[JustinOpinion]

Originally Posted by Dethsupp0rt

I currently have a 2015 M3, which I love, but it's about time for a change. I couldn't get past the interior of the gen5 ZL1, but it looks like the gen6 has improved a bit.

I'm not a big fan of all the alcantara, and I saw some photos where the dash area by the passenger had carbon fiber instead, however I don't see that option anywhere.

There's also an option when looking at Truecar for "Carbon Fiber Instrument Panel Molding". I'm guessing neither of these is actually available, so it would have to be done aftermarket?

I'm guessing the build quality is a bit better in the gen6 as well? I remember shutting the door in the gen5 and it sounded like the window was rattling around inside the door, which wasn't exactly confidence inspiring. The big knobs for the vents felt cheap, along with the shift paddles as well.

I'm not expecting a Mercedes, but just something better than it was.

I've also perused all the wheel threads, but didn't see many people switching to 19s. There don't appear to be many tire options for all-season or winters in 20s, so I was thinking 19s might be the way to go if they didn't look too bad.

Otherwise, it's pretty much stock or P4S for summer and Sottozeros for winter, which isn't bad I guess, just spendy since there isn't much competition in those sizes.

Thanks in advance for opinions and thoughts. Right now it's either stick with the Germans and go with the new Audi RS3, or get something a bit more raw and monstrous like the ZL1.

I feel you, man. Before taking a look at the ZL1, I was actually giving strong consideration to the new M4. I've had 3 previous 3 Series' (E90's). I still can't get over how much MORE nimble this Camaro is over the BMWs. Even the smaller ones. You'll find a bit more hard plastic inside than you'd like, but not as bad as previously. The micro-suede is actually nice and I think it softens the interior nicely. Technology is way better than BMW - who still have no clue about tech. The raw power is beyond anything Germany can imagine let alone build. And I'm not knocking Bavaria, just telling it like I feel it is. Not sure if a test drive is possible or if you've done one - but you owe it to yourself.

I talk about my initial thoughts and comparisons to German cars and some of these exact points in my video of the ZL1: https://youtu.be/k-6skCfqaqE

Planning to do some follow ups in the near future.