Correct. Just about all new cars have the knock sensors that allow this to happen. If you have to use a lower octane gas, the knock sensor will detect the knock long before it becomes a problem and the ECU will pull timing so the engine isn't damaged. Any new car will run off of regular but...
When I had my 2016 GT Mustang, I went from the factory Pirelli P-Zero's to the Continental Extreme contacts. The only time I noticed a difference (dry) was at the extreme limit of grip. In wet weather, there was a huge difference in performance. Not to mention the Continental's lasted much...
1. Brake hold is most useful on hills, to prevent the car from rolling back while you operate clutch and gas.
2. Getting smoother comes with practice. Every type of car is different. Eventually, with trying different things, you'll find the sweet spot. Usually, the slower you shift, the better...
On a Honda, I agree. I don't see the point in getting an extended warranty. However, on the BMW 135i I used to own, it turned out to be a fantastic idea. It cost me 3k for the warranty and I ended up getting about 15K worth of repairs done under it. I'll spare you all my "dont ever buy a BMW...
You and I have the same boxes then. I've always bought fun but impractical cars (had a 650 hp 2007 Shelby GT500 at one time). This is, I guess, me growing up slightly and picking something practical but a ton of fun also. I had a big goofy grin on my face the whole test drive.
The way the dealer explained it to me was that a guy came in and purchased without talking to his wife about it. She went through the roof and told him "its me or the car." Unfortunately for him and fortunately for me, the car went back to the dealer
I'll be picking up my slightly used (~500 miles) 2018 CTR on Saturday. Can't wait to start driving it. It will be my daily driver and will be driven around ~100 miles a day, 5 days a week.