Comparable cars to the G

[ezrimey]

Hi all,

I wanted to introduce myself. I am in the process of buying a G and have been browsing a bunch of forums for information. I've found that these forums were the most consistently friendly, informative, and helpful so I thought I'd join!

The wife and I are having a kid, and so am being "forced" by the wife to upgrade my 99 Accord coupe to a sedan of some sort. I turned this into an opportunity to do an extensive search for a car that fit my desire for both performance and luxury.

After 17 test drives and 3 follow-up test drives on a different day, I chose the G for it's combination of luxury, performance, practicality, and equally as important - style!

I have a 2010 G Sedan on order, black on black, 6MT. I can't wait to get it (mid January as far as I understand). I look forward to enjoying this car and becoming a part of this community.

[zozoka1212]

Nice congrats for the baby and for the G.

17 testdrives? Nice you seem like you know what you are doing. How come not the new Accord sedan? They kind of weird tho. The door handles look like they are upside down. The accord seems like have the same type of door handle as the TSX but upside down. I guess Honda wanted to make sure people with limited vision can find a differences between the TSX and Accord. LOL Black is a beauty. Hope you know how to handle bklack paint. Be carefull. Don't let dealer wash it.

Any mods other than the headlight planned? Just let us know where we can spend your money and we'll do that before you blink your left eye.

Oh and watch out one of our mod is grampy old man. His name is G Whizz. He banned few people by not uploading pictures of their previous ride, girlfriend, wife. Just a heads up.

LOL just Kid just kid. But we do like pictures.

[ezrimey]

Thank you for the kind words.

To be completely fair, I *don't* know what I'm doing but I am always willing to put in the legwork to figure things out.

I chose the G because for me it was the perfect combination of all of my desires in a car. I keep my cars for over 10 years, so I definitely wanted to find one that would make me smile many years down the road. I don't think an updated version of my dependable Accord would do that.

Don't let the dealer wash my car. Check. Upload pics. Check. (once I actually get my car)

We'll have to see about those headlights. They look sweet, but I don't live anywhere near NY so if I wanted to do that, I imagine I would have to make a road trip out of it and catch some NY nightlife when I'm out there. Chances of getting spousal buyoff....unknown.

[DRO@G37]

welcome to the forums man. The people on here are chill as hell, most have something nice, and imformative to say. Congrats on the baby, and soon you'll have another baby(a g baby). Good quote i read earlier today, "ididnt mod my g37, i moded my garage with a g37". Like everyones saying, take pics, and alotta of them. (old car: 04 mustang v6, 3.5 littier engine) NEW CAR!( 2009 G37 JOURNEY, MOONLIGHT WHITE) ..P.S.:IT TOOK YOU 17 TEST DRIVES? it took me all of one block to turn back to the dealer and start on the paper work!

[zozoka1212]

Well he usually has some extra I believe so you can ship yours to him and he can ship another set back to you. I am sure if you really want them and talk to him you guys can work something out. Just talk to him or email him.

I agree with you. Not easy to pick a car and not regret it down the road. Multiply testdrives are the easy way to filter thru the selection. Although some only need one and they have a hard time to leave the dealership without knowing the order is in place.

Are you getting the extended warranty since you are plannig to keep the g for 10 years?

[joe603]

Welcome to NICO! Wow, 17 test drives huh...what other cars did you consider?

[ezrimey]

Yup to the extended warranty. In fact I was thrilled to find a thread on these forums that gave me options on who to contact. I've contacted Courtney and Geoff from the recommendations listed here. I like having options so the dealership doesn't have me by the balls.

Let's see if I can remember the cars I test drove (I threw away my list of notes recently). Don't laugh! I was going for a wide variety of price and performance (and a couple of crossovers thrown in there for good measure).

Audi A4BMW 328iBMW 335iCadillac SRXChevrolet ImpalaChrysler 300Dodge ChargerHonda AccordInfiniti G37Lexus IS250Lincoln MKZMazda 6Mercedes C300 SportNissan AltimaNissan MuranoVolkswagon CCVolvo S40

[Poyzinous]

Audi A4 - too slow, high cost of ownershipBMW 328i - dittoBMW 335i- not as good a valueCadillac SRX - different vehicleChevrolet Impala - uh....Chrysler 300 - not as cool as it was beforeDodge Charger - too big and commonHonda Accord - Dont get me startedInfiniti G37 - Great choice!Lexus IS250 - too small, slow, odd lookingLincoln MKZ - haven't driven oneMazda 6 - hideousMercedes C300 Sport - too lady like, and priceyNissan Altima - fwdNissan Murano - different vehicleVolkswagon CC - dietch haus faggenVolvo S40 - overpriced ford focus

Welcome to nico! I added my own thoughts to the car selection...you made a wise choice!

[zozoka1212]

Yup to the extended warranty. In fact I was thrilled to find a thread on these forums that gave me options on who to contact. I've contacted Courtney and Geoff from the recommendations listed here. I like having options so the dealership doesn't have me by the balls.

Let's see if I can remember the cars I test drove (I threw away my list of notes recently). Don't laugh! I was going for a wide variety of price and performance (and a couple of crossovers thrown in there for good measure).

Audi A4BMW 328iBMW 335iCadillac SRXChevrolet ImpalaChrysler 300Dodge ChargerHonda AccordInfiniti G37Lexus IS250Lincoln MKZMazda 6Mercedes C300 SportNissan AltimaNissan MuranoVolkswagon CCVolvo S40

Have you testdrove IS350, Cadi CTS-v,350 Mercedes 350 instead of the 300? I think those cars are more comparable in performance.

I actually like the new design of the Mercedes. They look good. Now they need some reliabilty been prooved. I can see myself getting one for next time. However never really looked into how well it handles and performs.

[jmcohen23]

nice research.

not sure why the BMW didn't make the cut though (price?).

my test drives included the Ford Fusion and Volvo S40. I turned down the Ford b/c it lacked "gitty-up", and the volvo was rejected b/c the leg room in the back was too cramped.

did you consider the X model? AWD does come in handy, even when the road is wet (which, as well all know, FL gets plenty of rain)

how about options?

[ezrimey]

I considered driving the other manufacturer's more expensive cars like the CTS-V and the IS350, but part of my research was desgined to keep costs down. I know I'm getting a $40K car, so I guess I've failed at that part but initially at least the G was on the more expensive side of things and was near my upper limit of what I'd prefer to spend.

My top 3 after it was all done were the Mercedes C300 (smoothest ride), BMW 328/335 (most aggressive ride) and the G (best combination of all factors, including price).

After going back to each dealership and checking out the cars once again, I decided against the Mercedes simply because I wanted a sportier ride. It was smooth and luxurious, but it certainly didn't scream "fun."

The BMW ultimately lost out because I was fearful of owning one for longer than 4 years. Knowing that I plan on keeping this car for a long, long time I really didn't feel like making 8 or so yearly trips to the dealership for maintenance issues, which would stop being "free" after 4 years. I put "free" in quotes because I'm pretty sure it's not free in the canonical sense, it seems to be built into the price of the car upfont. Frankly, it scared me away. I think that if Bimmers were cheaper to own, and were more reliable, I would likely own one right now.

That said, I'm extremely happy with my choice! I don't feel like I compromised at all with the car, in fact I'm pretty sure I would have felt like I was compromising if I went with the Mercedes or BMW for their brand recognition. I can't wait to take delivery and get some pics up!

As for options, with the 2010 6MT sedan, the only option is Nav, everything else is standard. I'd prefer to not pay the $1600 invoice for it, but the only way for me to get one sooner rather than later was to get the one with Nav. I asked around and I can get the black-on-black 6MT with Nav that's already built and awaiting delivery somewhere by mid-January (estimated), or I can order the exact same car w/o Nav and wait 90 days. I guess after my multi-month research delay, I'm sick of waiting and pulled the trigger.

[zozoka1212]

I agree with you 335 is a great car however with the E54 eI would be carefull to own one for too long. Fuel pump issue is still there after 4--5 years. When fuel pump issue comes most likely other issues will arise like injector. Just wait 2-3 years and you'll hear about that too. It is not the engine what you want to own for 10 years. Too bad because it would be a nice base to built on. All you need is a chip/tuning and get over 400 ponies. Just hard to justify the break downs.

[SVTCOBRA]

Welcome to Nico!! I love test driving cars!!!! However, I don't think I have quite the patience that you have.I did drool all over the G (coupe) for 3 years before getting our first G (sedan)!! It was over 5 years before getting the coupe!!

[Poyzinous]

great choice with the 6MT!!!Not only rare, but desireable.I miss the thrill of a manual trans. I hope in the future to have a 6mt coupe or even a Z.

[G_whizz]

Welcome to NICO!

[joe603]

Did you test drive the new M3? That has caught my eye...but it's a bit pricey. I've read about the high pressure fuel pump on the N54 engine (135, 335 z4) but they have a 120k mile warranty for it. I will be in the market for a sedan next year...not sure what I'm going to get. I really wanted more HP then most 40k sedans have...

The other downside to the CTS-V is insurance is not cheap...a base vette is cheaper! ...but what a monster!!!

[Tim30250]

I considered driving the other manufacturer's more expensive cars like the CTS-V and the IS350, but part of my research was desgined to keep costs down. I know I'm getting a $40K car, so I guess I've failed at that part but initially at least the G was on the more expensive side of things and was near my upper limit of what I'd prefer to spend.

My top 3 after it was all done were the Mercedes C300 (smoothest ride), BMW 328/335 (most aggressive ride) and the G (best combination of all factors, including price).

After going back to each dealership and checking out the cars once again, I decided against the Mercedes simply because I wanted a sportier ride. It was smooth and luxurious, but it certainly didn't scream "fun."

The BMW ultimately lost out because I was fearful of owning one for longer than 4 years. Knowing that I plan on keeping this car for a long, long time I really didn't feel like making 8 or so yearly trips to the dealership for maintenance issues, which would stop being "free" after 4 years. I put "free" in quotes because I'm pretty sure it's not free in the canonical sense, it seems to be built into the price of the car upfont. Frankly, it scared me away. I think that if Bimmers were cheaper to own, and were more reliable, I would likely own one right now.

That said, I'm extremely happy with my choice! I don't feel like I compromised at all with the car, in fact I'm pretty sure I would have felt like I was compromising if I went with the Mercedes or BMW for their brand recognition. I can't wait to take delivery and get some pics up!

I think you made a good choice based on your research and testing. I was looking for the same things that you were and came to basically the same conclusions. Unlike you, however, I only had about 5 cars on my radar. For the ~$40K I was looking to spend I wanted luxury and comfort combined with power and sporty feel, with some not-totally-necessary, yet fun amenities sprinkled on top.

The MB C300 I drove definitely had the lux and amenities covered, but was completely numb and rather slow. The Audi A4 I tested didn't impress me at all, period. The Lexus IS was surprisingly rough riding for a car that didn't seem all that solid around turns. The visibility was also rather poor from the combination of low seat position and bulky C pillars. I also considered the BMW 3. Having at least one BMW 3 in my garage for over 10 years now, I thought this would be a shoe in. It is by far the best handling and sportiest feeling car in this class, but the 328 is a bit short on power, and the 335 is a bit tall on price. The interior also feels rather cold, and after owning an e30, e36 and (currently) an e46, I just don't like the wacky styling of the e90. Aesthetics may have ultimately what pushed me away from the Bimmer. To your point about their reliability, that wasn't an issue for me. I've owned 3 BMWs (including my current one for almost 8 years now) and never spent a dime on unscheduled maintenance for any of them. They're also very easy to work on so you can save a lot of money by DIYing fluids, filters, brakes, etc., as I have done in the 4 years since my free maintenance expired.

So anyway, the last place I visited was the Infiniti dealer after I had decided that since I didn't really fall in love with any cars I tested, I wouldn't buy any of them. The G represented the last chance anyone would have to take my money. Well, after a quick showroom demonstration and a lengthy test drive, I realized that this car provided everything I was looking for. I was also amazed how favorably the price compared with everything else I'd seen prior. Then when I learned that they were giving away loaded $40K 2009 models for prices in the low $30's, I signed on the dotted line that day.

I couldn't be happier with this purchase. The G gives me a comfortable ride, ample power, solid handling, tons of gizmos to play with, and it's all wrapped in a classy and stylish package. I can't believe it took me 7+ years of watching these cars on the road to finally go out and get me one. Since I'm told that good things come to those that wait, I'm sure to be in for a long and rewarding experience with my G.

[ezrimey]

Wow Tim, it sounds like we had really similar experiences and conclusions!

For the maintenance issues, I think the fear of the unknown was more my issue than anything I can actually point to (well, except for the very known HPFP issue).

On a slightly sadder and unrelated note, I was taking out the trash this morning and saw a rare sighting of my neighbor across the street backing her car out of the driveway.

G37 sedan. Black exterior. Kids all over.

Now I have to find a way to still feel cool when I'm driving close to the same car as the soccer mom across the street.

[zozoka1212]

Did you test drive the new M3? That has caught my eye...but it's a bit pricey. I've read about the high pressure fuel pump on the N54 engine (135, 335 z4) but they have a 120k mile warranty for it. I will be in the market for a sedan next year...not sure what I'm going to get. I really wanted more HP then most 40k sedans have...

The other downside to the CTS-V is insurance is not cheap...a base vette is cheaper! ...but what a monster!!!

Joe you right about the extended warranty but would you feel good about even if your car failed on the side of the road middle of nowhere time after time. Most HPFP pump fails on cars are still safe to drive but some fails and shuts down. I know I would be freaking if I have a car and fails in the fast lane dong 80-90 mph and cars around me. BMW failed on this first attempt big time doing DI engine. I think this was their first. Can't recall any other. Too bad because the entire set up is smart from BMW. All they have to do is boost it more when the competitors are raising the bar.

Go get a vette. Vette is actually reliable and fast car for reasonable$$$.

[joe603]

Joe you right about the extended warranty but would you feel good about even if your car failed on the side of the road middle of nowhere time after time. Most HPFP pump fails on cars are still safe to drive but some fails and shuts down. I know I would be freaking if I have a car and fails in the fast lane dong 80-90 mph and cars around me. BMW failed on this first attempt big time doing DI engine. I think this was their first. Can't recall any other. Too bad because the entire set up is smart from BMW. All they have to do is boost it more when the competitors are raising the bar.

Go get a vette. Vette is actually reliable and fast car for reasonable$$$.

The reason I'm in the market is because I need a sedan...the vette was what I was looking at years ago. The G35 was a compromise with the wife (no back seats make it tough to sell). So now we have a 6MT G35 that has a tricky clutch that makes noise due to the lightweight flywheel. I don't mind that, but we just need more room for the baby. Sucks because I've sunk a ton of money into the stereo and other mods.

I still may get a G37 sedan...or something else.

[zozoka1212]

Or at least wait till the HPFP fixed. As I said I think that engine has so much potential but the HPFP puts a huge shade over it.

Sure the car is much smaller than the G sedan and the design isn't my taste but once you put chip in that thing turns into a monster.

One of my friend has one with JB tunning(I think that's what he says) and it is trully a beast. But he is on the 3rd pump. One only was good for 5k.

I told him to look around and get aftermarket fuel pump or at least talk to some of the aftermarket companies to se if they have something for this engine. He is russian so hard to deal with him. He says I won't spend any money from my pocket for this issue. I think aftermarket pump might fix it. Shouldn't even be that much money. Really can't be too much thing causing it. Other than the fuel pump itself maybe running it low on fuel, crapy fuel, voltage differences or maybe the volume on the fule pump vs volume on the injectors. Oh or maybe some stupid safety crap. But the aftermarket fuel pump would clear if that is the design problem with the fuel pump or something else. But I don't know much about these things and not familiar with DI engines at all. All my knowledges are 15-20 years old and mostly useless.

[joe603]

I wouldn't say much smaller...for passenger volume, the 335i is 93 and the G37 sedan is 99.

[zozoka1212]

In volume it doesn't seem much but with legrooms and cargo it is. For me anyways. I remeber when I was shopping around it was like 4-5 inch between the 2 for front and rear legroom. Also the cargo was like 2-3 cft smaller in the 335.

4 inch legroom is a lot. I know you are not a sedan guy so you won't feel that. But if you drive the G sedan and jump in the 335 you feel it right away. But you should be ok since you are moving from the coupe which is even smaller.

I know every time I take the G for a longer trip it is full. So I appriciate the cargo volume and the legrooms. Since legrooms are the #1 to make you uncomfortable. 32 is the headroom. Especielly at the rear since some design are cutting the rear a lot. The G is between the 5 and 3 series.

[joe603]

Good info! I haven't tested anything yet...it will have to be able to fit a front facing carseat and young kids...

This would be so much easier if the G37 had more HP/TQ! Like you said, the 335i can have a flash/programmer to give it 100 extra HP/TQ!

[DRO@G37]

nice research.

not sure why the BMW didn't make the cut though (price?).

my test drives included the Ford Fusion and Volvo S40. I turned down the Ford b/c it lacked "gitty-up", and the volvo was rejected b/c the leg room in the back was too cramped.

did you consider the X model? AWD does come in handy, even when the road is wet (which, as well all know, FL gets plenty of rain)

how about options?

Hey, BMW DIDNT make the cut cause...Where should i start...although they offer the 4 year no maint. program, your time and money will be spent doing to bmw for "ENGINE MALFUNCTION", mis-firing, eletric programs, check engine light...etc.. Im obviously not a fan of BMW even tho half my family drives them. 335i is great proformance, but for the money, not close to worth it. 328i is good price, but for about the price, G37 would be a better value. If u got the money for a 650 and up, DONT DO IT! ...Benzos are classy cars, look nice, drive like a luxury car should, but unless your gonna drop enough for AMG, you wont get the performance you want for a 10 year investment. Impala? needs engine MODS. Alot of them. Plus not a luxury car, so will lose its value faster. hope this helps

[zozoka1212]

Good info! I haven't tested anything yet...it will have to be able to fit a front facing carseat and young kids...

This would be so much easier if the G37 had more HP/TQ! Like you said, the 335i can have a flash/programmer to give it 100 extra HP/TQ!

Yeap that's why I think BMW was smart to drop that engine in the car. Just wasn't smart enough to make it bulletproof.

My friend wanted to get the tune from BMW but he said they asked way to much and the other was cheaper and offered more hp and TQ. It was around $1200 and he is over 400hp. It is wicked when it is running. Bottom line if you really don't need the rear legroom you should be fine once they fix the HPFP for good. He had baby seat in few times so I am sure yo'll be fine. He wasn't too happy about the babyseat in his car tho.

[Poyzinous]

Joe, I was about to go into detail but zozo summed it up. The G has noticable more legroom than the 3 series. Although the cars are similar in size overall, the 3 series has an inline 6 engine, so more wheelbase is used for hood, and not passenger compartment. As an example, I'm 5'10" and have long, sexy mexican legs. Well maybe not sexy... anyway, My brother is about 20 lbs heavier than me, same height and can hop right into my seat and be perfectly comfortable. I can sit in the back seat and have plenty of legroom to move my legs around and pretend I'm breakdancing or running a marathon. As a comparison, in my friends 330i, my knees are pressed up against the back of the drivers seat when I'm a passenger, and my friends sits up about an inch closer than me! I've seen more than fuel issues with the 3 series. My BMW connection says he's seen numerous mechanical issues in the motor. frequent metal to metal tapping/noise, valve/camshaft rattles, etc... I'm sure for 2010 models most issues should have been addressed, but you never know.

[LuckyLuke]

I think Lincoln MKS is better looking car than MKZ... I don't like the rear end MKZ.. looks like the 80's (too old)...

[Tim30250]

I think Lincoln MKS is better looking car than MKZ... I don't like the rear end MKZ.. looks like the 80's (too old)...

I'm still not sure which car is which. The Lincoln nomenclature is too confusing for me these days... Or maybe I just don't care to learn it.

[Poyzinous]

There's nothing particularly exciting about them so I don't see why one would look into them much