Danforz

Hey guys,

So, this is going to be a long, detailed post, the end of which I'm going to ask you for a lot of advice. So, thanks in advance for reading.

To start, my first two cars were a 2001 BMW 325 followed by a 2006 BMW 328 coupe. Then, looking for some additional horse power, I gave into the dark side and leased an Infiniti G37s because I could not afford the lease on a 2009 335.

Lets just say, I regret the day I made that decision. The G37 has a wonderful touch screen, great Bose audi, fantastic seat warmers, and is all together a phenominal value when compared to BMW's slowly increasing prices.

That said, the vehicle has poor steering feel on mid to large sweepers and the transmission is... lets just not get started on that. I need my performance back. I need the feel of the road back. I need TORQUE back.

So, that's why I'm posting here today. I'll be in the market when my lease ends in June and I wanted to get your opinions and advice on lease prices.

2012 Audi TT
I'd be looking at getting the latest engine, prestige. I *really* want magnetic ride as it just sounds like one of those toys that would serve well for... "dynamic weekend canyon driving." Furthermore, from what I hear, without it, the TT isn't as high performing as the looks and class category might suggest. Additionally, I was thinking of throwing the sports package on there too... not because I care about the front intakes or anything, but those sport rims... WOW they transform the TT from the one your neighbor owns, to something much more special.

So, this is a pretty loaded TT and I'm hoping that because its a little older, that the lease price could be managed for around $550 a month? Maybe $3500 down? What do you guys think and what experiences with leases have you had?

Please note, I live in Southern California.

2012 BMW 335
And then, there's the other option. BMW has just gotten expensive as of late. But, I do fondly miss the handling, torque, and just unmatched interior class that I found in my prior 3 series.

Because this car is new, the lease is bumping (high) so I can't really get any options on this vehicle, I don't think... I'd want a sports edition, with sports transmission, and the upgraded sound package. I'd love to get navigation/heads up display and leather, but honestly, not sure I can afford it.

The question then comes down to, can either of these vehicle be leased within my $550 a month range? And if so, what are your opinions on which to take?

Finally, What I'm Looking For in a Vehicle
Right now, my goal is performance. Especially steering feel and torque. Two things I've missed over the last 3 years with my Infiniti.

Thanks for your input!

bigstu420

I think the TT may be a little higher than $550 with those options. If I were you.....I'd get a Golf R. Fits all of your needs and is well within your price point.

Good luck!!

verttigo

The 335 is a torque monster, but by now is a dated design. The TT offers a much better looking interior and its 2.0 engine is very strong at low revs. To me the TT looks more special and sporty. I think its worth a shot.

Plan_Man

Is the Golf R 4Motion?

bigstu420

Yes!! 300HP AWD. Same Haldex AWD controller as in the TT, TTS and TT-RS. Same engine as the TTS.

Can get in the US with manual tranny only in 2 or 4 doors.

Plan_Man

So in reality, they shipped the S3 as a VW. Good option for a TT shopper. Frankly, if the 7-speed DSG were in it, I'd be sorely tempted myself. After many years of great three-pedals, I won't be giving up DSG anytime soon, but a hot hatch with Quattro is a great thing.

Personally, if I were a BMW driver, and was dialed in to Bimmer steering, I'd be looking at the 135 instead of the 3. Much more of a driver's car than the Barcalounger the 3 has become...