Hi Metroplex, as a replacement for the ST, I compared the Audi SQ5, BMW X3 M40i, and the AMG GLC 43. I chose the AMG because of the design, engineering, performance, and a level of service that second to none! Not only is it faster than the ST, but it also sounds incredible with the ability to hit a button and make it even louder! The lack of sound was a great disappointment in the ST when I found out that it's a fake sound coming through the speakers! I've only had the AMG for a short time so I can't speak to long term quality but my friend has a 10-year-old AMG C63 with 100K miles and it's been superb in terms of reliability and performance. So we'll have to see about reliability, but you can't get much worse that 55+ days at the dealer in 4 months of ownership with my ST.