Ot: calling all outside sales reps and Motor-heads... Time 2 buy a new car!

Submitted by Helloheisman on
I thought I would take advantage of the slow time of year to take a survey of anyone who gave a shit about cars. I would like to take in your opinions of new cars on the market for an outside sales rep. At this point I'm liking the Subaru impreza sedan but idk... I work in southeast Michigan and my Toyota does not cut it in the winter... Any reasonable opinion is appreciated! Thanks in advance!
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Steve in PA

August 10th, 2012 at 11:00 PM ^

We're picking up a new Altima for my wife this week or next.  She's going from her Jeep back to a car because the Jeep is SOOOO thirsty and we don't need as much room now tht my daughter is older.

Joined: 08/10/2009

MGoPoints: 6327

Stike A Pose

August 10th, 2012 at 11:16 PM ^

#1 - Please provide with facts, not personal opinion.

#2 - As a GM employee, I am pretty disappointed with the lack of support of American made cars, as opposed to foreign cars.  Especially on a Michigan website.

#3 - Please excuse me for being a dick, I'm enjoying my Summer Shandy for as much as possible until it is taken off the shelves.

#4 - Go Blue.

Joined: 10/16/2011

MGoPoints: 191

Brown Bear

August 10th, 2012 at 11:22 PM ^

The OP asked for opinions and I gave mine. I've always bought American and IMO they all had major flaws and/or major mechanical issues. My opinion, like the OP asked. Some others opinions. http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/04/who-makes-the-best-… http://www.cars.com/go/advice/Story.jsp?section=top&story=iqsBrand&subj… Ps Cheers and Go Blue!

Joined: 01/10/2011

MGoPoints: 38026

BlueLotCrew

August 10th, 2012 at 11:46 PM ^

I have to disagree.  GM vehicles are largely not American made vehicles.  For example, the Buick Regal... 27% made here.  

Chevy Cruze (hottest seller for Chevy right now)... 45% made here

Buick Lacrosse... 57%.

Cadillac SRX... 21%, All other Cadillac models... 57-65%.

GMC Sierra/ Silverado... 61%, all other GMC models... 65-75%. Honda Ridgeline... 75% made here.  That is just crazy. Pick-ups are 100% American creations.  Blasphemy!

Ford... 65-75% made here, The Expedition... only 50% made here.

Now for the "Foreign Cars"

Acura... most models are 65-75% made here. 

All Hondas... 65-80% made here.

Kia.. why you would support Korea in any way, I do ot know, but they are the lowest at 3-5% made here for all models but Sorento at 60%.

You get my point... I guess we should all buy Hondas if we really want to support America... but then again, Honda has surpassed GM in sales, so I guess we are.

SOURCE: http://abcnews.go.com/WN/MadeInAmerica/page?id=13795239

 

Joined: 10/14/2011

MGoPoints: -562

Stike A Pose

August 11th, 2012 at 1:47 AM ^

I can tell you that all the parts are not American made.  I think common sense could tell you that.  The point is that American made cars were centered in Detroit which could be a sensative subject for some people, including myself, especially on a Michigan fourm.

American made cars are for the most part built state-side, thus supplying many Americans with jobs.

Main point being, Detroit is called the "Motor City" for a reason.  No reason to rain on our parade.

Again, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I would suggest to keep the Detroit bashing to a minimum on this fourm.  No, not everyone on here is from Michigan, but the majority of us are.

Joined: 10/16/2011

MGoPoints: 191

mgobleu

August 11th, 2012 at 6:42 AM ^

I dont want to get political, and maybe this is too far, but I am a true free market kinda guy. That sort of competition only makes better products. I'm also a patriot, so I feel great affinity for domestics. But if I were anything other than american, the choice would be obvious... Yeah. If I go any farther I'm going to get the anti-political banhammer.

Joined: 07/02/2008

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TyrannousLex

August 11th, 2012 at 9:25 AM ^

The Japanese and the Korean government both follow(ed) Mercantilism and still give very strong support to their auto industry. I can't remember Japan's numbers, but the tax on buying a foreign car in Korea is more than 100% (iirc). They all got/get significant tax benefits for establishing factories in the US, and for them building a plant in the American South is simple labor arbitage.

Not that i'm against what they do. It's the same system that the US used to gain its premier economic standing (and England used it to the same effect before the US). It's smart and it works. But i don't think you can say that there's a level playing field in terms of competition.

*I say this as a person who's mostly owned foreign cars (born and raised in Detroit) and who would never buy a GM product. My driveway consists of an ancient Toyota truck, a 2001 Honda Civic, and a 1991 BMW. I'd replace the Civic with a Ford, but they won't sell me a true wagon so it will be replaced by either a Volvo or a VW.

Joined: 11/05/2011

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cozy200

August 11th, 2012 at 9:26 AM ^

Have you really looked at the interior, especially the display (laughable) and controls from a Trailblazer vs Acura? Sorry i love all things MI including detroit but my god its like a class of 4th grade students lead the CAD team. I feel like its cheap, tacky, and from the 80's. Its like what we thought the future would look like 3 yrs ago then when we got here, it wasnt nearly as cool but we went with the design anyway.

Joined: 01/02/2011

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BlueLotCrew

August 11th, 2012 at 11:47 AM ^

If a Honda consists of parts and labor hours that equate to 75% American, and a fucking piece if shit Chevy Cruze is less than half that, then I'm afraid your argument holds no water. The Honda is a better car and a better choice in terms of supporting our economy. Also, FYI, you are probably bitching about this using a computer built in Japan, sitting on a desk that was made in Mexico under a roof made of lumber from china. It's a global economy now dude, get off your soap box.

Joined: 10/14/2011

MGoPoints: -562

mgobleu

August 11th, 2012 at 12:05 AM ^

This comes from a guy who's driven gm all his life; we own an envoy and an avalanche, both of which we love. But after my dad just bought a 2013 silverado, loaded with literally every available option, and my mom a 2013 infiniti fx35, I'm sorry, but the chevy is just not in the same league anymore. And to be honest, I wouldnt trade my 2005 avalanche for his truck. The interior seems chintzy, the ride is weird, the lag from the mds is a bummer, and I think my truck is faster. And the real kicker, he couldve bought 3 of them for the price he paid. I dont like saying it, honestly it makes me really sad. And maybe its just a perception issue, but I just don't feel like theyre the brand they used to be.

Joined: 07/02/2008

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BlueLotCrew

August 11th, 2012 at 12:18 AM ^

Grandfather, father and uncle all worked at GM.  I tried to be loyal and bought only GM products for my first 5-6 cars.  Then, I got my first lemon in 1994... had to lawyer up and sue GM.  Won the case and didn't look back.  Went straight to a Lexus and it was like I travelled forward in time by 20 years.  In 2007, I gave it another try and bought a brand new Envoy Denali... 2 years later, I sold it and got another japanese SUV.  I'm sorry, American cars are garbage.  And now that they really are more Mexican, Canadian and Chinese made than American, I don't feel bad driving a japanese brand that was assembled here and contains 65% american made parts.  I feel this is way more support to our country than buying a GM would be... it just doesn't support the UAW.  Then again, the UAW has failed the industry, so what's the point?

Joined: 10/14/2011

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trueblueintexas

August 11th, 2012 at 2:05 AM ^

When I buy a car I typically buy used because I prefer to pay in cash so I don't have a payment. I also drive them into the ground. Because of this, I do a ton of research. Last two cars purchased? '06 Toyota Tacoma, made right here in Texas, and an '05 Saab V-5. With all the research I do, not one U.S. brand car has ever come up for consideration. The main reason? Although quality has significantly improved, U.S. brands consistently don't equal many of the foreign brands, regardless of actual manufacturing location, when it comes to value and longevity according to the car review sites.

Joined: 11/10/2008

MGoPoints: 36286

WolvinLA2

August 10th, 2012 at 11:18 PM ^

I completely disagree.  I own a Toyota because they make the best hybrid, but if you don't need/want a hybrid, Ford and Chevy both have great options that are just as good (if not better in some instances) and the Japanese.  if you want something nicer, both Buick and Cadillac make some of the sharpest cars on the road right now. 

Joined: 11/13/2009

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tricks574

August 11th, 2012 at 7:44 AM ^

Drool....continues drooling.... Cadillac is going nuts right now, imo a huge success story for American cars, not just making an affordable luxury sedan to compete with the 5 series, but blowing it off the track with the ctsv for significantly less $$$. No i didn't get aroused talking about the ctsv, why are you asking?

Joined: 07/01/2008

MGoPoints: 1535

Brown Bear

August 10th, 2012 at 11:09 PM ^

Another thing to make sure of if you travel a lot is comfort. I did a lot of research before making my most recent car purchase and knowing that I'm on the road a lot made sure the car I got was comfortable. I drive a Mazda6 and love it, reliable, pretty good mileage, roomy with a big trunk and comfortable.

Joined: 01/10/2011

MGoPoints: 38026

davidhm

August 11th, 2012 at 8:01 AM ^

I drive 25K a year and comfort is key.  I would not buy the Subaru Impreza for this reason.  Fun as hell to drive at first, but that rough suspension will get on your nerves after a while.  

I would also suggest the OP look at a certified pre-owned vehicle.  No sense in buying brand new when you can get a well maintained lease turn in with under 36K miles. Especially if you are a road-warrior.   Let someone else take the depreciation hit.  It also gives you a shot at buying up - perhaps getting that mid-sized luxury car that you've always wanted but can't afford new.  

Joined: 07/21/2010

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Wendyk5

August 10th, 2012 at 11:26 PM ^

I have a Jetta Wagon TDI (diesel). It's the best car I've ever had. It gets crazy good gas mileage, like 32 in the the city and almost 50 on the highway. It's fast and responsive, and it comes in stick, which is what I prefer. I live outside Chicago, and it's fine in the winter. It's not as good as an SUV in deep snow, but the gas mileage makes up for it. 

Joined: 11/20/2008

MGoPoints: 67495

BlueMan80

August 10th, 2012 at 11:30 PM ^

But, I've owned many all wheel drive vehicles (SUVs and sedans) over the years and have a need to make sure winter doesn't stop me from going places. All wheel drive is helpful, but the major benefit is starting from a stop (torque split across two axles) and going up hills. I have a very steep driveway, so that's one of the reasons I favor all wheel drive. However, stopping and holding a turn are achieved with winter tires. Those are the two things most people are looking for in winter. So, if you want to go with FWD or RWD, just get a very good set of winter tires, some steel wheels, and some wheel covers. Personally, I do all wheel drive and winter tires. I always end up buying a second set of tires, so a have two sets of wheels and split the wear across them. When it's time to sell the car, there's tread left on the summer tires.

Joined: 01/21/2011

MGoPoints: 13094

BlueLotCrew

August 10th, 2012 at 11:32 PM ^

I am a serious road warrior in Michigan/ Indiana and I drive 45-50k miles per year.  Had a 2008 BMW 535xi and it was really nice, but I needed more rear seat legroom and wanted a bit more technology this time around.  I have also owned the following in the past... 2011 Ford Edge... really solid and great mileage considering the size.  Ford Fusion... junk.  GM Impala... junk.  Jeep Grand Cherokee... junk, horrible mileage.  Dodge Charger... horrible in snow, really poor ride and terrible blind spots.  Ford Taurus... ok, very bland feel and look, but it was a 2004.  The new ones are way nicer IMO.  2008 Infiniti QX56... great in all weather, 12mpg... so it gets used for tailgating mainly.  2004 Infiniti FX45... great car, decent mileage, a little small once we had kids.  2001 Lexus GS400... awesome in summer, great in winter with snow tires, otherwise, you will die.

 

I can tell you that I am in love with the Infiniti M37x so far, and it is awesome for the 7 hour drive to Marquette, MI.  Very Comfy, 330 hp so it will keep up with anything on the road, and 28 mpg... I actually make money to drive it.

 

The BMW is for sale... just saying.  BEst of luck in your decision.

Joined: 10/14/2011

MGoPoints: -562

BlueLotCrew

August 11th, 2012 at 11:33 AM ^

But I suppose that's about right. I've been driving for 22 years and have been married for 11, so it adds up faster than you think. Especially when you drive 50k miles per year, I typically turn them every year or so. I've also owned a 79 ford fairmont, 89 cavalries z24, 92 cavalier z24, 94 camaro z28, 99 trams am convertible, 92 beretta GTZ. Now that I think of it, probably 30 cars. Hell, we have 3 cars right now.

Joined: 10/14/2011

MGoPoints: -562

BoFan

August 10th, 2012 at 11:57 PM ^

buy a new car. It's one of the biggest rip offs known to man. A used car with low miles is always better. I've always driven much nicer cars at half the cost per mile (all in) than a new car. Run the numbers.

Joined: 03/09/2012

MGoPoints: 19908

GrindToEat

August 11th, 2012 at 12:03 AM ^

sure, your gonna seem like 'that guy' but listen, other than getting the same milage as my chevy stepside, my crown vic fantastic. everyone slows down for you, i've never been pulled over. it mobs, and its got all wheel drive. not to mention, the back seat (now replaced with civilian issue leather seats) are incredibly comfortable. 

this isn't my video, but it excites me none the less

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nz2PRzkL33o&feature=fvwrel

Joined: 04/23/2012

MGoPoints: 247

Butterfield

August 11th, 2012 at 12:10 AM ^

Hyundai is a company that has come a long way, what you get for your dollar with a Hyundai is unparalleled. Just bought a Genesis coupe and it's a better and quicker car than my last car, which was an Infiniti G35, for a lot less cash.

Joined: 01/15/2011

MGoPoints: 2398

Bluemaizeaukee

August 11th, 2012 at 12:11 AM ^

I drive a '98 Nissan Sentra SE in Wisconsin with Yokohama tires and it drives well.  I pass up most sedans with out all-wheel drive.  It's all about the tires and your driving skills, yo!

Joined: 01/26/2011

MGoPoints: 483

UMgradMSUdad

August 11th, 2012 at 12:18 AM ^

On my second Impala.  The first one I sold after more than 130,000 miles.  No problems at all--just routine maintenence until I hit a deer; it was never quite the same after that.  I drive mostly highway miles and  get 30 mpg highway. I now have 35,000 miles on my "new" car.  I can fit nearly as much stuff in it as my wife's SUV, which came in real handy when dropping off child #2 at her dorm room over 500 miles away.

Joined: 07/02/2011

MGoPoints: 13178

TatuajeVI

August 11th, 2012 at 12:20 AM ^

So I have a '11 Chrysler 200 and my wife has a '12 Altima. They are similar in size, gas mileage, trim level/price point. My 200 is so much nicer to drive. Steering wheel is set up logically and just had an awesome feel to it. I know that sounds weird, but my wife says the same thing. The 200 has been a great vehicle for me.

Joined: 10/31/2011

MGoPoints: 897

energyblue1

August 11th, 2012 at 3:06 AM ^

03 altima, 07 fusion....both 4cylinders.......Altima slightly nicer interior, fusion better overall vehicle........fusion got tboned by a girl ran a redlight with my child in the passenger seat where the car was hit, other driver going over 45mph......daughter wasn't hurt...........I would never have trusted the altima to hold up to that accident......and the fusion wasn't totaled, the other drivers car was!  

 

Fusion is far more solid then the camry and accord..........inlaws have new accord, friends have camry.....I'd take my fusion over them every day of the week.......Seats are far more comfortable in the fusion,  

BTW, 100,000 on my 07 fusion, 2 wrecks, still going and not near the rattle trap my buddies camry is...and never a problem.  Though he continues to tell me how great his camry is after having it repaired he will say if it were a ford it would have been in the shop more....I love the excuses for honda/toyota ......................perception is everything though....

Joined: 03/19/2010

MGoPoints: 5287

BlueLotCrew

August 11th, 2012 at 11:38 AM ^

If the damned thing has been wrecked and rebuilt twice, that is, if your post about being t-boned at 45 mph is to be believed. Be careful, some of the posters here have mechanical engineering degrees and know what a collision like that would do to a ford fusion.

Joined: 10/14/2011

MGoPoints: -562

TSWC

August 11th, 2012 at 3:32 AM ^

We have an '08 Forester XT and it is simply amazing in the snow. I also have a 4x4 F-150 and when there's a ton of snow on the ground I'll take the Forester over the truck--absolutely no question. The Subaru is just about unstoppable.

The downsides are none of the Subarus have very good interior room or gas mileage. We gladly make the trade off, but those are the drawbacks.

The interior is nice, and it has held up well to two young kids and all their adventures.

I had to have my sister's car (a Merc) towed a few weeks ago and the tow truck driver, who obviously sees many broken down and stuck cars, commented when he saw my Forester that for his money Subarus are the best cars on the road, hands down.

If I had a ton of money, I'd probably be driving something else, but for the price and all-purpose use, I love my Forester.

Joined: 09/08/2009

MGoPoints: 833

NoMoPincherBug

August 11th, 2012 at 3:41 AM ^

When I was a sales rep here in CA after moving here from Michigan in the early 00s...I drove 2 Porsche 911s on the road.  It was a ton of fun.  One was a classic 1986 and the other was a 97 993 model....both were cabriolets.  Cruising all over So Call in a top down 911 sure makes work more fun.  People that I worked with thought I was crazy but my customers loved it. 

In Michigan, I usually drove Toyotas.... the Michigan weather necessitates a truck or all wheel vehicle.  A Suburu may be a nice vehicle for that weather if you dont want a truck.

Joined: 04/08/2011

MGoPoints: 1834

Thorin

August 11th, 2012 at 4:14 AM ^

A penny saved is worth more than a penny earned since you don't have to pay taxes on it. Buy used and spend the money you save on entertainment, travel, home improvements or whatever.

Joined: 04/07/2009

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