GM, Ford, Toyota, Honda...Who will sell you your next car?

1161719212261

Comments

  • iluvmysephia1iluvmysephia1 Member Posts: 7,709
    you bet, I've known that all along about my Kia's. They are nice looking, well-built cars that are backed by the industry's best Warranty.

    Kia owners should be proud of their rigs, I know I am! :)

    2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick

  • dieselonedieselone Member Posts: 5,729
    I don't really understand why the Explorer sales are droping like a rock and the Trailblazer is not. The Explorer is more attractive IMO. Better powertrain w/v8, 6speed, 3rd row availability and much better tow capacity/performance. The new Explorer offers as much tow capacity as my Suburban, pretty impressive.

    The Tahoe's are nice and I can see why they are selling well, but things will get intersting when the updated Expedition comes out with later this year. I'm sure a new Sequoia is on the way too.

    As for my next vehicle, I have no idea. To much to choose from. If I decided to replace my burb, I'll seriously look at the 07 Suburban and the extended Expedition. The Expedition has my attention 'cause it has a higher tow rating and the 6speed auto will be across the line, along with the fact that Fords 5.4 has more torque at lower rpm than GM's 5.3, which is more important to me since we tow our boat a lot.

    My wifes job maybe changing which means she'll lose her company car for 6 mos. to a year, so we need a short term ride, or something I'll want to drive once she gets another CC. The options are wide open on what to get. I've been considering everything from a G35 coupe to an 07 Camry SE. My wife's been mentioning a convertible, so the VW EOS looks nice and a Mustang GT rag top will be on the list as well. The G6 convertible looks like it might be nice, but @ $30k we'll go with the Mustang. My wife's doesn't like the G6 at all for whatever reason.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    Big Daddy DIESEL, your killing me pal. :P

    I don't really understand why the Explorer sales are droping like a rock and the Trailblazer is not.

    My Gawd Motor Trend bashed it pretty bad pal. It also bashed the Mountaineer. BTW- Look at the price for a
    Eddie Bauer :surprise:

    The Explorer is more attractive IMO. Better powertrain w/v8, 6speed, 3rd row availability and much better tow capacity/performance.

    The GMers will be nicer and one-up the explorer ;)

    The new Explorer offers as much tow capacity as my Suburban, pretty impressive.

    I want to see how easy it is to push that gutless wonder through the hills. A typical Ford Fault is having all it's power down low. Dodges are getting better at mixing it up. GM has the perfect combination, and you won't get 3 mpg. either ;)

    The Tahoe's are nice and I can see why they are selling well, but things will get intersting when the updated Expedition comes out with later this year. I'm sure a new Sequoia is on the way too.

    If it's anything like the lackluster Explorer, Ford will get it's butt handed to them. You can't build gutless engines such as the 5.4 and call it good enough.

    As for my next vehicle, I have no idea. To much to choose from. If I decided to replace my burb, I'll seriously look at the 07 Suburban and the extended Expedition. The Expedition has my attention 'cause it has a higher tow rating and the 6speed auto will be across the line, along with the fact that Fords 5.4 has more torque at lower rpm than GM's 5.3, which is more important to me since we tow our boat a lot.

    As my Grandpa still says
    "Get the Chains out" !!!! :blush: "I know which way I'm going" "I have $1000 dollars on it, any takers" :P ????????????????

    My wifes job maybe changing which means she'll lose her company car for 6 mos. to a year, so we need a short term ride, or something I'll want to drive once she gets another CC.

    I'm sorry to hear that Diesel :( I hope everything works out for ya pal.

    The options are wide open on what to get. I've been considering everything from a G35 coupe to an 07 Camry SE. My wife's been mentioning a convertible, so the VW EOS looks nice and a Mustang GT rag top will be on the list as well. The G6 convertible looks like it might be nice, but $30k we'll go with the Mustang. My wife's doesn't like the G6 at all for whatever reason.

    Wait until this fall and buy ya a 2007 CTS. :D

    Convertibles for the Diesel....hmmm....Mustang GT a good choice. I like the G6 hardtop which is the most affordable hardtop on the market and you could probably get one out the door for $25k. I'd take the Stang if you wanted a manual, since the G6 is auto-only :surprise:
    G35's are very nice, w/ 6 speed manuel & especially with rear active steer ;)..... Acura TL's are really cool Diesel...... You probably don't like the Lucerne eh ? LaCrosse Super will be interesting..... I say wait until the 505hp. Caddy CTS-V comes on board this fall and tell Momma, that's what ya want :D J/K .....Volvo C-70's are nice but are way over priced for what ya get..... The Volkswagon (EOS) convertible seems nice, but I couldn't imagine owning a VW product with all the bad scores they've gotten lately. :surprise:

    How soon do you need this vehicle ?????

    Rocky
  • dieselonedieselone Member Posts: 5,729
    My wife (possibly) losing the company car is actually a good thing, since she wants to take a different postion within her company. She'll lose the car for 6 mos to a year, then get another..

    As for the Explorer's performance, a month or so ago Trailerboats mag did a tow test of a 5800lb boat with the Envoy w/ 5.3, Commander hemi, v8 Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota 4 runner v8.

    When towing heavy loads, you want a low torque peak and agressive gearing. Ford's 4.6 and 5.4 both have torque peaks that are lower than GMs 5.3 and the 6 auto helps in the gearing department. The main reason the Expeditions have been slow is becuase of curb weight, they have been much heavier than GMs SUVs.

    The Explorer had much better accerationn numbers over the DOD 5.3 powered Envoy towing performance. Even the 4.7 powered 4Runner posted better towing numbers. The mag mentioned what I've long complained about with my Suburban, the gear ratio spacing in the Envoy hamstrung it when towed up hills, and it was worse than the other v8 powered SUVs in that regard.

    As for a replacement car. I have no idea where were heading. It really is up to my wife. She has owned several manual trans cars in the past so a 5 speed manual Mustang GT convertible would be cool. But at $30k plus, there are a lot of options.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    If she likes the Stang alot, then go with the the Stang. :shades:

    Just don't get caught in a hailstorm :surprise:

    Rocky
  • baggs32baggs32 Member Posts: 3,229
    But at $30k plus, there are a lot of options.

    Sure but how many of them do 0-60 in 5 seconds? ;)
  • dieselonedieselone Member Posts: 5,729
    Don't really know for sure when we'll need a replacement car. Best guess is between June and October. Problem will be once things are into motion, we'll probably only have a week or two to find a car.

    True regarding the Mustang GT conv., not going to find another convertible that offers the performance for the $$. Finding a manual trans GT convertible in a few weeks time may be tough. The dealers around here mostly have autos (yuck).
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    None.

    The fastest car 0-60 for around $30K is the Mustang GT. Anyone got one faster :surprise:

    Rocky
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    Diesel you live in Witchita right ?

    I'm sure in KC you'd beable to find one. ;)

    Rocky
  • dieselonedieselone Member Posts: 5,729
    TDiesel you live in Witchita right ?

    I'm sure in KC you'd beable to find one. ;)


    True, both KC and Oklahoma City would be a good place to look.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    Well when Momma get's the notice, then get on the phone and call around. use autotrader.com as a reference if you don't want to spend all day long on the phone. ;)

    Rocky
  • dieselonedieselone Member Posts: 5,729
    One more thing regarding the next vehicle, it has to have a back seat, ruling out the Solstice and the like. Need room for the kids.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    How many kids....2 right ?

    Rocky
  • dieselonedieselone Member Posts: 5,729
    How many kids....2 right ?

    Yep,

    And no, they can't sit on our laps....LOL
  • baggs32baggs32 Member Posts: 3,229
    One more thing regarding the next vehicle, it has to have a back seat, ruling out the Solstice and the like. Need room for the kids.

    I'm ordering an '07 Mustang GT coupe in December or January and have two small children. I already checked with others on a dedicated Mustang forum and many of them do fit one or two kids back there with and without car seats.

    I don't know how old your kids are but I can't imagine many kids past the age of 13 being too terribly comfortable back there though. That's why we'll always have something larger like the '06 Explorer that's in the other garage space.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    The Velite Roadster is the perfect family convertible. I've e-mailed GM like crazy to pressure them to build us family guys a Sebring with a state of the art interior and exterior. Not to mention 400 pouncing horses under the hood with a F-1 paddle shifter. This car would make me very very happy diesel.

    Rocky
  • dieselonedieselone Member Posts: 5,729
    Our kids are 7 & 3. We don't need a family car, I've got a Suburban for towing and lots of room. But it has to at least have the ability to haul the kids around, for say, a quick run the get some ice cream.

    Plus my thinking is, when the wife gets her company car back, the Mustang (or what ever we get) will be my car and I'll park the burb for Vacation/ boat towing duty only. That way I won't have to waste 40K plus on a new Suburban anytime soon.
  • kernickkernick Member Posts: 4,072
    The Dodge Caliber SRT4 will probably be slightly slower than the Mustang GT. But it will also be a few thousand less, and more cargo-friendly.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    Wished it had AWD. That would make it a winner. ;)

    Rocky
  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,794
    so what happened to that trailblazer ext? that was the explorer competition.
    as long as gm uses a live rear axle in thir suv's, they will never match ford in packaging efficiency.
    i think the '06 explorer is a step backwards form the '02-05 in some ways.
    it is heavier, longer, and the third seat is not as roomy.
    my '02 explorer is absolutely a happy camper at 80 mph all day long with 4 passengers and luggage. it has 'only' 239 hp.
    based on edmunds pictures, from the 'b' pillar back, the new tahoe looks just like an expedition/explorer. not a bad idea.
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    Now through April 30th
    Experience Modern Technologies in Motion

    Driving enthusiasts are cordially invited to celebrate Acura’s
    20th anniversary by participating in the Acura Upgrade
    Opportunity Event. Enjoy the power, grace and confidence that
    can only come from the most sophisticated automobiles on the
    road today.

    From Bluetooth Wireless Technology to moving-map Navigation
    Systems, Acura has a wealth of features that can enhance your
    drive. And with an impressive array of special leases, and
    financing as low as 2.9% APR for well-qualified buyers, it has
    never been easier to take advantage of these technologies.

    Get behind the wheel of an Acura today, and experience the
    excitement of new thrills, new possibilities and new
    destinations. Enjoy the season. Enjoy the ride.

    For event details and additional information, click here.
    http://news.acura.com/GoNow/a27335a144848a386897839a2

    *Please do not respond to this email. For questions or comments,
    please visit the Site Help section of acura.com.
    http://news.acura.com/GoNow/a27335a144848a386897839a1

    You have received this email because you requested
    information from Acura. To unsubscribe from future emails, please
    click: http://news.acura.com/GoNow/a27335a144848a386897839a0

    Or mail us at:
    Acura, Client Services, 1919 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA
    90501-2746

    It's a okay deal, but I've seen better like last years promotions.

    BTW- this was a email. The question is, is this good enough to put you into a Acura, or are you waiting for a better deal ?

    Rocky
  • kernickkernick Member Posts: 4,072
    I thought you were inferring the Mustang was a "winner"? yet it doesn't have AWD. ;)
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    The Mustang isn't suppose to have AWD.

    Rocky
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
    I think the Explorer sales are dropping, because it looks so boring...and the Trailblazer looks better. NO question, the Explorer is a better rig all the way around, but it's awfully plain....then the door design inside is horrible. I hate where the pull handle is. Very inconvenient....
  • baggs32baggs32 Member Posts: 3,229
    then the door design inside is horrible. I hate where the pull handle is. Very inconvenient....

    Everyone does but you get used to it. Shouldn't have to, but you do and it's not one of those things you say "Wow, that was quirky but now it makes perfect sense" to either.

    A "cup" will be cut into the door mounted arm rest for MY07. It's primary use will be for opening and closing the door. Don't know if they'll be eliminating the other one though.

    ...and the Trailblazer looks better. NO question, the Explorer is a better rig all the way around, but it's awfully plain

    I still think the Explorer looks better and is better all around. The big thing that got me about the Trailblazer was the extra cost for the longer model with the third row. My wife likes the Envoy but finding one with a third row in our price range was next to impossible. GM is really stupid to have two different sizes like they did.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    The Trailblazer/Envoy, I can promise you this fall will be way better than the Explorer. BTW the EXT got axed. ;)

    Rocky
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
    How, Rocky? Unless it has IRS, a folding 3rd row that an adult can like and an OHC smooth running engine - I can't see where the lousy door panel design is going to be enough. Are they actually going to finally copy the Explorer design?
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    No they are going to set a benchmark design that Ford will have to copy. The new Ford Explorer is a huge dissapointment and it better hope it's reputation has enough clout to save it. :(

    Rocky
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
    That'll be a total first, if it happens. I'll be surprised - given that the new big GM suvs, while "nice", have absolutely no new engineering under them. Even after Ford showed the world how to do it. A rear camera is nice, very nice, and I like 'em, but there's nothing new under the hood.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    The 6.2 delivering 403 hp. is satisfactory enough ? ;)

    Rocky
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
    Totally unnecessary, and at today's gas prices, I'll be surprised if that sells. Benchmark, to be sure, but not one I'd want to emulate. This is the same thing Cadillac did with the Escalade - and frankly, it worked. But having had one, and getting 12.5 MPG on the highway, that's right highway, and never needing all that power or displacement (the thing isn't good off the line, tip in is slow), I'd choose the Navigator, and have, every time.

    That's not engineering, again, Rocky, this is the cheapest way GM can try to get an edge on the competition. Maybe it'll work, it did with the Escalade. But I doubt it - the Trailblazer isn't an ego machine.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    Ok let's race em'.

    I'll take the latest track test results 0-60 in 6.5 MT up against your 8.5-9.5 second Expedition anyday pal. ;)

    BTW- Since your talking gas prices, look at the EPA figures of the Slade and Expedtion. Slade get's 21 or 22 mpg, while the Expedition get's that 12.5 figure. :P Neways this fall with the "state of the art" hybrid motor, the Slade will be over 30 mpg hwy :shades:

    Rocky
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    BTW- The "dime a dozen" Explorer also isn't a ego machine.

    However I see the "well-off" drive more Envoy Denali's than I see them drive EB Explorers. :surprise:

    Rocky
  • baggs32baggs32 Member Posts: 3,229
    The Trailblazer/Envoy, I can promise you this fall will be way better than the Explorer.

    As another said, I doubt it too. Sheetmetal does not a good vehicle make.

    BTW the EXT got axed.

    I'm aware but you can still find them on lots and probably will be able to for a while given how pathetic they are.

    Have you driven a new Explorer? They're quite different from the last model.
  • gasman1gasman1 Member Posts: 321
    Bought a Toyota Highlander about 3 weeks ago. Researched and test drove: Honda Pilot, GMC Envoy, SAAB 9-7x, Ford Explorer, Chrysler Pacifica, and Nissan Murano. Could've purchased Ford with larger rebates and MSRP discounts. Got $2,200 discount and $1,000 rebate on the HL. Bought it because it provided the best overall value for my needs. The GMC/SAAB and Honda were "cheap", noisey, and poorly executed. The Ford had terrible MPG and what's up with those door handles? The Pacifica and Murano just didn't feel right.

    Toyota earned my business this time with a well made vehicle. It provides decent MPG, has quality engineering and materials, and a decent resale value. Overall, it's value for my $$$ that earned my business. Some of the others may have been better in one way or another, but not as a total package.

    Next time? I like the looks and concept of the Buick Enclave/GMC Acadia. I'll do my research and tests, again. If they pass the tests when it comes time to buy...
  • jimlockeyjimlockey Member Posts: 265
    Who ever comes up with a vehicle that is large enough for a family, safe, and averages 30 MPG or better............
  • baggs32baggs32 Member Posts: 3,229
    Who ever comes up with a vehicle that is large enough for a family, safe, and averages 30 MPG or better............

    It already exists, there's several to choose from, and several more to come very soon. ;)
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017

    Have you driven a new Explorer? They're quite different from the last model.


    Yeah, and they drive just like our 2004 F-150's we use as vehicles at work ;) not a bad ride, but I lso expect more and I will get more in 2007 with the new Envoy/Trailblazer

    The Explorer like the Taurus, will meet it's doom :P J/K
    I like the Explorer, but I feel reassured the GM crew will be better. :)

    Rocky
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    Enclave Hybrid will get ya'll over 30 mpg easily. :shades:

    If GM keeps the Enclave in concept trim, I might even buy one. :shades:

    Rocky
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
    Rocky old pal, you can quote all the stats you want to - but I've had both, and my two Navigators got me 16-17 on the highway, and 12-13 in town. The Escalade got 12.5 on the highway, and I don't know what it got in town, I was afraid to look. ;)
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    nvbanker I can explain "why" you got less.

    #1 when you push your foot to the floor on the pedal of the Navigator, not much happens does it ? :P

    #2 When you dip the pedal on the Escalade you get pinned into the seat, thus less MPG. ;)

    Really I've driven both also pal. I never got below 18 mpg on the hwy and I can't figure "why" you got 12.5 mpg unless you were doing #1 because it was so dang fun :D

    Rocky

    p.s.

    like your carspace site ;)
  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,794
    the highlander seats 5. i know it has a third row, but it is only for advirtising purposes. if you don't need the extra passenger room, you don't need one of the explorer's greatest assets.
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
    Wrong on all counts Rocky - Wasn't towing, I did have the Slade fully loaded with people & junk, but that's the way I take the Navigator to the mountains as well. I'm not lying.... Also, the Navigator breathes so much better with 4 valves per cylinder, it never had insufficient power. Neither did the Caddy, but pinned to the seat? I don't think so. Certainly not enough to justify the mileage.

    There is one area the Escalade did have it all over the Navigator though - it uses Regular gas. ;)

    Also, the HVAC in the Escalade was superior to the Gator's.

    Thanks on the Carspace. It's been fun.
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
    image
  • nvbankernvbanker Member Posts: 7,239
    The Escalade pic is on my Carspace, in the vacations album.
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    Okay, I'll take a look.

    BTW- I was actually referring to 2007' model for the the "pinning to the seat" quote.

    0-60 in 6.5 MT is pretty darn quick. I think with the perfect track conditions and a unbiased MT staffer holding the stop watch a 0-60 in 6.2-6.3 could be achieved. :shades:

    Rocky
  • rockyleerockylee Member Posts: 14,017
    So you owned a "Slade". Cool.... Do you like the 2007's ? :shades:

    Rocky
  • gasman1gasman1 Member Posts: 321
    Seating for 5 is all I need. Most of the Explorers on the lots had the 3rd seat which added more than $1,500 to the price (3rd seat and heating/cooling system). I also want heated outside mirrors, but they're not available on the XLT. You must buy the EB or LTD to get them.

    I had a 2000 Explorer and know that the new model is a vast improvement in almost every way. To me, the poor MPG engine is the weakest link. I hope that Ford is working on their engines. They can't keep selling the 4.0 V6 (with improvements since 1991) with MPG the same or less than V-8s. The new 3V 4.6L V8 is nice, but hard to come by.

    I also understand that the interior door pull handle was designed for safety testing. It needs revision. Did they not have study groups comment on this? If they did, they either didn't listen or the doors were opened and closed for the group.

    I'm available for any manufacturer as a "buyer's quality" participant. I promise a fair and honest opinion of what I think and how their design will come across (good and bad). If they already have people like that, they either have the wrong people or they aren't listening to the feedback.

    To be fair, I don't tow anything. It's just the wife and me with some light loads (groceries, luggage, the occasional trip to Lowes, and moving the daughter to/from her dorm).

    We lived with minivans for years, but missed having a hood out in front of us. Car-based (cross-over) SUVs work for us.
  • jimlockeyjimlockey Member Posts: 265
    The big two still doesn't get it. We want high mpg vehicles, not the old standy V8's.

    We want something that will AVERAGE 30 MPG........
This discussion has been closed.

Your Privacy

By accessing this website, you acknowledge that Edmunds and its third party business partners may use cookies, pixels, and similar technologies to collect information about you and your interactions with the website as described in our Privacy Statement, and you agree that your use of the website is subject to our Visitor Agreement.