Date: Thu, 17 May 2007 23:21:15 -0400 From: "Willy" <willyknospamigy.net> Subject: Re: GM's excess baggage - Buick, Pontiac, Saab, Hummer
"Edwin Pawlowski" <espnospam.net> wrote in message news:m8Q2i.6547$H_.3400nospamsvr21.news.prodigy.net... > > "Willy" <willyknospamigy.net> wrote in message >> It's nice that you're happy with your Sonata, but comparing it to a >> Lucerne is like apples and oranges. The two vehicles are clearly in a >> different class. If you've never compared a built in nav system to a >> portable such as a Garmin (I've used both, and also have a gps phone)... >> there's no comparison in convenience, visuals, not to mention that it >> mutes the stereo when it's about to speak directions, and has wonderful >> visuals. And I believe On Star is a serious consideration when >> purchasing a car. I've used it, I have it on both vehicles, and to me >> (driving over 50K a year personally, and around 75K a year between the >> two cars) it's a valuable service. >> >> While you'd spend 11,600 more to get the same features, you'd also get a >> luxury car as compared to a nicely appointed econocar. >> >> Willy > > I see you haven't driven a Sonata lately. It is out of the econocar > class. No, not luxury, but far from the crap boxes of years ago. > > What exactly do I get for the additional $11,600? Yes, there are some > differences in trim. The dash covering of the Lucerne is a bit nicer. > The climate control on the Sonata works better. The Sonata only has one > temperature on the heated seats as opposed to two. The Sonata has a > better gas gauge, both have the same brand of electrochromatic mirror. > The Lucerne has rain sensing wipers and turns the headlights on when you > turn the wipers on. The floor mats on the Sonata lock in place too, not > slide like my Buick. > > The Sonata has stability control across the model line as opposed to the > Lucerne that only has it on the most expensive model. Given the true cost > of the equipment, it is not fathomable that it would not be offered on an > upscale car today. > > The Sonata will out accelerate, out corner, out stop, out handle the > Lucerne in any test you can devise. It is rock solid at speeds in excess > of 100 mph (yes, I've tested that) And - - - - get this- - - -has more > shoulder room! > > As for OnStar, I've never been able to justify the high price. In the > year of free service, I used it twice. One time they gave me directions > that were helpful but not completely accurate, the other time they could > not help me at all. The new system for directions is probably better, > I'll concede, but not worth the money to me. If I was back in sales > driving to many different places every day, maybe. I don't have or need > a Garmin either so it is not a feature I care about. > > The Buick is not a bad car, but it certainly is not the value that I got > in my Sonata. I'd rather put the difference into taking a couple of nice > vacations. We like to take two or three a year. > > > Well Ed, I'm truly glad you're happy with the Sonata. It seems to me from the frequency I see them on the road these days that a lot of folks are happy with them, and I'm confident Honda is truly concerned over the recent success. To me comparing a Sonata to an Accord is a true apples to apples comparison. I suppose my only point, and I think you'll agree, that if one is seeking a plush riding Lexus quiet superbly comfortable car, the Lucerne is a great choice - one that I'll give serious consideration within a few months. On the other hand, if one is seeking an outstanding daily driver that offers a degree of sportiness, solid tight handling, lots of features at a great price (and warranty)... then the Sonata is an outstanding choice. (as would be the Accord, Mazda, Altima, Camry). Have a great day. Willy
