Anyone made a switch over to a SUV from sportier cars?

[lux.sh]

I might pull the trigger on the new Range Rover Evoque coupe. I was recently decided on 2012 E550 Coupe for $65k. Then I realized I can get the Evoque for $55k fully loaded.

2012 Range Rover Evoque: 240hp turbo 4 cylinder, 3700 pds
-Equal amount of features: Auto parallel parking system, 2-way view touch screen, fixed panorama roof (the whole roof, but doesn't open)
-Superb Interior
-Compact, Coupe design. Sportier than other SUVs.
-Off-road, versatile, more room and more utility
-$10,000 cheaper
-Decent gas mileage for SUV

2012 Mercedes Benz E-Class Coupe: 414hp twin turbo V8, 3700 pds
-Equal amount of features: Ventilated seats, laser cruise control, panorama roof (half opens).
-Awesome power
-Conservative, quiet looks which I like
-Ok gas mileage, but I'll gladly trade that for 400+hp TT V8
-$10,000 more expensive
-Quite big, functional spacious setup
-MUCH more reliable than Range Rover.

I'm torn between the two. Totally different animals. For me, instead of viewing it as SUV vs Coupe, I view it more as sportier driving vs comfortable ride.

I have to admit I'm very much "scared" to make this switch over. Exciting driving experience is a HUGE part of my life. Especially after I got the BMW, it became a tool that brightens my life, helps me release stress, and just makes my life better.

I'm afraid I won't be able to do this with the SUV. While it might be more comfortable and more useful in terms of utility, I don't know if losing the adrenaline rush before an apex up front during the weekends is worth it.

Anyone did this? Any regrets? Stories?




vs

[XMetal]

If you don't need the utility or the AWD capability, then I would NOT go with the SUV. I own both...As good as the X5 drives, it doesn't get my adrenaline pumping as much as my MC.

[M_Six]

I went from a 740iL to an X5. Not really sporty to SUV, but more luxo-sport to SUV. I still miss the 740's ride and power, but the X5 is nice in the winter and is way less costly to maintain. I went and bought my Z4 to fulfill the need for speed that was lost when I bought the X5. Like XMetal says, either get one of each or decide which is more important, the adrenaline rush or the AWD and utility.

That E-Class is sweet, though.

[stickypaws]

Not sure if this matters to you, but the E coupe is really not a W212 E Class car but instead the W204 C Class platform. Have you thought of maybe looking at the CLS instead? The E Class coupe is overpriced when considering you're getting C Class architecture (although with the new 5.5TT.) Most MB owners realize this and are hoping for a "real" E Class coupe to appear some day (especially an E63.)

"The question may arise as to why Merc would rename the car after the E-Class when it's based on another. Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA says one of the answers is that the car performs better for its intended purposes with C-Class underpinnings than it would with E-Class architecture. But more telling a reason is that customers will be far more willing to fork out more money for something called an E-Class Coupe rather than one called a C-Class Coupe, especially at the higher end where the margins are bigger."

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...class-platform

http://www.worldcarfans.com/10905201...class-platform

[blue2fire]

I think the RR is a bit overpriced at the higher end. 55k and it has a 4 Cylinder engine!

I hope they sell a lot being a TATA shareholder but i just don't know.

[mtla4]

Not that the E550 is a sporty car. I'm not a fan of SUV-crossover. I bought an item at the store did not fit in any of my cars I had to call my dad borrow his crossover I did not enjoyed it at all. If I need room Ill buy a wagon.

[CAPSGOD]

Originally Posted by stickypaws

Not sure if this matters to you, but the E coupe is really not a W212 E Class car but instead the W204 C Class platform. Have you thought of maybe looking at the CLS instead? The E Class coupe is overpriced when considering you're getting C Class architecture (although with the new 5.5TT.) Most MB owners realize this and are hoping for a "real" E Class coupe to appear some day (especially an E63.)

"The question may arise as to why Merc would rename the car after the E-Class when it's based on another. Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA says one of the answers is that the car performs better for its intended purposes with C-Class underpinnings than it would with E-Class architecture. But more telling a reason is that customers will be far more willing to fork out more money for something called an E-Class Coupe rather than one called a C-Class Coupe, especially at the higher end where the margins are bigger."

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...class-platform

http://www.worldcarfans.com/10905201...class-platform

An E550 coupe is the same price as 335is with premium package. From that point of view it's a fair value.

[pmeloche]

Those RR are getting uglier and uglier.

[stickypaws]

Originally Posted by CAPSGOD

An E550 coupe is the same price as 335is with premium package. From that point of view it's a fair value.

Sure, I suppose one might consider it a "fair value" if you're comparing it to a particular 3 series BMW. Or a "fair value" compared to "fill-in-the-blank" car of your choice.

Nonetheless, that's not my point. I'm comparing one Mercedes platform to another Mercedes platform. And with the fact in mind that an actual (true) E Class (W212 E550, albeit with four doors) costs only $2k more than this "C class platform car otherwise known as the E class coupe."

And therefore emphasizing this: "But more telling a reason is that customers will be far more willing to fork out more money for something called an E-Class Coupe rather than one called a C-Class Coupe, especially at the higher end where the margins are bigger."

[CAPSGOD]

I understand your argument, but what is better about the "true" E-class platform? Is it more rigid/lightweight than the C-platform? Or is it better because it's used in more expensive vehicles.

[UAxDEATH(NYC)]

RR - is a garbage when it comes to reliability

[miiipilot]

Originally Posted by UAxDEATH(NYC)

RR - is a garbage when it comes to reliability

The RR always makes the top of the list for the most problems for any new car.

miiipilot

[lux.sh]

Originally Posted by stickypaws

Not sure if this matters to you, but the E coupe is really not a W212 E Class car but instead the W204 C Class platform. Have you thought of maybe looking at the CLS instead? The E Class coupe is overpriced when considering you're getting C Class architecture (although with the new 5.5TT.) Most MB owners realize this and are hoping for a "real" E Class coupe to appear some day (especially an E63.)

"The question may arise as to why Merc would rename the car after the E-Class when it's based on another. Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA says one of the answers is that the car performs better for its intended purposes with C-Class underpinnings than it would with E-Class architecture. But more telling a reason is that customers will be far more willing to fork out more money for something called an E-Class Coupe rather than one called a C-Class Coupe, especially at the higher end where the margins are bigger."

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...class-platform

http://www.worldcarfans.com/10905201...class-platform

I'm aware of the fact that E-class coupe is based on C-class. I knew this fact what I researched on this vehicle. First thing that came into my mind, "Does it really matter?". Obviously I'm not buying the E-class for superior handling or track purpose for that matter. As long as the platform is verified, suitable for some sporty driving, I don't really care if it is based on C class platform. It packs more punch and technology than the C class, and thats what usually defines a car segment in today's world anyway.

[lux.sh]

Reliability is actually a huge problem with range rovers. Damn british can't get it right.

I don't have the luxury of owning both. I have to pick one.

[gonzo]

Being 1/2 English I will still admit that as much as I appreciate Astons and RR they would never get my money. Why toss the "take a chance" card with your money?

They both lag in so many aspects of technology/reliability it's crazy but still command premium pricing vs others in their class.

There are other options if you want the room an SUV offers while still having a fun factor.

Between these two you listed..no brainer. Benz. IMO.
It was at introduction that I read the coupe has really hard seats. Maybe they have resolved this?

My other 1/2 is German.

[TSM330i]

I tried going to an SUV and it failed.

If driving pleasure is a big part of why you drive, then don't get an SUV. I was DEAD BORED when I went to a Jeep Grand Cherokee. I had "fun" in a Jeep Wrangler in my younger days (17 year ago) and then went to the more grown-up Grand Cherokee. It didn't last long. I had the Jeep less than 1 year. BTW: this was in 1996!

I know the newer SUVs drive better, but it is SO isolating and not fun at all. The only SUV that I would be remotely interested in would be an X5M or a Porshe Cayenne TT and that's basically because they're so damn fast!

Go for the E or a used M5, you won't regret it.

[XMetal]

As I've said previously...It all depends on the needs/wants and priority of the OP. I was in the same shoe as the OP back in '04 and I ended up with my "compromised" X5 because I can only have ONE car at the time that needs to be able to do everything. I needed the utility to do Home Depot runs as well as something that can get me to the slope for snowboarding during winters. That was my reasoning for "settling" on an SUV (I mean SAV ) and why it still have a parking spot in my garage. As fun as the X5 is to drive, it can never be compared to a proper sport sedan/coupe.

So, it all comes down to your NEEDS versus WANTS

[Golgarth]

I tried a few years back and couldn't wait to change it. Yes an suv is practical, comfy(ish) and has a commanding driving position, but they are so dull to drive.
Instead of an SUV try a tourer instead, then you get practical AND sport ;-)

[UAxDEATH(NYC)]

Originally Posted by XMetal

As I've said previously...It all depends on the needs/wants and priority of the OP. I was in the same shoe as the OP back in '04 and I ended up with my "compromised" X5 because I can only have ONE car at the time that needs to be able to do everything. I needed the utility to do Home Depot runs as well as something that can get me to the slope for snowboarding during winters. That was my reasoning for "settling" on an SUV (I mean SAV ) and why it still have a parking spot in my garage. As fun as the X5 is to drive, it can never be compared to a proper sport sedan/coupe.

So, it all comes down to your NEEDS versus WANTS

try x6m, u`ll feel it, and will never jump back to sedan!

[x5lover7777]

i went from e46 m3 to x5. used to have 4.8 but lack of power now i am happy with my truck,,, 400+ hp must get srt8 or something fast.

[stickypaws]

Originally Posted by CAPSGOD

I understand your argument, but what is better about the "true" E-class platform? Is it more rigid/lightweight than the C-platform? Or is it better because it's used in more expensive vehicles.

Originally Posted by lux.sh

I'm aware of the fact that E-class coupe is based on C-class. I knew this fact what I researched on this vehicle. First thing that came into my mind, "Does it really matter?". Obviously I'm not buying the E-class for superior handling or track purpose for that matter. As long as the platform is verified, suitable for some sporty driving, I don't really care if it is based on C class platform. It packs more punch and technology than the C class, and thats what usually defines a car segment in today's world anyway.

There's nothing inherently wrong with sharing platforms, many (most ) mfgs do it. Mercedes never has until recently. Plus they are sharing parts bins now, too. They even sent out a notice to shareholders mentioning this and saying it will save them more money and increase profit margins.

My only point was that it's a lower cost C platform car with an E Class badge. And Mercedes owners (like me) have questioned that sort of marketing. That was the only reason for my remark. It's a "principle" sort of thing. The E Class badge means a higher MSRP over a car marked as a C Class. And that's the reason why MB calls it the E Class coupe. No biggie, it's just about marketing and making a profit (which is to be expected.)

And it's why I said the emphasis of my post was this (and I'll post it for the third time now ): "But more telling a reason is that customers will be far more willing to fork out more money for something called an E-Class Coupe rather than one called a C-Class Coupe, especially at the higher end where the margins are bigger."

I'm talking about pricing structures here and not "good" versus "bad."

[mtla4]

Originally Posted by stickypaws

There's nothing inherently wrong with sharing platforms, many (most ) mfgs do it. Mercedes never has until recently. Plus they are sharing parts bins now, too. They even sent out a notice to shareholders mentioning this and saying it will save them more money and increase profit margins.

My only point was that it's a lower cost C platform car with an E Class badge. And Mercedes owners (like me) have questioned that sort of marketing. That was the only reason for my remark. It's a "principle" sort of thing. The E Class badge means a higher MSRP over a car marked as a C Class. And that's the reason why MB calls it the E Class coupe. No biggie, it's just about marketing and making a profit (which is to be expected.)

And it's why I said the emphasis of my post was this (and I'll post it for the third time now ): "But more telling a reason is that customers will be far more willing to fork out more money for something called an E-Class Coupe rather than one called a C-Class Coupe, especially at the higher end where the margins are bigger."

I'm talking about pricing structures here and not "good" versus "bad."

So basically the E series coupe= CLS(Which is a fake coupe)

C class coupe= C class coupe+ E class coupe(aka CLK)

Right? I agree with stickypaws it's false marketing at least when it was the clk they were not pretending it to be an e class.