Entry Level Luxury - Which is best?

[TJPark01]

OK, there has been a lot of discussion about highlighting Genesis' flaws and triumphs. Some of you may even suffer from buyers remorse due mainly to a stiff or harsh ride. Some of you are so enamored with the Genesis that you are looking at other Hyundai/Kia models for future consideration.
While I agree the car is not perfect, (what car is really)?...and the suspension could use some fine tuning, when looking at the entry level luxury comparisons.
Criteria:
1.Entry level base models - $30-35k
2. Four Doors
3. Automatic
2009 Acura TL $34,955
2010 Acura TSX V6 $34,850
2010 Lexus ES 350 $34,800
2009 Mercedes C300 Luxury $34,650
2009 Volvo S60 2.5T AWD $34,600
2010 Lincoln MKZ FWD$34,115
2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan $33,700
2010 Lexus IS 250 $33,015
2010 Hyundai Genesis 3.8L $33,000
2009 Volkswagen CC Luxury $32,350
2010 Volvo S40 T5 R-Design$31,150
2010 Chrysler 300 Executive Series $31,045
2009 Audi A4 2.0 T Sedan FrontTrak Multitronic $31,450
2009 Nissan Maxima S$30,160

Have I missed any? After looking at this list, I would still say Genesis, comes out on top in terms of total package. My pic for second is G37. What do you think?

 

[wallymn]

OK, there has been a lot of discussion about highlighting Genesis' flaws and triumphs. Some of you may even suffer from buyers remorse due mainly to a stiff or harsh ride. Some of you are so enamored with the Genesis that you are looking at other Hyundai/Kia models for future consideration.
While I agree the car is not perfect, (what car is really)?...and the suspension could use some fine tuning, when looking at the entry level luxury comparisons.
Criteria:
1.Entry level base models - $30-35k
2. Four Doors
3. Automatic
2009 Acura TL $34,955
2010 Acura TSX V6 $34,850
2010 Lexus ES 350 $34,800
2009 Mercedes C300 Luxury $34,650
2009 Volvo S60 2.5T AWD $34,600
2010 Lincoln MKZ FWD$34,115
2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan $33,700
2010 Lexus IS 250 $33,015
2010 Hyundai Genesis 3.8L $33,000
2009 Volkswagen CC Luxury $32,350
2010 Volvo S40 T5 R-Design$31,150
2010 Chrysler 300 Executive Series $31,045
2009 Audi A4 2.0 T Sedan FrontTrak Multitronic $31,450
2009 Nissan Maxima S$30,160

Have I missed any? After looking at this list, I would still say Genesis, comes out on top in terms of total package. My pic for second is G37. What do you think?

Lux with v8 (or HO turbo 6) for less than 50K....
( I limit to high output to reflect the sporty pretensions of the class)
2009/10 Genesis with V-8 - 38k
2010 Lincoln MKS (ecoboost ) 47,760
2010 Chrysler 300C 38,700


Short list.....

GS - starts at 53k
MB E class - price too obscene to print
Infiniti M45 starts at 52k
Audi A6 - see MB
BWM 535 was considered, (as a turbo 6)but it isn't a high output engine, most v6 in this range make 300 HP. (Infiniti, Hyundai, Lexus etc)...
G8 GT (not really attempting the lux part )
Ford SHO Taurus (not attempting the lux part)

 

[Shane D]

OK, there has been a lot of discussion about highlighting Genesis' flaws and triumphs. Some of you may even suffer from buyers remorse due mainly to a stiff or harsh ride. Some of you are so enamored with the Genesis that you are looking at other Hyundai/Kia models for future consideration.
While I agree the car is not perfect, (what car is really)?...and the suspension could use some fine tuning, when looking at the entry level luxury comparisons.


Have I missed any? After looking at this list, I would still say Genesis, comes out on top in terms of total package. My pic for second is G37. What do you think?

As a prospective owner this has been my story so far:

My current car is my first luxury car (Infiniti M35X). It is actually my first new car. It was a sales manager''s demo and so I got a good price. Prior to this I had never paid more than 9K for a car.
With the lease coming due in January, I decided that this time I would consider EVERY possible vehicle that I liked. So far my journey has covered:
1) Mercedes E350. BEAUTIFUL car!! Gutless, floaty and tops $71K in Canada. E550 would be 79K!!
2) Mercedes GLK. Rides rough, gutless, floaty and feels cheap inside. Maxed out is about 55K.
3) Lexus RX350. WOW does this drive nice! I am not really an SUV fan, but I was VERY impressed with handling and interior. Looks huge and fat on the outside. Loaded with sport pack is about 56K. Blows away the GLK!
4) Volvo just doesn't work, even with an 8 cylinder engine. Especially at 70K!!!
5) Jaguar XF. Cheapest local model is 65K and no AWD? Not really sold on the look or the dealership.
6) BMW. Much like four years ago when I chose Infiniti over BMW, I can NOT justify $11,000.00 for a badge. I agree the BMW is better looking and certainly has more status, but I can't do it.
7) I think all Acuras look like a Honda. I really DON'T get the attraction there at all.
8) Love the Audi S5 but it is 78K (as built online) and you have to be a midget to sit in it. S4 is probably more practical but doesn't do a thing for me. It is about 68K, as I recall.
9) Hyundai Genesis. I LOVE the coupe! The sedan is the best value in North America for a "sport sedan", with the V8. Dealer won't give up a penny ($1,000 max, if that), which kind of ticks me off. That is being stupid on my part since, even at full list ($51.5K), it is a smokin' deal. If they would raise the price next week 3K and add AWD, I would probably sign on next week. The only two things holding me back are AWD and do I really want another sedan?
10) Infiniti G37 coupe or sedan. Nice looking, good power, great price, and proven track record (with me). Loaded will be about 50K (sedan) or $52.5K (coupe). The Genesis interior is much nicer though.

That has been my process so far I HAVE to make a decision soon! December 1st (Tuesday) Infiniti finally releases their 2010 specs, prices and pics. Next week should settle everything.

Shane D

 

[TJPark01]

As a prospective owner this has been my story so far:That has been my process so far I HAVE to make a decision soon! December 1st (Tuesday) Infiniti finally releases their 2010 specs, prices and pics. Next week should settle everything.Shane D

Great response. I was seriously considering the G37 as well. The car does have a 7 speed automatic now and it's a rocket. At the end of the day, the car was too small for my needs and that was really the thing that drove me to the Genesis, and as you mentioned, the interior, isn't that great. The new 2011M looks great and the interior looks much more upscale, but obviously you would have to wait a while for that car and it's also considerably more expensive.

 

[Shane D]

Great response. I was seriously considering the G37 as well. The car does have a 7 speed automatic now and it's a rocket. At the end of the day, the car was too small for my needs and that was really the thing that drove me to the Genesis, and as you mentioned, the interior, isn't that great. The new 2011M looks great and the interior looks much more upscale, but obviously you would have to wait a while for that car and it's also considerably more expensive.

Yes the interior is definitely down scale from my M. Time wise they will be about they same at this point (if you are ordering). I figure the M will be at least $10K more and I really don't need all the space. In the four years I have had this car, I don't think I have ever had four people in it. I am thinking coupe/2+2 is more my size.
I have had many compliments on my M interior over the last 4 years. However I test drove a black on black 4.6 and I thought it was MUCH nicer than mine.
Tuesday is the big announcement for the new M and the updated G series. can't wait to see pics, specs and pricing.
Regardless, Hyundai is the still the best deal out there, IMO.
I have to get off this fence next week! I just noticed that Hyundai has cut its' lease rates in Canada.
It will be interesting to see what everybody rolls out next week for incentives.

Shane D

 

[Yama1yzf]

OK, there has been a lot of discussion about highlighting Genesis' flaws and triumphs. Some of you may even suffer from buyers remorse due mainly to a stiff or harsh ride. Some of you are so enamored with the Genesis that you are looking at other Hyundai/Kia models for future consideration.
While I agree the car is not perfect, (what car is really)?...and the suspension could use some fine tuning, when looking at the entry level luxury comparisons.
Criteria:
1.Entry level base models - $30-35k
2. Four Doors
3. Automatic
2009 Acura TL $34,955
2010 Acura TSX V6 $34,850
2010 Lexus ES 350 $34,800
2009 Mercedes C300 Luxury $34,650
2009 Volvo S60 2.5T AWD $34,600
2010 Lincoln MKZ FWD$34,115
2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan $33,700
2010 Lexus IS 250 $33,015
2010 Hyundai Genesis 3.8L $33,000
2009 Volkswagen CC Luxury $32,350
2010 Volvo S40 T5 R-Design$31,150
2010 Chrysler 300 Executive Series $31,045
2009 Audi A4 2.0 T Sedan FrontTrak Multitronic $31,450
2009 Nissan Maxima S$30,160

Have I missed any? After looking at this list, I would still say Genesis, comes out on top in terms of total package. My pic for second is G37. What do you think?

You left out the Caddy CTS and Buick Lacrosse......I would have bought the Lacrosse had I not got the Genesis.

 

[TJPark01]

You left out the Caddy CTS and Buick Lacrosse......I would have bought the Lacrosse had I not got the Genesis.

The Cadillac CTS base is above 35k, which is why it was omitted. The Buick Lacrosse should have been on there, nice catch. I like the styling of the Lacrosse a lot, looks so much better than the outgoing model. They are really going after the Lexus ES350 crowd. If you like plush, roomy with a soft ride, then it's a great choice. The Buick Regal, coming out this spring is an even more compelling value.

 

[ASHDUMP]

I sat in a Buick Lacrosse at a golf tournament over the summer. It was a sweet car and loved how everything looked and felt. The deal breaker for me was the engine. Not that it's bad, I just really love the feel of an 8 cylinder.

 

[jwaters943]

The Buick Lacrosse sucks. I hate the lack of visibility, the location of the drivers seat controls (they dug into my thing when exiting the car), the plasticy leather and the fact that you can't get the good V6 engine w/ AWD. I'm not too keen on spending $40k on a FWD car.

Too bad really because it looks so nice on the outside (at least in CXL trim).

 

[TJPark01]

The Buick Lacrosse sucks. I hate the lack of visibility, the location of the drivers seat controls (they dug into my thing when exiting the car), the plasticy leather and the fact that you can't get the good V6 engine w/ AWD. I'm not too keen on spending $40k on a FWD car.

Too bad really because it looks so nice on the outside (at least in CXL trim).

I heard some of your complaints before and while the car isn't perfect it's a lot better than what it was. I think the car will appeal to older drivers who identify with the brand, and refuse to drive foreign cars for what ever reason. I agree FWD is not meant to be used on big cars, but some people, simply don't know and could care less. It's a shame really cause the people on this forum are enthusiasts for the most part and are very opinionated and knowledgeable. But others just want to go to Target and come home, and that's it. For them a Buick beckons.

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[Sayantsi]

I like cars with at least some degree of sporting intention and feel, so the first hurdle for me is rwd/awd - anything that can't offer that is immediately off the list, so you basically have MB, BMW, Infiniti, and Cadillac - assuming you're only talking about the "lux" cars and not the sub-lux cars like the Subaru Legacy. Then, dollar for dollar, I don't think anything competes with a Genesis. Unless you want the badge and need that last 5% polish, I can't see any reason to get a more expensive car...

 

[TJPark01]

I like cars with at least some degree of sporting intention and feel, so the first hurdle for me is rwd/awd - anything that can't offer that is immediately off the list, so you basically have MB, BMW, Infiniti, and Cadillac - assuming you're only talking about the "lux" cars and not the sub-lux cars like the Subaru Legacy. Then, dollar for dollar, I don't think anything competes with a Genesis. Unless you want the badge and need that last 5% polish, I can't see any reason to get a more expensive car...

OK so assuming your specific criteria which I 100% AGREE WITH. That leaves:
2009 Mercedes C300 Luxury $34,650 (too small,no balls, way expensive)
2009 Volvo S60 2.5T AWD $34,600 (discontinued for 2010, and Ford's trying to ditch the brand to a Chinese company, yeah, I wanna hitch my ride to that train wreck, sure.)
2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan $33,700 (Compelling, but tight quarters, compared to Genesis, interior, isn't great, but still a lot of car for the money).
2010 Lexus IS 250 $33,015 (I really do not like these cars. Way too small, the back seat is a joke and the styling is too "Japanese". Not to mention the lawnmower engine).
2010 Hyundai Genesis 3.8L $33,000 (Stepping up to the Premium package only stickers 35.5k, What a bargain!)
2010 Volvo S40 T5 R-Design$31,150 (Read above)
2010 Chrysler 300 Executive Series $31,045 (Old model, will they be around in 6 months? Who knows, sorry can't get on board with that.)

 

[ImInPA]

OK, there has been a lot of discussion about highlighting Genesis' flaws and triumphs. Some of you may even suffer from buyers remorse due mainly to a stiff or harsh ride. Some of you are so enamored with the Genesis that you are looking at other Hyundai/Kia models for future consideration.
While I agree the car is not perfect, (what car is really)?...and the suspension could use some fine tuning, when looking at the entry level luxury comparisons.
Criteria:
1.Entry level base models - $30-35k
2. Four Doors
3. Automatic
2009 Acura TL $34,955
2010 Acura TSX V6 $34,850
2010 Lexus ES 350 $34,800
2009 Mercedes C300 Luxury $34,650
2009 Volvo S60 2.5T AWD $34,600
2010 Lincoln MKZ FWD$34,115
2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan $33,700
2010 Lexus IS 250 $33,015
2010 Hyundai Genesis 3.8L $33,000
2009 Volkswagen CC Luxury $32,350
2010 Volvo S40 T5 R-Design$31,150
2010 Chrysler 300 Executive Series $31,045
2009 Audi A4 2.0 T Sedan FrontTrak Multitronic $31,450
2009 Nissan Maxima S$30,160

Have I missed any? After looking at this list, I would still say Genesis, comes out on top in terms of total package. My pic for second is G37. What do you think?

The Volvo S40 T5-R is not the base model, it is the top of the line model. The base model starts somewhere in the 20's. The S60 and S80 are viable alternatives in this price range if you are talking base models.

 

[ilovemygenesis]

You left out the Caddy CTS and Buick Lacrosse......I would have bought the Lacrosse had I not got the Genesis.

I seriously agree with you on that one, don't get me wrong, i love my Genesis, but the Lacrosse offers the same amenities and more for much less. I am even interested in the Enclave as well, nice vehicles all around.

 

[VivienM]

I seriously agree with you on that one, don't get me wrong, i love my Genesis, but the Lacrosse offers the same amenities and more for much less.

The Lacrosse is smaller, especially in the trunk... and have you seen the acceleration numbers? It's a seriously heavy car, and I read a review that was getting 7.5 seconds 0-60 on a CXS with the 3.6L engine. The Genesis 3.8L will do much, much better - it weighs like 500-600 lbs less.

 

[Sayantsi]

OK so assuming your specific criteria which I 100% AGREE WITH. That leaves:
2009 Mercedes C300 Luxury $34,650 (too small,no balls, way expensive)
2009 Volvo S60 2.5T AWD $34,600 (discontinued for 2010, and Ford's trying to ditch the brand to a Chinese company, yeah, I wanna hitch my ride to that train wreck, sure.)
2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan $33,700 (Compelling, but tight quarters, compared to Genesis, interior, isn't great, but still a lot of car for the money).
2010 Lexus IS 250 $33,015 (I really do not like these cars. Way too small, the back seat is a joke and the styling is too "Japanese". Not to mention the lawnmower engine).
2010 Hyundai Genesis 3.8L $33,000 (Stepping up to the Premium package only stickers 35.5k, What a bargain!)
2010 Volvo S40 T5 R-Design$31,150 (Read above)
2010 Chrysler 300 Executive Series $31,045 (Old model, will they be around in 6 months? Who knows, sorry can't get on board with that.)

The C Class, the G37 and especially the IS are too small - if I wanted a car that couldn't comfortably fit two adults in the back seats, I'd just get a real sports car and be done with it. I've also never liked Lexus's pre-emptive maintenance schedule (and its associated costs). The Infiniti M35 was a contender, but lost out on warranty and price.

Volvos just don't appeal to me compared with what they compete with.

The Chrysler 300 is a good looking car from the outside, a little weak looking around the c-pillar. There is also way too much plastic inside - part of the problem when a car starts at $20k and extends up to $40k. I test drove an SRT8 and the torque was incredible, but the transmission on a brand new ar already felt like it was going bad.

The big killer is that Chrysler is just a bad company. I don't trust Chrysler reliability at all, and it leads in recalls among all automakers.

 

[Billymax]

Re: Entry Level Luxury - I compared before I bought!

I’ve had my 4.6 Genesis for about a month and really like it. After having 5 Caddy DTS's I looked because if GM mess. I was luck and my Genesis dealer had Lincoln. I drove the MKS and Genesis side by side and chose the Genesis as just a much better handling and performance car. The visibility was superior and though the ride was stiffer than the DTS and Lincoln MKS the handling was very similar to my BMW 535. I also drove the Lexus GS 350 and couldn't justify the money difference and I liked the looks of the Genesis better. I don't care about the recognition at my country club I think I bought the right car for the right Money.

One other influence was my son had a Sonata with 93,000 miles on it and it spun a bearing. Hyundai replaced with a brand new out of the crate complete motor with no questions asked accept did he keep his service records which he did.

Now THAT is standing behind the warranty! I was set for a battle and was completely surprised at how apologetic they were and they even gave him a car to drive while they replaced it.

 

[sandy]

Re: Entry Level Luxury - I compared before I bought!

I’ve had my 4.6 Genesis for about a month and really like it. After having 5 Caddy DTS's I looked because if GM mess. I was luck and my Genesis dealer had Lincoln. I drove the MKS and Genesis side by side and chose the Genesis as just a much better handling and performance car. The visibility was superior and though the ride was stiffer than the DTS and Lincoln MKS the handling was very similar to my BMW 535. I also drove the Lexus GS 350 and couldn't justify the money difference and I liked the looks of the Genesis better. I don't care about the recognition at my country club I think I bought the right car for the right Money.

One other influence was my son had a Sonata with 93,000 miles on it and it spun a bearing. Hyundai replaced with a brand new out of the crate complete motor with no questions asked accept did he keep his service records which he did.

Now THAT is standing behind the warranty! I was set for a battle and was completely surprised at how apologetic they were and they even gave him a car to drive while they replaced it.

Nice to hear how Hyundai stood up for your son....human nature being what it is, most posts refer to bad experiences. The good stuff is probably way under-reported.

 

[TJPark01]

The C Class, the G37 and especially the IS are too small - if I wanted a car that couldn't comfortably fit two adults in the back seats, I'd just get a real sports car and be done with it. I've also never liked Lexus's pre-emptive maintenance schedule (and its associated costs). The Infiniti M35 was a contender, but lost out on warranty and price.
Volvos just don't appeal to me compared with what they compete with.
The Chrysler 300 is a good looking car from the outside, a little weak looking around the c-pillar. There is also way too much plastic inside - part of the problem when a car starts at $20k and extends up to $40k.

Many good points here. What this response highlights is that if you take all the contenders and throw them in a bag and then systematically eliminate each one, you're left with a best man standing. I think for most people it really only came down to 1 or 2 cars, and in either case you really couldn't go wrong. It will be interesting to see the evolution of the Genesis platforms and the brand as well.

 

[TJPark01]

Yes the interior is definitely down scale from my M. Time wise they will be about they same at this point (if you are ordering). I figure the M will be at least $10K more and I really don't need all the space. In the four years I have had this car, I don't think I have ever had four people in it. I am thinking coupe/2+2 is more my size.
I have had many compliments on my M interior over the last 4 years. However I test drove a black on black 4.6 and I thought it was MUCH nicer than mine.
Tuesday is the big announcement for the new M and the updated G series. can't wait to see pics, specs and pricing.
Regardless, Hyundai is the still the best deal out there, IMO.
I have to get off this fence next week! I just noticed that Hyundai has cut its' lease rates in Canada.
It will be interesting to see what everybody rolls out next week for incentives.
Shane D

What are your impressions of the reworked 2010 Infiniti G37 sedan? Has it pushed you either way?