Sporty commuter sedans for $30k

[...Whitepower...]

Sedan
Has to fit 4 adults reasonably comfortably with a decent sized trunk for luggage
Auto
Nav
Decent stereo
Close to 30mpg highway or better
Heated seats would be nice
Car would have to be new dealer lot purchase
Would like 250+ hp. The more the better.
Leaning towards imports.
Might be willing to go into the low $30k price point.

What can you guys suggest? Just curious if you can think of anything we have not. :waiting:

[snide]

I was going to suggest VW Passat, until I saw your 250hp requirement. But seriously, the VW Passat will meet most of your needs, especially if you get the TDi.

[...Whitepower...]

I was going to suggest VW Passat, until I saw your 250hp requirement. But seriously, the VW Passat will meet most of your needs, especially if you get the TDi.

It's already on the list.

[ApexOversteer]

Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited fits your criteria...

[Rob]

Elio :seasix:

[...Whitepower...]

Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited fits your criteria...

Isn't that a CVT? Not a fan of CVT's. Nissans will probably be out too due to the CVT.

[...Whitepower...]

Elio :seasix:

http://www.citrus.k12.fl.us/lhs/Faculty_Staff_Depts/web%20design%20site/Bio%20mary%20f/helio-castroneves.jpg

[GRN ENVY]

Acura TL awd

[Mirroredshades]

Fusion

[Mirroredshades]

Mazdaspeed 6

[snide]

It's already on the list.

One great feature of the Passat is that is built in the USA, without the help of the criminal organization known as the UAW. :leaving:

[Mirroredshades]

Personally with those specs I would get a gently used Acura RL or TL and save $10k. Slight hit on gas mileage but probably nicer and faster than your other choices.

[ApexOversteer]

Isn't that a CVT? Not a fan of CVT's. Nissans will probably be out too due to the CVT.

:seasix:

[Mirroredshades]

Or an Accord for that matter.

[Kerrmudgeon]

I'd check out the South Korean makers Hyundai and Kia. The Elantra is a nice looking sedan with 280 hp, and all the bells and whistles that would cost extra on other makes. Best warranty in the market, and they're quality is superlative now. As good or better than the Jap stuff.:seasix:

http://www.hyundaicanada.com/content/Assets/2013/360/Sonata_2.0T/Exterior/Sparkling_Ruby/en/01.jpg

[Craig]

Go get a three year old Infiniti G-class with a bumper to bumper extended warranty.

[...Whitepower...]

Acura TL awd

Car has to be new.
That is too expensive.
It looks like shit.


However... The TSX wagon IS on the list.

[VatorMan]

I'd check out the South Korean makers Hyundai and Kia. The Elantra is a nice looking sedan with 280 hp, and all the bells and whistles that would cost extra on other makes. Best warranty in the market, and they're quality is superlative now. As good or better than the Jap stuff.:seasix:

http://www.hyundaicanada.com/content/Assets/2013/360/Sonata_2.0T/Exterior/Sparkling_Ruby/en/01.jpg

:iagree: The S. Koreans have really put it together.

[...Whitepower...]

I'd check out the South Korean makers Hyundai and Kia. The Elantra is a nice looking sedan with 280 hp, and all the bells and whistles that would cost extra on other makes. Best warranty in the market, and they're quality is superlative now. As good or better than the Jap stuff.:seasix:

http://www.hyundaicanada.com/content/Assets/2013/360/Sonata_2.0T/Exterior/Sparkling_Ruby/en/01.jpg

That Hyundai Sonata 2.0T is on the list as well. I like em so much i already own one.

Wifes car.

https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/12896_508727265805422_183318797_n.jpg

[ApexOversteer]

That Hyundai Sonata 2.0T is on the list as well. I like em so much i already own one.

Wifes car.

https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/12896_508727265805422_183318797_n.jpg

Such a good looking car, said the Lamborghini humper....

[...Whitepower...]

CAR HAS TO BE NEW.

This will be a new company car.

[snide]

I'd check out the South Korean makers Hyundai and Kia. The Elantra is a nice looking sedan with 280 hp, and all the bells and whistles that would cost extra on other makes. Best warranty in the market, and they're quality is superlative now. As good or better than the Jap stuff.:seasix:

http://www.hyundaicanada.com/content/Assets/2013/360/Sonata_2.0T/Exterior/Sparkling_Ruby/en/01.jpg

When I got my Passat, the Kia Optima was on the short list. The VW won out with a side by side comparison. The Passat was much larger on the inside, and had much bigger trunk. The Passat was also available with a stick in the mid-level (SE) trim package, whereas the Kia had just an automatic (CVT?).

[Oh-yaa]

I'm sure I'll catch crap for this one - the '14 Chevy Impala?

The V6 has 305 horses and still gets pretty close to 30 mpg on the highway. Pretty comfortable inside and all of your requested options available. Biggest drawback is some torque steer when you stomp on it. Much improved over the previous generation and look pretty sharp too IMO.

[...Whitepower...]

When I got my Passat, the Kia Optima was on the short list. The VW won out with a side by side comparison. The Passat was much larger on the inside, and had much bigger trunk. The Passat was also available with a stick in the mid-level (SE) trim package, whereas the Kia had just an automatic (CVT?).

So you got a turbo 1.8 over the TDI?

Why if you don't mind me asking?

[snide]

I'm sure I'll catch crap for this one - the '14 Chevy Impala?

The V6 has 305 horses and still gets pretty close to 30 mpg on the highway. Pretty comfortable inside and all of your requested options available. Biggest drawback is some torque steer when you stomp on it. Much improved over the previous generation and look pretty sharp too IMO.

Torque steer is one of the reasons I went with the manual equipped Passat. Torque steer can be regulated by the throttle. Can't do that with a slushbox.

[GRN ENVY]

Car has to be new.
That is too expensive.
It looks like shit.


However... The TSX wagon IS on the list.

Yeah it's up there in money. I like them though. Such a great driving car for me atleast. TSX is right behind it!

[...Whitepower...]

I'm sure I'll catch crap for this one - the '14 Chevy Impala?

The V6 has 305 horses and still gets pretty close to 30 mpg on the highway. Pretty comfortable inside and all of your requested options available. Biggest drawback is some torque steer when you stomp on it. Much improved over the previous generation and look pretty sharp too IMO.

The guy that will ultimatley approve the decision has some preconceptions of american car reliability. The car will be ran for 3-4 years and log over 150k. Just following his rules.

[ApexOversteer]

I'm sure I'll catch crap for this one - the '14 Chevy Impala?

The V6 has 305 horses and still gets pretty close to 30 mpg on the highway. Pretty comfortable inside and all of your requested options available. Biggest drawback is some torque steer when you stomp on it. Much improved over the previous generation and look pretty sharp too IMO.

I was going to suggest the Chevy SS. It's a bit more spendy (mid-$40k's) than his requested price point, but it is technically an import and technically bailout guilt-free because Obama didn't bailout Holden.

[snide]

So you got a turbo 1.8 over the TDI?

Why if you don't mind me asking?

Actually, mine is the 5 cylinder 2.5 non-turbo, which was a choice for 2012. I would have got the TDi with a stick if I could have found one locally. When I got my car, the TDi was very scarce.

[...Whitepower...]

Torque steer is one of the reasons I went with the manual equipped Passat. Torque steer can be regulated by the throttle. Can't do that with a slushbox.

With the miles i do i need an auto for traffic jams etc. If i can get him to go for the WRX i'd deal with the manual in a heartbeat. Seems like everyone is going to CVT's due to fuel economy on their auto's latley.. :sleep:

[Mirroredshades]

CAR HAS TO BE NEW.



I've got something you can kiss.

:flippa:





:funnier:

[snide]

With the miles i do i need an auto for traffic jams etc. If i can get him to go for the WRX i'd deal with the manual in a heartbeat. Seems like everyone is going to CVT's due to fuel economy on their auto's latley.. :sleep:

The clutch on the Passat is very light. But I haven't driven a Passat with an automatic, so I can't say if it's better in traffic or not.

[Oh-yaa]

The guy that will ultimatley approve the decision has some preconceptions of american car reliability. The car will be ran for 3-4 years and log over 150k. Just following his rules.

Is that preconception that American cars are not as reliable as imports?

[...Whitepower...]

Actually, mine is the 5 cylinder 2.5 non-turbo, which was a choice for 2012. I would have got the TDi with a stick if I could have found one locally. When I got my car, the TDi was very scarce.

TDI SEL premium is one of the top 2 or 3 contenders. Yeah its about $33k msrp but with the fuel savings and with the guy signing off on it being a numbers guy he would be ok with it and return (fuel savings) in the long run.

My current 2011 nissan has 111k on it. So you get a sense for the miles i log. I have a state of florida sunpass on my windshield and i don't even live there..lol

[...Whitepower...]

Is that preconception that American cars are not as reliable as imports?

Nothing gets by you does it.. :D

[snide]

TDI SEL premium is one of the top 2 or 3 contenders. Yeah its about $33k msrp but with the fuel savings and with the guy signing off on it being a numbers guy he would be ok with it and return (fuel savings) in the long run.

This car would serve you well. :yesnod:

[Mirroredshades]

All suggestions look good but you could get a stone cold loaded Accord for less than $30.

:seasix:

[...Whitepower...]

All suggestions look good but you could get a stone cold loaded Accord for less than $30.

:seasix:

Prove it.

Henry, talk to me..

BTW even if i can, there are just sooooooo many of em out there i'm not sure i would want one.

[Oh-yaa]

Nothing gets by you does it.. :D

Had to ask.

[Mirroredshades]

Prove it.

Henry, talk to me..

BTW even if i can, there are just sooooooo many of em out there i'm not sure i would want one.


There's a reason why there are 10 billion of them out there.

:thumbs:

[Rob]

I owned a TDI and really enjoyed the car. However with the cars I have in order now, I am out of garage space again.

[sasnglass77]

The TDI Passat with SE trim (was the only trim with manual available)and manual ran about 28K. Clutch was light as snide mentioned, and the torque was much better in the TDI than in our '12. We took a '14 TDI for a ride a few weeks ago, I was impressed with it :)

[...Whitepower...]

There's a reason why there are 10 billion of them out there.

:thumbs:

Prefer the tsx wagon to the accord. I need to look at interior dimensions such as cargo room, legroom, etc and compare and contrast.

[DropTheTop]

How 'bout a Fiat 500L and an aftermarket turbo that takes it up to ~240HP?

[C5SilverBullet]

Sonata or Impala

[RonC5]

TSX wagon was 4 cylinder auto only when I shopped them, but you could get the V6 in the sedan. Nice cars with the Tech package.

[onedef92]

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq183/alejoms/VW/4631259952_cfa2b5ed3e.jpg

I like that VW CC, too! That joker is smooth!

[Entropy]

GTI hatch with the DSG would be an interesting option.

[Rob]

I like that VW CC, too! That joker is smooth!

Yes. I love the CC but no TDI option.

[...Whitepower...]

Yes. I love the CC but no TDI option.

And they start at $32k or so. I would need the "executive" one which adds bluetooth and nav (and other crap) which pushes it to $38k+.

[...Whitepower...]

GTI hatch with the DSG would be an interesting option.

Heres the deal though. I shopped jetta gli's when we got the wifes sonata 2.0T. The sonata was priced pretty much the same and had 274 horsepower compared to the turbo VW's at 200. That was a big part as to why the Hyundai won out.

[Entropy]

Heres the deal though. I shopped jetta gli's when we got the wifes sonata 2.0T. The sonata was priced pretty much the same and had 274 horsepower compared to the turbo VW's at 200. That was a big part as to why the Hyundai won out.
Yeah, that's what's got me looking elsewhere as well. Nice interior though.

[...Whitepower...]

Yeah, that's what's got me looking elsewhere as well. Nice interior though.

By far the better interior. I'm leaning hard towards the TDI SEL at this point. It's just a handsome looking car. Reminds me of the A8's.

http://img-2013.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/12/dyzuruza.jpg

[Rob]

By far the better interior. I'm leaning hard towards the TDI SEL at this point. It's just a handsome looking car. Reminds me of the A8's.

I love the A8 - my sister has a 2013 and every time I go home I steal it from her for the weekend. I love the massaging seats and the interior lighting at night not to mention that it drives like no other car I have driven.

[73sbVert]

I'm kinda of the opinion that "sport" and "sedan" are mutually exclusive.

:shrug:

[Nemesis]

Hey Mark, have you checked out the Mazdaspeed3? It starts at $24, only available with 6spd man and 18/25 mpg, but it has bluetooth and 263hp/280tq w/ 4.18lsd standard, and curb weight of 3281lbs.

[...Whitepower...]

Hey Mark, have you checked out the Mazdaspeed3? It starts at $24, only available with 6spd man and 18/25 mpg, but it has bluetooth and 263hp/280tq w/ 4.18lsd standard, and curb weight of 3281lbs.

I need better fuel economy and the trunk would be too small. I also really need to fit 4 adults for business purposes.

[Ryan Bell]

I was going to suggest VW Passat, until I saw your 250hp requirement. But seriously, the VW Passat will meet most of your needs, especially if you get the TDi.

That's what I drive (TDI SEL Passat), and it's an AWESOME car for the money. Nice getting 700+ miles out of EVERY tank.

[Nemesis]

I need better fuel economy and the trunk would be too small. I also really need to fit 4 adults for business purposes.

Noted.


Gosh, I really wish I could suggest a used car. A slightly used BMW would fit your description so well, in my opinion.

[...Whitepower...]

Noted.


Gosh, I really wish I could suggest a used car. A slightly used BMW would fit your description so well, in my opinion.

I would love a 335D. :yesnod: http://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-3-Series-335d-335d-Diesel-3-0L-CD-HEATED-FRONT-SEATS-Turbocharged-Rear-Wheel-Drive-ABS-/200994822763?forcerrptr=true&hash=item2ecc399a6b&item=200994822763&pt=US_Cars_Trucks

Problem is i have a 2011 car now. Makes no sense in the companies eyes going from an 11 nissan to an 11 bmw.

[Nemesis]

I would love a 335D. :yesnod:


BMW 3 Series 335D | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-3-Series-335d-335d-Diesel-3-0L-CD-HEATED-FRONT-SEATS-Turbocharged-Rear-Wheel-Drive-ABS-/200994822763?forcerrptr=true&hash=item2ecc399a6b&item=200994822763&pt=US_Cars_Trucks)

That idrive system is a pain in the butt to get used to, but man, such a nice car. Definitely a car I would be proud to take customers to lunch in.

"That's a sharp car!(skeptically)"
"Isn't it! It's a clean diesel that gets excellent fuel mileage and the company bought it slightly used. Its a car fit for a king for less than the cost of a car fit for a high school girl... or a vw passat."

[NEED-A-VETTE]

Nav

You had better up your price limit.

:leaving:

[Brett K]

For a dd, My wife and I have always come back to the Hondas after trying others especially if you drive a lot. We had a loaded 03 Accord and it was great. She now has a 2012 Honda Crosstour. We really like it and we got it a year ago at the end of the model year at a big discount. You should be able to get 7k off sticker right now.

[Dave]

How are you defining "sporty"?