This sub has selective memory… the Japanese brands have had huge issues since the 2000s. Honda/Acura automatic transmissions in early 2000 models failing. Engine sludge buildup issues in Toyota engines. More recently lots of AC issues and failures with Honda cars. Oil dilution issues with the Honda L15 turbo engine. Etc.

These are quality issues, most recent ones are caused by cost cutting and cutting corners with parts and production to make more money per car sold. Paint quality in a Honda has been shit ever since they switched to water based.

Vinanalytics will tell you the build spec of a Porsche based on VIN and they’ve since added BMW, Mini, Rolls Royce to their decoder.

Me - I can tell shitty plastics from soft touch from leather wrapped and alcantara, etc. Not that I can’t stand cheap interiors - the GE8 Honda Fit I had once is probably the lowest grade interior of any car I’ve bought new. But it had a leather wrapped steering wheel, which is the single biggest factor a driver will notice as you’re always in contact with that. Miles of cheap plastic beyond that.

Drove a loaner Porsche Macan low spec the other day and the difference is night and day to a well specced Porsche interior with leather/race-tex/deviated stitching, etc. And believe me they’ve mastered the art of nickel and diming customers into a long list of options.

One thing I actually prefer is leatherette/vinyl seats - they’re far easier to maintain vs. leather.

You’re missing 2 key tools - a tire pressure gauge and jump starter pack.

VAG for me. Between VW/Audi/Porsche there will always be plenty of choices for my garage bays.

What’s the alternative though? Is buying Volvo ie. Geely and BYD EVs from Xi’s regime better than Tesla? There is hypocrisy here unfortunately.