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Luxury on a Budget: Buying a Used BMW

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Regarding luxury cars, BMW is a brand that often comes to mind. BMWs are the epitome of automotive excellence, known for their high-performance engines, sleek designs, and advanced technology. However, the price tag of a new BMW can be prohibitive for many. Fortunately, buying a used BMW can be an excellent way to enjoy the luxury and performance of this prestigious brand without breaking the bank. This article will explore the benefits, considerations, and tips for buying a used BMW.

2024 BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition

The Appeal of BMW

BMW has established itself as one of the leading luxury automobile manufacturers globally. The brand is synonymous with performance, innovation, and sophisticated design, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts and those seeking an elevated driving experience.

Driving Dynamics and Performance

BMWs are engineered with a focus on driving pleasure, often encapsulated in the brand’s slogan, “The Ultimate Driving Machine”. BMW offers a range of engines, from the efficient and smooth inline-four to the powerful and throaty V8 and V12 options. The brand is also a pioneer in turbocharging technology, ensuring robust performance across its lineup.

BMWs are also known for their exceptional handling, thanks to features like rear-wheel drive, balanced weight distribution, and advanced suspension systems. These elements provide a responsive and engaging driving experience, whether navigating city streets or taking on winding country roads.

Luxurious Interiors

BMW’s interiors are designed to be both luxurious and functional, providing a comfortable and technologically advanced environment. Using premium materials, such as fine leather, polished wood, and brushed aluminum, ensures a sophisticated and comfortable cabin experience. Attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the stitching on the seats to the finish of the dashboard.

The interiors are meticulously designed with the driver in mind. Controls are intuitively placed, seats are supportive, and the driving position is optimized for comfort and visibility. BMW incorporates the latest technology into its vehicles, including advanced infotainment systems, digital displays, and driver assistance features. The iDrive system, for example, is a hallmark of BMW’s technological innovation, offering intuitive control over navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings.

Iconic Styling

BMW vehicles feature a sleek, aerodynamic design characterized by the iconic kidney grille, aggressive front fascia, and flowing lines. Each model is crafted to not only look good but also to enhance performance and efficiency. From the compact and agile 3 Series to the luxurious and spacious 7 Series, BMW offers many models to suit different preferences and needs. Their SUVs, such as the X Series, combine rugged capability with refined style.

Innovation and Sustainability

BMW is at the forefront of automotive innovation, continuously pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With the introduction of the BMW i Series, the brand has made significant strides in electric and hybrid technology. Models like the i3 and i8 showcase BMW’s commitment to sustainability without compromising performance.

BMW is heavily invested in the development of autonomous driving technology. Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated parking systems are already available in many models, paving the way for a future with fully autonomous vehicles. BMW is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact through sustainable manufacturing practices, using recyclable materials, and initiatives to lower emissions across its vehicle lineup.

Benefits of Buying a Used BMW

Used BMW for sale in Philadelphia offers many advantages, from significant cost savings to access to high-end features that might be out of reach with a new car. Here, we’ll delve deeper into the key benefits of purchasing a pre-owned BMW.

  • Cost Savings: One of the most significant advantages of buying a used BMW is the lower purchase price. Luxury cars depreciate quickly, which means you can often find a well-maintained, relatively new BMW for a fraction of the cost of a new one.
  • Luxury and Performance: Even older BMW models have high-end features and powerful engines. Buying used allows you to enjoy the same level of luxury and performance that you would in a new model.
  • Depreciation: New cars lose a significant portion of their value in the first few years. Purchasing a used BMW avoids the steepest part of the depreciation curve, making it a smarter financial choice.
  • Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Programs: Many BMW dealerships offer Certified Pre-Owned programs. CPO vehicles have been thoroughly inspected and come with extended warranties, providing peace of mind similar to buying new.

Considerations When Buying a Used BMW

Buying a used BMW can be an excellent decision, offering luxury and performance at a reduced cost. However, carefully considering the purchase is important to avoid potential pitfalls. Here are some key factors to remember when buying a used BMW.

  • Maintenance and Repairs: While BMWs are known for their quality, they can be expensive to maintain and repair. Ensure you have a trusted mechanic specializing in European cars, and consider purchasing an extended warranty for added protection.
  • Vehicle History: Always check the vehicle history report to ensure the car has not been in any major accidents and has been well-maintained. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can provide this information.
  • Model and Year: Research different BMW models and years to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Some models may have better reliability ratings or lower maintenance costs than others.
  • Inspection: Have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. This can uncover hidden issues that may not be apparent during a test drive.

The Bottom Line

Buying a used BMW can be a smart way to experience the luxury and performance of this iconic brand without the hefty price tag. You can find a high-quality used BMW that will provide years of driving pleasure by researching, setting a budget, and carefully inspecting potential purchases. With the right approach, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: luxury and affordability.

The 2025 Range Rover Sport SV Is Back With New ‘Edition Two’ Special Edition

If you want a Ranger Rover Sport SV Edition Two, you’ll need a hefty chunk of cash.

After Land Rover launched the Edition One version of the new Range Rover Sport, it’s back with another special model, imaginatively called the Edition Two. It’s still a 626-horsepower beast chucking out 553 lb-ft of torque from a BMW-sourced 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, so there’s nothing to worry about on the power front. This time around, though, it gets some performance upgrades as well as four new colors added to the palette, including the exclusive ‘Blue Nebula’ hue.

Other new color options include Ligurian Black Gloss, Marl Grey Gloss and Sunrise Cooper Satin. Land Rover curated four different exterior and interior color combinations, though customers can opt for some alternative options, particularly with the wheels. Of course, you’d expect as much when you learn how much the Edition Two costs (more on that below).

Getting to the performance bits first: The 2025 Range Rover Sport SV Edition Two brings the company’s “6D Dynamics” hydraulic-interlinked suspension, like we saw with the new Defender Octa. It also gets larger and more powerful Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes with eight-piston calipers, as well as lighter weight 23-inch carbon fiber wheels. Typically, carbon fiber wheels don’t really contribute that much in terms of weight savings, but here the option shaves off nearly 168 pounds from the overall mass.

With standard-fit Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires, Land Rover promises this special Range Rover Sport SV can spring from 0-60 in around 3.6 seconds. Top speed caps out at 180 mph.

If you want to roll around in one of the baddest Range Rover Sports in town, you’ll have to bring $182,325 to your local dealer for the privilege. Naturally, options will raise that price even further, but if you’re shopping at this end of the market…well, value isn’t really the top consideration, is it?

*Official* 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Pricing Revealed, Starting at Just Over $61K

(Images: Stellantis | Dodge)

A day after pricing information leaked, Dodge published official MSRP numbers.

After closing the chapter on its V8-powered Challenger and Charger muscle cars, Dodge is gearing up for the all-electric Charger Daytona to launch further this summer as a two-door coupe. Pricing leaked yesterday on how much these first models will cost, and now Stellantis released a statement to set the record straight on exactly what we can expect with the Charger Daytona R/T and Scat Pack.

Good news if you found the leaked pricing a bit hard to stomach: At the base end, at least, you can technically get each model for a bit less catch. In fact, including Dodge’s $1,995 destination fee, the 2024 Charger Daytona R/T kicks things off at $61,590.

On the pricing front, the new electric Charger models do not qualify for the $7,500 tax credit unless you lease it. If you finance or purchase the car outright, it will be exempt from the tax credit due to the $55,000 MSRP cap for passenger cars.

That figure includes the “Direct Connection Stage 1 Upgrade” as standard equipment, meaning you get 496 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque right out the gate. Dodge quotes the Charger Daytona R/T’s 0-60 time at 4.7 seconds, and its quarter-mile time at 13.1 seconds. With a 100.5-kWh battery on board, the automaker quotes a driving range of up to 317 miles.

All Charger Daytona models also include the brand’s “PowerShot” feature, a temporary overboost facility that increases output by 40 horsepower for 15 seconds, either by pushing a button or mashing the throttle. A 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa capability comes standard, while you also get Dodge’s Performance Pages and model-specific EV Pages. Heated and power-adjustable front seats, the “pistol grip” shifter, a 9-speaker Alpine audio system and dual-zone climate control come as part of the base package, while Chargers get a host of driver assistance tech like active lane management, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high-beams and rain-sensing wipers.

The Charger Daytona Scat Pack promises serious performance and more standard features

The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack is the powerhouse of the two models launching this summer. Instead of 496 horsepower, you get 670 hp, for a higher $75,185 price tag (again including $1,995 destination). That includes Direct Connection’s “Stage 2” EV upgrade, while launch year models get the Track Pack included as part of the base car. The Track Pack includes Brembo six-piston front brakes and four-piston rear brakes, 20-by-11-inch wheels, wider tires (305s at the front and 325s at the rear), a gloss-black spoiler and dual-valve adaptive suspension.

With the extra grunt, the new Scat Pack promises a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds, as well as an estimated 11.5-second quarter-mile time.

Inside, you get leather and suede seats as well as the “Drive eXperience Recorder”, which allows audio, video and vehicle data capture through the car’s onboard systems. Other standard features in the Scat Pack include several SRT-focused drive modes like Donut Mode and Drift Mode. You also get favorites like Line Lock, Launch Control and “Race Prep”, which preconditions the battery for the best possible performance. Unlike the R/T models, Scat Packs also get a 16-inch head-up display with variable information depending on which drive mode you choose. The higher-performance model gets Track, Drag and Custom drive modes, in addition to the everyday drive modes you get in the base R/T (which has Sport as its most performance-focused drive mode).

2024 Dodge Charger Daytona package options

Several packages are available for the electric Charger — and this is how you can get closer to the $70-80K price tag (or higher) leaked yesterday.

The $4,995 Plus Group is available on both trims, but the features it adds to the table depends on the model, since the Scat Pack already comes with some of the package’s features as standard kit. Ventilated seats, “premium” IP and door trim panels, the 16-inch color head-up display, a “deluxe security alarm”, a power rear hatch, a 360-degree camera, wireless smartphone charging, upgraded LED headlights, puddle lamps and “much more additional content (Dodge’s words)” come as part of the upgrade. Most notably, you also get a frunk as part of this package, so that doesn’t come as standard equipment.

For $2,495, the Sun & Sound Package adds in a full-length glass roof and an 18-speaker Alpine Pro audio system with a beefier subwoofer on either the R/T or Scat Pack.

The Blacktop Package is specific to the R/T, and adds in blacked-out badging and larger 20-inch wheels with 255/45-R20XL Nexen tires, or 275/40-ZR20XL Goodyear Eagle Sport all-seasons if you get the Plus Group, for an additional $1,095.

As for the Scat Pack, you get two trim-specific packages. The first is the $2,995 Carbon & Suede Package, which adds in a range of carbon fiber inserts on the door panel, IP and mirrors, as well as leather and suede high-back performance seats, suede headliner and A-pillars, darker exterior badging and 20-by-11-inch dark-finish aluminum wheels. The $695 3-Season Tires package, for its part, puts the Charger Daytona Scat Pack on Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3 tires (305/35-ZR20XL in the front, and 325/35-ZR20s in the rear).

All 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona buyers get a choice of charging solutions with their purchase. You can either get an at-home level 2 charging station included with the car, or $600 of charging credit through Free2move Charge.

Two-door Charger Daytona EVs will kick off production later this summer, arriving in dealerships by the fourth quarter (dealer allocations will be viewable through DodgeGarage.com in Q3 2024). Four-door Daytona R/T and Scat Pack models will go into production in the first half of 2025, while gas-powered “Sixpack” models will begin production in the second half of 2025. All new Dodge Charger models will be built at the automaker’s Windsor, Ontario assembly plant.

Refreshed 2025 Acura RDX Boasts Stying and Tech Tweaks, But Misses One Noteworthy Overhaul

Acura’s strong-selling RDX isn’t straying far from the formula for 2025.

It’s been around since 2019, but I’ll still argue that the Acura RDX is one of the sharpest looking compact crossovers on the market. Because it’s getting a little long in the tooth, though, the automaker saw fit to treat the model to at least a light refresh, if not a complete overhaul, changing up some of the styling and tech features in the process.

Like the larger MDX crossover and the 2025 TLX sedan, Acura tweaked the RDX’s front-end design with a new “frameless” grille. It also gets new wheel options ranging between 19 and 20 inches, depending on the trim, with the Berlina Black wheels being the default option. Three new colors join the palette, including Acura’s latest Urban Gray Pearl that we’ve seen on both its recently updated stablemates, as well as Carbon River Blue and Solar Silver Metallic.

Under the hood, the 2025 Acura RDX carries on with the same K20C4 2.0-liter turbocharged powertrain it had before. That’s no major loss, considering you do get 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque as well as a 10-speed automatic transmission. Nevertheless, it’s not any different than we’ve had for the past six years, so expect similar performance (and, perhaps more importantly, fuel economy) this time around.

In light of Acura’s recent performance kick, we were at least holding out a little bit of hope for a Type S variant, perhaps powered by the more potent, 320-horsepower K20C1 engine that’s in the Integra Type S (and the Honda Civic Type R). Sadly, the company made no mention of such a model in the pipeline.

Inside, the noteworthy tweaks boil down to ergonomics, namely with larger cupholders and better access to the wireless smartphone charger. You still get a 10.2-inch infotainment display, which Acura says supports a widescreen mode for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rather than leaving a second “card” on the right side for the built-in system when you’re using phone projection. Advance Package models get backlit door speakers for the ELS Studio 3D audio system, as well as ambient lighting for the center console and full-leather upholstery.

One thing the 2025 Acura RDX keeps, unlike its siblings, is the “True Touchpad Interface”. Luxury automakers including Acura have largely been pivoting away from trackpads toward just offering touchscreens, but if you were hoping for that here, prepare to be disappointed.

Pricing for the updated Acura RDX should be available shortly, as it’s set to go on sale later this month. Since we’re talking about a remarkably light refresh, I wouldn’t expect MSRPs to move much beyond the typical higher destination fees and modest trim increases (maybe a few hundred dollars).

2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Pricing Leaked: Are You Sitting Down? (UPDATE)

Update 8/7/2024: Dodge published official pricing after this leak made the rounds yesterday, so actual numbers are available in this updated post!

The first all-electric Dodge Charger brings a ton of power…for a price.

Ever since the Hemi V8-powered Chargers and Challengers bowed out with the 2023 model year, folks have been grappling with the new reality — An electric Charger is on the way. We learned much more about what to expect with the electrified Daytona models (both the two-door and four-door) back in March. One question went conspicuously unanswered, as is often the case with big reveals, and that is how much it will cost. Well now, thanks to a Mopar Insiders report citing YouTuber Butter da Insider, we have our best look yet into how much you can expect to buy for the First Edition launch models.

TL; DR version: It ain’t cheap.

However, there are a couple caveats to mention as well. These numbers supposedly come from screenshots of a Stellantis internal site, and first-hand references appear to have already come down. That leaves MI as the closest point to the source (they do include the screenshot). This information could also change, either instigated by ongoing discussions within Stellantis or by this news getting out, so take these numbers with a grain of salt.

We expected the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona to pack a higher price tag than its gas-powered forebears, but certain configurations of the entry-level R/T will reportedly command a suggested price of $68,570. This configuration seems to include some potential upgrades, including the “Direct Connection eStage 1 Upgrade”, boosting the output to 496 horsepower. Other additions include the Plus Group adding in creature comforts and the 16-inch digital gauge cluster; the Sun & Sound Group adding a full-length fixed glass roof and an 18-speaker Alpine stereo system; and the Blacktop Appearance Package with 20-inch aluminum wheels, 255/45-R20 all-season tires and darkened badges. So, actual base pricing could wind up a few thousand dollars lower than that $68,570 figure, but it will still start at least $17,000 or so higher than the old Charger R/T with its Hemi V8 engine.

Higher up the range, there’s the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack. With the Direct Connection eStage 2 Upgrade boosting it up by 80 horsepower, the output here rises to a healthy 670 horsepower. The price tag also rises substantially against the R/T, to $82,170. This configuration again seems to include extra goodies, though, like the Track Pack (Brembo 6-piston brakes, wider 305-section tires in the front and 325-section tires in the back, on 20-inch wheels); the Plus Group; the Sun & Sound Group and the Carbon & Suede Package.

At any rate, even with possible adjustments, Charger Daytona pricing is on another level from the old-school V8 machines. Now, there is another internal combustion version coming, called the Sixpack. Odds are that version, packing a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, will be more approachable compared to the EVs. Even the electric versions are launch models, so more affordable trims may soon be available if you’re gunning for the Daytona.

Video: The 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe Is Absolutely NOT What You’re Expecting

The new 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe brings a spicier powertrain to the table.

From a glitzy California debut to this week’s media drive, the guys in the TFL office the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe was one of the best-looking examples of these sloped-roof SUVs. But against the European competition this model aims to conquest, looks alone aren’t enough, and that’s where today’s review comes in. After getting some wheel time in the new coupe-fied GV80, Tommy checks out how this car feels and performs to see if it can indeed woo people away from the likes of Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, among other players in the luxury game.

Genesis has certainly felt like the luxury automaker with the most to prove over the past decade or so. Right out the gate, it made strong impressions with the likes of the G90 sedan, and has since expanded its range to include three sedans as well as a trio of SUVs, including the flagship GV80. This coupe model plays more to where the bulk of the market’s currently at — a more aggressive take on an already solidly good SUV. Sure, it degrades practicality, but just judging from the anecdotal evidence of all the X4s, X6s, GLE and Cayenne Coupes I see running around the higher-end neighborhoods…most people are willing to make that sacrifice.

In all, the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe still occupies about the same amount of space as the SUV. It’s an inch longer at 195.5 inches, but the 116.3-inch wheelbase is exactly the same. The Coupe is 0.2 inches shorter overall at 67.3 inches, though second-row headroom isn’t as bad as you might expect. This model does, however, drop the third row (because why bother?), but the real ace up this GV80’s sleeve is under the hood.

Unlike the standard SUV, the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe is all-V6, all the time. The 375-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter mill that’s the optional powertrain in the GV80 SUV comes standard here, and there’s another top-end engine above that. If you look around Genesis’ lineup and deduce this powertrain as the 409-horsepower unit that’s the heart of the G90 sedan, you’re absolutely correct. The more potent 3.5-liter option only comes on the GV80 Coupe, and puts out 405 lb-ft of torque thanks to an electric supercharger backing up the two turbos. Surprisingly, and unlike most step-up engine options, the super-turbo actually returns slightly better fuel economy (18 City / 22 Highway / 20 Combined mpg) than the base V6.

Even with the extra power, though, how does the rest of the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe impress? Tommy covers the full review in the video below, and we’ll have even more on this model soon:

As SUVs Reign Supreme, The Mitsubishi Mirage Is Officially Dead After This Year

If you’re shopping for a new car right now, just one option under $20,000 remains.

The list of small, affordable cars in the U.S. has dramatically shrunk over the past several years, with well-known names bowing out due to flagging sales and razor-thin profit margins. Now, we add another to that pile with the Mitubishi Mirage. Both the hatchback and the Mirage G4 sedan have been around for more than a decade in their current form, but after rumors swirled of its inevitable demise last year, a company spokesperson outright confirmed to Car and Driver this week that the Japanese automaker’s tiny and cheap runabout is officially dead for 2025.

“Production will cease later this year,” said Mitsubishi’s North American communications senior director Jeremy Barnes, “and we expect to have sufficient dealer stock to last into the summer of 2025.”

So, that’s it then. Like I said almost exactly a year ago, we know the Mitsubishi Mirage isn’t the sort of car that people are itching to run out and buy. Nevertheless, some folks just want or need a small car with good fuel economy and a warranty, and that’s what the Mitsubishi Mirage provides. Not only does its 78-horsepower engine manage up to 43 mpg on the highway, but 2024 models start at $18,015 for the hatchback and $19,115 for the four-door sedan, including destination. Each Mirage also comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty as well as five years of roadside assistance coverage and a 2-year/30,000-mile maintenance plan.

For the time being, though, the 2024/2025 Mitsubishi Mirage isn’t the only affordable small car left in the game. The Nissan Versa is still an option (and a less expensive one, at that), though it’s also supposedly getting the ax next year.

Earlier this year, Mitsubishi signed a memorandum of understanding with Nissan and Honda to explore a strategic partnership, which may lead to new models across all three automakers’ lineups. To clear the way, though, the Mirage obviously has to go, but with it goes the brand’s stake as one of the most affordable entry points into the new car market.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Teased, European Reveal Coming October 1

(Images: Mitsubishi Motors)

Mitsubishi is continuing its “product offensive” with a new Outlander PHEV this fall.

While some automakers’ sales floundered in the first six months of 2024, one automaker that’s actually been picking up steam is Mitsubishi. Whatever you think of its decision to pivot toward SUVs, its latest models have proven notably popular, and that’s especially true with the Outlander and its plug-in hybrid variant. Even though we’re just a couple years into a new generation, there’s already a new Outlander PHEV on the way, as the company’s European news site announced Monday.

Mitsubishi mainly took the opportunity today to announce the model’s debut in Madrid on October 1, but did not get into much technical detail. From what little we can see, it appears the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV will evolve the current design, though the company’s statement promises “new levels of quality” for the European market.

Other fine details the teaser photos reveal is a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen, rather than the 9-inch display we get at the top end right now, as well as a Yamaha audio system, rather than a Bose system. Another small detail shot shows off diamond quilted semi-aniline leather seats with black stitching, but that’s about all we can see for the moment. Given the technological upgrades on hand, word has it the Outlander PHEV will also get ventilated seats, as well as the heated seats and steering wheel higher end models currently have.

Under the hood, the 2025 Mitubishi Outlander PHEV should continue to use its 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder and two electric motors. Word has it a larger battery pack is on the way for this model, boosting its all-electric driving range past the 38 miles we currently see from the existing model, thanks to its 20-kWh battery pack. The current model also manages 248 horsepower combined from its powertrain, so an improvement in terms of power or range (or both) would be a welcome one.

Rumors abound for a high-performance, three-motor Ralliart Outlander PHEV with more than 300 horsepower, but nothing official has been announced on that yet. The 2024 Ralliart, for its part, is essentially an appearance package, so we’ll have to see if the more ambitious rumors come to fruition, be it for a European model or the inevitable updated Outlander PHEV for North America.

This is just the latest in a string of new product reveals. Mitsubishi also revealed the new ASX, which we know in the U.S. as the Outlander Sport, back in June.

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