I'm beginning to consider car options for later this year as my current lease on my Passat Wagon expires in November (after all, isn't half the joy of the big purchase the research).
I took the kids to the auto show a few weeks ago and started to do a little research online. I often take a browse through the Driving section of the National Post on Fridays and I came across this article about VW's Direct Shift Gearbox that is in the new Audio A3 3.2. Luckily this little gem is too small to consider as our replacement family car, so I'm not seriously tempted (just keep your fingers crossed that my old Mazda keeps running and I'm not made to make the decision on whether I really need a second car).
Don't get me wrong, I'm still a big fan of using public transport whenever appropriate, and I'm a happy man when I take the subway to work most days, but the need to drive on a more regular basis would really tighten the justification screws for some leading edge German engineering.
As you may know cars are in my blood, with my Dad being a huge car nut. He's proud to have been in the industry for 50 years and is about to formally retire at the end of this month. Thanks Dad for giving me the appreciation for: the beauty of the body curve; a handbrake turn (which is a cinch in an icy parking lot - very popular the kids in the backseat - maybe they're also getting the bug); double clutching and heel-and-toe (which I still can't do); Formula 1; and the excitement of seeing a new model for the first time on the street - what was "that" ?
If you're interested my shortlist for a replacement this year is:
Mazda6 Sport Wagon
Subaru Legacy/Outback Wagons
Volvo V50
VW Passat Wagon
Plus perhaps a few more interesting choices if I consider a used vehicle !
My buddy DK at work is also in the market for a new car this year, and he keeps asking what he should buy - and with his budget it may be exciting to do a few test drives for him !
4 comments:
My favorites are the Volvo and the VW, of course the VW for the price and performance is certainly my top recommendation. But I also know that they were selected 4 years in a row for worst after sales service in Canada.
I didn't know you were such a car fan ! Watching the Formula 1 qualifying in 5 1/2 hours ?
I have no choice really, my husbands passion is cars, he was a test pilot for motor trend car of the year in 1996, and won BMW best driver for eastern canada in 1999, and was in luxury car sales for 10 years, Cadillac sales specialist, Lexus and BMW.
Oh the secrets that you keep.
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