Poll
Question:
Which one? Suggest others.
Option 1: Mitsubishi Outlander ES 2Wd
votes: 2
Option 2: Ford Escape XLT I4 FWD
votes: 2
Option 3: Honda CR-V LX 5AT FWD
votes: 9
Option 4: Hyundai Sante Fe GL 2.7 V6 FWD
votes: 4
Option 5: Mazda Tribute GS 6AT FWD
votes: 2
Compare them here (http://en.research.autos.sympatico.msn.ca/autos/compare/default.aspx?year=&make=Mazda&model=Tribute&ts=178%5E%5E6145462009,531%5E%5E73589602009,25%5E%5E73590742009,487%5E%5E5073872009,418%5E%5E6143132009,&pos=0&pg=CompareAdd&ht=4&add=418%5E%5E6146732009)
(http://www.autospectator.com/cars/files/images/SUBARU-2009-FORESTER.jpg)
Quote from: the Teuton on November 04, 2008, 09:11:13 AM
(http://www.autospectator.com/cars/files/images/SUBARU-2009-FORESTER.jpg)
I like the Forester but she needs an automatic and that makes it about +$5,000 more than the others.
Outlander.
What about the Dodge Journey?
Quote from: 2o6 on November 04, 2008, 09:40:29 AM
Outlander.
What about the Dodge Journey?
I'll have to look into that. The price is right ($19,995) however it seems a bit heavy (500 lb more than the others).
My primary concerns are cost, fuel efficiency, reliability/safety, maintenance cost. Other preferences are towards appearance, ride quality and warranty.
The Outlander satifies most concerns with the exception of maintenance cost. IMO, it is the best looking one.
Don't know too much about how prices break down, particularly in the real world, for Canadians. But if you can get the CR-V at the approximate price point of the others, it's a strong choice.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 04, 2008, 09:56:42 AM
I'll have to look into that. The price is right ($19,995) however it seems a bit heavy (500 lb more than the others).
My primary concerns are cost, fuel efficiency, reliability/safety, maintenance cost. Other preferences are towards appearance, ride quality and warranty.
The Outlander satifies most concerns with the exception of maintenance cost. IMO, it is the best looking one.
I had an Outlander for a week this summer and I didn't like it. The steering is the worst in any SUV. It's very vague with a huge dead spot in the middle making tracking straight down the freeway difficult to do. The steering actually kind of scared me a couple times. This wasn't a one off either, since every test of the Outlander that I've read mentions the same problem. I liked the rest of the truck just fine, but because of the steering I would never consider one to buy.
I voted Mazda Tribute only because it's got sportierr handling then the Escape.
Quote from: HEMI666 on November 04, 2008, 10:04:37 AM
I voted Mazda Tribute only because it's got sportierr handling then the Escape.
Not anymore.
I voted for the Outlander. IMO it's the best-looking and has good value (in Europe) and great characteristics. It's a great car according to most reviews. Not sure what engine choices you guys get in the US but if I know Mitsubishi well enough it ain't powerful stuff. I doubt your wife wants massive power though, right?
Quote from: ifcar on November 04, 2008, 10:03:46 AM
Don't know too much about how prices break down, particularly in the real world, for Canadians. But if you can get the CR-V at the approximate price point of the others, it's a strong choice.
It's about a $2,000 more than the others which, in most respects, are equal or better; as far as I can tell. I don't, particularly like the styling either.
Quote from: HEMI666 on November 04, 2008, 10:03:58 AM
I had an Outlander for a week this summer and I didn't like it. The steering is the worst in any SUV. It's very vague with a huge dead spot in the middle making tracking straight down the freeway difficult to do. The steering actually kind of scared me a couple times. This wasn't a one off either, since every test of the Outlander that I've read mentions the same problem. I liked the rest of the truck just fine, but because of the steering I would never consider one to buy.
I haven't driven one yet. Although I like the appearance, handling is more important.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 04, 2008, 10:15:05 AM
I haven't driven one yet. Although I like the appearance, handling is more important.
If they fixed the steering, I would really consider one, but the steering is the worst I've driven since my 1978 Chrysler Cordoba. The tailgate is really cool though.
Quote from: HEMI666 on November 04, 2008, 10:04:37 AM
I voted Mazda Tribute only because it's got sportierr handling then the Escape.
I will have to compare the new models. I know that they are, practically, the same and, originally, the Mazda was (supposed) to have a sporty feel and Escape a bit more trucklike. I do have an '01 Escape and it's been the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. I plan on keeping it a few more years and this influences me towards the Escape/Mazda duo. In comparison, the Tribute looks a more compelling choice because the retail is cheaper and the warranty is better. As well, I lean towards the Tribute regarding appearance. I just don't know much about Mazda dealerships though.
Quote from: cawimmer430 on November 04, 2008, 10:10:31 AM
I voted for the Outlander. IMO it's the best-looking and has good value (in Europe) and great characteristics. It's a great car according to most reviews. Not sure what engine choices you guys get in the US but if I know Mitsubishi well enough it ain't powerful stuff. I doubt your wife wants massive power though, right?
The engine I would choose is the 2.4 I4 because of fuel economy. It has a V6 but my wife drives a hell of a lot and I just don't want to pay any more for gas than we have to. That's why we're going with FWD only as well. It does look nice though :ohyeah:. I will, definately, take one for a test drive to get a sense of the handling. One other reservation is the CVT which, although I've not heard concerns about, it's still fairly new technology. This one has to last at least ten years without major engine or transmission problems.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 04, 2008, 10:25:30 AM
The engine I would choose is the 2.4 I4 because of fuel economy. It has a V6 but my wife drives a hell of a lot and I just don't want to pay any more for gas than we have to. That's why we're going with FWD only as well. It does look nice though :ohyeah:. I will, definately, take one for a test drive to get a sense of the handling. One other reservation is the CVT which, although I've not heard concerns about, it's still fairly new technology. This one has to last at least ten years without major engine or transmission problems.
The reviews here say the 2.4 4-cylinder is pretty decent. It's not really that short on power and does a decent job of moving the car around. Not sure about the CVT as the reviews I've read only had the manual transmission-equipped Outlanders. You'd be interested to know that Mitsubishi has a pretty solid reputation for quality here in Europe. And I personally was really impressed with the latest Outlander at Geneva. Even my dad was "interested" in it as a fun weekend car but eventually dropped that fantasy. We get the Outlander with a really fuel efficient diesel engine in Europe too. :ohyeah:
Either Ford Escape or Honda CRV
Quote from: HEMI666 on November 04, 2008, 10:14:30 AM
Wat?
After the 2008 update, they stopped giving the Escape and Tribute different suspension tuning. They're both softened up beyond even what the original Escape was.
CR-V or Outlander.
This may be an odd ball, but what about a New Scion xB? It's FWD, has similar space inside as the other CUV's and is better on gas with virtually the same, powerwise, as the otner CUV's.
Quote from: 2o6 on November 04, 2008, 11:10:29 AM
This may be an odd ball, but what about a New Scion xB? It's FWD, has similar space inside as the other CUV's and is better on gas with virtually the same, powerwise, as the otner CUV's.
It's fucking ugly, that's why.
Quote from: 2o6 on November 04, 2008, 11:10:29 AM
This may be an odd ball, but what about a New Scion xB? It's FWD, has similar space inside as the other CUV's and is better on gas with virtually the same, powerwise, as the otner CUV's.
He's in Canada.
Quote from: ifcar on November 04, 2008, 11:32:42 AM
He's in Canada.
Scion is coming for the 2010 model year, but people have been importing a lot of them already. I see them on a regular basis.
FoMoJo, how about the Kia Rondo? It's not pretty, but it's roomier and less expensive than the SUV alternatives.
I also like the Escape and the Outlander, but have you considered a Saturn Vue? My brother wants to get one for my sister-in-law because they seem to be decent cars for the price. Also, what do you think of the RAV4 and the Nissan Rouge?
Quote from: thecarnut on November 04, 2008, 10:59:07 AM
CR-V or Outlander.
Any particular reason? I'd really like to know.
Quote from: 2o6 on November 04, 2008, 11:10:29 AM
This may be an odd ball, but what about a New Scion xB? It's FWD, has similar space inside as the other CUV's and is better on gas with virtually the same, powerwise, as the otner CUV's.
I don't think that they're available up here yet :huh:? I've seen pictures and I don't think my wife would appreciate the style.
Quote from: ifcar on November 04, 2008, 10:56:22 AM
After the 2008 update, they stopped giving the Escape and Tribute different suspension tuning. They're both softened up beyond even what the original Escape was.
I didn't know that but it sounds like it would suit my wife if it road a bit softer. She likes driving my Escape but doesn't appreciate it being so "bouncy".
Quote from: ifcar on November 04, 2008, 11:38:54 AM
FoMoJo, how about the Kia Rondo? It's not pretty, but it's roomier and less expensive than the SUV alternatives.
It's $19,995 up here...a pretty good price. I will, likely, check it out. The Sportage/Tuscon is also an option but I'm less enthused about them.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 04, 2008, 12:02:02 PM
Any particular reason? I'd really like to know.
I've sat in an Outlander and I really liked it. I haven't driven it though, so if Hemi says it really is that bad, I wouldn't know.
My uncle has a new CRV (FWD only though) but I really like it for what it is. I drove it, and it's not bad at all.
Quote from: Vinsanity on November 04, 2008, 11:48:35 AM
I also like the Escape and the Outlander, but have you considered a Saturn Vue? My brother wants to get one for my sister-in-law because they seem to be decent cars for the price. Also, what do you think of the RAV4 and the Nissan Rouge?
I've thought about the Vue but entry level is $27,325 and they only have a 4spd automatic compared to 6spd for the Escape/Tribute and CVT on the Outlander.
The Rogue sounds good. Entry level is $23,798 with a 2.5 4I and a CVT. It's even a bit lighter than the rest of them. I'll take a trip to the Nissan dealer.
I considered the RAV4 but I thought it would be more costly due to the name. However, the base (they only have 4WD) is $26,500 and the specs sound pretty good. Even the EPA is better than most. It might be worth having a look at as my wife mentioned Toyota...probably someone at her work said it was the best one ;).
The Rav4 does get pretty good fuel economy, but it has a very chintzy, overstyled interior. You should definitely look at it though.
The Rogue would probably be my pick of the bunch.
Quote from: thecarnut on November 04, 2008, 12:15:41 PM
I've sat in an Outlander and I really liked it. I haven't driven it though, so if Hemi says it really is that bad, I wouldn't know.
My uncle has a new CRV (FWD only though) but I really like it for what it is. I drove it, and it's not bad at all.
The Outlander, imo, definately is the best looking of the lot...I don't know if my wife will agree. I will give it a good test to check out the handling. As it has smaller (width) tires than some of the others, that may effect the feel.
As for the CR-V, my step-daughter has one (2008) and I've driven it a bit. I, generally, like Hondas and the driving dynamics are pretty good. The only real concern I have, other than the shape of the side windows, is the extra price.
Quote from: TBR on November 04, 2008, 12:37:31 PM
The Rav4 does get pretty good fuel economy, but it has a very chintzy, overstyled interior. You should definitely look at it though.
The Rogue would probably be my pick of the bunch.
I've put it on my testdrive list.
I've never sat in any of these, much less driven in them but I have magazine raced them but I can tell you that the CR-V and its VTAK are tha best!!!!1111!!
In all seriousness, test drive the crap out of them (I'm sure you already know this) and good luck to you!
Santa Fe. It's rather large and I love the interior.
No, you want this!
(http://www.autounleashed.com/images/volkswagen_tiguan_prices.jpg)
Cheers,
Madman of the People
Quote from: Madman on November 04, 2008, 08:09:46 PM
No, you want this!
(http://www.autounleashed.com/images/volkswagen_tiguan_prices.jpg)
Cheers,
Madman of the People
Quality Wise = Win
Value Wise = Fail.
I would look at the Tiguan too.
Uh, C&D tested a $37k Tiguan. That's US currency.
I wouldn't. I still think a Forester might be in your range, FoMoJo, but the Honda isn't a bad vehicle, either. Actually, none of them are. I just wouldn't touch a Mitsubishi with a 10-foot pole.
Quote from: nickdrinkwater on November 05, 2008, 09:28:46 AM
I would look at the Tiguan too.
Quote from: the Teuton on November 05, 2008, 09:31:21 AM
Uh, C&D tested a $37k Tiguan. That's US currency.
I wouldn't. I still think a Forester might be in your range, FoMoJo, but the Honda isn't a bad vehicle, either. Actually, none of them are. I just wouldn't touch a Mitsubishi with a 10-foot pole.
According to
this comparison (http://en.research.autos.sympatico.msn.ca/autos/compare/default.aspx?year=&make=Volkswagen&model=Tiguan&ts=657%5E%5E74199932009,531%5E%5E73589602009,65%5E%5E5072812009,&pos=0&pg=CompareExterior), the Forester, with an automatic is $32,395 which is a bit high for my budget. It seems that the entry level, with 5spd manual is only a bit over $25,000 and I don't understand why there isn't an automatic available at that trim level.
As for the Tiguan, it comes in at $28,975 for the automatic which is, almost, within my cost range. It may be worth checking out to see how flexible that price is. The features sound very competitive with the benchmark I'm using...which is the Escape as I've had one for 8 years and it's been excellent.
Subaru's web site let me price the base Forester with the automatic. It came out to $27,000 or so.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 04, 2008, 10:20:56 AM
I will have to compare the new models. I know that they are, practically, the same and, originally, the Mazda was (supposed) to have a sporty feel and Escape a bit more trucklike. I do have an '01 Escape and it's been the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. I plan on keeping it a few more years and this influences me towards the Escape/Mazda duo. In comparison, the Tribute looks a more compelling choice because the retail is cheaper and the warranty is better. As well, I lean towards the Tribute regarding appearance. I just don't know much about Mazda dealerships though.
I put 117,000 miles on my I4 5 speed XLS. Only trouble was the alternator went out at 112,000 miles. Other than that nothing, nary a problem.
Are you familiar with EscapeCentral.com? It's a pretty good single model website. Friendly people, good information.
If I wanted another SUV/CUV/Truck/tall station wagon the Escape would be my first choice.
We've recently bought two Mazdas. One from a Chevy/Mazda dealer and we were treated like we were buying a chevy. Mazda dealerships I've seen are a bit upscale compared to what you get with the Big three. Service after the sale has been outstanding, I don't know if that's normal or I'm just lucky.
Quote from: ifcar on November 05, 2008, 10:49:01 AM
Subaru's web site let me price the base Forester with the automatic. It came out to $27,000 or so.
Subaru Canada? Perhaps the sympatico.msn.ca site is a bit misleading.
Quote from: Byteme on November 05, 2008, 12:37:29 PM
I put 117,000 miles on my I4 5 speed XLS. Only trouble was the alternator went out at 112,000 miles. Other than that nothing, nary a problem.
Are you familiar with EscapeCentral.com? It's a pretty good single model website. Friendly people, good information.
If I wanted another SUV/CUV/Truck/tall station wagon the Escape would be my first choice.
We've recently bought two Mazdas. One from a Chevy/Mazda dealer and we were treated like we were buying a chevy. Mazda dealerships I've seen are a bit upscale compared to what you get with the Big three. Service after the sale has been outstanding, I don't know if that's normal or I'm just lucky.
I'll check out EscapeCentral.com seeing as I'm keeping my '01 Escape for a while. Other than a few stone chips, it's in great condition and I, almost, considered doing something to give it a custom look. Perhaps there might be some info at the site regarding that.
As for Mazda dealers, a friend of mine had a Mazda3 and the only complaint was that his dealer experience was pretty crappy. However, it may only be that particular dealer. If, after all my evaluation, the Tribute was the best deal, I wouldn't let my dealer concern effect my choice as I could always have it serviced at my local Ford dealer.
Quote from: the Teuton on November 05, 2008, 09:31:21 AM
Uh, C&D tested a $37k Tiguan. That's US currency.
I wouldn't. I still think a Forester might be in your range, FoMoJo, but the Honda isn't a bad vehicle, either. Actually, none of them are. I just wouldn't touch a Mitsubishi with a 10-foot pole.
Is that because of the past reputation of the company regarding (not) doing recalls?
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 05, 2008, 01:26:40 PM
Is that because of the past reputation of the company regarding (not) doing recalls?
That, the past quality issues, the fact that the company's car division might go under in North America in the next 10 years, and that I'm a Subaru fanboy and I just don't like them too well.
Well I personally don't have a preferance on CUV,s but here is what C&D thinks.
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparison_test/crossovers_and_suvs/2008_toyota_rav4_vs_honda_cr_v_nissan_rogue_ford_escape_and_five_more_compact_suvs_comparison_test
Basically Toyota, Honda, Nissan on top, interesting info on all.
If you are planning on driving it from time to time as well, the Nissan rogue seems to be the driver's pick of the litter (though considering the litter, that's not saying much).
"Truth is, there?s no econo-ute that reliably twists your lips into a smile whenever you happen upon a stretch of N?rburgring-like tarmac. But the Sentra-based Nissan Rogue at least comes closest.
The Rogue emerged as the sports car of the group, posting the quickest sprints to 60 and 100 mph and logging the briefest quarter-mile, backed by the highest trap speed. It was tied with the Toyota for best 50-to-70-mph passing potential. It was tied with the Mitsubishi for greatest top speed. It delivered the best brake feel. And no other test ute surpassed its skidpad grip.
Everywhere we nosed it, the Rogue felt light, nimble, and better planted than anything in the group, and its steering was the most carlike, with terrific on-center feel, perfect heft, and a sense of straight-ahead matched only by the Toyota?s. That the Nissan topped our fun-to-drive category surprised no one?and all for the lowest base price.
So, uh, shouldn?t the performance-
biased player win a C/D comparo? Well, not this time. The Rogue?s mandatory CVT powertrain is loud at WOT, where it drones for seconds at a time if your right foot is heavy. Strangely, it makes up for that failing by being the quietest at 70 mph, and its 170-horse four-banger was judged as vibrationless as the Honda?s and Toyota?s.
But the Rogue?s funereal gray and black interior was a Brian De Palma dream come true, and its thick D-pillar and tiny backlight darkened the cabin and restricted visibility. Off-road, moreover, the Nissan felt as out of place as the Mitsubishi, wanting to sprint ahead rather than crawl. Still, its front and rear axles can be locked in a 50/50 power split at launch, and the Rogue concluded our nature bash muddied but not bloodied.
The Nissan is as narrow as any of its colleagues here and lower than any of them. It weighs within 54 pounds of the lightest. And it eschews a big-horsepower V-6 in favor of an inline-four. Yet it gets the job done with speed and panache. Saturn, Jeep, Ford?are you listening?"
I like the Santa Fe. It's fairly roomy, has a great interior, looks nice on the outside, nice quality and good warranty.
Get her a golf cart. Then use it on the weekends for golf.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 05, 2008, 01:12:10 PM
Subaru Canada? Perhaps the sympatico.msn.ca site is a bit misleading.
Right, Canada. No American would pay $27,000 for a base Forester.
It might be that your link is only listing the first trim to have the automatic standard. The manual is standard on the base versions, but the automatic is a no doubt an extremely common option.
Quote from: 565 on November 05, 2008, 03:38:25 PM
Well I personally don't have a preferance on CUV,s but here is what C&D thinks.
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparison_test/crossovers_and_suvs/2008_toyota_rav4_vs_honda_cr_v_nissan_rogue_ford_escape_and_five_more_compact_suvs_comparison_test
...>
Good info on the Rogue. It's starting to look like one of my top contenders. I haven't driven any of them yet, still a couple of months before we need to buy, but I think that changes to some of '09s, especially Escape/Tribute with the new Mazda 2.5 and 6 speed automatic may bring them, competitively, closer than what is reflected in the article regarding the '08s.
Quote from: Catman on November 05, 2008, 06:48:46 PM
I like the Santa Fe. It's fairly roomy, has a great interior, looks nice on the outside, nice quality and good warranty.
I like the Sante Fe as well only it doesn't compete well in fuel efficiency in that the smallest engine is the 2.7 V6. As my wife drives about 40,000 kilometres a year, fuel cost is a big factor.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 06, 2008, 11:04:07 AM
I like the Sante Fe as well only it doesn't compete well in fuel efficiency in that the smallest engine is the 2.7 V6. As my wife drives about 40,000 kilometres a year, fuel cost is a big factor.
Do you all get the same powertrain warranty we do? (10 years/100,000 miles). If so, that could definitely offset the gas mileage disadvantage.
Quote from: ifcar on November 05, 2008, 10:11:56 PM
Right, Canada. No American would pay $27,000 for a base Forester.
It might be that your link is only listing the first trim to have the automatic standard. The manual is standard on the base versions, but the automatic is a no doubt an extremely common option.
I'll put a Forester on my list.
Quote from: TBR on November 06, 2008, 11:09:16 AM
Do you all get the same powertrain warranty we do? (10 years/100,000 miles). If so, that could definitely offset the gas mileage disadvantage.
We get 5 years and 62,100 miles.
09 Sante Fe (http://en.research.autos.sympatico.msn.ca/autos/vip/Spec_Glance.aspx?year=&make=Hyundai&model=Santa+Fe&ts=5073872009)
If you went Santa Fe, you should go with the GL 3.3. It's only a little more, but it's much better.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 04, 2008, 09:17:16 AM
I like the Forester but she needs an automatic and that makes it about +$5,000 more than the others.
I just went to the Canadian Subaru website and priced out a Forest 2.5X with an Auto for under 27k (28.2 with Freight). Cheaper than the CR-V and Sante Fe. Plus, you get Subaru AWD. Nice feature.
Did you think about the Jeep Patriot? Updated Interior that's being discounted heavily with Employee Pricing. You can get a loaded Patriot 4X4 (or 4X2 that would drop the price) Limited for 25k. My neighbors love their Patriots. Good ride. Decent handling.
Personally, I'd also consider a Rogue (25k) over an Outlander, but the Outlander has a great warranty.
If all else fails, pick the Honda. Chicks dig Hondas. Not for a good reason, but they just think its prestigious to own one and they brag to their friends about it usually.
I'd be cautious about buying a Mitsu. They're not much better off financially than the Detroit 3. Resale value on them is pretty bad.
We like our new Forester. Getting about 25 mpg average -handles nice, and has great front and rear leg-head room.
Quote from: CJ on November 06, 2008, 03:52:18 PM
If you went Santa Fe, you should go with the GL 3.3. It's only a little more, but it's much better.
One of our main criterias is fuel efficiency. I like the Santa Fe but even the 2.7 doesn't match most of the others in fuel economy. Besides, it's for my wife and the less power she has the better.
Quote from: WookieOnRitalin on November 10, 2008, 08:08:42 AM
I just went to the Canadian Subaru website and priced out a Forest 2.5X with an Auto for under 27k (28.2 with Freight). Cheaper than the CR-V and Sante Fe. Plus, you get Subaru AWD. Nice feature.
Did you think about the Jeep Patriot? Updated Interior that's being discounted heavily with Employee Pricing. You can get a loaded Patriot 4X4 (or 4X2 that would drop the price) Limited for 25k. My neighbors love their Patriots. Good ride. Decent handling.
Personally, I'd also consider a Rogue (25k) over an Outlander, but the Outlander has a great warranty.
If all else fails, pick the Honda. Chicks dig Hondas. Not for a good reason, but they just think its prestigious to own one and they brag to their friends about it usually.
The website I was looking at seems a bit misleading regarding the Forester. I will, definately, consider it.
As for the Patriot, it would take an awful good price for me to go in that direction.
I really like the appearance of the Outlander but have some reservations about long term reliability. As for the Rogue, it sounds good but I still have to check it out.
Regarding the CR-V, my wife's first choice would be an H2 if it wasn't for the cost of running the bloody thing. Her preferences go more toward the more intimidating or military styles rather than something from Honda. She also likes the look of the FJ but I'll be damned if I know why.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 10, 2008, 01:02:39 PM
Regarding the CR-V, my wife's first choice would be an H2 if it wasn't for the cost of running the bloody thing. Her preferences go more toward the more intimidating or military styles rather than something from Honda. She also likes the look of the FJ but I'll be damned if I know why.
My mom (55 yrs old) still wants a Hummer H1.
I'd go Rav4 first, Forester second, CR-V third.
How about a Chevy Equinox?
Never mind. WAY too expensive.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 10, 2008, 01:02:39 PM
The website I was looking at seems a bit misleading regarding the Forester. I will, definately, consider it.
As for the Patriot, it would take an awful good price for me to go in that direction.
I really like the appearance of the Outlander but have some reservations about long term reliability. As for the Rogue, it sounds good but I still have to check it out.
Regarding the CR-V, my wife's first choice would be an H2 if it wasn't for the cost of running the bloody thing. Her preferences go more toward the more intimidating or military styles rather than something from Honda. She also likes the look of the FJ but I'll be damned if I know why.
If that's the case, why not look at the updated 2009 Suzuki GV. It's RWD based and has a new 4-cyl engine for improved economy and 4-Mode 4WD for under 30k (also have the new 3.2L V6 with 230 ponies but that makes it pricier). From what I've read, the 4WD can be set into 4H mode that only send power to the front wheels as needed, making it a primarily RWD driver with 3 other modes to choose from. Updated materials on the interior, new head lamps. Improved dash. Good build quality, excellent transferable warranty.
Some pics:
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/1.jpg
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/2.jpg
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/3.jpg
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/4.jpg
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/5.jpg
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/6.jpg
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/7.jpg
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/8.jpg
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/grandvitara/img/gallery/picture/1280/9.jpg
I didn't realize that there were so many vehicles in this category. I was out looking at the Rogue, Forester and Outlander today. I also saw the Grand Vitara though I didn't really check it out.
I had taken an '09 Escape 2.5I4 4wd out last week and I was pretty impressed with the new I4 and 6spd auto. I'm still using that as the benchmark. However, the Outlander has some nice features and is very competitive in most criteria although I haven't driven it yet; probably next week. The looks and the split tailgate give it a bit of an edge as well as the engine compartment; it just has a better setup.
My wife will be driving the new Escape tomorrow and I'll take her to see the Outlander and Rogue and, maybe drive them. Right now, AFAIC, it's a toss up between the Escape and the Outlander; but it's her choice. It may depend on what shade of Red she likes better :huh:.
Quote from: the Teuton on November 04, 2008, 09:11:13 AM
(http://www.autospectator.com/cars/files/images/SUBARU-2009-FORESTER.jpg)
Do you think FoMoJo wants his wife to run off with another woman?
Chevy Traverse
Quote from: dazzleman on November 23, 2008, 07:49:38 AM
Do you think FoMoJo wants his wife to run off with another woman?
:clap: :lol:
Quote from: dazzleman on November 23, 2008, 07:49:38 AM
Do you think FoMoJo wants his wife to run off with another woman?
You evil, sadistic, sarcastic...
...Ninny.
Quote from: NACar on November 23, 2008, 04:41:28 PM
This is America. Bigger is better.
He lives in Canada...
:lol:
Quote from: the Teuton on November 23, 2008, 03:58:32 PM
You evil, sadistic, sarcastic...
...Ninny.
:evildude:
You had to know something like that was coming when you suggested the Subaru Forester.
If we're talking about cute utes, the one I know best is the Honda CRV. They seem like pretty good cars.
Quote from: dazzleman on November 23, 2008, 07:31:26 PM
:evildude:
You had to know something like that was coming when you suggested the Subaru Forester.
If we're talking about cute utes, the one I know best is the Honda CRV. They seem like pretty good cars.
CRVs rock, too, but I'd rather have a butch Betty wagon.
So we took the Escape and Outlander for a test drive.
Compared to my '01 Escape, the '09 has several improvements; really too many to remember, not the least of which is the 6spd auto. As well, a nice feature, as standard equipment, is the electric seat adjustment. The rides been softened a fair bit and it's, noticably, less noisy.
As for the Outlander, as much as it pains me to admit it, I like it a bit better than the Escape; mainly for styling and the nifty tailgate arrangement. I found it rather pleasant to drive with the little 2.4 I4 providing adequate power for a middle-aged lady. The CVT works quite nicely without seeming much different than a normal automatic. Oddly, it has a manual mode which allows you to shift up and down. I had, inadvertantly, put the shift lever in this setting when starting out and it revved up to about 4500rpm before realizing this and begain shifting it up through the different shift points before moving it over to the auto mode. As for ride and handling, it was, at least, on a par with the Escape and even a bit more car-like. The only thing I didn't really like about handling was that the brakes were a bit grabby; perhaps from a minor accummulation of rust on the rotors from sitting too long.
Price wise, is where the Escape has the advantage; though the MSRP is, pretty much, the same. The Mitsubishi dealer was not as forthcoming in the bargaining stage; even though we put up a bigger fight with them than the Ford dealer. We'll make our final decision in a couple of days.
You didn't mind the vague steering of the Outlander?
Quote from: HEMI666 on November 24, 2008, 02:16:40 PM
You didn't mind the vague steering of the Outlander?
The steering feel I put down to the tire width 215 on the Outlandr vs. 235 on the Escape. It, definately, has a more mid-size family sedan feel to it.
Quote from: FoMoJo on November 24, 2008, 02:25:35 PM
The steering feel I put down to the tire width 215 on the Outlandr vs. 235 on the Escape. It, definately, has a more mid-size family sedan feel to it.
I found that on the freeway the Outlander wouldn't track straight. I was forever correcting while driving down the 401.
Quote from: HEMI666 on November 24, 2008, 02:58:35 PM
I found that on the freeway the Outlander wouldn't track straight. I was forever correcting while driving down the 401.
I didn't notice any kind of problem resembling that but I was only on the 401 for a couple kilometres. Overall, it felt quite stable. Was your's a rental? Perhaps it had a small alignment problem.
However, I'm going to see the Ford dealer tonight and, likely, wrap it up. There was about a $2k differential between an '08 Outlander and an '09 Escape...too much to opt for a (new) year old vehicle just because it looks a bit more appealing. Besides, the base Escape comes with more amenities.