DrGP

In 2 to 3 yrs you will come to your senses and realize you should have gotten something else. (probably will happen much before that) I can't belive you could actually be happy with any of those cars as your primary driver. That way you will only pay for what you use.

SCWells72

My wife replaced her 4Runner with the MDX earlier this year. Has Touring and Navigation on it. It's really a nice SUV and is VERY comfortable for trips. Personally I would've preferred the Infiniti FX since it's much more fun to drive, but since we already have the S4 and a Z3, a nice floaty, spacious road trip-mobile was probably a good call.

Have you considered the Infiniti? If you haven't, you should at least go test drive one before you make a decision. Year-end deals on them are generally incredible. My college roommate picked up a brand new loaded '04 FX45 in January '05 for about $45K.

RKA

If you own it, you can unload it at will without the hassles of dealing with a third party.

DrGP

On a purely cost basis, the hybrid loses in the long run to the gas model.

Car Crazy

I don't blame you after this mess. However, you will get back that craving for a performance vehicle. I had a similar situation (not nearly as extreme) and purchased an SUV. After a year of driving that thing I ended up hating it (loved it for the first year). I will never buy an SUV as a daily driver ever again. I hated taking turns slowly and accelerating slowly. Yes I do take turns/accelerate slowly in the S4 but I have the option of going fast when ever I crave the twistys. I hate when I get a big SUV in front of me cornering at 5mph - totally ruins the fun. I assume you love to drive performance cars as I love to drive performance cars. Reliable = Boring.

just my 2 cents.

DrGP

That way he will not have to suffer too long driving a car that he really does not fit his future wants and needs

Sia Bani

Buying slightly used may serve the same purpose. I'd do that over lease short term

RMILLA

RX400H over the 330.. Its got more power and its a hybrid so better for environment with added performance over the 330.

Keep the S4 if you get it fixed. You love the car more than anything (when it works), eventhough it has been a hassle. Just get audi (when ur in court) to pay you for the time that you havent had the car and call it a day. Just think, if they get the car finally working, you have a brand new engine, so your starting from 0 again.

ruknd

think both the acura and lexus are like all seasons on a ferrari. They hamper driving enjoyment and do everything ok but not well. If you drive off road go rover or jeep, if you dopnt skip the SUv and go for anotehr sports sedan or wagon from a different car maker. I think the new 5 touring is the best of teh new bmws, it tones down the bangle design lots.

RKA

this boring reliable car is the daily driver. The fun factor will still be there...just in another vehicle.