K-A commented:
February 7, 2013, 6:37 pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by beden1
I had an F10 as a loaner for the day. The handling is softer, less sure footed, and there is noticeable body roll as compared to my wife's E60 535xi (ours without the sport suspension). So, the Mercedes E-Class must feel like a boat (I have not driven a Mercedes since our 2004 S600 which handled extremely well).
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Yes, the F10 feels very sporty compared to the W212. I can attest to that. The E60 was too raw for me, which is why I was in Mercedes'. The F10 basically went for me, a guy who needs a luxurious ride, but now wanted something more dynamic than the E. I guess job well done.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Stavrs
Very strong comments considering that most likely you have not seen the car in person much less driven it.
From my perspective there is nothing timeless about the 3 series - it looks way too common and follows the design language of our times. When this language changes as it does every so often it will look old.
The CLA on the other hand is introducing another segment like the CLS did, no matter if you like this new segment or not. It is following a design language that deviates from the norm of our times. Isn't this the actual definition of timeless? Independent of time?
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I have a very different definition of "Timeless" than you do, I guess.
Timeless is anti-fashion, it's more about style, and in many ways, simplicity. The CLS and CLA to me are completely fashionable, which to me will put a date-stamp on them. The 3-Series is a timeless, conservative look, there's little about it that will stamp it with a date. It's just a good looking car, with little gimmicks. The CLA has every gimmick of 2012 applied to it, accompanied by wayward lines, which may not age well to the eyes, therefore I consider that what will "date" it in a premature fashion.
The E60 and E65 were revolutionary, and look at how badly they're aging. The F30 and F10 era's are the anti-that, they're intended graceful designs that will age very well, lines that make sense, sharp styling yet nothing too jarring (minus the F30's nose a bit, IMO) yet lots of smoothed corners which I feel usually prove to age better than hard ones, flawless proportions, an "it just works" idiom. The CLA isn't a graceful design.... it isn't intended to be, as that's not what that market for that price range are looking for. If they were, the C-Class will give them that effect much better.
January 22, 2013, 3:23 pm
I think it's FWD and the looks are very front heavy and awkward from some angles.
No matter, at that price point it should sell well. The cheap c230 bombed here a decade ago, this being a sedan should help.
January 22, 2013, 3:31 pm
Great comercial! Not a bad looking car IMO.
January 22, 2013, 3:37 pm
It's half the size of the 3er, it's competition is the 2er Gran Coupe.
January 22, 2013, 3:37 pm
I am not a real fan of CLA but I am a real fan of Kate now
OMG ... she's awesome
January 22, 2013, 3:47 pm
Cool looking car IMO. But they would have done themselves a favor by getting a girl who had some nice looking legs. When the commercial started and they panned the camera from down to up, I got the feeling it was gona be some kinda joke or comedy-that chix legs are unsexy. IMO.
January 22, 2013, 3:55 pm
January 22, 2013, 3:55 pm
As far as the car, it looks to be an upscale VW CC, Acura TSX competitor not a serious 3 series competitor. You need RWD to play in that class.
January 22, 2013, 3:58 pm
January 22, 2013, 3:59 pm
I just checked out more pics of the CLA at mbusa site, and it looks fantastic! Makes the new G and IS look even worse...I'd definitely consider this for my next car...Kate Upton looks rather nice too...
January 22, 2013, 4:10 pm
Well, this leaked Super Bowl spot is certainly a new direction for Mercedes Benz...
BJ
January 22, 2013, 4:24 pm
its FWD. Not in the same class
January 22, 2013, 4:26 pm
OMG ... she's awesome
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCUnWIs88CQ
January 22, 2013, 4:29 pm
A better look at the car and the features:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6_85cSOIcE
BMW has a lot of competition if they're gonna intro a 2er Gran Coupe!
January 22, 2013, 5:06 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6_85cSOIcE
BMW has a lot of competition if they're gonna intro a 2er Gran Coupe!
January 22, 2013, 5:12 pm
January 22, 2013, 5:27 pm
not bad looking way better looking than the Lexus IS, lets see what Audi pulls out in 2 years when they up grade the A4 look. there is a reason why BMW 3series as won top 10 cars since 1992.
January 22, 2013, 5:35 pm
Rather have this video over the CLA
Carrera GT
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEEUkAlm9Uk
US translation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-chDDWQ_Zo
January 22, 2013, 5:47 pm
Car looks OK. She does have "funny" legs. And those feet! She must throw away the shoes and wear the boxes!
January 22, 2013, 6:15 pm
I'd take Kate Upton anyday
won't take the CLA as I will be very poor after maintaining Kate Upton
January 22, 2013, 6:20 pm
LOL at you guys focusing on her legs...
um, did you see her t!ts.....
January 22, 2013, 6:26 pm
January 22, 2013, 8:30 pm
The only "Mercedes" part I see is a front grille... The rest looks like it was designed by some Asian company. Not that it's a bad thing, just not something I personally like.
January 22, 2013, 8:47 pm
January 22, 2013, 8:54 pm
Needs more of Kate (less clothed) IMO
January 22, 2013, 9:04 pm
I'm a big fan of the CLA design. Just the right size, well proportioned, aggressive styling. Looks a lot nicer than the F30 (and E90) imo, just a pity it won't have the handling to match.
January 22, 2013, 9:14 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCUnWIs88CQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcJScBLIEX4
January 22, 2013, 9:25 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6_85cSOIcE
BMW has a lot of competition if they're gonna intro a 2er Gran Coupe!
January 22, 2013, 10:56 pm
I think BMW should get Kate in its commercial so people here don't drool over the CLA. The question is, what BMW version can get Kate excited and rub against it? The F30 maybe too boring to think she would do it.
January 22, 2013, 11:01 pm
January 23, 2013, 12:00 am
January 23, 2013, 12:08 am
VW copied the MB CLS when designing the CC. Now MB copied back to come up with the FWD CLA. This car may not be in the same class as the 3 in terms of traditional classification, but it should have high appeal among the younger crowd and it will take away some sales from the 3, but also some from the C class.
January 23, 2013, 12:21 am
Literally, the "horse" will not get excited by this cart.
January 23, 2013, 1:05 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcJScBLIEX4
January 23, 2013, 1:11 am
I like the new grill on the CLA... like the dotted pattern.
The CLA is a new class of stylish entry level premium cars.
Audi A3 concept:
BMW 2 Series Grand Coupe Concept artist rendering - if it looks this good, I don't know who would actually buy an F30. Keep in mind that it is only a rendering and it can turn out to be a miniature 3 series GT.
or the 1 series
January 23, 2013, 2:05 am
what a choice we have
vs (2 series Grand Coupe)
vs A3 sedan
vs
January 23, 2013, 2:23 am
^^ IS is not in the same class. That's an F30, C, and A4 competitor. The 2 series grand coupe is just an artist rendering and no camo 2 series grand coupe has been seen. So it's just speculation of what a BMW fan wish it was like.
January 23, 2013, 2:30 am
I should say that this is BMW's answer to the small 4 door coupe line.
January 23, 2013, 3:16 am
I'd figure most regular people will go for it. Which is another reason the 320i is here now. The car may be larger outside but it probably has similar interior space to a3 and cla. Most car buyers have no idea what rwd matters for and probably some even prefer fwd especially in snow States. Everyone can compare interior space. So the 320i really is also an a3 / cla alternative.
No one said there has to be an exact comparable car to a competitor. If you compete by overlap then so be it. BMW might be right here or its a stopgap until they can bring something else out
January 23, 2013, 8:50 am
http://gmotors.co.uk/news/wp-content...es-GT-side.jpg
January 23, 2013, 9:59 am
CLA looks to have suffered a stroke as some parts of it have begun to just randomly droop.
January 23, 2013, 11:21 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcJScBLIEX4
January 23, 2013, 11:57 am
January 23, 2013, 12:01 pm
January 23, 2013, 12:09 pm
January 23, 2013, 1:29 pm
CLA looks great.
January 23, 2013, 1:31 pm
OMG ... she's awesome
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHWTc8cUhkw
January 23, 2013, 2:06 pm
Oh Kate
I switch to cla now
January 23, 2013, 2:52 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCUnWIs88CQ
January 23, 2013, 3:44 pm
Kate is now my new dream
January 23, 2013, 3:45 pm
Its just some random video someone posted about the model in their upcoming Superbowl ad, its not the MB ad.
January 23, 2013, 4:01 pm
Its just some random video someone posted about the model in their upcoming Superbowl ad, its not the MB ad.
January 23, 2013, 5:12 pm
In any event, you should bail out of this thread, since you have no interest in the CLA.
January 23, 2013, 5:23 pm
In any event, you should bail out of this thread, since you have no interest in the CLA.
January 23, 2013, 5:45 pm
Trolls running wild up in here
January 23, 2013, 6:31 pm
Its just some random video someone posted about the model in their upcoming Superbowl ad, its not the MB ad.
Oh yeah?
BJ
January 23, 2013, 6:41 pm
Sorry but I really don't like this Mercedes... the huge eyes and the ugly rear - for me it just can't even compare with the F30. I would never consider it as an option.
January 23, 2013, 7:42 pm
BJ
January 23, 2013, 8:55 pm
BJ
January 23, 2013, 9:17 pm
I'm not a CLA lover, or a Lexus IS fan, or a "troll".
I've been on this website for a long time, check my post count and join date. How many euro deliveries have you done?
I've got 4 under my belt.
In any event, I'm not a typical b-fest member in that I evaluate each car on its merits....and I welcome the competition...competition is good for BMW.
Audi, MB, Lexus, Acura, Infiniti etc. all bring something a little different to the table, as far as performance, reliability, technology, styling, etc...
I personally like the CLA....its a very interesting design, more so than the rehashed 3 series design. Its FWD, and small, and these are two very big strikes against it.
January 23, 2013, 9:20 pm
Oh yeah?
BJ
BMW has lots of attractive models at the Detroit Auto Show right now....they don't know d!ck about the cars, ask them what an F30 is....
But they have a few memorized lines about the key features of the car...
If you asked them what a kidney grill is, or the hofmeister kink, they'd probably slap you across the face.
January 23, 2013, 9:29 pm
I'm not a CLA lover, or a Lexus IS fan, or a "troll".
I've been on this website for a long time, check my post count and join date. How many euro deliveries have you done?
I've got 4 under my belt.
In any event, I'm not a typical b-fest member in that I evaluate each car on its merits....and I welcome the competition...competition is good for BMW.
Audi, MB, Lexus, Acura, Infiniti etc. all bring something a little different to the table, as far as performance, reliability, technology, styling, etc...
I personally like the CLA....its a very interesting design, more so than the rehashed 3 series design. Its FWD, and small, and these are two very big strikes against it.
January 23, 2013, 10:05 pm
Oh look... People already telling each other to leave this thread because of difference of opinion, calling each other jerks and measuring their e-penis sizes ("I did over 9000 Euro Deliveries and my post count is like, a lot!")... Nice thread you have here, girls!
January 23, 2013, 10:21 pm
BMW has lots of attractive models at the Detroit Auto Show right now....they don't know d!ck about the cars, ask them what an F30 is...
But they have a few memorized lines about the key features of the car...
If you asked them what a kidney grill is, or the hofmeister kink, they'd probably slap you across the face.
Kate Upton aside, that's one hell of a departure of an ad campaign for Mercedes Benz.
BJ
January 23, 2013, 10:27 pm
The New CLA is beautiful! Worlds nicer than their current C.. Good Job Mercedes, I look forward to seeing these on the road.
That video however was kind of lame. No where near as entertaining as the Kat Daddy youtube vid.
January 23, 2013, 11:14 pm
The CLA is made in Hungary. U.S. 3 series are made in Germany and South Africa. Some are made in India but those are not imported to the U.S., at least not now.
I think it's good if Mercedes and other companies build cars almost as good or better than BMW. That keeps BMW on its toes. If not, then BMW would charge $75,000 for a 3 series. Don't laugh, they cost more than that in Singapore and Norway, though it's because of taxes.
January 23, 2013, 11:32 pm
January 23, 2013, 11:45 pm
January 23, 2013, 11:53 pm
January 24, 2013, 12:39 am
I think BJ likes it too, after all he started this thread. Although we each may have different reasons to like the CLA. BJ likes it probably because his young girlfriend likes it.
January 24, 2013, 12:49 am
January 24, 2013, 1:12 am
I think BJ likes it too, after all he started this thread. Although we each may have different reasons to like the CLA. BJ likes it probably because his young girlfriend likes it.
That said, the CLA will most definitely be a preferred purchase for exotic dancers across America and there's nothing but respect there.
BJ
January 24, 2013, 2:22 am
I think BJ likes it too, after all he started this thread. Although we each may have different reasons to like the CLA. BJ likes it probably because his young girlfriend likes it.
January 24, 2013, 9:25 am
January 24, 2013, 9:36 am
Wonder what people are considering to be "middle age" these days?
January 24, 2013, 10:20 am
I don't think people give the CLA enough credit.
It is VERY difficult to release a fresh, different design like this, as opposed to what BMW is doing with the 3 series....
Don't get me wrong, the three is a nice car, very pleasant, but BMW plays it very safe and conservative with their styling.
Its a pro and con...they can't deviate too far from what people love...but they will always be evolutionary.
January 24, 2013, 10:23 am
Showed the ad to my girlfriend last night. And the other Upton videos too of course. She loved the CLA. I can see it as her next car.
January 24, 2013, 11:12 am
it's ugly (looks like a ford focus) and judging by that video, they are attempting to reach the intellectual market.
January 24, 2013, 11:53 am
January 24, 2013, 12:30 pm
Affirmative. Diff to see what's exciting there.
January 24, 2013, 12:42 pm
January 24, 2013, 1:19 pm
I'm not a CLA lover, or a Lexus IS fan, or a "troll".
I've been on this website for a long time, check my post count and join date.
J/K
January 24, 2013, 1:23 pm
January 24, 2013, 1:32 pm
just call Kate Upton hot, she wont be in like 1 or 2 years after being traded around the NFL and corporate call girl enthusiasts.
January 24, 2013, 1:55 pm
January 24, 2013, 2:10 pm
January 24, 2013, 3:04 pm
January 24, 2013, 3:19 pm
How about 90 is the new 50, after which I wish to just kick the bucket. Any of you with me?
January 24, 2013, 3:39 pm
I am with you
January 24, 2013, 4:00 pm
With 4matic and benz options this thing could be up to $50k USD. These commercials never show the <$30k version.
January 24, 2013, 4:02 pm
January 24, 2013, 5:29 pm
January 24, 2013, 5:40 pm
January 24, 2013, 6:27 pm
January 25, 2013, 1:31 pm
Dont know how to properly embed this vid..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=_K8a4-WkXT4
February 3, 2013, 6:41 pm
For those of you who didn't see the actual Superbowl commercial with Kate, here it is
http://youtu.be/oPNr0_6MnDo
It was cool to see Dafoe, to bad they couldn't get Al Pacino
Chiba
February 3, 2013, 10:23 pm
It's a radical change from what MB use to offer. I like it. Very sporty looking.
February 3, 2013, 10:24 pm
i like it too. probably will drive like **** like most mercedes tho.
February 3, 2013, 10:58 pm
It has NO butt! And what it has back there sags.
February 3, 2013, 11:07 pm
$29,900
They'll sell a butt load of these.
I think it is very nice looking.
February 3, 2013, 11:57 pm
February 4, 2013, 12:07 am
Seems like they are looking to fill a hole in the poser market... I could buy almost anything I want but I just don't think I'm a M-B type of guy.
February 4, 2013, 12:20 am
February 4, 2013, 12:33 am
CA
February 4, 2013, 12:36 am
http://youtu.be/oPNr0_6MnDo
It was cool to see Dafoe, to bad they couldn't get Al Pacino
Chiba
February 4, 2013, 1:12 am
February 4, 2013, 1:23 am
starting at 29 k not a bad looking car.I'll stick with BMW though.i can see this car doin pretty well
Sent from my XT557 using Bimmer App
February 4, 2013, 1:32 am
February 4, 2013, 1:57 am
February 4, 2013, 2:02 am
CA
February 4, 2013, 2:05 am
February 4, 2013, 2:14 am
Sent from my XT557 using Bimmer App
February 4, 2013, 2:44 am
February 4, 2013, 8:37 am
People buy cars for different reasons. A lot of enthusiasts aren't interested in big power, but the great handling and planted feel BMWs are known for....many so called enthusiasts on here claim they would love a 320....
My first BMW was 2004 325 sedan with sport package and heated seats, manual transmission. Man I miss that car....sure it only had 184hp...but it handled so well....and was so buttoned down.
Why isn't ok for someone to buy the CLA because it offers a different driving experience than a Honda Accord?
It will feel different....and the interior is much better, pretty nice interior design.
Sure there are those who only buy based on badge, but not everyone.....
February 4, 2013, 9:51 am
Having a CLS I can't say I love the idea that there are going to be bunches of micro CLSs. On the other hand you have to give it to Mercedes for introducing something new in this segment and at the very least keeping things interesting.
February 4, 2013, 10:09 am
February 4, 2013, 10:10 am
Love it or hate it, you have to give them credit for going out on a limb and offering a "budget" Mercedes with a pretty bold design.
BMW is playing a much safer route with its evolutionary style and "neutered" 320 offering.
Both are fine cars, but very different. That's what makes the world go around.
February 4, 2013, 11:26 am
February 4, 2013, 11:28 am
February 4, 2013, 11:50 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6_85cSOIcE
BMW has a lot of competition if they're gonna intro a 2er Gran Coupe!
True, lots of competition for the 3 series these days.
February 4, 2013, 3:02 pm
It does look pretty good, especially for a car that will be in the low $40s, loaded up. Good commercials help too!
February 4, 2013, 3:34 pm
I think a lot of people on this forum have drank the BMW Kool-Aid and don't realize that other brands have their strong points as well. Good to see another forum member who isn't steeply biased.
If we bought cars simply by merit and not image, we might all be buying a Cadillac in a few years. With the way they're advancing Cadillac may actually be making the superior vehicle in less than 10 years.
February 4, 2013, 3:46 pm
I think a lot of people on this forum have drank the BMW Kool-Aid and don't realize that other brands have their strong points as well. Good to see another forum member who isn't steeply biased.
If we bought cars simply by merit and not image, we might all be buying a Cadillac in a few years. With the way they're advancing Cadillac may actually be making the superior vehicle in less than 10 years.
February 4, 2013, 4:10 pm
They eventually will (but this may be 10+ years away), but they'll be among the slower ones to discontinue it in the luxury market.
They were the last to discontinue it in the large car market. The 7-Series (with smaller engines) still had a stickshift in European markets through the late 1990s. With the new 7 Series introduced in the US as a 2002 Model Year, I believe that body style was never offered in a stick again (worldwide).
If BMW stops offering stick, I'd get the automatic or SMG. Most VWs are FWD so I would prefer a RWD car.
February 4, 2013, 4:21 pm
Wikipedia lists the following trims for the CLA:
CLA 180 - 122hp/148ft-lb tq
CLA 200 - 154/184
CLA 250 - 208/258
CLA 45 AMG - 349/322
Not sure if all these will make it over to the US - but looks like they're targeting the 320, 328, and 335 with these trims and engine specs.
February 4, 2013, 4:39 pm
CLA 180 - 122hp/148ft-lb tq
CLA 200 - 154/184
CLA 250 - 208/258
CLA 45 AMG - 349/322
Not sure if all these will make it over to the US - but looks like they're targeting the 320, 328, and 335 with these trims and engine specs.
February 4, 2013, 5:00 pm
February 4, 2013, 5:16 pm
CLA 180 - 122hp/148ft-lb tq
CLA 200 - 154/184
CLA 250 - 208/258
CLA 45 AMG - 349/322
Not sure if all these will make it over to the US - but looks like they're targeting the 320, 328, and 335 with these trims and engine specs.
February 4, 2013, 5:17 pm
I think a lot of people on this forum have drank the BMW Kool-Aid and don't realize that other brands have their strong points as well. Good to see another forum member who isn't steeply biased.
If we bought cars simply by merit and not image, we might all be buying a Cadillac in a few years. With the way they're advancing Cadillac may actually be making the superior vehicle in less than 10 years.
CA
February 4, 2013, 5:31 pm
Remember our 2.5l STI for example is 2.0l in Japan. They have higher power levels of the Evo and Sti than we ever got here. They had an Evo FQ360-400 which made big power.
February 4, 2013, 7:29 pm
February 4, 2013, 7:34 pm
February 4, 2013, 7:34 pm
CA
February 4, 2013, 7:40 pm
Small point of empirical evidence, at least to the greater enthusiasm of BMW owners - the BMW Car Club of America is the largest car club in the country and has over 75,000 members.
One other tidbit - Neither Mercedes nor Audi operate a Performance Driving Center in the U.S. like BMW does.
February 4, 2013, 7:44 pm
CLA 180 - 122hp/148ft-lb tq
CLA 200 - 154/184
CLA 250 - 208/258
CLA 45 AMG - 349/322
Not sure if all these will make it over to the US - but looks like they're targeting the 320, 328, and 335 with these trims and engine specs.
Good lord. That thing will be so slow it will be a traffic hazard.
February 4, 2013, 8:14 pm
They were the last to discontinue it in the large car market. The 7-Series (with smaller engines) still had a stickshift in European markets through the late 1990s. With the new 7 Series introduced in the US as a 2002 Model Year, I believe that body style was never offered in a stick again (worldwide).
If BMW stops offering stick, I'd get the automatic or SMG. Most VWs are FWD so I would prefer a RWD car.
February 4, 2013, 9:31 pm
1. super toned stringy body
2. leathery skin on bones because of too much dieting
3. stretched leathery tan skin because of face lift
4. plastic surgery/collagen injection duck lips
5. plastic bolt-on boobs
just google search her name and look at the bio pic google brings up on the upper right. She does have a beautiful face and beautiful eyes. Oh, I forgot about not having the classical nose job. She is probably not for everyone because of all those things. So she is not from the same old mold and that works to her advantage for a sizeable audience.
February 5, 2013, 4:52 am
Good lord. That thing will be so slow it will be a traffic hazard.
February 5, 2013, 1:33 pm
Mercedes AMG loses chassis guru to BMW M:
http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/in...sis-guru-bmw-m
About time BMW got serious about handling and driving dynamics.
February 5, 2013, 1:42 pm
February 5, 2013, 2:35 pm
February 5, 2013, 2:44 pm
Personally, I'm not keen on procuring any VW, mainly because I would prefer RWD cars such as BMW or Mercedes-Benz.
I guess a good competitive vehicle from VW to BMW would be the Toureg Vs the X5. The Phaeton if it's still sold in the States would be a potential competitor to the 7 series.
Otherwise, I don't consider the Passat a good competitor to the 3er.
February 5, 2013, 3:16 pm
Personally, I'm not keen on procuring any VW, mainly because I would prefer RWD cars such as BMW or Mercedes-Benz.
I guess a good competitive vehicle from VW to BMW would be the Toureg Vs the X5. The Phaeton if it's still sold in the States would be a potential competitor to the 7 series.
Otherwise, I don't consider the Passat a good competitor to the 3er.
February 5, 2013, 3:52 pm
http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/in...sis-guru-bmw-m
About time BMW got serious about handling and driving dynamics.
February 5, 2013, 5:35 pm
EDIT: I'm not talking about current Jetta, I'm budgeting and buying Golf TDI in June. I'm pretty sick of BMW's BS it's coming ... no it's not. Engine ... we don't know. Auto only ... probably. Coming when ... we'll let you know. Thanks, I'm not buying your product on your terms - there's a guy next door selling it right now.
February 5, 2013, 5:46 pm
Just kidding, just kidding ...
February 5, 2013, 5:47 pm
im not a fan of the i6 being replaced with turbos
Sent from my XT557 using Bimmer App
February 5, 2013, 5:54 pm
Sent from my XT557 using Bimmer App
February 5, 2013, 7:24 pm
EDIT: I'm not talking about current Jetta, I'm budgeting and buying Golf TDI in June. I'm pretty sick of BMW's BS it's coming ... no it's not. Engine ... we don't know. Auto only ... probably. Coming when ... we'll let you know. Thanks, I'm not buying your product on your terms - there's a guy next door selling it right now.
February 5, 2013, 7:49 pm
February 5, 2013, 11:58 pm
February 6, 2013, 2:17 am
February 6, 2013, 2:20 am
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_age
February 6, 2013, 8:59 am
February 6, 2013, 10:28 am
I do use the radio.
I do use the power windows and side mirrors.
I don't use the power seats after setting them the first time.
I don't use the heated seats but my wife does.
I don't use comfort access.
It is a rare occasion that I use the GPS.
I hate the i-drive as it's too complicated. I mostly check it for the tires, systems and tripometer.(BMW's first tripometer system was better)
I hate the complicated shifter for the auto transmission. Pushing a button before moving the electronic shift knob is just dumb, IMO. Give me a manual mechanism anyday.
I could live without the trunk auto close feature.
I basically appreciate driving the car whenever I'm on the road, and regardless of where I'm going. I really don't need or use most of the "creature comforts".
I wish the car was lighter and more nimble.
February 6, 2013, 8:12 pm
Small point of empirical evidence, at least to the greater enthusiasm of BMW owners - the BMW Car Club of America is the largest car club in the country and has over 75,000 members.
One other tidbit - Neither Mercedes nor Audi operate a Performance Driving Center in the U.S. like BMW does.
As for the C250, I think the facelift made it a very elegant car, but the drivetrain is a dog. I don't expect a sporty vibe nor ride when I drive a Mercedes, but the engine is so sluggish, it's not even near effortless. Not to mention, the sounds it makes aren't very flattering (especially at idle, however that's kind of par for the course for a lot of 4-Cylinders, iMO).
Driving an F30 328i is truly on another level, the car is sporty, yet still refined as well, the technology that comes with it, and again, the logic-defying performance (especially compared with the C250) just make it a vastly superior objectively engineered vehicle to the C250 equivalent.
February 6, 2013, 8:16 pm
Welcome to the Fest, KA.
February 6, 2013, 8:17 pm
As for the C250, I think the facelift made it a very elegant car, but the drivetrain is a dog. I don't expect a sporty vibe nor ride when I drive a Mercedes, but the engine is so sluggish, it's not even near effortless. Not to mention, the sounds it makes aren't very flattering (especially at idle, however that's kind of par for the course for a lot of 4-Cylinders, iMO).
Driving an F30 328i is truly on another level, the car is sporty, yet still refined as well, the technology that comes with it, and again, the logic-defying performance (especially compared with the C250) just make it a vastly superior objectively engineered vehicle to the C250 equivalent.
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February 6, 2013, 8:17 pm
As for the C250, I think the facelift made it a very elegant car, but the drivetrain is a dog. I don't expect a sporty vibe nor ride when I drive a Mercedes, but the engine is so sluggish, it's not even near effortless. Not to mention, the sounds it makes aren't very flattering (especially at idle, however that's kind of par for the course for a lot of 4-Cylinders, iMO).
Driving an F30 328i is truly on another level, the car is sporty, yet still refined as well, the technology that comes with it, and again, the logic-defying performance (especially compared with the C250) just make it a vastly superior objectively engineered vehicle to the C250 equivalent.
February 6, 2013, 8:29 pm
I was actually signed up for one of the AMG driving thingies, but overslept.
February 6, 2013, 8:49 pm
I do use the radio.
I do use the power windows and side mirrors.
I don't use the power seats after setting them the first time.
I don't use the heated seats but my wife does.
I don't use comfort access.
It is a rare occasion that I use the GPS.
I hate the i-drive as it's too complicated. I mostly check it for the tires, systems and tripometer.(BMW's first tripometer system was better)
I hate the complicated shifter for the auto transmission. Pushing a button before moving the electronic shift knob is just dumb, IMO. Give me a manual mechanism anyday.
I could live without the trunk auto close feature.
I basically appreciate driving the car whenever I'm on the road, and regardless of where I'm going. I really don't need or use most of the "creature comforts".
I wish the car was lighter and more nimble.
February 6, 2013, 9:09 pm
I was actually signed up for one of the AMG driving thingies, but overslept.
February 6, 2013, 9:16 pm
I do use the radio.
I do use the power windows and side mirrors.
I don't use the power seats after setting them the first time.
I don't use the heated seats but my wife does.
I don't use comfort access.
It is a rare occasion that I use the GPS.
I hate the i-drive as it's too complicated. I mostly check it for the tires, systems and tripometer.(BMW's first tripometer system was better)
I hate the complicated shifter for the auto transmission. Pushing a button before moving the electronic shift knob is just dumb, IMO. Give me a manual mechanism anyday.
I could live without the trunk auto close feature.
I basically appreciate driving the car whenever I'm on the road, and regardless of where I'm going. I really don't need or use most of the "creature comforts".
I wish the car was lighter and more nimble.
February 6, 2013, 11:21 pm
February 7, 2013, 12:53 am
February 7, 2013, 1:12 am
February 7, 2013, 1:59 am
personally the CLA does not appeal to me. can see where MB is heading with the a-class and the cla - tapping into the pool of buyers who would have considered something like a VW but now giving it a second thought with the prices of the MB being within their reach!
February 7, 2013, 2:04 am
February 7, 2013, 2:12 am
http://microsites.audiusa.com/ngw/09...ng_experience/
I attended their 1/2-day S-class course (because it was nearby) in 2009 and it was a lot of fun. I drove the S5 which had the V8 back then. Was my first and only track experience and it made me realize how hard tracking is on the car.
February 7, 2013, 6:32 am
I don't think people give the CLA enough credit.
It is VERY difficult to release a fresh, different design like this, as opposed to what BMW is doing with the 3 series....
Don't get me wrong, the three is a nice car, very pleasant, but BMW plays it very safe and conservative with their styling.
Its a pro and con...they can't deviate too far from what people love...but they will always be evolutionary.
The 3-Series is a "core model", it needs to look timeless, it needs to age well. The CLA is a trendy design chalk full of fads that probably will age poorly, therefore putting a strong date-stamp on the design. This is kind of its intent, as it will provide it a lot of immediate fashionable hype, which as hype usually does, will wear off, while the 3-Series will more-so look fresh in a decade from now.
My personal opinion of the CLA are awful proportions due to a stubby FWD chassis, and erratically superflous lines which make no sense, a cartoonishly featured face and a droopy behind.
That all said, this car is not in a 3-Series' league, and once people see and drive it in person, they will most certainly realize that. This is a FWD Econo car, make no mistake, with what will be a terrible use of interior space. It won't have any engines larger than a 4-Cylinder. This won't be as sophisticated nor mature a car as the 3-Series (or C-Class), it won't be as "prestigious" if you had to pick one in that element. This car is aiming for those who like the design characteristics of a car like a Lancer Evo, but don't want a Mitsubishi. This car is about being brash and immature, and it has an inherently Economy-Car like substance to make it feasible to its intended market.
I think that any success of the CLA IF it can still sell people on the historical "prestige" of the Mercedes brand, although it's a FWD car starting under $30K, would force the C-Class and its 3-Series rival to move up in public perception.
February 7, 2013, 6:58 am
.... but my friend who was driving my W212 E-Class, who I was following in my F10 M Sport on the way home from the Dealer, at a couple of points almost swerved into another lane, which had me flipped.... he later told me "that car handles like an old Cadillac! I almost got into accidents 'cause of the body roll!". I couldn't believe hearing that from him, considering how acclimated to its driving I've been, and considering his personal car was a beater.
February 7, 2013, 9:00 am
Qft
The 3-series is a "core model", it needs to look timeless, it needs to age well. The cla is a trendy design chalk full of fads that probably will age poorly, therefore putting a strong date-stamp on the design. This is kind of its intent, as it will provide it a lot of immediate fashionable hype, which as hype usually does, will wear off, while the 3-series will more-so look fresh in a decade from now.
My personal opinion of the cla are awful proportions due to a stubby fwd chassis, and erratically superflous lines which make no sense, a cartoonishly featured face and a droopy behind.
That all said, this car is not in a 3-series' league, and once people see and drive it in person, they will most certainly realize that. This is a fwd econo car, make no mistake, with what will be a terrible use of interior space. It won't have any engines larger than a 4-cylinder. This won't be as sophisticated nor mature a car as the 3-series (or c-class), it won't be as "prestigious" if you had to pick one in that element. This car is aiming for those who like the design characteristics of a car like a lancer evo, but don't want a mitsubishi. This car is about being brash and immature, and it has an inherently economy-car like substance to make it feasible to its intended market.
I think that any success of the cla if it can still sell people on the historical "prestige" of the mercedes brand, although it's a fwd car starting under $30k, would force the c-class and its 3-series rival to move up in public perception.
February 7, 2013, 10:16 am
.... but my friend who was driving my W212 E-Class, who I was following in my F10 M Sport on the way home from the Dealer, at a couple of points almost swerved into another lane, which had me flipped.... he later told me "that car handles like an old Cadillac! I almost got into accidents 'cause of the body roll!". I couldn't believe hearing that from him, considering how acclimated to its driving I've been, and considering his personal car was a beater.
February 7, 2013, 11:20 am
The 3-Series is a "core model", it needs to look timeless, it needs to age well. The CLA is a trendy design chalk full of fads that probably will age poorly, therefore putting a strong date-stamp on the design. This is kind of its intent, as it will provide it a lot of immediate fashionable hype, which as hype usually does, will wear off, while the 3-Series will more-so look fresh in a decade from now.
My personal opinion of the CLA are awful proportions due to a stubby FWD chassis, and erratically superflous lines which make no sense, a cartoonishly featured face and a droopy behind.
That all said, this car is not in a 3-Series' league, and once people see and drive it in person, they will most certainly realize that. This is a FWD Econo car, make no mistake, with what will be a terrible use of interior space. It won't have any engines larger than a 4-Cylinder. This won't be as sophisticated nor mature a car as the 3-Series (or C-Class), it won't be as "prestigious" if you had to pick one in that element. This car is aiming for those who like the design characteristics of a car like a Lancer Evo, but don't want a Mitsubishi. This car is about being brash and immature, and it has an inherently Economy-Car like substance to make it feasible to its intended market.
I think that any success of the CLA IF it can still sell people on the historical "prestige" of the Mercedes brand, although it's a FWD car starting under $30K, would force the C-Class and its 3-Series rival to move up in public perception.
February 7, 2013, 11:58 am
The 3-Series is a "core model", it needs to look timeless, it needs to age well. The CLA is a trendy design chalk full of fads that probably will age poorly, therefore putting a strong date-stamp on the design. This is kind of its intent, as it will provide it a lot of immediate fashionable hype, which as hype usually does, will wear off, while the 3-Series will more-so look fresh in a decade from now.
My personal opinion of the CLA are awful proportions due to a stubby FWD chassis, and erratically superflous lines which make no sense, a cartoonishly featured face and a droopy behind.
That all said, this car is not in a 3-Series' league, and once people see and drive it in person, they will most certainly realize that. This is a FWD Econo car, make no mistake, with what will be a terrible use of interior space. It won't have any engines larger than a 4-Cylinder. This won't be as sophisticated nor mature a car as the 3-Series (or C-Class), it won't be as "prestigious" if you had to pick one in that element. This car is aiming for those who like the design characteristics of a car like a Lancer Evo, but don't want a Mitsubishi. This car is about being brash and immature, and it has an inherently Economy-Car like substance to make it feasible to its intended market.
I think that any success of the CLA IF it can still sell people on the historical "prestige" of the Mercedes brand, although it's a FWD car starting under $30K, would force the C-Class and its 3-Series rival to move up in public perception.
From my perspective there is nothing timeless about the 3 series - it looks way too common and follows the design language of our times. When this language changes as it does every so often it will look old.
The CLA on the other hand is introducing another segment like the CLS did, no matter if you like this new segment or not. It is following a design language that deviates from the norm of our times. Isn't this the actual definition of timeless? Independent of time?
February 7, 2013, 1:12 pm
From my perspective there is nothing timeless about the 3 series - it looks way too common and follows the design language of our times. When this language changes as it does every so often it will look old.
The CLA on the other hand is introducing another segment like the CLS did, no matter if you like this new segment or not. It is following a design language that deviates from the norm of our times. Isn't this the actual definition of timeless? Independent of time?
February 7, 2013, 1:46 pm
February 7, 2013, 2:51 pm
February 7, 2013, 6:37 pm
From my perspective there is nothing timeless about the 3 series - it looks way too common and follows the design language of our times. When this language changes as it does every so often it will look old.
The CLA on the other hand is introducing another segment like the CLS did, no matter if you like this new segment or not. It is following a design language that deviates from the norm of our times. Isn't this the actual definition of timeless? Independent of time?
Timeless is anti-fashion, it's more about style, and in many ways, simplicity. The CLS and CLA to me are completely fashionable, which to me will put a date-stamp on them. The 3-Series is a timeless, conservative look, there's little about it that will stamp it with a date. It's just a good looking car, with little gimmicks. The CLA has every gimmick of 2012 applied to it, accompanied by wayward lines, which may not age well to the eyes, therefore I consider that what will "date" it in a premature fashion.
The E60 and E65 were revolutionary, and look at how badly they're aging. The F30 and F10 era's are the anti-that, they're intended graceful designs that will age very well, lines that make sense, sharp styling yet nothing too jarring (minus the F30's nose a bit, IMO) yet lots of smoothed corners which I feel usually prove to age better than hard ones, flawless proportions, an "it just works" idiom. The CLA isn't a graceful design.... it isn't intended to be, as that's not what that market for that price range are looking for. If they were, the C-Class will give them that effect much better.
February 7, 2013, 7:12 pm
I have a very different definition of "Timeless" than you do, I guess.
Timeless is anti-fashion, it's more about style, and in many ways, simplicity. The CLS and CLA to me are completely fashionable, which to me will put a date-stamp on them. The 3-Series is a timeless, conservative look, there's little about it that will stamp it with a date. It's just a good looking car, with little gimmicks. The CLA has every gimmick of 2012 applied to it, accompanied by wayward lines, which may not age well to the eyes, therefore I consider that what will "date" it in a premature fashion.
The E60 and E65 were revolutionary, and look at how badly they're aging. The F30 and F10 era's are the anti-that, they're intended graceful designs that will age very well, lines that make sense, sharp styling yet nothing too jarring (minus the F30's nose a bit, IMO) yet lots of smoothed corners which I feel usually prove to age better than hard ones, flawless proportions, an "it just works" idiom. The CLA isn't a graceful design.... it isn't intended to be, as that's not what that market for that price range are looking for. If they were, the C-Class will give them that effect much better.
Current BMWs in our stable: 2011 M3 sedan, 2011 335is convertible, 2008 535xi
Previous BMWs: 2001 740iL, 1983 533i, 1979 320i
February 9, 2013, 8:58 am
If dimensionally, then compared to the F30..............oh yeah. That's a supreme compliment in my book.
The one and upcoming two series are a refresher in BMW 101....................return to basics BMW's.
It's why AG hypes them as reinvented 2002's. Just marketing rubbish really, because they're more like reinvented E30's.
And frankly they are the only series that rev my pulse rate, regardless of their perceived appearance.
The drier remains fine for family hauling requirements, which is why I maintain an interest in the Touring.
But have simply become too big and bloated to be considered eminently chuckable.
If the einser reihe is "scrunched", then the entire AG lineup would do well to aspire to the same.
February 9, 2013, 9:27 am
What I mean by svrunched is the scaleof things, like the green house, or fender flares are large compared to he hood, trunk and over hangs. Its proportions 101. This is not my unique opinion. Kind of like the M Coupe, it can be an acquired taste.
If dimensionally, then compared to the F30..............oh yeah. That's a supreme compliment in my book.
The one and upcoming two series are a refresher in BMW 101....................return to basics BMW's.
It's why AG hypes them as reinvented 2002's. Just marketing rubbish really, because they're more like reinvented E30's.
And frankly they are the only series that rev my pulse rate, regardless of their perceived appearance.
The drier remains fine for family hauling requirements, which is why I maintain an interest in the Touring.
But have simply become too big and bloated to be considered eminently chuckable.
If the einser reihe is "scrunched", then the entire AG lineup would do well to aspire to the same.
February 9, 2013, 4:28 pm
The 1 M has to have flared fenders to fit the bigger meats. A big complaint of the modder mad one crowd is the limited tire options on the base car. Rolling the fenders was the only way to get more contact patch down.
You can tell that the difference between the two fender wise are considerable. The downside is you burn through rear rubbers more quickly, which was never a problem with the 135 to begin with.
February 9, 2013, 4:34 pm
As far as the CLA, I like the design but have no interest until available in AWD.
I'd still take an R20 over it, but only while supplies last.