Best sedan's around $30k

[SoloGLI]

I recently totaled my car and I'm now in the market for a new car. Originally I thought I had my mind made up on getting an Infiniti G37 sport in 6 speed, which only comes fully loaded. MSRP is $43k, Invoice is about $40k, but Infiniti has amazing pricing on ALL 2012 models right now (basically $5k to $6k off) and with memorial day this weekend, I figured I can probably get the car in the neighborhood of ~$36k. But, I always end up questioning myself with large purchases, and I'm considering not spending as much on a car.

This is where TCL comes in. I'd like to get a sedan this time around, as my last two cars have either been a two seater, or were treated as a two seater. Also, looking for something relatively sporty, yet still on the luxury side (think entry level lux at this price level), which is why the G37 originally popped out at me. I'd like a 6 speed if possible, but not against an auto. Also trying to avoid going for a base model with no options type of car, just to say, Hey look, I drive a "fill in luxury car here".

I was originally looking at cars like the 328, C250, IS250/350, Hyundai Genesis, and considered the new STI, but now that I'm considering spending less, I'm not sure what cars to consider. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[Vettes, Volvos and VWs]

Another GLI?

[lostmypassword]

30k is going to price you out of C-Class, 3 series, IS and A4.

That's a tough market if you want brand new, sure there is the FWD offerings like the Maxima but it's getting older.

I did see my first ATS on the road today and it looked great, but with options are you at 40k again, base is 34 grand.

[goshem]

2012 cc?

[someguy123]

Kia Optima

[sandiegan]

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-s...ngId=320969815
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-s...ngId=320222644

[2.0T_Convert]

Another GLI?

2012 cc?

Kia Optima

Against RWD luxury cars?

As much as I like my FWD econobox allow me to kindly say GTFO

[emmettlodge]

Sedan's what?

[swed]

Acura TSX?

[someguy123]

Against RWD luxury cars?

As much as I like my FWD econobox allow me to kindly say GTFO

Sorry, but it's a limited budget of $30k unless he's looking for used.

[Remedy]

[Saintor]

How about a Passat 3.6L SE with sunroof for 28995$. Fuel economy is quite decent for a 280HP car at 20/28mpg.

[Live-Wire]

Against RWD luxury cars?

As much as I like my FWD econobox allow me to kindly say GTFO

Not much RWD for $30k...

I'd look at a Chrysler 300 or Charger tho. Good bang for the buck. Kia Optima is a pretty good choice... like an Audi inside (coming from a previous Audi owner). Badge sucks tho (for now)... the drive is not sports-sedan either. But most ~$30k car don't offer luxury and the sports sedan ride.

[adrew]

Might be able to swing a "base" CTS:
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-s...17696701&Log=0

[kraut_pauer79]

I'd say a GLI Autobahn is your best bet. It's a lot of car for right under $27k. An Optima EX Turbo comes with a lot of power, equipment and style for around the same price, plus Kia might be willing to deal on them. It's probably a little less "sporty" than a GLI though.

Consider a lightly used car, and your choices expand considerably.

[IsraelGT]

The G37 is a great car. It drives really well, reliable and great value.

[joe13472000]

MINI

[lojasmo]

300 or Charger

[deagle]

the infiniti g is the best out there in terms of reliability, luxury, and performance

against their euro counterparts, lets say luxury is a wash,

infiniti has edge in reliability, but (maybe) the euro has edge in performance

then again, you can always chip the infiniti also

remember, you can't enjoy the car's performance or luxury, if the car isn't reliable and in the shop frequently

[Tommietank]

Does it have to be new?

[SoloGLI]

Thanks for the input everyone. After talking some numbers with a few different dealers, it looks like I can lease a new G37 Sport with 6 speed well in my price range. I was shocked to see how low some of the dealers were going, some as low as $3k below invoice for cap cost, with a good residual. Looking like I'll be in a new 2012 G37 by the end of the weekend.

[titleist1976]

You aren't putting any money down, are you?

[yeayeayea]

then again, you can always chip the infiniti also

This argument always baffles me. I am guessing most modern cars can be chipped.

[SoloGLI]

You aren't putting any money down, are you?

Not a chance. Drive off has been around 800 to 900 with zero down.

[Golgo-13]

Low mileage CPO TL sh-awd.

[juventuss]

Not a chance. Drive off has been around 800 to 900 with zero down.

is that 800 a month ?

[SoloGLI]

is that 800 a month ?

No... I said DRIVE OFF, meaning what I'd have to pay when I sign the lease. Although I've gotten one dealership to cover fees and first payment so my drive off would be zero.

[markus037]

good choice with the G37. did you get the sport package with the 4 piston brakes and the adjustable bolster seats?

[whitealltrac]

But for $32 - $36k you can get one of these used:



/ thread

[whitealltrac]

But for $32 - $36k you can get one of these used:

[SoloGLI]

good choice with the G37. did you get the sport package with the 4 piston brakes and the adjustable bolster seats?

Yup, that's the one. It's also a 6 speed manual, which is basically what put me over the top with this car.

But for $32 - $36k you can get one of these used:



/ thread

Don't want used and don't want to buy. No way could I get that car with zero down and zero drive off and close to $400/month. That's basically what I'm about to get for the G37 sedan.

[Golgo-13]

Yup, that's the one. It's also a 6 speed manual, which is basically what put me over the top with this car.

Don't want used and don't want to buy. No way could I get that car with zero down and zero drive off and close to $400/month. That's basically what I'm about to get for the G37 sedan.

[Mike!]

Thanks for the input everyone. After talking some numbers with a few different dealers, it looks like I can lease a new G37 Sport with 6 speed well in my price range. I was shocked to see how low some of the dealers were going, some as low as $3k below invoice for cap cost, with a good residual. Looking like I'll be in a new 2012 G37 by the end of the weekend.

Congratulations! Glad that worked out for you. The G37 is probably the best value in its class... up on room and power over most entry-level luxury competition, dollar for dollar.

[SoCalDubber]

The real question... Where are you going to find 21" tires for your HREs

[Aonarch]

Buick Regal or a Dodge Charger is about it for 30k and RWD.