How important are the LCI updates?

[michaelalex3]

I'm leaning towards picking up a E89 35i w/ 6sp+Msport as a second car (had been considering a 987 for awhile but I've started to change my mind). My question is pretty simple, are the LCI improvements worth the extra cost and the extra time it will take to find one? The combo I'm looking for is already pretty rare. I know it has improved headlights and taillights, but is there much else improved? I was watching a video that said the roof was improved, but I'm not sure if that's tied directly to LCI?

I apologize if this has been discussed before, I've done some searching and can't really find anything. Any input is appreciated!

[proboner]

I cannot speak to LCI improvements, but if you want a 35i with manual trans, black interior, red interior, there's a guy in NC considering selling his...

I'd jump at the chance if I were you, but I may be a bit biased towards that exact car.

[bryanhoag]

The issue with an LCI 35i 6speed is that you're confined to a single model year, 2014. So it's a challenge from the start.

Add in M sport package and the number falls. Add in iDrive/technology, upgraded speakers, cold weather, etc... you're looking for a needle in a haystack. Then... was one even made in the color combo you want? Who knows. They're out there... but you have to be extremely patient depending on exactly what you're looking for.

I think the headlights and side turn signals are a nice look and help the car look more current against newer models.

What was the change with the taillights? I've heard there was one, but could never appreciate a difference.

Roof was reportedly enhanced before the LCI, I think in March 2012? But, a top guru on this forum has insisted on a number of occasions that there is no significant difference before and after the upgrade.

I'm not really aware of any other improvements that came with the LCI. I know the dash surrounding the iDrive screen and air vents went from a matte surface to a glossy surface. Maybe that's important to some people?

You can always find exactly what you want in a Pre-LCI car and retrofit the headlights and turn signal markers, if you feel compelled to.

[michaelalex3]

Originally Posted by proboner

I cannot speak to LCI improvements, but if you want a 35i with manual trans, black interior, red interior, there's a guy in NC considering selling his...

I'd jump at the chance if I were you, but I may be a bit biased towards that exact car.

That does sound promising, if he's seriously considering selling it I'd definitely be interested.

Originally Posted by bryanhoag

The issue with an LCI 35i 6speed is that you're confined to a single model year, 2014. So it's a challenge from the start.

Add in M sport package and the number falls. Add in iDrive/technology, upgraded speakers, cold weather, etc... you're looking for a needle in a haystack. Then... was one even made in the color combo you want? Who knows. They're out there... but you have to be extremely patient depending on exactly what you're looking for.

I think the headlights and side turn signals are a nice look and help the car look more current against newer models.

What was the change with the taillights? I've heard there was one, but could never appreciate a difference.

Roof was reportedly enhanced before the LCI, I think in March 2012? But, a top guru on this forum has insisted on a number of occasions that there is no significant difference before and after the upgrade.

I'm not really aware of any other improvements that came with the LCI. I know the dash surrounding the iDrive screen and air vents went from a matte surface to a glossy surface. Maybe that's important to some people?

You can always find exactly what you want in a Pre-LCI car and retrofit the headlights and turn signal markers, if you feel compelled to.

Gotcha, I didn't realize they stopped producing the manual after 2014. That makes the decision pretty easy for me then, LCI isn't a priority. Thanks!

[proboner]

Originally Posted by michaelalex3

That does sound promising, if he's seriously considering selling it I'd definitely be interested.

Speak of the devil, bryanhoag in this very thread is the person I was thinking of...