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Experience with these cars:

post #1 of 13
1/17/08 at 9:19pm
Thread Starter 
I was previously considering purchasing another SUV to replace my current, but am playing with the idea of getting a sedan instead.

I am thinking about a 2003 or 2004 Infiniti G35x or M45. Both are about the same price. The AWD on the G35x would be nice as we have lots of snow and ice for five months out of the year, and they don't always do a good job of taking care of the roads. I am concerned about how the RWD on the M45 will handle under these conditions, but you certainly get a lot more car with that for the same price as the G35.

Two other ideas for sedans are a 2004 Volvo S60-R AWD (finish does not appear to be as nice as my other selections), or maybe a 2004 A6.

Also, if I do end up deciding to stick with an SUV, I like the styling of the BMW X5 (2001-2003 would fall in my budget).

I would appreciate any input on these cars if you have first-hand experience. I am leaning towards the Infiniti because of what I have heard regarding reliability of the Japanese vs. Germans. Any other suggestions would also be appreciated, looking to spend ~$20k or so, under 60k miles, early 2000s or newer. A nice comfortable interior is a plus, as I do spend a good deal of time driving. Heated leather seats, good sound system, etc.
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post #2 of 13
1/17/08 at 9:45pm
03-04 M45 depreciates horribly (not a popular car), so don't buy it unless you want to keep it forever. It'll do fine in snow as long as you use snow tires (same goes for G35, AWD by itself will not save you). 03-06 G35 seats have seat controls on the edge of the seat cushion and they can be annoying if you're bigger, so sit in the seats for a long time to make sure they're comfy.
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post #3 of 13
1/17/08 at 9:55pm
I think the X5 is among the best SUVs ever made. It feels more like a raised 5-series than anything, with much better handling than any SUV I've ever driven, though that list exludes a Cayenne, Range Rover Sport, and Infiniti FX. It is, of course, not in the same class as most sport sedans like the G35. I'm very partial to BMWs but it's one of the few SUVs I would ever purchase with my own money. I have no experience with them long term but that was my impression when driving one briefly.
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post #4 of 13
1/17/08 at 10:20pm
You may be able to get something new for the price of used, like the Suzuki SX4. Or, if you need write offs, a lease would work for you. Saab has some amazing lease deals, go to intellichoice.com and look around. I wouldn't buy used unless it was certified pre-owned or it came from a friend and even then. I'm in the biz and know the tricks of the auto dealers and the way people treat cars. Better off with a lease or a less expensive new car.
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post #5 of 13
1/17/08 at 10:23pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by farfisa23 View Post
What is your price range? You may be able to get something new for the price of used. Or, if you need write offs, a lease would work for you.

Saab has some amazing lease deals, go to intellichoice.com and look around.

I would prefer used over new, and prefer to buy outright rather than lease. Thanks for the website tip, I'm taking a look at it now.
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post #6 of 13
1/17/08 at 10:34pm
Just remember, a 2001 is 8 years old, and a 2003 is six years old. Cars coming out now are closer to being 2009s, rather than 2008s. As soon as something hits 4 years, your value is kaput.

Also a 2001 X5 - or anything European - will cost you more in repairs than buying new(er). Stick with higher end Japanese and you will do fine.

How about a crossover?
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post #7 of 13
1/18/08 at 3:00am
Personally I would go with the Volvo. I much perfer the updated bodystyles to the boxy pre-98 styles. Yes, repairs are more than for, say a Japanese or domestic, but IMO that's because the quality of the part is a lot better. I've known many a Volvo/Saab to go well over 300k on a non-rebuilt engine. My Saab is at 217k on the original clutch and it's not having any problems! I also like the A6. Go for the 3.0 6 cyl engine over the 2.7 L. They're well built and are very fun to drive. From a reliability standpoint, they're pretty good. Since it's an '04....if the milage is over 70k, make sure it's had the timing belt/water pump service! Another great thing about the A6 is the Quattro option. IMO, it's the best AWD system out there. If I had enough cash to get a newer car without a million miles on it, I'd get a '01+ A6
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post #8 of 13
1/18/08 at 3:06am
03 m45 is an ugly car. I am on my second g35 and I have loved both of them
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post #9 of 13
1/18/08 at 3:29am
I'd say Infiniti FX45 or the BMW X5 if you're considering SUVs. Tons of expert reviews online so you can read on those.

If you're getting a used car, better go with Japanese. Generally less repairs and cost a lot less. Depreciation wise, resale value of Japanese cars are a lot higher nowadays, probably because they are getting better in quality, class, mileage, etc. I'd recommend getting the older models for cheap rather than newer used models because there is not much of a price difference especially if you're getting it one at a dealer, they make a pretty nice profit from it.
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post #10 of 13
1/18/08 at 10:25pm
With a used Infiniti you can usually buy an extended warranty from the dealer for a reasonable price (like $1-2K) and you can have the work done at any Infiniti dealer. Most dealers are cooperative about doing warranty work, but it helps to have several dealers nearby in case your local dealer isn't generous. Also ask to see the service records of any car you are considering, look for regular oil changes and other required maintenance. Infiniti's suggested oil change interval is 3750 miles, so that's good for the used car buyer if the previous owner followed that schedule.
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post #11 of 13
1/18/08 at 10:26pm
Also, standard Infiniti powertrain warranty is 6 years/70K miles, most Euro makes are 4y/50K.
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post #12 of 13
1/19/08 at 2:12pm
Have you considered Mazda's version?
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post #13 of 13
1/19/08 at 3:37pm
bmw is my choice. i have had 7 of them including x5 and x3. both offer great all wheel drive motoring experiences depending on your needs, i would suggest test driving x3 w 3.0 engine as extra power is worth extra expense. both my wife and i loved it. more fun to drive than x5 and if you fold down back seat there is room for a bike. x5 is also grand but not as nimble. my cpa has infinite m45, great engine and lots of features and safty dodads not found on g35.
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