View Poll Results: What car?
Keep the 2004 GS430
39
46.43%
Brand new Prius 5
3
3.57%
Lexus RX Hybrid/Highlander Hybrid
2
2.38%
Lexus GS450 Hybrid
12
14.29%
Brand New Passat TDI
10
11.90%
Brand new Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
6
7.14%
Other
12
14.29%
Voters: 84. You may not vote on this poll
New Job + New Car - what to buy?
12-19-2011, 07:04 PM
#41
05/5AT/Navi/ABP/Quartz
As stated, keep the GS and save the cash. With all that seat time you need the comfort. With new job you want to make sure it's right.
I don't think those small and economy cars are the correct answer for your situation. If you calculate cost of new car and gas vs current car gas and maintenance you will see the right answer. Congratulations and good luck.
I don't think those small and economy cars are the correct answer for your situation. If you calculate cost of new car and gas vs current car gas and maintenance you will see the right answer. Congratulations and good luck.
12-19-2011, 07:25 PM
#43
The Third Ball
Join Date: Sep 2002
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Keep the GS and dump the allowance into a new car savings account.
I think a hybrid is the wrong idea for highway miles...you can use the manufactures' set numbers all you want...but there is that and reality.
My mom's old RX400h got an set 23MPG combined driving.
I think I get about an avg of 36mpg in the Prius...lots of it is highway driving.
I think a hybrid is the wrong idea for highway miles...you can use the manufactures' set numbers all you want...but there is that and reality.
My mom's old RX400h got an set 23MPG combined driving.
I think I get about an avg of 36mpg in the Prius...lots of it is highway driving.
12-19-2011, 07:59 PM
#45
The Box
Thread Starter
Keep the GS and dump the allowance into a new car savings account.
I think a hybrid is the wrong idea for highway miles...you can use the manufactures' set numbers all you want...but there is that and reality.
My mom's old RX400h got an set 23MPG combined driving.
I think I get about an avg of 36mpg in the Prius...lots of it is highway driving.
I think a hybrid is the wrong idea for highway miles...you can use the manufactures' set numbers all you want...but there is that and reality.
My mom's old RX400h got an set 23MPG combined driving.
I think I get about an avg of 36mpg in the Prius...lots of it is highway driving.
12-19-2011, 09:02 PM
#47
Whats up with RDX owners?
iTrader: (9)
Drive the GS until its on its last legs, then use the money you pocketed for a hefty down payment on a Sonata Hybrid (or IMO a Turbo).
12-19-2011, 09:23 PM
#48
A 2004 Lexus GS is a fine car to be stuck with. Reliable, comfortable, etc. I'd stick that 1000/month in the bank and not think about it for a year or 2.
12-19-2011, 09:25 PM
#49
The Third Ball
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As for why we seem to get less than stellar mpg...I don't know, and Ive never bothered to take it to the dealer to have it tested. Its a lease, so meh.
12-20-2011, 11:07 AM
#50
The Box
Thread Starter
I'm at 125K now, I figure I can go until 180K before needing any real maintenance (next timing belt service). Other than that, they're pretty much bulletproof.I know they're better in the city as the batteries recharge while the driver is actually braking. I've just never heard of anyone getting such low MPG in a Prius. I see your point in it being a lease so it's not as big of a deal.
12-20-2011, 11:13 AM
#51
אני עומד עם ישראל
save the cash it's worth more in your pocket.
12-20-2011, 01:24 PM
#52
The Third Ball
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Hell, I could say I'm getting 45mp according to the computer...I go by what the math tells me when I actually fill up and get an accurate avg per tank.
12-20-2011, 03:24 PM
#53
The Box
Thread Starter
Ah, got it. I'm going to have my friend actually calculate it and not just go off the computer. Looking forward to see what he finds.
12-20-2011, 03:49 PM
#54
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
forgot to say.. congrats on the job! 
12-20-2011, 06:38 PM
#57
Racer
If you're looking at the Optima, I have to throw in a suggestion for the normal (non-Hybrid) Sonata.
I was in a '12 TSX today (service loaner) and found it rather agreeable. Not as fun as my '07, but not horrible, either. Comfortable interior, great sound system (loaner had the Tech package), large GPS screen, and pretty solid gas mileage.
But, on a more serious note, I would probably keep the GS for a year and then go from there. Perhaps then you could pick up a CPO '11 TSX with Tech and drive it into the ground!
I was in a '12 TSX today (service loaner) and found it rather agreeable. Not as fun as my '07, but not horrible, either. Comfortable interior, great sound system (loaner had the Tech package), large GPS screen, and pretty solid gas mileage.
But, on a more serious note, I would probably keep the GS for a year and then go from there. Perhaps then you could pick up a CPO '11 TSX with Tech and drive it into the ground!
12-21-2011, 08:25 AM
#58
The Box
Thread Starter
If you're looking at the Optima, I have to throw in a suggestion for the normal (non-Hybrid) Sonata.
I was in a '12 TSX today (service loaner) and found it rather agreeable. Not as fun as my '07, but not horrible, either. Comfortable interior, great sound system (loaner had the Tech package), large GPS screen, and pretty solid gas mileage.
But, on a more serious note, I would probably keep the GS for a year and then go from there. Perhaps then you could pick up a CPO '11 TSX with Tech and drive it into the ground!
I was in a '12 TSX today (service loaner) and found it rather agreeable. Not as fun as my '07, but not horrible, either. Comfortable interior, great sound system (loaner had the Tech package), large GPS screen, and pretty solid gas mileage.
But, on a more serious note, I would probably keep the GS for a year and then go from there. Perhaps then you could pick up a CPO '11 TSX with Tech and drive it into the ground!
My boss is actually currently looking for a 2010 TSX V6. He drove it and fell in love with it. Pretty difficult to find with tech, not many around.
01-11-2012, 12:42 PM
#63
I have to agree on test driving the kia optima. my friend interned at their main office and they gave her a different car every weekend for fun so we smashed on a lot of the kias.
we were all impressed with what kia has been doing with their cars. good luck and congrats
we were all impressed with what kia has been doing with their cars. good luck and congrats
02-29-2012, 09:20 AM
#66
The Box
Thread Starter
Update!!
Finally signed with the new company, I start 3/12 
Very excited to start a new opportunity. My territory will include ND, SD, NE, KS, MO, IL, IA, MN & WI.
The car allowance is a little less than I thought but still good. I think I have decided to keep the GS for at least a year or two. I hope she'll make a good road warrior.
I am thinking I will get the following done before I start driving a lot (in a couple of months):
Tires
Air filter
Cabin air filter
Trans drain and fill
Coolant drain and fill
Fresh oil change (probably going to switch to synthetic to save time)
Check ball joints (notorious for this)
New Nav DVD
Am I missing anything? The timing belt/water pump was done at 90K so if I complete the above, I should be set for the next 50K-60K miles (at 127K now).
Very excited to start a new opportunity. My territory will include ND, SD, NE, KS, MO, IL, IA, MN & WI.The car allowance is a little less than I thought but still good. I think I have decided to keep the GS for at least a year or two. I hope she'll make a good road warrior.
I am thinking I will get the following done before I start driving a lot (in a couple of months):
Tires
Air filter
Cabin air filter
Trans drain and fill
Coolant drain and fill
Fresh oil change (probably going to switch to synthetic to save time)
Check ball joints (notorious for this)
New Nav DVD
Am I missing anything? The timing belt/water pump was done at 90K so if I complete the above, I should be set for the next 50K-60K miles (at 127K now).
The following users liked this post:
Aman (02-29-2012)
02-29-2012, 10:15 AM
#67
Senior Moderator
Good car decision and an official congrats on the new job. You are gonna be doing a lot of freeway miles with that big territory of yours!
You are gonna be doing a lot of freeway miles with that big territory of yours!
02-29-2012, 10:26 AM
#68
Team Owner
good luck!
Have the dealer give it a once over, maybe you need accessory belts or hoses.
Have the dealer give it a once over, maybe you need accessory belts or hoses.
02-29-2012, 10:43 AM
#69
The Box
Thread Starter
Thanks! I will definitely be taking it in for a full inspection and see if anything else needs attention at this time. Either way, it'll be cheaper than buying another car and I can save the rest of my car allowance for a weekend toy (cough e30 convertible cough)
02-29-2012, 10:52 AM
#70
Three Wheelin'
Finally signed with the new company, I start 3/12 Very excited to start a new opportunity. My territory will include ND, SD, NE, KS, MO, IL, IA, MN & WI.
The car allowance is a little less than I thought but still good. I think I have decided to keep the GS for at least a year or two. I hope she'll make a good road warrior.
I am thinking I will get the following done before I start driving a lot (in a couple of months):
Tires
Air filter
Cabin air filter
Trans drain and fill
Coolant drain and fill
Fresh oil change (probably going to switch to synthetic to save time)
Check ball joints (notorious for this)
New Nav DVD
Am I missing anything? The timing belt/water pump was done at 90K so if I complete the above, I should be set for the next 50K-60K miles (at 127K now).
Very excited to start a new opportunity. My territory will include ND, SD, NE, KS, MO, IL, IA, MN & WI.The car allowance is a little less than I thought but still good. I think I have decided to keep the GS for at least a year or two. I hope she'll make a good road warrior.
I am thinking I will get the following done before I start driving a lot (in a couple of months):
Tires
Air filter
Cabin air filter
Trans drain and fill
Coolant drain and fill
Fresh oil change (probably going to switch to synthetic to save time)
Check ball joints (notorious for this)
New Nav DVD
Am I missing anything? The timing belt/water pump was done at 90K so if I complete the above, I should be set for the next 50K-60K miles (at 127K now).
That list pretty much covers all the important ones...perhaps checking all the drive belts and do an alignment...since you'll be doing alot of driving!
Your start date is a week before mine.
02-29-2012, 11:17 AM
#71
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
Congrats! and you made the right choice!
02-29-2012, 03:52 PM
#72
Your Friendly Canadian
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Toronto, Ontario
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Congrats! You could be the 4cruzin of Lexus 
02-29-2012, 04:12 PM
#73
Thank you! I will probably fly to ND/KS, drive everywhere else...as long as it's within about 7 hours. I have 67 clients spread all over the place.
Thanks! I will definitely be taking it in for a full inspection and see if anything else needs attention at this time. Either way, it'll be cheaper than buying another car and I can save the rest of my car allowance for a weekend toy (cough e30 convertible cough)
Thanks! I will definitely be taking it in for a full inspection and see if anything else needs attention at this time. Either way, it'll be cheaper than buying another car and I can save the rest of my car allowance for a weekend toy (cough e30 convertible cough)
02-29-2012, 05:34 PM
#74
Whats up with RDX owners?
iTrader: (9)
How much is your car allowance if you dont mind me asking?
02-29-2012, 05:42 PM
#75
Moderator
iTrader: (3)
02-29-2012, 06:11 PM
#76
Stay Out Of the Left Lane
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: SE Mass --- > Central VA --- > SE Mass
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Congrats and I agree with Neuronbob that you do have a very large territory.
02-29-2012, 07:41 PM
#78
Banned
40000 miles a year, it is a lot of miles and a lot of depreciation.
Personally I couldn't live with a diesel or something porky (i.e. heavy batteries). Prius are more for enviro-freaks / fashion lemmings than real car enthusiasts.
A new 335i is rated at 33mpg highway, the new 328i at 36mpg.
I am obviously biased, but I would go with a 3-series with a monthly 300-350$ fuel tab.
In your choices that would be only the Passat, but the 2.5 even if cost more than the Tdi.
Once passed the probation period, of course.
Personally I couldn't live with a diesel or something porky (i.e. heavy batteries). Prius are more for enviro-freaks / fashion lemmings than real car enthusiasts.
A new 335i is rated at 33mpg highway, the new 328i at 36mpg.
I am obviously biased, but I would go with a 3-series with a monthly 300-350$ fuel tab.
In your choices that would be only the Passat, but the 2.5 even if cost more than the Tdi.
Once passed the probation period, of course.
02-29-2012, 07:46 PM
#79
The Box
Thread Starter
I used to have a 1993 e30 325i very with a 5 speed. Should have never let it go....
500 plus they pay for gas.
It is a large territory. It's a position that I really wanted and I am not willing to relocate so it just is what it is. I'll make it work. The client I'll be visiting most is 5 miles away
500 plus they pay for gas.
