new car thoughts?

[MaxPower]

Been years since I started a thread here but you guys are still the automotive resource of choice when in need.  I'm looking for a new family vehicle that can handle two kids (& car seat) and a dog, which suggests a wagon or SUV.  Three rows would be nice, but not essential.  I want a good combination of features and value and seem to keep coming back to the Subaru Outback.  I've grown up with Subarus and we've had a Legacy sedan for a long time.  But something about the Outback just doesn't excite me at all.  I'd like to not spend much over $30k if possible.

I'm looking for a new car or something that has a substantial warranty.  This car has to be no worries and absolutely reliable as I have enough breaking down on my hands with the '03 Discovery, and my truck is no spring chicken.

Thoughts?

[mzziaz]

Slightly used 4runner?

[Cookie Monster]

New Discovery? That's what FoMoJo has and it's Exploder based so hopefully it's not too unreliable.

[ifcar]

Been years since I started a thread here but you guys are still the automotive resource of choice when in need.  I'm looking for a new family vehicle that can handle two kids (& car seat) and a dog, which suggests a wagon or SUV.  Three rows would be nice, but not essential.  I want a good combination of features and value and seem to keep coming back to the Subaru Outback.  I've grown up with Subarus and we've had a Legacy sedan for a long time.  But something about the Outback just doesn't excite me at all.  I'd like to not spend much over $30k if possible.

I'm looking for a new car or something that has a substantial warranty.  This car has to be no worries and absolutely reliable as I have enough breaking down on my hands with the '03 Discovery, and my truck is no spring chicken.

Thoughts?

If you're okay without a third row, the new CR-V is both extra-roomy and extra-efficient for its size. And unlike most crossovers, there's a low cargo floor -- great for canine access, especially if/when the dog is older. Not bad to drive, either.

For third-row seating without getting too bulky, the Mazda CX-9 is big but looks and drives small. And for an actually compact vehicle with a small third row, the new VW Tiguan seems promising and has a long warranty.

[giant_mtb]

New Discovery? That's what FoMoJo has and it's Exploder based so hopefully it's not too unreliable.

Those start at $50k. Unless he went used, but if he wants new for $30k or less...

[CALL_911]

I'd go for a used 4runner

[FoMoJo]

New Discovery? That's what FoMoJo has and it's Exploder based so hopefully it's not too unreliable.

I'd suggest checking out an Edge; starts with a platform that the Discovery Sport starts with and is cheaper and better choice of engines.  Also the Lincoln MKX, same thing or better luxo but higher price.  Leasing is a good option for all 3.

[r0tor]

A used 4 runner, while good, is dynamically about as far from a wagon or jacked up wagon as it gets

[MexicoCityM3]

Pacifica.

[Laconian]

> But something about the Outback just doesn't excite me at all

Have you driven it? It's definitely not exciting -- at least not for the H4 -- but it's much more carlike and nicer to drive than tall, tippy CUVs + SUVs. I'm always satisfied when I drive ours.

[r0tor]

X1

[Lebowski]

How big is the dog?

CRV or CX-5 if something that size will work.  If not, used CX-9 or Pilot?  I like my 4Runner a lot but I don't have the third row, if third row is important not sure the 4Runner is best bet.

[Raza]

New Discovery? That's what FoMoJo has and it's Exploder based so hopefully it's not too unreliable.

Disco Sport starts at 37K.

I'd say Outback or Mazda CX-9.

[2o6]

Outback feels more like a wagon than an SUV, IDK if that's a big thing for you.



A CRV or new Equinox would be acceptable - especially the Honda.

[AutobahnSHO]

(Used since they don't build them anymore) Dodge Magnum.

[giant_mtb]

(Used since they don't build them anymore) Dodge Magnum.

I'm sure he wants something that isn't crumbling apart and doesn't feel like a Fisher-Price toy on the inside.

[12,000 RPM]

New CR-V punches above its weight class with that 1.5T. Looks really good too. In that vein, maybe check out the RDX and Venza. Still crossovers but very car like.

[MrH]

I'm going to go against the grain here:  A new 4Runner

The things don't depreciate.  If you're looking at very slightly used, you're probably better off buying one new and holding it as long as possible.

I've got the 3rd row in mine.  It's pretty worthless.  I can carry kids with it fine, but adults are a bit of an issue.  Middle row seats need to slide as far forward to have a shot of fitting an adult.  We had 6 guys in it to go paintballing for my bachelor party.  Everyone was cramped, but it works in a pinch.

[veeman]

New Chevy Equinox styling looks good.  I've driven the old model and it was a nice drive.

[68_427]

Not sure if there's any discounts on the Buick Envision?  I personally think the Equinox now looks like a smaller SsangYong Rodius or minivan-ish

[MaxPower]

Thanks.  I don't really care about wagon v. SUV; they've all blended to the point where their shapes are not so different anyway.

I like the new Discovery but it's probably going to be more money than I want to spend.  It would probably be worth looking to see if there are any incentives.  Looks like it comes with a decent warranty.

Does the 4Runner ride loud like a truck?  It has the big tire looks but I already have two loud vehicles so this one ought to be a decent comfortable cruiser.

> But something about the Outback just doesn't excite me at all

Have you driven it? It's definitely not exciting -- at least not for the H4 -- but it's much more carlike and nicer to drive than tall, tippy CUVs + SUVs. I'm always satisfied when I drive ours.

I haven't driven the newest face lift version (2016+?) but I've spent some time driving the current generation.  It's fine, and I really have no actual complaints about it.  It's probably the right vehicle.  Outbacks are a dime a dozen around here; every other car is an Outback.  It's the most beige vehicle in Maine. 

[r0tor]

How about an F Pace?  Has a good size, cheaper then a disco, apparently fun to drive, and good in the snow

BMW X1 might be good as well

[MrH]

And also not $30k....

[12,000 RPM]

Lol the prices keep escalating

I nominate the Macan Turbo S... or a GTS if you absolutely have to slum it.

[SJ_GTI]

Bentayga (sp?) would be roomier. More comfortable too I bet.

[Lebowski]

CRV or CX-5 is gonna be the answer.

[r0tor]

And also not $30k....

X1 starts in the mid 30s.. F Pace at 40

Yippee

[Lebowski]

Starts. Also mid 30s != 30 just ask my hairline.

[r0tor]

He said "much over 30"... Not under 30

[Laconian]

Bentayga (sp?) would be roomier. More comfortable too I bet.

I can't read that name without thinking of the Final Fantasy VII spell system. Benta, Bentara, Bentayga