I had an 07 Type-S that I sold a while back. Now I am looking for a new (to me) vehicle and can't decide what to get. This will be a daily driver and not a race car. I like to mod but do not autocross or race. I like the features and quality the TL had so it is my benchmark vehicle. I do not like the look of the new TL so it is not a consideration. Here are my guidelines.

Price: 30K max
Year: 2010-2013
Vehicle Type: Sports Coupe/Sports Sedan
Drive: Rear wheel drive if possible
Trans: I like manual but am undecided at the moment
Motor: Anything but a V-8

IMPORTS ONLY NO DOMESTIC VEHICLES

After serving my country for 16 years I still think Asian and Euro cars have better build standards.

So far I am seriously considering the following:
2010-2012 Infinti G37 Coupe
2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Not really a fan of BMW and Audi since they are most likely out of my price range and repairs could be costly.

Can anybody suggest anything else? If you recently switched from a TL to something else tell me about it.

 

After the TL we have had all German cars (for our daily. Toys have been a mix). Loved them all and all have been as good or better then the TL was.

With that said I'd look into a C class or A4. Both can be had under $30k pre-owned and will likely come with a sweet maintenance and warranty package.

If you are dead set against Germans (your loss!) I'd look at:

Lexus IS (sedan yes, but sporty and fun)
C6 Corvette (easy to daily. Even with a V8 gets high 20's MPG freeway. With the C7 out deals are out there big time)
Subaru WRX/STi (tons of fun)
Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ (If you're considering a Hyundai Gen coupe, need to look at these as well)
VW GTi


Those are in addition to the two you listed since I would have listed those as well.

That's all I can think of off the top of my head. I'm sure I'll chime in agin later

 

Thanks man. I actually have looked a few C Classes and A4's. My brother had an 11 A4 and it seemed kind of cramped and the nav was very confusing. It didn't fit me. The Merc I like a lot. I'm going to test drive a 13 Gen Coupe loaded and a G37 Coupe today. I'll see how that goes.

 

BRZ/FR-S?

 

Buy my wife's 2010 Audi A4 Avant!

 

I drove the 2013 Gen Coupe 2.0T and that sucker could scoot. It was a base model too with cloth and everything so it wasn't necessarily very luxurious like the TL (which I'm sure the higher models would look very nice). But from what I can tell, if the auto 2.0T could move that well, I can only imagine what the R-Spec 2.0T or even the 3.8 R-Spec could feel like as they're manuals. If memory serves me correctly, a 3.8 R-spec is 29k and some change? 2.0T is around 25ish which leaves room for mods whereas 3.8 pushes limit. Good luck sir.

 

G37 is a great ride and a lot of car for the money.

 

I love my G37S. You can find a CPO one for under 30k now.

 

If the A4 was cramped for you, the G37 coupe isn't the best choice. Try the G37 sedan which comes in either a 7AT or 6MT.

My gf's parents own a 2011 C300 and it's a really nice car. Kinda small on the inside but that's expected of a C class. The fit and finish is great, has plenty of power and get's decent gas mileage if you're not gunning it all the time.

 

How much?

 

KBB says Good - Private is $27k.

 

You can get a brand new WRX for under 30k

 

I was shocked to see OP type that. We had a B7 A4 and it was anything but cramped. The B8's are even larger. And both are definitely larger then a G37 coupe...

 

Maybe OP is 6'8" and 350lbs. Not sure what he was looking for either.

 

^ Hey, if Shaq can "fit" in a Buick... anything is possible

 

^ Ever notice he's practically in the back seat in those commercials lol?

OP, my buddy has a '13 Gen Coupe R Spec 3.8 and it's awesome. He loves it and he's coming from a '12 Mustang GT. He just got an Agency Power exhaust and he said it makes the 3.8 sound exotic. His is white with the red leather interior. Super nice contrast and it looks and feels like a much more expensive car. I think he paid exactly $30k for it off the lot. I personally like the styling better than the G37, but of course that's completely subjective.

 

That exhaust transform Gen Coupe sound like a Mustang! Just insane. Who thought Hyundai would sound that great?

But yeah, Gen Coupe and G37 are great cars. And the B8 backseat has plenty of legroom for a 6' guy at least.

 

The Genesis is a good choice and very comparable to the TL (assuming Genesis sedan). Similar options would be G37, M37, GS350, or RL. The RL will be the most familiar to you coming from a TL. What you lose in "sport" (not much but a little) is made up for in refinement. It's a bulletproof car and the SH-AWD steps up the fun factor.

Cliffs: Genesis, G37, M37, GS350, RL

 

I truly enjoy my 2011 Genesis Coupe. It's a 3.8 Track w/ ZF 6AT.

I would recommend it without hesitation.

 

Woah, long time no see hyung. Hope you are doing well!

 

I lurk a lot and do a post here and there.

 

If you want to be practical, I feel you can't go wrong with the G37. 3 series would be my first choice but understand to some degree why you are a bit worried about that. My realistic dream car would be an A5 but I'm guessing too expensive. IS is small IMO and I personally wouldn't want to buy one now because I would be sad when the new style passed me haha

I have to second the vette because despite the old man stigma, it is a great car and as mentioned, the C7 should drop prices. Mustang is also a solid choice and Ford has come a long way.

I vote stang or G

 

^

Not sure why he wouldn't consider domestics. The Vette or Stang would both be solid choices.

 

I think a lot of people are wary of buying a domestic used especially if they plan to keep the car for a long time; I know I am. I understand the domestic market has changed dramatically over the last decade. However, when it comes to putting $300+ per month into a material item, most people are going to weigh the risks, and the statistics still point to Japanese reliability being the best (Korean isn't far behind if they haven't already caught up).

I don't buy cars often. When I do, I don't trade them, I buy used, and I end up paying 6% state sales tax. If I am going to put all of my eggs and money in one basket, I am going to go with the brand and make that has the least statistical opportunity to cost more money in repairs.

If you are buying new, you plan to dump the car after the warranty, or you lease, there is little justification for avoiding any make. I would definitely give Ford a fair opportunity if that were my style. However, a lot of people see cars as a depreciating asset that can suck a lot more money than is necessary, and they aren't going to move out of their comfort zone easily.

 

How long are you going to keep the car?

 

With a 30k max you have tons of options. Just remember maintenance as part of your choice. I've learned alot about Mercedes from a really good friend of mine that specializes on them.

For 30k you can pick up a s class. Avoid early models with 7speed auto...they started around 05. E class between 06-08. C class your pretty much safe.

E 500 have air suspension. As do everthing above an e. Which can be pricey. Dealers will rape you on this repair, recommend to change both sides if one goes. Dealer charges around 2k for this job.

other tgan that Mercedes are really good cars, in terms of maintenence, they cost around the same to fix as an audi or bmw but break less often