Which New Car? VW, BMW or Other?

LVenusDeMilo on 25/05/2020 - 11:32

Long time lurker first time poster…

These kind of threads often seem to get a lot of attention so thought it's time to register an account and get some advice from Ozbargainers!

In the market to buy a new car and here are the background details:

  • Partner & I are in late 20's and live in a house we own.
  • Have always had the one car we shared as my work had been easily accessed via Public Transport and to save money.
  • Company is relocating office at the end of the year to spot closer to home however harder to reach via PT so driving will take 25 minutes where as PT will take over 45 and require train & tram (also receiving underground car spot in new office at no cost)
  • Have a approx. $30K in savings right now due to saving for international holiday at end of 2020 which obviously won't go ahead and much greater ability to save over last few months with limited spending opportunities.
  • no immediate need to purchase car ASAP, working from home right now till god knows when and exact office move date TBC just been told "end of 2020" also will be waiting to have enough saved to buy outright and not need to finance.

Anyway that should be enough background detail which people always seem to ask for later in comments, onto the car itself, features or details most important to me in order:

  • Curb appeal / general appearance: I'm self aware enough to know I'm someone who is swayed by brands and have a liking of more premium products. e.g. I own an iPhone, my vacuum is a Dyson, chose Miele kitchen appliances etc. Many Ozbargainers would argue that there are cheaper brands which do the same or better job than the listed products however I enjoy using all of them and haven't had to go in debt or sacrifice necessities in order to afford them.
  • Comfort inclusions: Leather seats, sun roof, good quality digital interface: in no way necessary in a car however the first 2 are just nice to haves which make me enjoy driving more. Have noticed a big difference in the ease of use in infotainment consoles between cars and having one that works well would again be a nice to have.
  • On going costs: cost of insurance, fuel consumption and servicing / repairs:
  • Performance: reality is I'll be driving this car in traffic to & from work 80% of the time, 10% of time to the shops and to run errands remaining 10% will be on longer drives on weekend day trips or local holidays. I have no delusions about being a race car driver nor do I plan to hoon around in it. However I've also driven my parent's Prius & various crappy loan cars to know that I enjoy driving some cars more than others. If money and practicality were no factors would I prefer to drive a ferrari over a camry sure, would I prefer a golf R over a baseline again yes. If the difference in enjoyment of driving the car is significant enough and the cost/practicality difference small enough I'd consider the better performance option.
  • Only requirement is that I can fit my golf clubs in it, preferably in boot but with back seats down will do.

I Have a budget of $40K in mind but will gladly spend less or be willing to go slightly above should reason arise. Based on that and all the detail listed above I've got 2 quite different cars in my consideration list:

Option 1: VW Golf, series 7.5 with R line & Sound & Vision package:

$40K new and in low-mid 30's for used one with low KM's
- I like the look of it
- Comes with 5 year warranty
- Convenience of smaller car however with ability to fit a lot into boot with backseats down.
- More reasonably priced to service & maintain for a Euro

Option 2: BMW 4 series 2014+ Model, <80,000 KM, uncertain on model 420i/428i/435i

Can find multiple listings on Carsales & Pickles which fit within the above details and below $40K
- Like the look of it more than Golf
- Few years down the road will still feel & look like a premium car compared to the Golf
- More enjoyable to drive.
- no warranty & will be pricier to maintain.

These 2 cars have also falled under consideration based on cars I've owned/own.

First car was a $3,00 Ford falcon I bought when I was 18. 2010 BMW 1 series was second car I bought once I began full time work, bought for $20K, loved it had no issues with it for a year and then was T boned at intersection and it written off. Bought a brand new VW polo with pay out for 23K as it was at the same time of buying our home so wanted to keep any potential unexpected spend down and get something new with warranty. 4 1/2 years later it's done 75K with no issues and very much enjoy driving it.

So kind strangers on the internet, what are your thoughts on the above. 2 quite different options, the VW being the more sensible, reliable option of the two. The BMW being the one which will bring me more joy driving & owning (excluding costs!)

Let me know your thoughts/impressions on the above or please suggest other options to consider and I'm clearly leaning towards what I know.

Final note, not interested in the OZB love child of a Kia Stinger!

Automotive

Comments

    • modsec802 on 26/05/2020 - 20:06
      -1

      Agree on R-line. But comfortline misses leather and sunroof both of which are awesome.

  • BartholemewH on 26/05/2020 - 10:18
    +1

    Skoda Superb Sportline 206 TSI AWD. Can be had very near new for 40k. Same driveline as Golf R but much roomier. I have Black with cream leather and overall been very happy with it.

    • VenusDeMilo on 26/05/2020 - 14:55

      Thanks for the suggestion!

      Skoda's carry a lot of similarities to VW being part of the VW group right?

      The interior looks near identical to the VW's but looks a fair bit cheaper than Arteons for a sedan model.

      Will definitely look into them a bit further :)

      • BartholemewH on 26/05/2020 - 17:17

        Yeah, they are VW group parts assembled in Czech Republic. Same engine, interior parts etc. I chose the Superb over the top of the range Passat 206 R-line (which also has the same driveline, as do a couple of Audis afaik).

        The only issue I have had is with chrome plating on the parking switch and drivers window switch, which were replaced outright under warranty with no issues. I can't comment if VW is similar in this regard. Mine is an early car as far as the model goes. Mechanically its been A1.

        It's more of a grand tourer than a sporting car, but tbh with the turbo AWD it hammers/handles for a daily, particularly on a winding mountain road in the rain.

        I have two car seats in the back of mine and the boot size on the Hatchback is tremendous. I was considering the wagon until I saw the Hatch was near the same size and looks better at the back imo.

        The 162 TSI is also available much cheaper again, but the interior is a bit cheaper and the FWD didn't feel planted like the AWD.

        • greencomet on 26/05/2020 - 19:17

          Although both brands do share quite a few parts not everything makes it's way to Skoda, you'll find Skoda's usually are a little behind in some aspects compared to their VW counterpart, the same way VW is behind compared to Audi.

          I was looking at both the Skoda Superb 206tsi and the Passat 206tsi R-Line wagons at the start of they year. The active info display in the Passat which came standard was far superior to the Skoda, which came standard with analogue dials or had an inferior active info display as an option. The headlights on the Superb were also HID compared to LED on the Passat. We ended up getting the Passat after driving both, they're both nice cars we just preferred the size of the Passat (it's a bit smaller) and found it rode just a little nicer, we also preferred the black headlining (subjective) and slightly better tech. They're both excellent options though that the OP should certainly check out, as BartholemewH mentioned they're both very quick sleepers and lovely practical touring cars.

          • [Deactivated] on 21/06/2020 - 23:50

            @greencomet: Best yet, tell people you are driving a debadged Porsche. ;)

  • onlyletters on 26/05/2020 - 11:04
    -1

    Save your money, just go for the base model golf.

  • Anonymous101 on 26/05/2020 - 11:24

    Why not consider the new BMW 3 series (starting from 2019). It has good review https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wy1lHtzz7ms You can check other reviewers too :)

    I can see lowest starting at around 52K. Yes, it's over budget but on plus side it will come with warranty.

    Here is quick carsales search result:

    https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/?q=(And.Service.Carsales..(C.Make.BMW..Model.3+Series.)_.Year.range(2019..).)&sort=%7ePrice

    • [Deactivated] on 26/05/2020 - 11:36

      How is spending $20k extra ever good advice?

      • Anonymous101 on 26/05/2020 - 12:22

        52-40 = 12.

        • [Deactivated] on 26/05/2020 - 12:47

          Oops I was reading the number for his savings. Still though.

  • Dack Smith on 26/05/2020 - 11:46
    -2

    Great Wall cars

    We are one with China and Corona 2019

    • greatlamp on 28/05/2020 - 08:47

      A Mitsubishi with better pricing

    • AirbusA389 on 28/05/2020 - 11:44

      i would imagine how an insurance claim would look like:

      Victim: "while i was making a right turn on green arrow, a Great Wall ignored the red lights and crashed into my car."

      insurer: claim rejected. Walls dont move. you must be drunk.

  • crentist on 26/05/2020 - 11:49
    +1

    I vote VW. Same Euro feel you expect in a higher brand, great to drive, and much cheaper.

    Used to have a regular Golf and loved it. Mum used to have a BMW 3 series and I rented a 5 series last year, was't impressed by either. Interiors were on par with the Golf, but the driving felt more disconnected or something. Couldn't really feel them in the same way.
    They may have been base models, but I drove a 10 year old Porsche for a few days and could immediately tell the engine and driving feel came from the same place as my regular VW.

    Maybe also look into Mercedes? I rented an old S class for a few days and didn't expect a massive, floaty sedan to be that fun and communicative to drive. The new A class is supposed to be amazing inside.

  • hdog on 26/05/2020 - 12:22

    Have you looked at Fiat 500x? I’ve had one for the past 3.5 years and it’s been great. Great value in terms of features, mine is the next up from base model and has leather seats, decent entertainment screen etc. It would be right in your price range brand new, and even better if you could get one a year or two old. Performance wise it’s super economical and zippy, I have an auto with paddle gears / sport mode if you want to drive it like a manual just without a clutch. It’s a small SUV size, kind of a small backseat but you can fit a ton of stuff in the car with the back seats down. It’s been a great all rounder for me, I do mostly city and highway kms.
    The do look a bit different and there aren’t many around, but if you don’t mind the look then I’d recommend as an option to investigate.
    They’re aren’t widely known. We only got onto it after hiring a car overseas and a Fiat 500x came out. We loved it driving through the alps in Switzerland so bought one a few months after getting home.

    • VenusDeMilo on 26/05/2020 - 14:58
      +1

      Hadn't heard of the model before, your write up sounded great and then I googled a picture. Ghee Whiz those headlights are something else.

      Can't say the look is up my alley unfortunately.

      • hdog on 26/05/2020 - 17:07
        +1

        Haha it’s not for everyone! Personally I love my little car, everything else I go for is so plain and boring so it’s a touch of personality in my life. Good luck with the search!

  • striker5950 on 26/05/2020 - 13:37
    +1

    none of the above, if you want luxury get a lexus
    is350
    gs350
    if you want 2 door look at the rc
    dont be a dummy and get a second hand german shitbox, i learned the hard way

    • [Deactivated] on 21/06/2020 - 23:51

      IS front seats are comfortable like couches.

  • netpenthe on 26/05/2020 - 13:53

    don't get the VW - VW screwed people over with the diesel emissions scheme (maybe BMW has done the same?), but look at the class action

  • caitsith01 on 26/05/2020 - 15:04
    +2

    Hey OP, I had exactly the same dilemma a while back, although I had sort of the reverse consideration to you in terms of 'curb appeal' and so on - I didn't want to look like a (profanity), but I did want a nice car. I was coming from a worked up Subaru Liberty spec B so performance was important to me.

    In the end I settled on a BMW 328i M Sport. A clean, low kms example of this would be within your budget and if you shop around you would be able to find one with fixed priced servicing (which mine had).

    So far I've had one minor mechanical thing (sticky door lock). Otherwise it's run beautifully. It looks great and actually drives very nicely (0-100 is claimed at under 6 seconds, which is pretty quick for a vanilla car at this price). Rear wheel drive is awesome, too (although I do miss the Subaru when it rains).

    Service costs are higher and run-flat tyres are awful and expensive (a set of good ones can be $2k). It needs premium fuel and is moderately fuel efficient, but nothing like a low powered VW would be. That's the price you pay for a euro luxury car, though. BMW are also kinda dicks about things like software updates for the car computer, satnav map updates and so on.

    I actually found the vibe of VWs to be off-putting. Maybe I'm just not a Golf person, but to me they are the car you buy because your accountant tells you they are the car to buy, not a car you would legitimately fall in love with based on looks or driving it. The really fast ones are nice but they all scream 'middle manager' to me, like the engine won't start unless it detects a Ralph Lauren Polo logo on your shirt.

    And then out of BMW and Mercedes (I looked at some of the entry/mid range Mercs) I personally think Mercedes is far more image-based and overpriced as a result.

    I would have bought another Subaru but someone in Japan put their 7 year old kid in charge of styling, so they are now nasty and plasticky IMHO. Also CVTs are not for me.

    • VenusDeMilo on 26/05/2020 - 16:50

      No I completely get it and share a similar feeling. Hence suggestions like an A45, Ford Focus ST are out of the question.

      The F30 328i's look really appealing to me. The interior looks near identical to the 4 series and the body still looks quite sleek without being too flashy.

      Think they'll be a real consideration if I want to save a few K as nearly all are listed below 40K.

      • caitsith01 on 26/05/2020 - 22:20

        I should add I got the wagon ('touring') which I think looks better than the sedan and has loads of boot space. Wasn't sure about the 4 cylinder but it sounds a tiny bit like a rally car when you put your foot down, not a 6/8 cylinder rumble but you can certainly tell it's churning out power. It lets you break traction in sport mode, too. I've heard.

      • greatlamp on 28/05/2020 - 08:49

        Drive both the 328i and 320d. You may prefer the diesel

  • [Deactivated] on 26/05/2020 - 18:14

    Tesla roadster, 1.6 to 60ks. $150.000, or normal Tesla 1.9 to 60k 90.000.

    European luxury tax or cheaper fees overall long run Tesla musk.

    If it's to expensive buy a Toyota starlet instead.

  • gram on 26/05/2020 - 21:46

    You can get a fully kitted out 3 second 7R for under 30. In hindsight maybe should've gone for that instead of my mk3 TT (20k cheaper) but it sure does look the part.

  • Tech and cars on 26/05/2020 - 23:25

    What about the new 1 series? I really like the new interiors and think they are fantastic value for money as they all come with the M sport package.

    https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/details/2019-bmw-1-series-1…

    $42k new driveaway. This one also has a sunroof.

    I usually wouldn't suggest this as it is FWD, but since you are considering a 110TSI Highline R Line - this is a direct competitor that is also quite nice.

    Usually BMW have corporate programs you can link up to, to get 5 years free servicing thrown in too.

    • VenusDeMilo on 27/05/2020 - 12:29

      Have just read/watched some reviews of the new 1 series and definitely looks quite nice. Can tell it's a newer build likely inline with what the series 8 Golf will be.

      If I could find one that's ex demo and mid 30's would be a serious contender.

      Thanks!

  • maybeamacy on 27/05/2020 - 00:16

    420i/428i - make sure it's a 2015+ build. The N20 chains found on those could be prone to stretching and wrecking your engine in earlier models - just google N20 timing chain issues. I think the engine used in the 430i is apparently heaps better though.

    435i would be the sweet spot with the N55 but again the engine used in the 440i is better again with upgraded components but either of these two options would be pretty good IMO!

    • striker5950 on 27/05/2020 - 01:12
      +1

      But then again an m4 is better, but than again m8 is not far.. than again might as well go all out and sell the house and get An aventador svj roadster (flashiest and fastest production car around the Nurburgring)

      • maybeamacy on 27/05/2020 - 01:21

        Yeah but we're speaking from a reliability perspective here as these are the replacements of the super-seeded engines that the OP is considering. Though the E90 V8 was pretty reliable from what I've gathered! Not sure how the turbo 6 on the M4 compares.

        • VenusDeMilo on 27/05/2020 - 13:36

          Might be a topic for a separate discussion altogether, but on the topic of reliability & warranty….

          I've noticed a few cars listed on Carsales, which are "Dealer Listed" however not a manufacturer dealers, offer Warranty periods of up to 3 years.
          e.g.: https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/details/2014-bmw-4-series-4… - offering "3 years Warranty".

          I called asking what's the difference between warranty they are offering and manufacture warranty? They said "essentially none" and that should anything go wrong the car can be repaired under said warranty at any mechanic including the manufacturer themselves.

          Obviously taking what the used car salesman is saying with a healthy dose of salt however am unable to find much information online about how such warranty offers work, where it's for Used car, provided by dealer and not just statutory warranty.

          • foolsgold on 27/05/2020 - 22:20

            @VenusDeMilo: BMW doesn't and hasn't made a reliable v8 for a long time. M3 V8, rod bearing failure.
            Your buying both cars right before theyre about to be replaced, wait for the Golf 8, and the new 4 series to be in the show rooms for the extra depreciation savings. Timing chain guides, oil consumption comments about the n20 engine I think are warranted I would avoid them. Your sort of too low in the price point to get low km, good unicorn example of a 435i. At 50k you can find a few under 5 years old, one owner, BMW serviced, pampered, <40,000km. Your getting the last of the N55 6 cylinder BMW engine, with the latest part revisions, so I would say it's more reliable. Seems that 435i owners haven't had the same Fuel Pump, Injector, Water Pump failures as the prev model had. The 440i is out of your price range, the B58 engine is a complete redesign, it's too early to tell if it's more reliable or not. At 40-50k your comparing out of warranty 5 years old BMW to near new/new GTI/R money with 5 year warranty. On paper you'd go Golf R everytime.

  • Kapinny on 27/05/2020 - 10:37
    +1

    Be fully sik brah and get a wrx / sti

    • [Deactivated] on 22/06/2020 - 00:03

      The brahs moved on. Bimmer merc audi and VW these days. Notably c63, m3, rs3 and Golf R.

  • dreamscene on 27/05/2020 - 10:41
    +1

    VW Golf 8 soon. Paying $40k for a model that is already a 7 year old design is stupid.

  • Marcsie on 27/05/2020 - 12:14

    Lexus

  • payless69 on 27/05/2020 - 13:03
    -2

    Drive a 20 year old backpacker Corolla till the model Y is available and then get a real car!

  • thriftysach on 27/05/2020 - 19:15
    +1

    Why don't you look into Audi cars. Pretty much more 'premium' VW cars.

    WOW! 30k for an international holiday for 2 people, do you guys travel first class and book your hotel rooms when arriving at the hotel?

    You can travel all continents including Antarctica for 30k and still have a lot leftover if you plan your trip accomodation and flights.

  • the4thzodiac on 27/05/2020 - 21:19

    Considering you can afford it, I'd suggest getting a new or near new/demo VW Golf.

    Your trim level and option packs make it a enjoyable driving experience, and the features, especially the safety pack and the virtual cock pit are matched to the best in the industry. Comes with five (or balance of) year warranty and they have the 2.99% offer too at the moment I believe. You can bundle in the service packs, if you are dealer oriented until warranty expires. Else skip that as independents would be cheaper.

    PS as mentioned by others, it does drive like a small Audi as many bits and bobs are shared.

  • BoxingDayCouchSlug on 28/05/2020 - 09:44

    As the current owner of a Golf 7 TDi Highline, I'm biased. Looks good in that trim, better than a decent drive (front-wheel drive notwithstanding) and runs on the smell of an oily rag (real life experience, not VW claims). However, I think diesels are going to get harder to offload in a few years time so I'd go petrol if I was buying now (in fact, did just that last year when replacing a T-boned SUV).

    However, I've also been a long time fan of BMWs and rear-wheel drive so it's a tricky one for me.

    Given what you describe as your priorities (and sportiness of the drive is not one), I'd go for the VW: newer, better ICE, better warranty, probably cheaper to insure and service. I don't know about the R-Line as I think the Highline might suit you better. In any case, make sure you get leather seats, I won't buy anything else - so mush harder wearing and easier to keep clean, especially in black. Look around for demo models, especially with the Golf 8 just around the corner, you could save yourself several $1,000s (I did, got mine for less than a Hyundai i30 about 4 years ago with an extra year's warranty).

    If it was me, I'd probably be on the look out for a nice Golf R with less than 10,000km on it.

  • punter1 on 28/05/2020 - 11:12

    Why not pay off the mortgage?

    • [Deactivated] on 21/06/2020 - 23:55

      OP said it is owned. Not sure if that means mortgaged.

      Reminds me of the good old WBC graduate.

  • the4thzodiac on 18/06/2020 - 16:59

    @venusdemilo hello, have you made any progress re: your vehicle choice?

  • Laziofogna on 18/06/2020 - 17:23
    +1

    If you have no issues in spending money on maintenance go for BMW. Great drive, great look.

  • [Deactivated] on 21/06/2020 - 23:54

    Curb appeal? VW? bimmer? Hm… what to say.

  • VenusDeMilo on 22/06/2020 - 17:04

    For all of you eagerly playing along at home…. I purchased a 2015 BMW 428i F36, 53,000KM for $33K.

    Have had it for a week and am extremely satisfied with the decision!

    Joy to drive, feels extremely lux and think it sparks a lot more joy than the VW or most other suggestions here would have.

    Now let's hope the next thread you see from me isn't along the lines of help, I've been quoted $12,000 to repair XYZ!

    Thanks again to everyone and their help!

    • zerog101 on 22/06/2020 - 17:06

      NICE! What state are you in, and was that dealer or private ?

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