M35 - Basic or Optioned? Kumho?

[KarlDL]

After several weeks of shopping, I'm inclined to replace my '00 Saab 9.5 Aero with a 2007 M35x. I've looked at BMW 5xx, Audi A6, and Lexus GS. The M35 appears to be clearly the best value, despite the anemic gas mileage. Has the lux of the A6 and the handling of the 5xx, at a lower price and with greater reliability. Presuming I keep the car 7 years, the gas mileage difference won't overcome the price differences, at my current annual mileage rate and $3-4/gallon.

There are two '07 M35x cars available locally that meet the color criteria. Both have approx 22K miles. One is the base model - no options. The other has Advanced Tech, Journey, and Aero packages. Asking prices are $4K apart.

The choice is always a subjective one, but are the options worth that price differential? The sound system upgrade doesn't seem to make much difference for FM and ordinary CDs - neither are up to my Saab (modified) in clarity and balance. The navigation is cool.

Was the backup camera and sensor package standard on all '07 models?

Selling dealer put new Kumho tires on the fully-optioned car, I presume based on price. Are these going to go noisy at 10K miles?

[mazz]

i bought the tech pkg with new 2006 imo best money spenti have no experience with those tiresmazz

[M35 Sport]

I have kumho platinums, so far after about 5-6K miles they are still very quiet.

[BigP]

I have Kumho Ecsta SPT's that were new with my car. They do make noise at low speeds but from what I have read that is to be expected with most the tire brands. The possible exception is the high end Michelins's but I don't recall the model name. So far mine are not too bad. They handle well and the ride is smooth.

If you are not one to want the electronics get the basic and save the money for the tires! Mine is fully loaded. I love the toys.

A set of tires will run you at least a grand. The best Michelin's probably $1,500.

[KarlDL]

Best overall summer tires on my Saab have been Michelin Pilot Exalto. Had Michelin Pilot Primacy, Sumitomo HTR+, ContiExtremeContact before. The Exaltos have stayed relatively quiet, unlike the others, but all have been dead at 24-32K miles.

Seems like the Kumhos are OK, but not a repeater.