My 2000 TL is a little over 210k & will likely (hopefully) be replaced this year.

Right now I'm leaning toward an ILX 6MT, but am open to options.

Requirements:
-New
-4 doors
-Manual Trans
-$35k & under
-Prefer auto A/C
-2G TL sized or smaller
-Same or better MPG as my TL (averaging 24-26)

What else should I check out?
Ready, go!

 

legacy?

 

Let's just say your first choice is nowhere near the best choice.

Let's start with something that has RWD....and go from there.

Additionally, why not purchase something that is 1-2 years old?
That opens it up to a ton of excellent cars that fit your price range and requirements.

I can't figure out how the ILX fits that criteria at all.


...if anything, save the $$ and get a civic or an accord.

 

4G TL cpo'd? New Accord? Maxima/ Altima ?

 

The new F30 320i? Manual RWD starts at 32k 4doors 4cylinder turbo with good mileage

 

TSX 6mt
GLI 6mt
New Ford Fusion 1.6t 6mt
Focus ST
Audi A4 premium quattro 6mt

I would also check out the G37 since there should be some good incentives to make way for the Q50.

 

Moog makes a good point about buying slightly used. The options are vastly expanded, and you get a much better valued car.

The rest of his points are... well, biased.

That's because it is your criteria. The ILX fits the OP's criteria perfectly.

 

ATS, WRX, STI, EVO GSR, TSX, G37, I AM THE CAPSGOD MUAHAHAHA

 

The Saintor-grade 320i with sport package is also intriguing.

 

WRX? not sure if it will average 24 mpg but it's way better than an ILX.

 

Focus ST

Seriously, who is this guy, really? I don't like him... but then he drops gems like these. Saintor-grade

 

Since awd doesn't matter much in TX, I'd say Accord, Fusion, Altima. For luxury cars, I'd say used 3 series, used CTS or used A4/A6. I'll be in the market within the next few months as well, but I'm leaning towards '09 Legacy since we're trying to stay under 15k so we can have it paid off w/in the year.

 

Legacy GT, A4, CTS, 328i, and Buick Regal GS

 

MB CLA base price is $30,825.

 

I like the way this guy thinks. Haven't seen it yet in person, but as a huge fan of the Mercedes CLS, the CLA looks intriguing...

Just to echo what Moog said... definitely look pre-owned. New is for suckers. Seriously, even if you have the money, you can still get more bang for your buck by looking pre-owned. With a few exceptions, we've always bought 1-2 year pre-owned and saved a ton of money while still getting, what is essentially, a new car. Also like he said, it opens up a ton more options.

 

I drove an ILX 6MT not long after they hit dealer lots last year & actually quite liked it, just wish there was a 6MT Tech option.
Might also look at the '13 Civic Si Sedan, when they start getting them at dealers. These 2 are about the size of what I'd ideally like & will do everything I need them to.

New TL is a little bigger than I want, Maxima/Altima not available with MT & I'm not too fond on Nissan/Infiniti cars, just personal preference.

Starts at $32k, add a few options & it's easily over $35k

I like some of the previous (05-07) styles, if the newer ones were available with a MT in the nicer trims, it'd be an option.
Also like the XV Crosstrek, but don't want to be stuck with the base model to get an MT.

 

The ST is a possible & under $30k
Has anyone actually found a 6MT Fusion to drive? Or, is there any rumors of a Sport 6MT Fusion in the works?

 

I have heard insurance is higher on these.

 

While I used to follow this belief for all vehicles, I've found that it's not always the case. It varies greatly from model to model, as well as what part of the country you're in. For some models, finding an example under 2 years old and the options you want can be extremely difficult. I've also found that some models less than 2 years old with low mileage can be only slightly cheaper than brand new, after rebates and incentives, including much lower APR.

 

Gli

 

I'd definitely go Civic Si sedan over the ILX and save yourself some $$$ for essentially the same car with a few more tech gadgets added.

 

I know you said the 4G TL is a little large, but I'd suggest finding a pre-owned 4G 6MT SH-AWD .. I guarantee you it won't feel as big in the bends as you think.

 

If you are considering a Legacy, look for a 2010/2011 GT Limited. That should be with a 6MT, leather, navi, sunroof, etc...

 

That is what she said.

 

You could get a special edition 2G TSX to fit the bit however there are also lots of other great options. ILX would be the last of my chioces though personally.

 

It's definitely not an absolute... but with eBay and other online marketplaces, plus sites like uShip, it's pretty easy to find a steal somewhere.

We saved about $26k on our A6 (two years old when we got it) and ~$15k on our E350 (1 year old). Both came with different perks (good warranty, free scheduled maintenance, etc) that weren't included if you bought new. Didn't really worry so much about APR since the loan amount was either really low or non-existent.

But you are right... it's not always the case. But with higher-end cars, it seems to be the case more often then not...

 

Based on what? RWD wasn't even a requirement.

 

Sti

 

I have my doubts about that TL getting at or better MPG than my current TL. It's going to be a commuter car mostly, but I still want something that'll be fun.

I can pretty much see the local Honda dealer from my office, so when they start getting the new Si in, I'll be checking one out.

Will look into those. Wasn't aware they still made a 6MT Legacy that late.

 

Boxter

 

Never seen a 4 door Boxster, nor have I seen a new one for under $35k.

If I didn't need 4 doors, I'd look for an AP2 S2000 or a new MX5.

 

2013 Honda Accord Sport

 

I second this...I think Honda did a great job on the 2013 Accord

 

You must not have seen his location.

Why would anyone want FWD in his location.

Unless you love to drive an appliance.

For the amount of coin he might want to spend, he can get RWD.

 

Have you looked at the KIA Optima Turbo version?

 

After 75K miles, still love my 323i. Would do it again and twice on Sundays. Don't settle for less than 'love'.

Unsure about a 4-cyl. N20, unless it has an aftermarket exhaust.

Returning to OP, I would wait a few months for the new TL.

* Reliable, my 3-series has not been*.

 

 

I think if you play it right you might sneak an ATS 2.0T in under $35k.

I would also consider the new G37/Q50 2.0T.

But if it were me, I would look at a car certified and about a year old that might have been $40-45k that you can get for under $35k like a F30 328i or an A4 2.0T S-Line.

 

Have thought about this as well.

No M/T available.

 

So, based on the suggestions above, so far my short-list (in no particular order):

Acura ILX
Civic Si Sedan
Focus ST
Fusion 6MT
Accord Sport Sedan

Not too sure about buying a VW/Audi or BMW. I tend to own cars for a while & up to high mileage & don't know about having one of those out of warranty.

Thought about the Mini Countryman S, but have a hard time configuring one my way & staying under $25k, plus the above statement, not sure how they are out of warranty.