringArtist]

Blah blah blah, self-righteousness, blah blah blah

There's a fine line between optimism and delusion. You're WAY into the latter. You realize that your car does NOT dictate your life. You sound like the car controls you. Your statement about going into debt and "selling out your family for money" contradicts itself. Stop trying to be so self-righteous and get your head out of your ass.

With that out of the way, how's your friend's car hunt OP?

[Arash]

I like to speak from my gut when Im in rant mode, boycott dull cars!

[saucywoman]

arash how about you shut up since you can't seem to contribute anything worthwhile. There's been numerous posts saying your recommendation isn't realistic so how about you stop posting idiotic comments

[Arash]

That would have made a nice fail adding to your 3 but appeantly your immumed.
Do you have something against the NSX? or buying a used cool car and saving money, not buying into the boogieman, repair maintenance scares.

[CorneringArtist]

The NSX is unrealistic, expensive to maintain, and impractical car for general use. You can't get the groceries, company carpool, or carry large demos if a person makes models for their line of work. The only redeeming quality is the image it carries (which you seem to care so much about), yet who gives a fuck if your coworkers don't know what you drive (or think you're bonkers for driving such a car to work as a mid-level employee).

That "saved money" can go into a better car down the line, or better yet, a bigger house.

[GLOW]

:inoutugh:

[Greenstoner]

dont just drive, cruze ~~~

[Jsunu]

Has he considered the honda fit?

[impulseX]

Does it HAVE to be a brand new car? I personally would recommend an older, used car that's fuel efficient especially if he's going to be travelling that far every day.
Not only will you save from just the price of the car, but depending on the vehicle itself and how much your friend really cares about it, that rock chip might not be so big of a deal, as compared to say a brand new car and first thing you come across on the highway on the commute is a nice fat rock chip

[Qmx323]

I dont even know why Im trying to help here, Im going against nature, like changing history by going back in time and having a date with op's friends mother and planting my own seed.
Dont you fools realize that a car can change your life? The friends that you attain, the girl that you attract and marry, or your out come in life by your occupation.
Its the plain truth we live in, this faux, materialistic society.
So Im just going to sit back and let Darwin's theory take its course.
Go into debt, compete with each other, envy each other, and sell your family for money and image.
Oh and buy that depreciating ugly car, government will always need working robots to push boxes around for peanuts to pay off their box on wheels.

rant\

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PaHcZUHI00

[Tapioca]

Does it HAVE to be a brand new car? I personally would recommend an older, used car that's fuel efficient especially if he's going to be travelling that far every day.
Not only will you save from just the price of the car, but depending on the vehicle itself and how much your friend really cares about it, that rock chip might not be so big of a deal, as compared to say a brand new car and first thing you come across on the highway on the commute is a nice fat rock chip

The nice thing about a new car is that you can finance one and that you have 3+ years of warranty. Unless the OP's friend has a line of credit, it's hard to put down 15-20K in cash for a car. It sounds like the OP's friend is not mechanically inclined either, so any used car will require some work which means more money upfront.

If the OP's friend is planning to keep the car a while (5+ years), I would opt for a standard transmission. Less potential headaches and typically more fun.

However, if I were in the OP's friend's situation, I would definitely go used - preferably something mid-90s and Japanese. Toyotas of this era are truly bullet-proof (family's owned 2 Camrys from this period) and even Hondas are okay as long as they're rust free and you can deal with squeaks and rattles (from my experience owning 2 Integras). Hondas and Toyotas from this period are dirt cheap and require next to no maintenance other than fluid changes and wear-and-tear items.

[skiiipi]

Thanks everyone for your response/suggestions.
I'm going to go with my roommate to the automall tomorrow morning before work to test drive a few cars with him.
He said he will decide on something before the weekend, as he has friday thru sunday off and he wants to get this purchase done/over with.

He does want to go new, for the exact reason mentioned above, the ease of fiancing/low interest.

We are probably gonna go look at (possibly test drive if he likes to looks of) the following:
VW Golf TDI
VW Golf 2.5
Hyundai Elantra
Kia Forte5 SX
Mazda 3
Chevy Cruze
Ford Fiesta

and maybe the Impreza and/or lancer if time permits.
He personally likes the Golf, but likes the added feature/spec for similar price found in the Kia, Hyundai etc. One of his main concern as I mentioned before is Highway noise, and long term reliability, he is/will be driving from richmond to langley 5 days a week, and from BC to Saskatchewan possibly once a year. (Dont ask me why he doesnt choose to fly, its probably cheaper/easier).

Nehow, thanks again for all the help! I will let you guys know how the test driving goes tomorrow, and what he decides on.

[impulseX]

The nice thing about a new car is that you can finance one and that you have 3+ years of warranty. Unless the OP's friend has a line of credit, it's hard to put down 15-20K in cash for a car. It sounds like the OP's friend is not mechanically inclined either, so any used car will require some work which means more money upfront.

If the OP's friend is planning to keep the car a while (5+ years), I would opt for a standard transmission. Less potential headaches and typically more fun.

However, if I were in the OP's friend's situation, I would definitely go used - preferably something mid-90s and Japanese. Toyotas of this era are truly bullet-proof (family's owned 2 Camrys from this period) and even Hondas are okay as long as they're rust free and you can deal with squeaks and rattles (from my experience owning 2 Integras). Hondas and Toyotas from this period are dirt cheap and require next to no maintenance other than fluid changes and wear-and-tear items.


What I had in mind when I mentioned used cars was like, around the year 2000 and under because generally I find that if you do a fair amount of research, you can find one thats no more than say, 5000? and will run like a charm either with or without a little maintance.

and +1 on standard transmission :D

[Mr.C]

one car from the brand does not mean that all the cars from that brand sucks.
"oh i had such a bad experience from the audi a4, the r8 must be a bad car too" :blueguy:




:troll:

Ok, fine. Friend with a 98 Jetta. Hated it because of high maintenance. Another friend with a 2001 A6, the car is falling apart at a bit over 100k. He has done all regular maintenance. Another friend, this time with a 04 Phaeton. He loves the car, but he says it's a 'nightmare' (his words) in terms of maintenance. Very expensive, very frequent. Think transmission replacement @ 10k kms. Let's see, cousin used to drive a 2006 VW Gol (not Golf, Gol). Had a plethora of problems, switched for a Fiat.

Heck, I toyed with the idea of getting an RS6. I read through the owner forums, and everyone said the same thing (be prepared for high maintenance costs). OP is asking about a reliable car to be used as a daily driver. I'm sorry, VWs don't fit the bill on the 'reliable' part.

Edit: Has he considered a Ford Fusion? I've heard very very good opinions of that car.

[Lomac]

He personally likes the Golf, but likes the added feature/spec for similar price found in the Kia, Hyundai etc. One of his main concern as I mentioned before is Highway noise, and long term reliability, he is/will be driving from richmond to langley 5 days a week, and from BC to Saskatchewan possibly once a year. (Dont ask me why he doesnt choose to fly, its probably cheaper/easier).

This sounds exactly like a guy I work with... Wonder if it's him? lol

Ok, fine. Friend with a 98 Jetta. Hated it because of high maintenance. Another friend with a 2001 A6, the car is falling apart at a bit over 100k. He has done all regular maintenance. Another friend, this time with a 04 Phaeton. He loves the car, but he says it's a 'nightmare' (his words) in terms of maintenance. Very expensive, very frequent. Think transmission replacement @ 10k kms. Let's see, cousin used to drive a 2006 VW Gol (not Golf, Gol). Had a plethora of problems, switched for a Fiat.

Heck, I toyed with the idea of getting an RS6. I read through the owner forums, and everyone said the same thing (be prepared for high maintenance costs). OP is asking about a reliable car to be used as a daily driver. I'm sorry, VWs don't fit the bill on the 'reliable' part.

Edit: Has he considered a Ford Fusion? I've heard very very good opinions of that car.

To be fair, I've had 6 different Volkswagens. Although they tended to be older models (MK1/2 Jetta's, a B3 Passat and a Super Beetle), they were all reliable. Well, not the Passat but those were notorious for electrical issues.

I would also suggest checking out the Fusion. It was very high on my list of potential cars when I was looking, and only got edged out by an older car because I got a better deal.

[busdriverman]

2011 VW Jetta.

Safe
Reliable
Good Warranty
Good Fuel Economy
German Engineering

maybe he can even get a amazing deal on the MK5 2010 Jettas, most dealerships have alot of them.

i wouldnt if i were you

the new jettas start at 16k for a reason

the base model has rear drum brakes and a very crappy rear suspension

the interior plastics are very cheap (even for a car that is supposed to compete with the corolla and civic) and the engine is from a 93 jetta

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q3/2011_volkswagen_jetta-first_drive_review

i personally like the new fiestas

[Lomac]

i wouldnt if i were you

the new jettas start at 16k for a reason

the base model has rear drum brakes and a very crappy rear suspension

the interior plastics are very cheap (even for a car that is supposed to compete with the corolla and civic) and the engine is from a 93 jetta

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q3/2011_volkswagen_jetta-first_drive_review

i personally like the new fiestas

That 2.0 8v is virtually bulletproof. Yes, it's underpowered, but you can easily put half a million miles on that thing.

[skiiipi]

So I went with him on a few drives today, it was a bit rushed as be both had to work in the afternoon today. But he will be going back to the dealerships in the next few days to look.

Its down to
Golf Cityline 2.5 Auto
Golf TDi Cityline 2.5 Auto
And maybe
Kia Forte5 SX Auto

The Forte5 and the none tdi golf is the same price, but Forte will probably have more flexibility on price + lower maintenance cost. Hard to say right now because we ran out of time and didn't get to spend a lot of time at Kia.

A few question I hope the revscene members here can answer.

1. The Tdi we looked at had 240km on it, its their last one of the lot, 2011 model, had sunrooof + rear side airbag for a sticker of 29xxx, and the Non-tdi one had 150km on it with sunroof, rear side air bag and the "entertainment pkg", stickered at 28xxx. For both of these "floor models", what kind of price flexibility can we expect? $2000? $3000?

2.TDi or Gas? Financing cost (including the higher finance rate for the TDi) works out to the TDi being $30ish more per month. For a guy that drives from richmond to langley 5 times a week, will the gas savings be worth it? How's the reliability of the TDi?

3. What kind of price flexibility can we expect on the Kia? The model we test drove was 25xxx. $3000 wiggle room? More? Less?

Thanks in advance for your help.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[godwin]

1. Get the base price from CarCostCanada.
2. See my calculation on the TDI to break even a few post above.
3. Same as #1

Do your own homework (including how much your friend plan to drive etc) before you head to the dealership! The baseline is dealership wont' sell it at a loss, you have to pad them a bit of profit.

If your friend drives from Richmond to Langley for 5 days, it is about 50km each way (via google map).. so 500km/week = 52*500km/year = 26000 km.. make sure you include that in your lease calculation.

So I went with him on a few drives today, it was a bit rushed as be both had to work in the afternoon today. But he will be going back to the dealerships in the next few days to look.

Its down to
Golf Cityline 2.5 Auto
Golf TDi Cityline 2.5 Auto
And maybe
Kia Forte5 SX Auto

The Forte5 and the none tdi golf is the same price, but Forte will probably have more flexibility on price + lower maintenance cost. Hard to say right now because we ran out of time and didn't get to spend a lot of time at Kia.

A few question I hope the revscene members here can answer.

1. The Tdi we looked at had 240km on it, its their last one of the lot, 2011 model, had sunrooof + rear side airbag for a sticker of 29xxx, and the Non-tdi one had 150km on it with sunroof, rear side air bag and the "entertainment pkg", stickered at 28xxx. For both of these "floor models", what kind of price flexibility can we expect? $2000? $3000?

2.TDi or Gas? Financing cost (including the higher finance rate for the TDi) works out to the TDi being $30ish more per month. For a guy that drives from richmond to langley 5 times a week, will the gas savings be worth it? How's the reliability of the TDi?

3. What kind of price flexibility can we expect on the Kia? The model we test drove was 25xxx. $3000 wiggle room? More? Less?

Thanks in advance for your help.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[skiiipi]

Just wanted to thank everyone for their help.

My roommate ended up purchasing a 2011 Golf TDi Comfortline. He will be taking poession of the car next friday.

Thanks again for everyone's help.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[Mr.C]

Just wanted to thank everyone for their help.

My roommate ended up purchasing a 2011 Golf TDi Comfortline. He will be taking poession of the car next friday.

Thanks again for everyone's help.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

Hopefully his VW treats him better than mine.

[orange7]

Just wanted to thank everyone for their help.

My roommate ended up purchasing a 2011 Golf TDi Comfortline. He will be taking poession of the car next friday.

Thanks again for everyone's help.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)


congratz on his new purchase.

maybe one day he will join rs, and we can fail him when he asks why he doesn't see the fail button. :fullofwin: