Shon lives in Colorado and desires to exchange an aging BMW X1. He wants something that’s quick, comfortable enough for the children, and might haul some stuff. He desires to avoid crossovers and would love something somewhat unique. What automobile should he buy?
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Here is the scenario.
My aging X1 is starting to take its toll on my sanity with maintenance. I would like something sporty, AWD, and kid-capable. Trying to avoid something boring or amongst the standard SUVs and CUVs. A wagon can be much more amazing.
Ideally on the lookout for – Near 5 sec. 0 to 60, AWD, reasonable back seat, in a position to haul a non-zero amount of stuff. I might really appreciate it being trackable without breaking the bank. With the ability to sleep within the back is a minor plus.
The budget is around $40,000
Quick Facts:
Budget: as much as $40,000
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Day by day Driver: Yes
Wants: Fun, matches the children, unique
Doesn’t want: An SUV or crossover
Expert 1: Tom McParland – You Asked For Unique
Once more, we’ve the classic Jalopnik conundrum of a necessity for a family friendly, spacious, and quick automobile that is just not a crossover. After all, your ideal transmission is a manual as well. If only Caddy kept making the CTS-V wagon and sold them for like $45,000, they might have had dozens of us lining up at our local dealer for one. Unfortunately, at this price point, you possibly can either have decent horsepower or three pedals, but not each.
I believe we will agree that a wagon is a must, and since you would like something unique, it might probably’t be an Outback as they’re found on every corner in Colorado. You would like a Jag wagon, as within the XF-S Estate. Under the hood is a supercharged V6 pumping out 380 horsepower, styling that has continued to age well, along with all of the comfort and features you’d expect from a luxury marque. Provided that you’re already frustrated with BMW maintenance, is an out-of-warranty Jaguar definitely worth the risk? Perhaps, but this 2020 example with 60,000 miles is $30,000 so you may have some money leftover for any future maintenance.
Expert 2: Andy Kalmowitz – The Wagon You Deserve
Brother, I actually like where your head is at in terms of purchasing your next vehicle. As automobile enthusiasts, there’s really nothing higher than a automobile that may mix practicality and a fun-to-drive attitude, and no automobile does that higher than a wagon. As you possibly can see, my counterparts have already offered up some very solid wagons. You can’t go mistaken with a BMW 330i or a Jaguar XF. Nonetheless, each these cars are going to go away you wanting only a bit in terms of power and speed.
That is why I’ve cooked up the perfect vehicle for you. Shon, what you would like is a Mercedes-Benz E63 S AMG Wagon. That is the sort of automobile that changes your life, pal. With its hand-built twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter AMG V8 that pushes out 577 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque and a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system (that’ll even be very helpful within the snow), you are going to hit 0-60 in a Automotive & Driver–tested 3.4 seconds. That is good enough oomph for the road and the occasional track day. On top of that, it’s the most important of the three wagons we have offered as much as you — supplying you with good enough room for teenagers, your junk and even yourself if you happen to really need to sleep within the trunk.
Since I’m so darling, I discovered the proper E63S AMG Wagon for you. It is a 2014 model being listed on the market by a non-public seller on AutoTrader, and it boasts just 63,000 miles on the clock and an accident-free history. It is also finished off in a relatively understated dark blue exterior with a classic black interior. The one catch is that it’s listed at $5,000 your budget. Here’s the thing, though. You have worked hard, Shon. You need to treat yourself. Hell, perhaps this guy will even cut you a deal. Tell ’em Andy sent you.
Expert 2: Collin Woodard – Ride in a little bit red wagon
Well, Shon, you said you wanted unique, so I attempted to seek out a Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo or perhaps a Taycan Cross Turismo for you, but because it seems, those owners don’t appear to have much interest in selling those for lower than $40,000. It is a bummer, but what are you able to do? Search for something else, I suppose.
The excellent news is, I used to be in a position to find a good substitute that might not be quite as unique but should still fit each your requirements and your budget. Sure, it’s only a BMW 330i, but it is a 330i xDrive Sports Wagon in Melbourne Red Metallic, so I do not get the sensation you will run into too a lot of those on the climbing gym. Plus, it only has 22,407 miles on the odometer, and with a price of $33,971, it’s best to have loads of money leftover for a brand new set of tires.It might not be quite as quick as you were hoping for, but with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, it ought to be close. And because it’s turbocharged, it’ll be quicker than more powerful, naturally aspirated cars at that altitude. Oh, and I checked to ensure it not less than has heated front seats. I get the sensation you will appreciate those when the weather gets colder. Plus, while it might not be as reliable as a Lexus, I bet it’ll be an entire lot more reliable than a used Jaguar.
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