Fun and reliable daily driver for under 12k???

dunnagan92

So i've had a 2006 passat for a few years now and its just a big money pit with all the repairs ive had to do to it. I've finally decided to get rid of it but I'm just not sure what to replace it with. I do a good bit of driving so I need something reliable, also something fun with some power would be nice, Im trying to stay away from the hybrids, as helpful as they are haha.

stickguy

any other criteria? Size? style?

Can get a few year old Cruz possibly. something in the 2010 range Mazda 3.

graphicguy

Casting a large net, but probably any 2-3 year old Civic should fit tne bill. Not fast, but will handle well, and last a long time with little maintenance, that will be cheap when needed.

stickguy

not sure you even get a 3 year old Civic for 12K these days. Maybe an LX from 2011.

I still think Civics are silly to buy used. Could probably do a lot better on an Elantra

henryn

That 2006 Passat probably has the 2.0T engine, which would make it rather quick and a lot of fun to drive. A used Civic or Cruz just isn't going to be in the same ball park.

I would suggest looking for an Accord, Altima, Mazda6, or Camry with the V6.

roadburner

Mazda3, Mazda6, Miata, Civic Si, WRX...

graphicguy

roadburner said:

Mazda3, Mazda6, Miata, Civic Si, WRX...

Like the Subaru WRX suggestion...if you can find a used one that some teen or 20 something didn't pimp out.

dunnagan92

Thanks guys ha lets bump the price up to around 15k and yea im just having trouble fining options. Im looking for something preferably with 4 doors, sedan, would be open to an suv but itd have to have a v8 in it lol. I was looking at maximas and g series infinitis with the 3.5l v6 in them.
to be real, i just want something that runs well with some power, looks nice, and will last without constant repairs... and as long as parts arent more costly than what vw are, Id be ok with it.

stickguy

a V6 Accord could work, but they are pricey used.

for 15K. an Acura Tl would be a good option.