I got the book from the library. Call one of the branches that has it and ask them to send it to your local library. It really is a pretty good book containing some money saving tips.

I hope that plan involves going to the US and purchasing something with a transferrable (or North American) warranty. Despite their “efforts” to make the price points equal, they’re still way off base.

Either way, best of luck! =)

Yeah, I still lurk and read your site semi-regularly, so I’m around! =)

As far as buying out the lease, definitely look at the Auto Trader (http://www.canadatrader.com) and see what comparable year Mini’s with similar km’s go for. Compare with your buyout, and see what you’re left with… It is certainly worth checking into. Otherwise the dealership will likely “buy it out” from BMW Canada and resell it on their lot for probably 5-6k more.

I have a good feeling that Ashley would probably quite like the look of the Solara. The Accord is also very nice, but it will start to push your price point, as will the Solara.

One thing to keep in mind, the local prices are generally lower than what the websites offer up. So don’t price yourself out just because of what their Canadian Corporate website tells you. I went to Kramer Mazda to see the RX8’s when they first came out thinking they were about $47-51k fully loaded. The guy at the dealership gave me a VASTLY different number… and this is a few years ago, so long prior to the Canadian dealers starting to reflect the US price points. So, the RX8 might not be out of your range, and neither might be the Infiniti’s… Worth picking up the phone, that’s for sure.

If I can help any other way, just ask. You’ve got my e-mail too. =)

Cheers,

Jeremy