...and now I think I'm convinced I don't want a G.

I love the exterior looks and how it drives. I have not experienced any of the transmission issues that others talk about on either drive.

However, most of the interior of this car does not justify a $40k+ price tag. It's here where the Nissan underpinnings show through. I especially find the heated seats and side mirror adjustment ***** to be chintzy.

There also seem to be two really hard bars in the seats that press up into my hamstrings. I'm imagining them being uncomfortable on long drives.

Do these issues bother any of you, or did you just want a "bargain 3 series" and were willing to put up with this stuff?

 

I agree the interior material is a bit cheap for an entry level luxury sports sedan.

It didn't bother me that much when I had the test drive but the longer I own it the more it annoys me especially with the rattling now.

 

I think making a decision on a "chintzy" mirror and heated seat **** is a bit minuscule. I think both are fine. I couldn't imagine these things overpowering your like of the drive and exterior looks. The seat is understandable if it is uncomfortable for you, but I'd imagine you drove a sport package. The sport seats are either loved or hated for your exact reason. Try test driving a non sport and see how that feels.

 

If the G were a bargain compared to other Japanese cars in the segment, then I could live with the stuff they skimped on. However, it's one of the most expensive.

 

I feel that the price you pay for the G is under the hood, not inside the cabin.

It drives great. Sports first, luxury second. Opposite of Lexus. (Wish it had more low end torque.)
I chose the G for it's value compared to other brands.
It's still best bang for the buck out there.

 

Yeah. I guess I am looking for all the following, especially leaving Bimmer:

1. Upscale interior including a very good/great stereo.
2. Something less grandpa than the Lexus experience, but not boy racer, either.
3. A deal that makes sense financially.

Not sure I would ever be happy sitting in a quasi-lame plastic interior while making a less-than-small car payment every month.

 

I suggest you try the Audi

 

Oops. Should have added, "no more German un-reliability."

 

The only interior issues I've had is with the chrome lining on the armrest console...

Other than that, I appreciate the interior far more than many of the other cars I've test driven.

 

For Japanese made, there is TL though I still can't accept the exterior.
Interior wise it's a step up from Infiniti and the SH-AWD handles great.
Not as grandpa as Lexus.

 

That's where I am likely headed. Though as much as I like it, I probably won't spring for the SH-AWD. Fun or not, it's just a waste of money and gas in Florida.

 

I second that, test drive the TL.

 

+1 for calling it a Bimmer and not BEEMer like most noobs.

 

+1 they all have quali-platic interiors that are lame in this segment.

 

Just know that the TL is front wheel drive...

You stated yourself that the bmw was less than reliable, I'd think you'd take to the G, since it is very reliable, and deal with its very minor quirks.