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Post by clunes on Sept 7, 2023 16:21:18 GMT
This will be a brief intro but likely more to come but have had a quick test sit/drive of both of these (rather different!) options. 1. Kia Stinger GTSThe Kia garage west London were super easy to deal with - I walked in and after taking a copy of my licence I was handed the keys to a 72 plate - very orange - Kia Stinger GT. Fully loaded as that's the only option and it has more toys/FG than I could remember or care to write about but some of it was actually very impressive/intriguing - like the live blind spot camera in the dash when indicating, the intelligent adaptive cruise, auto-boot opening, very clear 360 screen etc (if very much 'ipad on the dash' in style). You couldn't really want for any toys whatsoever - whether that would be useful or not is debatable. The stereo also deserves a mention for being very decent. The drive was also interesting - the whole car had a very solid feel about it, the sound (or lack of), positive steering, good ride comfort (in comfort), supportive seats with decent (if not amazing) nappa leather etc. It really is a car with a split personality - very quiet, long legged feeling on the motorway - with that sense of easy power if needed (it's no question a rapid car) but then it can be a bit of a holligan in Sport with a less sympathetic right foot! Overall though - it was 'mature' rather than exciting (although I don't think a short test drive can really convey a cars true character). I liked it - quite a lot actually but on the downside I know that my partner would find the size intimidating (even with all the tech) and for the type of driving I do (short journeys, back roads, minor A-roads) it lacked a sense of fun/spark - again - that may be expecting too much on first acquaintance! 2. Mini Clubman JCWI started to think about these some time back but went off the idea before ever sitting in one for various reasons - one of the main ones being the reported harsh ride and assumptions about the space but I saw one with adaptive suspension and 18"s local to me so thought I'd pop over for a test sit/prod Clubman JCWProbably a very marmite car but I admit I found it very charming and better quality than I had expected from the pictures - it feels better than it looked in almost every way. The colour in the online pics also does no justice to what is actually a very deep metallic blue - a bit like Carbon Black but with more fleck . The rear seat space was also a big surprise - easily fitting me behind my driving position with lots of knee room and more under seat toe room than the Stinger (which was compromised in that regard). The particular car i looked at had the Sport leather/dynamica seats which are firm but not uncomfortable although the 'lounge' leather in a different showroom car felt lovely to the touch as well with some more give. So, I then got a short drive in the JCW and will be returning for another quick go tomorrow with my partner. Downsides: It's an accompanied drive - so I didn't feel 100% comfortable driving like an idiot to test the brakes/throttle response etc. That said, in sport mode the response and kick down were pretty good - better than the Stinger to memory and it doesn't lack for pace feeling pretty damn quick in all situations. The ride with the suspension in the softer mode was still firm but well controlled/damped(?) and not crashy or harsh (Sport suspension is best left for much smoother roads), the steering quick but accurate and the grip levels clearly way higher than I was prepared to explore - regardless of who was in the car! Plenty of toys (though not a patch on the Kia) but it didn't have the upgraded HK stereo (not a big priority for me personally) and I like that the interior doesnt take itself too seriously - it's characterful and fun - a feeling that pervades the car overall. It also had a split personality - easily settling quietly on the motorway but being far more nimble and terrier like on the smaller roads. So - 2 cars, likely built with very different targets, now at similar price points and somehow being cross shopped! I'm expecting a lack-lustre response from the other half tomorrow to the JCW but we shall see - no decisions at all but an intersting comparison none the less. Has anyone else here driven one of the newer Clubman JCW's? |
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db
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Post by db on Sept 7, 2023 17:04:33 GMT
I have spent some time in a Clubman JCW and it was a car I really wanted to like. As you say fun character combined with the sporty bits of the JCW with a serious powertrain.
Quality and interior were all good, and different in a good way.
However the drive experience I found to ultimately be disappointing. The engine and gearbox were a bit hyperactive even in normal mode. I think the issue is that the power band on this engine is not that wide, so when you ask for a little bit of something it drops two gears and chases the readline. Despite being all wheel drive it also had a tendency to torque steer when using the power. Ride firm but not unacceptable.
In a final bonding effort I did an early Sunday morning 50 mile A and B road blast to pick up an ebay purchase. Didn’t work. We are now separated…..
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Post by clunes on Sept 7, 2023 17:25:10 GMT
Thanks for the feedback & perspective. I only had a short 20min drive and not a great chance to explore all aspects but I didn’t notice it to be over eager in ‘Mid’ with the gearbox in normal auto setting so something I’ll keep an eye out for tomorrow morning when I revisit.
Out of interest - what did you move into after or had prior that gave you more of the feel you were after?
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db
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Post by db on Sept 7, 2023 17:41:24 GMT
It got swapped for a regular Cooper S manual.
They are great in general, just seemed to be more is less in this case.
But if you like the drive it’s a really great option.
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Post by Roadrunner on Sept 7, 2023 17:42:31 GMT
Our MINI is a normal Cooper Clubman, so can't comment on the performance, but can say that it is a surprisingly spacious and practical car to live with. The interior has style, but is an ergonomic disaster zone, so I would consider the HUD option to be essential.
The ride in ours is a little firmer than I would ideally like, but I am used to a wafty Airmatic E-Class, so maybe a bit spoilt in that department. It is a joy to drive and the BMW underpinnings certainly shine through.
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Post by Big Blue on Sept 8, 2023 9:25:29 GMT
Our Cooper is a normal 3 door one. Chuckability is it's watchword. We also have HUD and agree it's a bit of a must-have.
I'd driven the latest versions of various Minis (Clubman / 3 dr / Countryman) as rental and loan cars and can't fault them hence I bought W2.1 one.
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Post by clunes on Sept 8, 2023 11:33:42 GMT
Thanks for the responses so far.
So, a second test drive this morning with my partner who, to my slight surprise, thought it was a nice place to sit etc (although she preferred the 1-series and much preferred the X4 she sat in next door at the BMW showroom)
I didn't have any obvious issues with the car being too eager in normal traffic - though on one occasion it did drop a gear when entering a roundabout when I wasn't really needing it to. The trade off was pretty decent kick down and response when I did want/expect and performance is pretty strong. Had a chance to floor it from the lights (no doubt causing those behind me to think I was a prick - to be fair I would think the same in normal driving) and after a short delay (I wasn't holding on the brake) it accelerated eagerly - though the gears perhaps 'thumped' home a little too dramatically in sport/sport.
Roadholding is excellent - no shortage of grip (even on the run flats) and I wouldn't want to find the limits in the dry as it wouldn't end well. Steering in sport weights up - again, perhaps a little too much/artificially - not a huge amount of 'feel' but pretty quick and 'darty' through the bends.
It's certainly on the maybe list - and I'm honestly struggling to find much out there that appeals even if I push the budget a bit higher.
- I'm not particularly exited by any of the SUV options (would probably go FFRR if I did)
- Things like the 135i (my partner really liked sitting in the 128ti) and 235i don't really grab me. They definitely have a higher quality interior and the 235i is a bit left field I guess
- I've come to appreciate having a slightly smaller car and don't want to go back to a 6-series/8 series or even 5-series size but I do like/appreciate the quality in these options
- M340i Tourings are lovely but a good spec one is a lot more money and whilst affordable feels a bit OTT but lower engine options don't appeal so much
- S4/S5/C43 (in touring or 'hatch') are all nice places to sit and do miles but again don't have much 'want' factor
- I can't really go 2-seater sports car (e.g. F-Type V8) as I often have to ferry my 2 kids separate from my partner and juggling cars back and forth isn't ideal
- M3/M4/RS/Type R etc options are all fantastic I'm certain but too many owned and driven by numpties around me and a bit to 'in yer face'
Anyway, appreciate the comments/insights. Stuff to mull over
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Post by PetrolEd on Sept 8, 2023 11:58:11 GMT
If you were sat at the lights and a Stinger pulled up next to you, would you have regrets and vica versa? Your initial thoughts are rarely wrong and overthinking a purchase you always go with the compromise.
The stinger is a hell of a lot of car for the money - If its too big but you want old school is a Mustang an option?
As much as I like the Mini, I have driven a JCW Countryman, they're certainly quick, I think a more standard Hot hatch would be my preference like a Golf R, Megane RS, i30N etc.
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Post by Martin on Sept 8, 2023 12:58:21 GMT
I’ve been a big fan of the MINI for a long time and enjoyed every one I’ve driven, but I do think ‘less is more’ applies as the faster and more expensive you go the less sense they make and the competition at £30k+ is too strong imo. At £20k (or less, I paid half that for my sons Cooper), it’s a high quality item from the engineering to the interior. I agree with Ed. It sounds like a Stinger is what you really want, but if dropping down a size makes more sense then I’d be having a good look at a Golf R and i30N. They were the top 2 when I had a similar brief 5 years ago and they would still be today. Just promise us you won’t buy an X4….and I hope you had strong words with your partner!  |
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Post by clunes on Sept 8, 2023 13:07:06 GMT
If you were sat at the lights and a Stinger pulled up next to you, would you have regrets and vica versa? Your initial thoughts are rarely wrong and overthinking a purchase you always go with the compromise. The stinger is a hell of a lot of car for the money - If its too big but you want old school is a Mustang an option? As much as I like the Mini, I have driven a JCW Countryman, they're certainly quick, I think a more standard Hot hatch would be my preference like a Golf R, Megane RS, i30N etc. Good question - and i'm in danger of getting splinters as I'm not sure I can give a definitive answer!! What I do know is that the typcial 'hot hatch' like those you mention is not really on my radar. All amazingly capable cars but something about them - perhaps its the perceived image, perhaps the manner in which I think I see them driven around here (especially the Golf) - just doesn't make me want one (similar reasons as to why the M3/4 are not on my shortlist but an M340i Touring would be). I think that is why the M135i doesn't immediately appeal as much either - its essentially the same car as the JCW with much improved tech and a higher quality, less gimmicky interior etc but they feel a bit 'young lad' to me - I'm clearly just getting too old! Mustang is something I've looked at and big noisy V8 is fun for sure but I'd honestly choose the Kia over the Ford - it is, as you say, one hell of a lot of car. |
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Post by Martin on Sept 8, 2023 13:32:37 GMT
I think you’ve answered your own question! I don’t understand why someone would / wouldn’t choose a car based on how other people drive them, but we all suffer from varying degrees of irrational thoughts when choosing a car! You can spec a Golf R to be fairly discreet (ohhh, maybe in Atlantic Blue as a random example  ) then add DCC plus a couple of other niceties and it feels pretty grown up. The fact we still have ours after 5 years with replacement money sitting in the bank says a lot, I’m actually considering keeping it and adding another car to the garage, that’s how much Lindsay loves it. Although my thinking is she wouldn’t want to keep it forever after getting used to something new…but you never know. Sorry, back on topic…..what colour Stinger would you like?  |
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Post by Bob Sacamano v2.0 on Sept 8, 2023 14:28:39 GMT
I like the Stinger but I think I’d grow tired of forever explaining to people what it was.
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Post by clunes on Sept 8, 2023 14:43:44 GMT
Lol. Thanks all.
Genuinely I’m not heavily leaning one way or the other and am open to alternatives but I probably should revisit the Stinger again as a second drive in the mini was helpful.
The smaller size of the mini is appealing for my usage as well as hers as parking on my street is limited and 60cm difference is a lot! Also the tight back roads aren’t great around me but I coped with the 6GC so it’s not a major issue.
The 4 wheel drive is also a draw given it allows any weather performance etc.
Regards Kia - the rarity is a good thing for me - I don’t care about others having no clue - that’s a plus!
Re colours. The local Kia garage is expecting a white, blue and red one in to compliment the Orange they have. I’ve seen the grey (panthera) which is subtle and the ceramic grey (primer paint option) looks better than I’d expect
Any other options in the 30k mark welcomed. I can push the budget (but would rather spend less!) for the right car - price is not the limiting factor to a point but ‘value’ is appealing (ok - I’m tight!!)
Edit to add - if you think I would have any chance in stopping her buying what she wanted think again - the trade off is she would never stop me either - budget allowing which we set together)
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Post by johnc on Sept 8, 2023 15:30:44 GMT
What about a Mercedes A35 - a bit more subtle but still 300hp?
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Post by clunes on Sept 8, 2023 16:08:14 GMT
I have looked and whilst I prefer the subtle exterior (in comparison to the A45 models) I can’t gel with the modern Mercedes interiors at all nowadays.
I full realise I can be a contrary fu**** at times.
The last car I used to see that I both wanted and fitted my needs at the time (given I had the Disco 4 for dog etc duties) was the 6GC so I bought one. Since then I’ve had to prioritise all effort / money etc in divorce and house rebuilding and have either lost that deeper ‘love’ for cars or reset my thinking hence irrationally dismissing otherwise great cars!
Maybe I should give in and start a Stinger colour poll!
Hi-Chroma Red
Electric Blue
Pearl White
Ceramic Primer Grey
Panthera Grey
Something Black
Effing Orange
YELLOW
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Post by johnc on Sept 8, 2023 16:52:30 GMT
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Post by Martin on Sept 8, 2023 17:20:41 GMT
My order m…Blue, dark grey, red.
Definitely not primer or black. Just imho of course.
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Post by cbeaks1 on Sept 8, 2023 17:25:10 GMT
I drove a Stinger GTD when they came out. Expected it to be exciting and feel super quick but it wasn’t really either of those things. Nice all round car, but somehow not the Q car I thought it would be.
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Post by Martin on Sept 8, 2023 17:27:27 GMT
I drove a Stinger GTD when they came out. Expected it to be exciting and feel super quick but it wasn’t really either of those things. Nice all round car, but somehow not the Q car I thought it would be. Was it because you drove the very rare diesel? How about a late 440i GC? |
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Post by clunes on Sept 8, 2023 18:02:48 GMT
I drove a Stinger GTD when they came out. Expected it to be exciting and feel super quick but it wasn’t really either of those things. Nice all round car, but somehow not the Q car I thought it would be. I remember your comments from a few years ago. I think I know what you mean - it’s not ballistic as it carries a chunk of weight but I’d certainly put it in the ‘very rapid’ class especially in the mid range. Certainly felt more pokey than my old Jag SV8 (quoted at 420BHP) but it doesn’t shout about it which is perhaps part of the perception. I keep looking at 440i GC but nothing super tempting yet. Like others I’d want the fancy leather and toys to lift it. I’d prefer a hatch / touring over a saloon but an M*40i clearly has a stonking engine and is a solid all round proposition. |
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Post by Roadrunner on Sept 8, 2023 18:19:50 GMT
Is a Maserati Ghibli on the agenda?
Otherwise it would be a blue Stinger for me.
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Post by Andy C on Sept 8, 2023 18:47:15 GMT
I love the stinger , and would get one in red, blue or grey Colin had a red diesel as a hire car once and from the passenger seat it was very impressive The only other car I’d consider would be one of these www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202309051591606 |
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Post by clunes on Sept 8, 2023 21:06:48 GMT
I love the stinger , and would get one in red, blue or grey Colin had a red diesel as a hire car once and from the passenger seat it was very impressive The only other car I’d consider would be one of these www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202309051591606That dealer in Bristol constantly comes up with cars when I’m browsing - they seem to have a good selection of well kept vehicles at all times. If I was to go Alfa I’d go full fat QF and I can afford to do so but would rather set aside the additional for other things in the short term. The Veloce is a nice alternative to many options though. |
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Post by Andy C on Sept 8, 2023 22:08:06 GMT
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Post by johnc on Sept 10, 2023 14:43:41 GMT
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Post by clunes on Sept 10, 2023 17:02:58 GMT
The 70 plate approved used was in my autotrader garage already. Not a fan of the blue trim but the rest is nice.
I really like the Avus blue one. That certainly looks well specced (though it’s hard to decipher every pack / spec / option). I even like the leather although being a jeans wearer most of the time it may not stay looking white for long!!
I ruled out things like the C63 - mainly as I think it’s just a waste in my situation. I don’t use my car a huge amount (8-10k max) and most journeys are school runs and child taxi duties so having a lot of money tied up in a car outside doesn’t feel ‘right’ given I could probably double that money in a few years by paying into the pension or alternatively paying down the mortgage when my renewal comes up in a year.
The blue car at £25k makes more sense in that regard. Tempting - would be tempted with fitting an M Power kit.
What I should have done had the timing been different of course was just buy racings old one!!!!
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Post by Roadrunner on Sept 10, 2023 17:17:16 GMT
I have Porcelain leather in my Benz and keep a tub of Dr Leather wipes handy to remove evidence of jeans etc. I do like a light coloured interior.
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Post by johnc on Sept 11, 2023 8:05:48 GMT
My leather is smoked white and I use Dr leather wipes every 3 or 4 months and then use Dr Leather dye guard. 4 and a half years later the seats still look great
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Post by clunes on Sept 11, 2023 8:11:42 GMT
Thanks for the tips. I’ve always liked lighter interiors but admit I’ve steered away on occasion in the past. Good to know
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Post by johnc on Sept 11, 2023 9:36:15 GMT
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) then add DCC plus a couple of other niceties and it feels pretty grown up. The fact we still have ours after 5 years with replacement money sitting in the bank says a lot, I’m actually considering keeping it and adding another car to the garage, that’s how much Lindsay loves it. Although my thinking is she wouldn’t want to keep it forever after getting used to something new…but you never know. 
