New Choices for 2004???
#4
Re: New Choices for 2004???
Originally posted by clsteve
For someone considering a TSX, 325 or similar vehicle, does anyone have a lead on what else might be coming out in that class for 2004?
Thanks,
Steve
For someone considering a TSX, 325 or similar vehicle, does anyone have a lead on what else might be coming out in that class for 2004?
Thanks,
Steve
Audi A4 - supposedly NO change (I had heard that they will be painted all one color vs black on bottom, but dealer denied). Oh, other than the S4 comming out in 2004 (RS4 in 2005 with twin turbo 6, 370hp, btw)
new subaru Legacy with 240hp turbo 4 or same hp 6, see this months c&d for photos (and a past thread http://www.acura-tsx.com/forums/show...5&pagenumber=3).
#7
Re: Re: New Choices for 2004???
Originally posted by need4spd
Audi A4 - supposedly NO change (I had heard that they will be painted all one color vs black on bottom, but dealer denied). Oh, other than the S4 comming out in 2004 (RS4 in 2005 with twin turbo 6, 370hp, btw)
Audi A4 - supposedly NO change (I had heard that they will be painted all one color vs black on bottom, but dealer denied). Oh, other than the S4 comming out in 2004 (RS4 in 2005 with twin turbo 6, 370hp, btw)
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#9
Re: Re: New Choices for 2004???
Originally posted by need4spd
Audi A4 - supposedly NO change (I had heard that they will be painted all one color vs black on bottom, but dealer denied). Oh, other than the S4 comming out in 2004 (RS4 in 2005 with twin turbo 6, 370hp, btw)
Audi A4 - supposedly NO change (I had heard that they will be painted all one color vs black on bottom, but dealer denied). Oh, other than the S4 comming out in 2004 (RS4 in 2005 with twin turbo 6, 370hp, btw)
#10
Re: Re: Re: New Choices for 2004???
Originally posted by Skyhawk
Well, aside from boosting 1.8T (stock) hp to 190, making a 6MT available for 1.8TQuattro's, and adding XM Radio..... NO changes to the A4.
Well, aside from boosting 1.8T (stock) hp to 190, making a 6MT available for 1.8TQuattro's, and adding XM Radio..... NO changes to the A4.
We all know the sales people are wrong!
#11
Re: Re: Re: Re: New Choices for 2004???
Originally posted by need4spd
OK, I was quick to speak, and forgot about the satilite radios, XM and Serius for Audi, guess my dealer forgot to mention the other changes (he said, no to the one tone paint, which the S4's have, and said verbatum, NO Changes).
We all know the sales people are wrong!
OK, I was quick to speak, and forgot about the satilite radios, XM and Serius for Audi, guess my dealer forgot to mention the other changes (he said, no to the one tone paint, which the S4's have, and said verbatum, NO Changes).
We all know the sales people are wrong!
#12
No problem
I kind of like the subi, supposed to be below 30k, if you hunt around the japanese web site http://www.subaru.co.jp/legacy/b4/07/ it is pretty nice, LED gauges, tastfully done interior, they have quite a photo gallery at http://www.subaru.co.jp/legacy/bt/index_f.html
two tone interior (black,dark gray), AWD, sub 7 sec 0-60, tastefully styled, will give audi a run for the money, this is the car the TL should be!
Interior is below:
I like this car, too bad it does not come out until spring 2004 (sold now in Japan).
Love the extra gauges on the Nav screen, looks like volts, oil pressure, and maybe oil temp. Acura should be doing that on their nav screen!!!!
I kind of like the subi, supposed to be below 30k, if you hunt around the japanese web site http://www.subaru.co.jp/legacy/b4/07/ it is pretty nice, LED gauges, tastfully done interior, they have quite a photo gallery at http://www.subaru.co.jp/legacy/bt/index_f.html
two tone interior (black,dark gray), AWD, sub 7 sec 0-60, tastefully styled, will give audi a run for the money, this is the car the TL should be!
Interior is below:
I like this car, too bad it does not come out until spring 2004 (sold now in Japan).
Love the extra gauges on the Nav screen, looks like volts, oil pressure, and maybe oil temp. Acura should be doing that on their nav screen!!!!
#13
Crap!
In fairness, maybe I have been a bit misinformed. I had read several places of a 190hp-1.8T for the 2004 A4.... now I''m reading that may be Europe only.
But the 6MT and satellite radio are definite, and not insignificant in my book.
In fairness, maybe I have been a bit misinformed. I had read several places of a 190hp-1.8T for the 2004 A4.... now I''m reading that may be Europe only.
But the 6MT and satellite radio are definite, and not insignificant in my book.
#14
Okay... That Subaru is BEAUTIFUL!!
Wow. Had this car become available this October, I might have had some difficulty deciding on the TL (it's powerful, it looks good, and it's below 30k?!). How are Subarus usually? Good quality? High performance?
Wow. Had this car become available this October, I might have had some difficulty deciding on the TL (it's powerful, it looks good, and it's below 30k?!). How are Subarus usually? Good quality? High performance?
#17
Originally posted by princed
Okay... That Subaru is BEAUTIFUL!!
Wow. Had this car become available this October, I might have had some difficulty deciding on the TL (it's powerful, it looks good, and it's below 30k?!). How are Subarus usually? Good quality? High performance?
Okay... That Subaru is BEAUTIFUL!!
Wow. Had this car become available this October, I might have had some difficulty deciding on the TL (it's powerful, it looks good, and it's below 30k?!). How are Subarus usually? Good quality? High performance?
My friend has a WRX, beats the piss out of it, holds up very well. The 240hp turbo 4 they are putting in it is out of the WRX. Textures in the WRX I was in are not bad (not as good as acura/lexus/bmw, etc, but over all better than a Nissan/infinity. The articles I have read on the new Subaru B4 (ie legacy, not not legend) is that it is intended to bring Subaru even more upscale, they spoke about the interior getting more attention, and from the photo's I have to agree.
Arrgh - If I can only wait until spring, I can save some $, get the AWD I wanted, and still have a sub-7 second car. Hmmmmmm
#18
Originally posted by need4spd
Arrgh - If I can only wait until spring, I can save some $, get the AWD I wanted, and still have a sub-7 second car. Hmmmmmm
Arrgh - If I can only wait until spring, I can save some $, get the AWD I wanted, and still have a sub-7 second car. Hmmmmmm
And as others have mentioned, the styling of the car is reminiscent of so many other cars -- the front has some Mustang and Honda, the side reminds me a bit of Maxima/G35, and the rear seems to have some Audi (A4-B5 chassis), BMW and Volvo influence...
#19
2004 Solara
Originally posted by clsteve
Any info. on the new-gen. Solara?
Any info. on the new-gen. Solara?
The all-new 2004 Toyota Camry Solara coupe made its world premiere at a press conference today at the 2003 New York Auto Show.
The all-new second generation Solara is the most American of any Toyota to date. Born and bred in the United States, the Solara's product planning, technical and styling development was managed by Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, Mich., Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., and Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Finally, Solara will be built exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky in Georgetown.
"With all aspects of the all-new Solara's development taking place in the United States, the total package was completed in less than two years," said Don Esmond, senior vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "The final creation is a new Solara that is sportier, more powerful, more refined and larger, inside and out, than its predecessor."
The 2004 Solara will be available in the SLE, SE and SE Sport grades, each with its own interior surface treatments. The SLE model will receive a rich wood-grain trim, while a brushed aluminum and silver finish trim will be applied to the SE grade. SE models equipped with an all-new Sports Package will feature a unique interior complete with black graphite-accented trim.
Solara will be equipped with either a V6 or four-cylinder engine. The Solara's all-new 3.3-liter V6 will generate 225 horsepower at 5,600 RPM, an increase of 27 horsepower, and 240 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 RPM, 28 more lb.-ft. of torque than the current model. With both engines, Solara will be EPA-certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). Solaras equipped with the V6 will be mated to an all-new five-speed automatic sequential transmission.
Solara's increased power will be smoothly transferred to the wheels via a performance-tuned suspension. Virtually every mounting and pivot point between the suspension and the body has been repositioned and recalibrated. Specially-tuned struts improve Solara's ride quality, while unique springs and front and rear stabilizer bars reduce body roll and pitch, resulting in a stable yet invigorating steering feel and response. Stopping power and feel is enhanced with standard four-wheel disc brakes.
The styling concept of the all-new Solara integrates both convex and concave surfaces that flow dynamically down the length of the car to give Solara its characteristic shape and advanced style. An extensive and pronounced "V" character line begins at the grille to separate aggressive elongated "eye" shaped headlamps that enhance Solara's sporty image. Solara's front fascia is further complemented by fog lamps that provide a wider, aggressive look and stance.
The exterior culminates with rounded corners at the rear that blend into an integrated rear bumper, highlighting the look and design of the rear deck. Bumper height was reduced on the new Solara to give it a sportier stance and body gaps were narrowed. The rear combination lamp begins at the end of the character line forming an emotional teardrop shape, while an optional rear spoiler further strengthens the Solara's sense of style.
Like its exterior, the Solara interior evokes a sporty and stylish image highlighted by a restyled instrument panel and center-mounted multi-function display featuring the time, outside temperature gauge, fuel consumption, average speed and elapsed time. Solara targets class leading fit and finish quality by narrowing gaps between interior surfaces by 0.5 millimeters or less, the design of an invisible front-passenger airbag, and chrome accents.
The 2004 Solara offers an amazing 20 percent increase in interior storage space by providing for a new front console box, cupholders that double as additional storage, and a center console that offers dual storage units. Solara also offers built-in storage and cupholders in the rear quarter panel. The front console door, glove box and register knobs utilize silicone dampers for smooth operation.
New for Solara are Satellite XM radio, and navigation system options. The Solara receives the latest generation in Toyota's DVD-based navigation systems. It features more than five million verified data points and its route searching capabilities are more than twice as fast as competitive systems. The Solara's 6.7-inch screen is among the biggest on the market today.
A target of best-in-class safety features will be supported by Solara's use of standard front side-impact airbags, four-wheel ABS and independent rear seat headrests. Front and rear curtain side airbags also will be available.
The new Sports Package, available on SE models, will include a special five-piece body kit, a unique dark-charcoal interior with black graphite trim, sport-fabric seats, exclusive sport gauges and meter colors, sport tires wrapped around 17-inch wheels, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob and distinctive aluminum pedals. The Sports Package also will feature a performance-tuned suspension that includes stiffer front and rear springs, as well as sport-tuned front and rear shock absorbers.
The first generation Solara debuted in the fall of 1998 and was developed to target a new opportunity in the sport specialty segment. The new Solara's appeal will extend beyond just one set demographic, it will appeal more to consumers' lifestyles rather than life stages.
"The all-new Solara was engineered and designed in America for a variety of American tastes," said Esmond. "Consumer appeal in Solara will range from style, to design, to impressions, to excitement. The Solara buyer will want something extra in life regardless of their age or life stage."
The first 2004 Solara model will roll off the line later this summer and will go on sale mid-August.
The all-new second generation Solara is the most American of any Toyota to date. Born and bred in the United States, the Solara's product planning, technical and styling development was managed by Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, Mich., Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., and Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Finally, Solara will be built exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky in Georgetown.
"With all aspects of the all-new Solara's development taking place in the United States, the total package was completed in less than two years," said Don Esmond, senior vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "The final creation is a new Solara that is sportier, more powerful, more refined and larger, inside and out, than its predecessor."
The 2004 Solara will be available in the SLE, SE and SE Sport grades, each with its own interior surface treatments. The SLE model will receive a rich wood-grain trim, while a brushed aluminum and silver finish trim will be applied to the SE grade. SE models equipped with an all-new Sports Package will feature a unique interior complete with black graphite-accented trim.
Solara will be equipped with either a V6 or four-cylinder engine. The Solara's all-new 3.3-liter V6 will generate 225 horsepower at 5,600 RPM, an increase of 27 horsepower, and 240 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 RPM, 28 more lb.-ft. of torque than the current model. With both engines, Solara will be EPA-certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). Solaras equipped with the V6 will be mated to an all-new five-speed automatic sequential transmission.
Solara's increased power will be smoothly transferred to the wheels via a performance-tuned suspension. Virtually every mounting and pivot point between the suspension and the body has been repositioned and recalibrated. Specially-tuned struts improve Solara's ride quality, while unique springs and front and rear stabilizer bars reduce body roll and pitch, resulting in a stable yet invigorating steering feel and response. Stopping power and feel is enhanced with standard four-wheel disc brakes.
The styling concept of the all-new Solara integrates both convex and concave surfaces that flow dynamically down the length of the car to give Solara its characteristic shape and advanced style. An extensive and pronounced "V" character line begins at the grille to separate aggressive elongated "eye" shaped headlamps that enhance Solara's sporty image. Solara's front fascia is further complemented by fog lamps that provide a wider, aggressive look and stance.
The exterior culminates with rounded corners at the rear that blend into an integrated rear bumper, highlighting the look and design of the rear deck. Bumper height was reduced on the new Solara to give it a sportier stance and body gaps were narrowed. The rear combination lamp begins at the end of the character line forming an emotional teardrop shape, while an optional rear spoiler further strengthens the Solara's sense of style.
Like its exterior, the Solara interior evokes a sporty and stylish image highlighted by a restyled instrument panel and center-mounted multi-function display featuring the time, outside temperature gauge, fuel consumption, average speed and elapsed time. Solara targets class leading fit and finish quality by narrowing gaps between interior surfaces by 0.5 millimeters or less, the design of an invisible front-passenger airbag, and chrome accents.
The 2004 Solara offers an amazing 20 percent increase in interior storage space by providing for a new front console box, cupholders that double as additional storage, and a center console that offers dual storage units. Solara also offers built-in storage and cupholders in the rear quarter panel. The front console door, glove box and register knobs utilize silicone dampers for smooth operation.
New for Solara are Satellite XM radio, and navigation system options. The Solara receives the latest generation in Toyota's DVD-based navigation systems. It features more than five million verified data points and its route searching capabilities are more than twice as fast as competitive systems. The Solara's 6.7-inch screen is among the biggest on the market today.
A target of best-in-class safety features will be supported by Solara's use of standard front side-impact airbags, four-wheel ABS and independent rear seat headrests. Front and rear curtain side airbags also will be available.
The new Sports Package, available on SE models, will include a special five-piece body kit, a unique dark-charcoal interior with black graphite trim, sport-fabric seats, exclusive sport gauges and meter colors, sport tires wrapped around 17-inch wheels, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob and distinctive aluminum pedals. The Sports Package also will feature a performance-tuned suspension that includes stiffer front and rear springs, as well as sport-tuned front and rear shock absorbers.
The first generation Solara debuted in the fall of 1998 and was developed to target a new opportunity in the sport specialty segment. The new Solara's appeal will extend beyond just one set demographic, it will appeal more to consumers' lifestyles rather than life stages.
"The all-new Solara was engineered and designed in America for a variety of American tastes," said Esmond. "Consumer appeal in Solara will range from style, to design, to impressions, to excitement. The Solara buyer will want something extra in life regardless of their age or life stage."
The first 2004 Solara model will roll off the line later this summer and will go on sale mid-August.
#22
Originally posted by moreace
Acura is upgrading early 04 TSX to Pure 04TSX w/ 225 hp
Acura is upgrading early 04 TSX to Pure 04TSX w/ 225 hp
#25
The 3 series only have a minor change for the 04 models. However either for the 05 or 06 they are doing a complete make over. With a new engine as well.
The IS300 will be seeing a complete makeover as well. Not really too sure when but im guessing 05.
Benz C230 Sedan might have a minor facelift. Nothing too serious. The dash board might change slightly. The major change is scheduled for i think 06-07.
The IS300 is going at invoice i think... and as soon as the new 3 series comes closer im sure it'll drop in price as well.
The IS300 will be seeing a complete makeover as well. Not really too sure when but im guessing 05.
Benz C230 Sedan might have a minor facelift. Nothing too serious. The dash board might change slightly. The major change is scheduled for i think 06-07.
The IS300 is going at invoice i think... and as soon as the new 3 series comes closer im sure it'll drop in price as well.
#26
Thanks for the pix and write-up, Xtrema.
Boy, my '01 CL sure looks good in comparison - maybe I don't need a new car. Not.
BTW - This is off-topic (that doesn't seem to be much of a problem on this Board) but anyone know of a good website to sell my CL if I can't sell it privately? Is there a dedicated Acura Board with a "used car lot"?
Steve
Boy, my '01 CL sure looks good in comparison - maybe I don't need a new car. Not.
BTW - This is off-topic (that doesn't seem to be much of a problem on this Board) but anyone know of a good website to sell my CL if I can't sell it privately? Is there a dedicated Acura Board with a "used car lot"?
Steve
#29
Here I go again, ranting and raving about Acura's direction. I'll keep it short. It's much easier for car companies to go into Acura's segment, i.e., near luxury with an emphasis on performance. Everyone has a V-6 that can generate power in the 200 - 300 HP range and it doesn't take a lot to add interior appointments and doodads and doohickeys (note EVERYONE HAS A NAV). Subaru's new Legacy in creeping into Acura TL/TSX range and Acura has more to loose when it does. Lexus looks like they are aiming for entry lux models with their new I4 and lower output V-6 and Saab is coming out with the 9-1 (Merc tried with the C230 coupe and I'm sure BMW will attempt another 318 type car).
That Subaru may turn out to be a TL/TSX killer and Acura is going to pay for its only FWD and V-6 decisions.
That Subaru may turn out to be a TL/TSX killer and Acura is going to pay for its only FWD and V-6 decisions.
#31
Originally posted by Gebbeth
That Subaru may turn out to be a TL/TSX killer and Acura is going to pay for its only FWD and V-6 decisions.
That Subaru may turn out to be a TL/TSX killer and Acura is going to pay for its only FWD and V-6 decisions.
#32
justinjsw:
Look at the responses from your own Acura/Honda fans, including me. The Subaru is going to be a formidable competitor to YOUR Acura dealership. They are coming IN with AWD with about the same HP of the TL and the option of Turbo or normally aspirated flat 6. My guess, like with the WRX, eventually the 280HP turbo will come to the US which means it will outhorsepower the TLs 270.
Just open your eyes for heavens sake and be balanced and fair.
Look at the responses from your own Acura/Honda fans, including me. The Subaru is going to be a formidable competitor to YOUR Acura dealership. They are coming IN with AWD with about the same HP of the TL and the option of Turbo or normally aspirated flat 6. My guess, like with the WRX, eventually the 280HP turbo will come to the US which means it will outhorsepower the TLs 270.
Just open your eyes for heavens sake and be balanced and fair.
#33
Originally posted by Xtrema
Bravo! From the current direction, looks like Acura will be dead in 10 yrs when everybody invade its market.
Bravo! From the current direction, looks like Acura will be dead in 10 yrs when everybody invade its market.
#34
Originally posted by Gebbeth
justinjsw:
Look at the responses from your own Acura/Honda fans, including me. The Subaru is going to be a formidable competitor to YOUR Acura dealership. They are coming IN with AWD with about the same HP of the TL and the option of Turbo or normally aspirated flat 6. My guess, like with the WRX, eventually the 280HP turbo will come to the US which means it will outhorsepower the TLs 270.
Just open your eyes for heavens sake and be balanced and fair.
justinjsw:
Look at the responses from your own Acura/Honda fans, including me. The Subaru is going to be a formidable competitor to YOUR Acura dealership. They are coming IN with AWD with about the same HP of the TL and the option of Turbo or normally aspirated flat 6. My guess, like with the WRX, eventually the 280HP turbo will come to the US which means it will outhorsepower the TLs 270.
Just open your eyes for heavens sake and be balanced and fair.
That still doesn't mean its not a broken record you are playing.
#35
I find it hard to believe that Acura is so deaf in the ears that they can't or don't want to listen to the drum beat of their own customers. After all, isn't this what a consumer oriented company is suppossed to do, give their fans/customers what they want.
It's one thing to say "you're a broken record." But, I'd put it another way, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. I've sent letters to Acura many times about how much of a fan I am of their cars and hope they come out with higher performance cars, etc. I've sent letters about certain recurring problems with their cars (minor ones, but irritating but FIXABLE problems). I KNOW I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE.
But what you are telling me is that THEY DON'T CARE!!!! Great! That makes me feel great about my most recent Acura purchase. I'm mean are you telling me that Honda/Acura just doesn't care anymore about their long-standing customers' desires? Geez, for the luv of....
I make my own money and am pretty good at what I do. I can move upscale and hope I can do it within Honda/Acura. But they are beginning to not offer what I want and can afford. So if they lose me, they need to find someone to fill my niche (and the hundreds of thousands of people like me). But when that person comes up, may be Infiniti, Lexus, Saab, BMW and Merc...and hell Honda (because Honda/Acura are becoming indistinguishable), Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Mitsubishi will also be waiting in the wings.
Broken record, or someone who really cares. You call it. All I know is that if I go into another Acura dealership, I hope that the person I talk to actually cares about my opinions and desires.
It's one thing to say "you're a broken record." But, I'd put it another way, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. I've sent letters to Acura many times about how much of a fan I am of their cars and hope they come out with higher performance cars, etc. I've sent letters about certain recurring problems with their cars (minor ones, but irritating but FIXABLE problems). I KNOW I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE.
But what you are telling me is that THEY DON'T CARE!!!! Great! That makes me feel great about my most recent Acura purchase. I'm mean are you telling me that Honda/Acura just doesn't care anymore about their long-standing customers' desires? Geez, for the luv of....
I make my own money and am pretty good at what I do. I can move upscale and hope I can do it within Honda/Acura. But they are beginning to not offer what I want and can afford. So if they lose me, they need to find someone to fill my niche (and the hundreds of thousands of people like me). But when that person comes up, may be Infiniti, Lexus, Saab, BMW and Merc...and hell Honda (because Honda/Acura are becoming indistinguishable), Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Mitsubishi will also be waiting in the wings.
Broken record, or someone who really cares. You call it. All I know is that if I go into another Acura dealership, I hope that the person I talk to actually cares about my opinions and desires.
#38
Originally posted by RJC RSX
Am I the only one who thinks Honda/Acura is pretty much doing everything right?
Am I the only one who thinks Honda/Acura is pretty much doing everything right?
#39
Originally posted by RJC RSX
Am I the only one who thinks Honda/Acura is pretty much doing everything right?
Am I the only one who thinks Honda/Acura is pretty much doing everything right?
All of these people (not limited to this thread, or board for this matter) have a right to their opinion. But I find it kind of funny that these people think they have all, or some of the answers. If these peoples' business sense and ideas for innovation are soooo great, why aren't they sitting as VP of Product Planning or something like that. I'd be willing to bet that these people have at best 5% of the creditials it would take to make these decisions - apparently it is these people who work for Ford and GM.
I've been waiting MONTHS to say that. Now, I'll probably become the broken record.
#40
Originally posted by Gebbeth
justinjsw:
Look at the responses from your own Acura/Honda fans, including me.
justinjsw:
Look at the responses from your own Acura/Honda fans, including me.