Hi, About a year and a half ago, I replaced my 1998 Infiniti I-30t (Touring) sedan with a 2007 Honda Accord EX-L. It is not registered as an -L, but has all the features except the 5 speed automatic transmission. The accord is just not as much fun as the Infinity was to drive. It does not have the road feel, or feel as secure in the turns, although Yokohama tires have helped a lot. It also seems a lot bigger inside, almost too big, although the dimensions are very similar. My biggest gripe is that the trunk is so high, that backing up is only possible by using the side mirrors. Turning my head around won’t let me see the level drive behind me. Also, I have had a lot of Datsuns then Nissans over the years, and I did really enjoy my Ford Contour SE, so I am not locked into one brand,
So, I am looking to replace it with something from 2004-2008, and under 20K. Does anyone have any recommendations for a less plebeian car, but with a certain amount of reliability? A V4 would probably be ok, since I like my current 24mpg around town (mostly) mileage.
You could get an Infiniti G35 coupe with a manual transmission for under $20,000 - any year. Mileage is 17 city and 25 highway. A 2006/2007 Lexus IS 250 also meets your cost requirement. If you really want a 4-cyl, you should look at a 2008 or earlier Acura TSX. Mileage with a manual is 19/28. You will not find fun cars with 24 MPG in town unless they are very small. A Mazda3 would fit your mileage, cost, and fun interest, but you might not like the amenities. It seems like you like a bit of luxury too.
I’ll second the Mazda and Acura. But, you might want to try out all the available rwd cars like the BMW to see if it’s the better handling overall you want, or just a smaller, slightly more tighter car.
There are TL’s in that price range. Pre-07 you could get a manual transmission and upgraded brakes. 07-08 to get that stuff you had to get the Type-S, which adds to the cost. Try one.
That said, it’s not RWD. If you really want to replicate your I30-t, get another one. I’d say get a G35, but I doubt you could find a decent one in your price range yet. Doesn’t hurt to try, though. They’re very nice.
It’s very difficult to put “Honda” and “fun” into the same sentence without putting “is not” in between them. Reliable and fun means 1 thing, Mazda. Brand new, a 3 can be had for under 20k, if you don’t go hog wild with the options. Though, if you could come up to $25k, you could get the grand daddy of the 3, the Speed 3; 263hp turbo 4cyl. and a good deal of aftermarket items available for even more
Thank you all, I will check the Maxima. I know that the I-30 was a maxima with a few body mods and more soundproofing. I have also started sniffing around a Mazda 3 Grand Touring, so we seem to be in synch there. I am going to follow through on the other ideas as well. thank you all!