Frank Fontaine

I think the I6 is disappearing, because it's much cheaper to produce a V6--V6 lacks primary and secondary balance, which can be fought with counter-balance shafts, but that adds weight and complexity and friction of course. But the V6 has a lot of benefit like FWD--cheaper to manufacture and can be shared among FWD and RWD cars. New Lexus GS is the perfect example. Put the motor in the Avalon, beef it up for the GS. 2 birds with one-stone. As nice as the new RL is, why a V6? Same reason as above. The 330i product manager told me the cost of a single CAT is no joke in producing a car, that's why all the fake duals. It's all about cost, nothing more. How much more would it cost Nissan to do true duals for the Altima or Maxima? Maybe $150-$300. But if you're already giving up a $1500 rebate, and customers don't even know the difference, why lose another $150-$300??

If you want to know more about why the I6 is better, GM did a case study when selecting a 6 cyl for the Trail Blazer. Of course, BMW's I6 is legendary.

There's no question, the sweet-spot for value is clearly either Japanese or Korean--German cars don't come close as they are pricey. But once you're in the 30-40+k price range, German cars are on the radar if you really want performance and road feel that is refined.

The new E90 3 Series will be at the dealerships on 4/26 to test drive--I suggest we all take one out as car enthusiasts. Even if you love your Nissan, there's nothing wrong with seeing what's out there. It is funny though that people have pre-ordered the car already having never driven it!!