I think where you live the AWD Legacy might be more attractive, even if the MPG isn't as good. For part-time snow the Accord is just fine, but in heavy winter snow and ice I think your leaning toward the Subie makes sense.
No problem, I was considering putting that in my original post, but it always comes off like I'm bragging, and that does not elicit good advice.
I'm looking for a 4 door so the coupe doesn't really cut it. Never liked 2 or 3 door cars, the back of seats get so dirty climbing in and out in the mud/slush/snow/mag-chloride.
My Saturn is the 124hp and I think it was only ever made as an automatic. My Saturn gets about 34 highway and 27+ city depending on the week. Also one of my friends who just got an '07 Acura TL has never gotten below 29mpg despite what its rated at, so the government/manufacturer numbers seem iffy in any case.
See, I'm not sure just how necessary full time AWD actually is in Denver. We get snow, but its (baring last year) rarely more than 3-4" and does get cleaned off before to long. And I'm only in the mountains (where snow is often and fierce) for the drive up and back in the same day, or maybe some short driving for a place to eat if I'm staying the night. AWD would be nice if it showed up in more cars of the class I'm looking at, but making it a requirement basically means I can only get a Subaru.
Well, I certainly understand your rationale for wanting a 4-door. We actually seem a lot alike. I'm a Junior in college, but wanted a 4-door as well.
I'd certainly look at a Subaru, but I can't say I'd limit myself to them. The Ford Fusion comes in AWD with its V6 models, but doesn't offer fuel mileage as good as some Crossover SUVs like the CR-V, RAV4, and Rogue.
In the entry-lux field for under $30k, the TSX with a stickshift is a real standout to me. If I were you I'd take a look at it. It has been around for a few years, so it should be 1.) Ultra-Reliable and 2.) Available under invoice. With a stick, it is a very peppy car, although its power lies high in the rev range, it's certainly not "slow" relative to your Saturn or my Accord. It also has Stability Control, handy for maintaining control in slick conditions.
May I suggest a Volvo S40 T5 or a Saab 9-3 2.0T? While neither have AWD, both have excellent track records as good snow cars, and can be purchased with a manual transmission for around $30,000. (both also get over 18 MPG city)
The Legacy is a good choice; it will be more reliable than either the S40 or the 9-3, and has AWD.
The TSX, as others have suggested, is a good choice too.
I need to start shopping for a new vehicle and would like to narrow down my choices for test drives. I am considering either a four-door sedan or a crossover. I currently have a 2000 Chevrolet Impala.
We live a little less than a mile from the highway on a rather rough gravel road. I'm not sure if there would be any advantage to having the crossover for this reason....would it be less vulnerable to wear and tear? The road is flat, no hills. I can drive slow but can't control the other drivers I meet. (lots of dust on the car!!)
I drive 35 miles alone to and from work 5 days a week. I would like to have a vehicle that is somewhat pleasurable to drive during the commute. When I have other passengers it is usually my two pre-teen sons, and sometimes my husband. Boys are getting taller so the rear passenger room needs to be a consideration.
I would not mind going smaller than the Impala for increased gas mileage. I get about 23 mpg with the Impala. If I could get over 25 that would be great.
Safety features are important to me. Traction control is a must.
I think I am looking to spend 20,000 to 35,000 dollars but am more concerned about value than price.
In the past I have always had domestic vehicles. I am open now to any manufacturer, though, and that is making the choices a little overwhelming. I would like to have a vehicle that I can "fall in love" with. If you can give me some ideas, I can start taking test drives and doing more research.
Why not the perennial favorite, the 4 cyl Toyota Camry? It gets good mpg and has good rear seat room and a large trunk. On the domestic front, the Buick Regal or Lucerne. You might be more likely to "fall in love" with a sedan than a crossover, especially for a commute. I'm not sure the crossovers are that much more rugged than a sedan unless you move to a more truck-like SUV.
If you go smaller than a mid-size sedan you will probably rue the day those pre-teen boys grow up!
The Buick LaCrosse and Lucerne do not offer the good fuel mileage skayw is looking for, although the Camry, Accord, Altima, etc... practically every 4-cyl midsizer is going to offer 25 MPG or better. I average 30 MPG in my Accord 4-cyl with an automatic (2006 model, fuel mileage should be similar for the new 2008s).
Check out the midsizers, and I'd look at offerings from Hyundai and Kia as well; the Kia Optima has a better interior than the Camry does, in my opinion. Sure costs a lot less too!
in my original post, I should have noted that my 35 mile commute is on a two lane state highway with lots of hills and curves (Missouri). For that reason I have always stayed away from 4 cylinder vehicles. But, I recognize that I will have to go 4 cylinder in order to get improved gas mileage. So Iguess one factor I should consider is the amount of "get up and go" any 4 cylinder would have.
>The Buick LaCrosse and Lucerne do not offer the good fuel mileage skayw is looking for, <
Agree, but the poster had a preference for domestic vehicles. The only solution to the hills issue is to test-drive the vehicles you want around those hills. The 4 cyl. Camry does pretty well in that area, and certainly the Accord as well.
You didn't mention how satisfied you were with your 00 Impala. Chevrolet has just came out with a new Malibu that you may want to look at also. It has received good press and seems to be a serious alternative to the Camry/Accord. It's one of the very few domestic sedans in this price range that I would consider cross-shopping.
I've looked at the new Ford Taurus as well. With the 263hp engine, it's a screaming deal, with real-world prices starting right around $20,000. It also has a higher seating position than most conventional sedans, and the interior is HUGE, with a 22 cu. ft. trunk (biggest trunk I've ever seen in a vehicle).
The Saturn Aura, especially if you have a preference for domestic. It's somewhat similar to the Malibu, but it's been around enough for used ones to be available, so you could go hunting for a used one.
I would suggest test driving any cars you're considering, whether its an Accord, Aura, Camry, Altima, etc., around those hills that you commute on. Pick the one that makes you happiest.
A crossover might be a little "tougher" than a traditional midsize sedan, but if it is, then it won't be tougher by much, and only due to the higher ground clearance.
In the crossover department, consider the CR-V, RAV4, or the Rogue. The Santa-Fe is a nice choice as well, but will not reach the 25 MPG target you set for mixed driving.
Thanks, everyone. I appreciate the great suggestions and they all seem like good ideas to try out. To clarify, I have only driven domestic vehicles in the past because my husband has been against buying anything else. This time he has let taht go. I don't have a preference for domestic, and am actually leaning more toward foreign, just to try something new. This is my 2nd 2000 impala. I bought one brand new when they first came out and were hard to find. I loved that car for its unique look as well as its ride/etc.. I also chose it for its five star crash ratings. I traded it for a Ford Windstar van, at the time I thought i needed the van, huge mistake. I have thought I would never buy another Ford after that, but I have been reading about the huge improvements. i guess I will have to see.... So, when I went to get rid of the van, I looked for another 2000 Impala. I'm a little less enamored now.....transmission on this one now needs an overhaul and I don't want to put that kind of money into it. Anyway, everyone's suggestions are all intriguing so I think I just need to get out there and start driving.
A co-worker wants to buy a new car and wants to pay $10,000 or less. The only feature he cares about is he wants an automatic. I told him I did not think this could be done in an automatic.
After looking at a few things, it appears unlikely that one could hit $10,000, but could get pretty close with an Accent, Aveo, Ion, Focus, Cobalt, Yaris, Versa all running about $11,000-12,000 based on invoice minus current rebates on 2007 models.
Is there anything I am missing that might be in this price range?
Well Chrysler has overflow of cars in their dealers... they are not selling well....i pretty sure u can get a PT Cruiser really cheap. 2008 models are here so theres lots of 2007 models sitting on dealers lots.... just have to go out there and negotiate and fight a little bit.
Does he have to get a brand new car? There are plenty of ex-rental Cobalts and Focii that can be had quite inexpensively with an automatic. You might even be able to pick up power windows and cruise control as well, if he goes used.
But for new, besides those choices, I would also check out the Chrysler PT Cruiser or a Dodge Caliber. They won't be under $10,000, but they'll be somewhere around $12K.
The Aveo5 hatchback, with a little negotiating, should be able to be had for under $10K. I thought the starting price on those was $9995, toss on $1000 for the automatic, you're at $10,995, do some negotiating, and you should be pretty close to $10,000. it's nothing more than a set of wheels, though.
Also check out the Kia Rio and Kia Spectra; minus rebates, both should be in the $11-$12K neighborhood, with the Rio possibly less than that.
And the Ion cannot be had for invoice minus rebates. It's a Saturn. Saturn has that no-haggle policy, remember? (do they still do that?)
The cheapest Aveo (which is advertised at something like $8995) is only available in manual, from what I can determine. I think you have to go up a trim level and a couple thousand to get automatic???
Since edmunds lists saturn TMV at MSRP, I think the do still do that. I put the Ion in that price range based on MSRP minus a $2000 rebate. Also credit union that he and I are both members of has a car buying service that says they give a $300 discount on saturn.
PT Cruiser that you and previous poster mentioned is one we had not thought of...it apparently has $3000 cash to dealer on it. I'll take a look at pricing on ex-rentals for him too...those would have A/C too, though he claims to not care about that (which is nuts, imo).
Oh, I did not know their replacement was late...I thought that was already available. But then, I was thinking the replacement was the Aura, not knowing much about Saturn.
According to edmunds the $2000 started only Nov 20 and runs through year-end...so maybe this is already the higher cash to clear them out???
The two cheapest cars for the money(NEW) are actually quite different.
1:The Mini Cooper. Base model, few if any options. The reason is because it only depreciates about a thousand per year. This is cheaper than leasing any car on the market, in fact, even considering interest on the loan. Basically for every $100 you spend on the loan, you get $75 back.
2:This varies - usually a Mercury Grand Marquis or a Dodge Ram. Basically it's a $25K vehicle with $8K in rebates at the end of a year. 17K or so and infinitely better than any subcompact in terms of standard features and safety equipment. Drive until the wheels fall off.
As far as used goes, you want reliable, low resale value, unlikely to be leased. This means you essentially buy a Buick. Heh. A three year old LaCrosse CXS is essentially a front wheel drive CTS of the same year. But it's stupidly low priced. Yet, not one was sold to fleets - only the lower trim models which drag down the luxury trimmed one's value into the basement.
The engine is as reliable as anything coming out of Japan and it's not a terribly bad car. If you need a larger car, something like an older LeSabre is also a good choice. My parents did exactly this and their older Buicks are about ten years old now and hardly cost them anything in repairs.
Sorry, but I don't think 31 mpg in something much heavier or bigger than a Honda Fit is going to happen. Even hybrid compact SUVs aren't getting mileage quite that good.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Matrix or Vibe is your best bet. We have been very happy with our Vibe. It's no rocket but it has enough power to pass, loads of cargo room with the fold flat seats, and gets the best mileage given its size. Your cleaning supplies would be no problem at all. It gets better mpg than any vehicle so far mentioned except for the Fit. Interior room is more comfortable for us than the Fit, but that is subjective, so you should see for yourself.
I thought I would be annoyed with the power and the noisy engine, but the more we have it, the more I like it. It's a spunky little car that does everything well. If you look at consumer comments, most people who have them really like them, and now I see why.
I would give the Nissan Versa a try; it is slightly bigger than the Fit, but you can get it as a hatchback, which is quite versatile. Plus, Nissan is putting a good lease deal, low rate financing, or cash back ($500) right now.
Other good options would be the Matrix and the Vibe, and perhaps a 2WD CR-V, Rogue, or RAV4.
Sorry, but I don't think 31 mpg in something much heavier or bigger than a Honda Fit is going to happen. Even hybrid compact SUVs aren't getting mileage quite that good.
You are confusing the new EPA ratings with actual on the road hwy mpg. I get about 32 mpg hwy in my 4 cyl mazda6. My wife gets that in her 5 cyl Jetta, also. Both of these sedans have fold down seats. The Mazda6 is also available in a hatchback and the Rabbit is essentially a hatchback version of the Jetta. So one of those might meet his needs. Diesel Rabbit/Jetta is also supposed to eventually be available.
What would be the new EPA mpg rating for a 3/4 ton Dodge diesel, I bet it would be less than the 20 that he is reporting?
thanks for the suggestions, i'll look these over a little closer. although i'm a SHE , not a HE lol i have to narrow my list down before i start test driving because i have to drive 100 miles to anything other than a ford or chevy dealer. thank goodness i don't need 4WD and don't need to tow anything, have the dodge for that purpose. this vehicle is for me to drive daily . i am used to the power of the pickups so i figure it's gonna take some getting used to a 4 cyl. thanks again for the help and i'm sure i'll have other questions.
I think you'll find most of these 4-cyl cars should be able to keep up with a diesel Dodge just fine. You will have to rev them higher (since that's where the most power comes in) but flat out, they should be just as quick, if not quicker.
Oh, sorry about that...guess I should have noticed the "cuntrygirl" (yikes, that is a really bad way to spell that ) name...
Ford had the Focus wagon, along with ZX3 and ZX5 hatchback versions. Those are now discontinued, not sure if there could be leftovers or if you are considering used.
You are confusing the new EPA ratings with actual on the road hwy mpg.
fair enough. But, on the other hand, you are confusing what YOU get in the real world with what everyone would get. ;b
You may, however, have a point about the Dodge and how that may translate to other vehicles for this particular driver. But I can't know for sure and don't want to be responsible for this person buying a vehicle because he/she THINKS he/she will get 31 mpg, but then not. So I'm going to stick with EPA. That way, its their fault. ;b
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
You are confusing the new EPA ratings with actual on the road hwy mpg.
fair enough. But, on the other hand, you are confusing what YOU get in the real world with what everyone would get. ;b
You may, however, have a point about the Dodge and how that may translate to other vehicles for this particular driver. But I can't know for sure and don't want to be responsible for this person buying a vehicle because he/she THINKS he/she will get 31 mpg, but then not. So I'm going to stick with EPA. That way, its their fault. ;b
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
You may, however, have a point about the Dodge and how that may translate to other vehicles for this particular driver.
Yes, I looked for rating for a truck that size to compare to what she is reporting...I guess they must be exempt. Closest I can come is the 5800 pound, 5L V10, diesel VW Toureg, which gets EPA hwy rating of 20 mpg.
But, on the other hand, you are confusing what YOU get in the real world with what everyone would get. ;b
True...let me revise that to...in CR freeway driving tests my car, got 33 mpg, which matches my experience pretty closely and same for my spouse and her car. Our cars are rated at 28 and 29 mpg hwy by EPA.
In the EPA test there are a number of vehicles, that are larger than Honda fit, and get 30 mpg hwy. 4 Cyl Altima, Accord, and Camry are at 31 for example.
After looking through EPA ratings at http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/byclass.htm for more efficient, utility type vevhicle from Ford or Chevy, ran across the Chevy HHR at 30 mpg hwy.
I don't think a sedan is going to work for our shopper. Might could find a mazda6 wagon, however, and hope to achieve good mileage. I'm not sure I could recommend the HHR, personally. ;b is that much heavier than the fit, btw?
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Mazda6 wagon is discontiued and only came with the V6 in the US, so would not get the mpg she wants.
You know you could just look up the weights right here on enmunds :P ...I did and found the HHR is about 3100# Fit is about 2400#...so, yeah, it is a lot heavier.
I'm not sure I could recommend the HHR, personally. ;b I would not call it a recomendation, just something that seemed to meet her criteria, given that Ford or Chevy would be more convenient for her.
huh. i never realized the mazda6 wagon was v6 only. I knew it was discontinued, but thought there might still be some sitting around out there, or a very low mileages used one.
What about a focus wagon? is that still around? i don't feel like doing the research.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
has been discontinued with the 2008 redesign (its now only a sedan or a coupe; the 3 and 5 door hatchbacks have been discontinued as well)
Used 5 door and wagon Focuses (or is it Focii?) aren't too hard to find, though, and since she has a Ford dealer in town, if any recalls pop up, it wouldn't be too much of a hassle to bring it in.
What about the Dodge Caliber? It's not the most refined of vehicles, but has decent fuel economy, has room for all of her gear, and I'd venture to say that she has a Dodge dealer in her town.
The Caliber isn't a bad thought. My sis really likes hers and I think its pretty decent, too. But she ain't getting over 30 in it. I believe its more like 28'ish.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
also, what about the Chrysler PT Cruiser? That wouldn't be a bad choice either, although I don't think it has a fuel economy advantage over the Caliber.
Pontiac Vibe, perhaps? A Toyota Matrix that has the GM 5 yr/100K warranty?
Here is my criteria in order of important (Year is irrelevant): Sporty, but not a sports car Comfortable Ride Quiet ride Awesome sound system Want to spend less than 30K for a car that has less than 30K in miles. Fuel efficient 4 or 6 cylinder
At the lower end of your budget, I would look at the Honda Accord or Nissan Altima, or maybe even a Toyota Camry SE. (the SE has a stiffer suspension) You could also try a Mazda3 or Mazda6 at the lower end of your budget; all of these options you could purchase absolutely brand new and except for the Mazda3, you can choose either a 4 cylinder or a V6.
Towards the middle range of your budget, you could look at an Acura TSX (around $28K) Saab 9-3 2.0T (the '07s are around $25 or $26K, the '08s are closer to $30K), a Mini Cooper or a Volvo C30. You could buy all of them brand new, if you go easy on the options. The TSX and 9-3 get mileage in the upper 20's range, and the Cooper and C30 get closer to 30 MPG, I think. (The Cooper might even be over 30, if you get the base model instead of the S model)
For used options closer to $30K, you could try a CPO BMW 3-Series (pricey, but many would say its worth it) a CPO Infiniti G35 or a CPO Cadillac CTS. The CTS will be the cheapest of the 3, but none of them will be particularly fuel efficient except for maybe a 325i or a base CTS with the 2.8L V6, as all of them have rather powerful V6 engines tuned for performance instead of fuel economy.
I like the Volvo C30, even though one of the car mags slammed it compared to the Mini. If I was looking for a 4 seat coupe it would be at the top of my list.
I am currently driving a low key Ford Escort 1997, this car is cheap, cheap and also very cheap to operate if I didn't mention that yet. Anyhow I was the witness to a deadly accident right in front of my sub-division and it shook me up (2 dead, 2 seriously injured including 1 pregnant woman critical life lined in helicopter, 1 lucky guy walked away). The 2 dead were in the front of an old Buick with no airbags. My wife has been telling me for years to get a safer car than my escort and I think it's time to do it. After talking to a guy at work who knows car well he recommended Volvo to me and also mentioned Volkswagen for my needs. I can spend up to $6000, 1st criteria would be safety, 2sd would be fuel economy, 3rd would be long lasting car that can take high mileage as I keep cars usually until they die. I don't care about fancy bells and whistles I have no girlfriend to impress. My current Escort has no A/C and no power windows. I would like a sedan but wagons or SUV ok, no pick up truck.
A quick search online returns Volvo S70, V70 which I really like the look but the S90 would be ok, they range $3500 to $6000 and are 1996-1998. What other brands and make shall I look at for safety in my price range?
Comments
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
For reference, here are the Subie's EPA numbers
2.5L non-turbo - 20/27 (Both Auto and Manual)
2.5L turbo - 19/24 on Premium (5-sp Manual)
2.5L turbo - 18/24 on Premium (Auto)
2.5L turbo - 17/24 on Premium (6-sp Manual)
3.0L 6-cyl - 17/24 on Premium (Only Auto Avail on 6-cyl)
I'm looking for a 4 door so the coupe doesn't really cut it. Never liked 2 or 3 door cars, the back of seats get so dirty climbing in and out in the mud/slush/snow/mag-chloride.
My Saturn is the 124hp and I think it was only ever made as an automatic. My Saturn gets about 34 highway and 27+ city depending on the week. Also one of my friends who just got an '07 Acura TL has never gotten below 29mpg despite what its rated at, so the government/manufacturer numbers seem iffy in any case.
See, I'm not sure just how necessary full time AWD actually is in Denver. We get snow, but its (baring last year) rarely more than 3-4" and does get cleaned off before to long. And I'm only in the mountains (where snow is often and fierce) for the drive up and back in the same day, or maybe some short driving for a place to eat if I'm staying the night. AWD would be nice if it showed up in more cars of the class I'm looking at, but making it a requirement basically means I can only get a Subaru.
I'd certainly look at a Subaru, but I can't say I'd limit myself to them. The Ford Fusion comes in AWD with its V6 models, but doesn't offer fuel mileage as good as some Crossover SUVs like the CR-V, RAV4, and Rogue.
In the entry-lux field for under $30k, the TSX with a stickshift is a real standout to me. If I were you I'd take a look at it. It has been around for a few years, so it should be 1.) Ultra-Reliable and 2.) Available under invoice. With a stick, it is a very peppy car, although its power lies high in the rev range, it's certainly not "slow" relative to your Saturn
The Legacy is a good choice; it will be more reliable than either the S40 or the 9-3, and has AWD.
The TSX, as others have suggested, is a good choice too.
I am considering either a four-door sedan or a crossover. I currently have a 2000 Chevrolet Impala.
We live a little less than a mile from the highway on a rather rough gravel road. I'm not sure if there would be any advantage to having the crossover for this reason....would it be less vulnerable to wear and tear? The road is flat, no hills. I can drive slow but can't control the other drivers I meet. (lots of dust on the car!!)
I drive 35 miles alone to and from work 5 days a week. I would like to have a vehicle that is somewhat pleasurable to drive during the commute. When I have other passengers it is usually my two pre-teen sons, and sometimes my husband. Boys are getting taller so the rear passenger room needs to be a consideration.
I would not mind going smaller than the Impala for increased gas mileage. I get about 23 mpg with the Impala. If I could get over 25 that would be great.
Safety features are important to me. Traction control is a must.
I think I am looking to spend 20,000 to 35,000 dollars but am more concerned about value than price.
In the past I have always had domestic vehicles. I am open now to any manufacturer, though, and that is making the choices a little overwhelming. I would like to have a vehicle that I can "fall in love" with. If you can give me some ideas, I can start taking test drives and doing more research.
Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota RAV4 are other good choices for modestly-priced, handy-sized Crossovers.
If you go smaller than a mid-size sedan you will probably rue the day those pre-teen boys grow up!
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
Check out the midsizers, and I'd look at offerings from Hyundai and Kia as well; the Kia Optima has a better interior than the Camry does, in my opinion. Sure costs a lot less too!
Agree, but the poster had a preference for domestic vehicles.
The only solution to the hills issue is to test-drive the vehicles you want around those hills. The 4 cyl. Camry does pretty well in that area, and certainly the Accord as well.
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
I couldn't agree more.
I would suggest test driving any cars you're considering, whether its an Accord, Aura, Camry, Altima, etc., around those hills that you commute on. Pick the one that makes you happiest.
A crossover might be a little "tougher" than a traditional midsize sedan, but if it is, then it won't be tougher by much, and only due to the higher ground clearance.
In the crossover department, consider the CR-V, RAV4, or the Rogue. The Santa-Fe is a nice choice as well, but will not reach the 25 MPG target you set for mixed driving.
This is my 2nd 2000 impala. I bought one brand new when they first came out and were hard to find. I loved that car for its unique look as well as its ride/etc.. I also chose it for its five star crash ratings. I traded it for a Ford Windstar van, at the time I thought i needed the van, huge mistake. I have thought I would never buy another Ford after that, but I have been reading about the huge improvements. i guess I will have to see....
So, when I went to get rid of the van, I looked for another 2000 Impala. I'm a little less enamored now.....transmission on this one now needs an overhaul and I don't want to put that kind of money into it.
Anyway, everyone's suggestions are all intriguing so I think I just need to get out there and start driving.
After looking at a few things, it appears unlikely that one could hit $10,000, but could get pretty close with an Accent, Aveo, Ion, Focus, Cobalt, Yaris, Versa all running about $11,000-12,000 based on invoice minus current rebates on 2007 models.
Is there anything I am missing that might be in this price range?
But for new, besides those choices, I would also check out the Chrysler PT Cruiser or a Dodge Caliber. They won't be under $10,000, but they'll be somewhere around $12K.
The Aveo5 hatchback, with a little negotiating, should be able to be had for under $10K. I thought the starting price on those was $9995, toss on $1000 for the automatic, you're at $10,995, do some negotiating, and you should be pretty close to $10,000. it's nothing more than a set of wheels, though.
Also check out the Kia Rio and Kia Spectra; minus rebates, both should be in the $11-$12K neighborhood, with the Rio possibly less than that.
And the Ion cannot be had for invoice minus rebates. It's a Saturn. Saturn has that no-haggle policy, remember? (do they still do that?)
Since edmunds lists saturn TMV at MSRP, I think the do still do that. I put the Ion in that price range based on MSRP minus a $2000 rebate. Also credit union that he and I are both members of has a car buying service that says they give a $300 discount on saturn.
PT Cruiser that you and previous poster mentioned is one we had not thought of...it apparently has $3000 cash to dealer on it. I'll take a look at pricing on ex-rentals for him too...those would have A/C too, though he claims to not care about that (which is nuts, imo).
I wonder if cash on the Ion may go up as Saturn decides it wants to clean these cars out when the Astra finally gets here.
According to edmunds the $2000 started only Nov 20 and runs through year-end...so maybe this is already the higher cash to clear them out???
1:The Mini Cooper. Base model, few if any options. The reason is because it only depreciates about a thousand per year. This is cheaper than leasing any car on the market, in fact, even considering interest on the loan. Basically for every $100 you spend on the loan, you get $75 back.
2:This varies - usually a Mercury Grand Marquis or a Dodge Ram. Basically it's a $25K vehicle with $8K in rebates at the end of a year. 17K or so and infinitely better than any subcompact in terms of standard features and safety equipment. Drive until the wheels fall off.
As far as used goes, you want reliable, low resale value, unlikely to be leased. This means you essentially buy a Buick. Heh. A three year old LaCrosse CXS is essentially a front wheel drive CTS of the same year. But it's stupidly low priced. Yet, not one was sold to fleets - only the lower trim models which drag down the luxury trimmed one's value into the basement.
The engine is as reliable as anything coming out of Japan and it's not a terribly bad car. If you need a larger car, something like an older LeSabre is also a good choice. My parents did exactly this and their older Buicks are about ten years old now and hardly cost them anything in repairs.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I thought I would be annoyed with the power and the noisy engine, but the more we have it, the more I like it. It's a spunky little car that does everything well. If you look at consumer comments, most people who have them really like them, and now I see why.
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
Other good options would be the Matrix and the Vibe, and perhaps a 2WD CR-V, Rogue, or RAV4.
You are confusing the new EPA ratings with actual on the road hwy mpg. I get about 32 mpg hwy in my 4 cyl mazda6. My wife gets that in her 5 cyl Jetta, also. Both of these sedans have fold down seats. The Mazda6 is also available in a hatchback and the Rabbit is essentially a hatchback version of the Jetta. So one of those might meet his needs. Diesel Rabbit/Jetta is also supposed to eventually be available.
What would be the new EPA mpg rating for a 3/4 ton Dodge diesel, I bet it would be less than the 20 that he is reporting?
Oh, sorry about that...guess I should have noticed the "cuntrygirl" (yikes, that is a really bad way to spell that
Ford had the Focus wagon, along with ZX3 and ZX5 hatchback versions. Those are now discontinued, not sure if there could be leftovers or if you are considering used.
fair enough. But, on the other hand, you are confusing what YOU get in the real world with what everyone would get. ;b
You may, however, have a point about the Dodge and how that may translate to other vehicles for this particular driver. But I can't know for sure and don't want to be responsible for this person buying a vehicle because he/she THINKS he/she will get 31 mpg, but then not. So I'm going to stick with EPA. That way, its their fault. ;b
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
fair enough. But, on the other hand, you are confusing what YOU get in the real world with what everyone would get. ;b
You may, however, have a point about the Dodge and how that may translate to other vehicles for this particular driver. But I can't know for sure and don't want to be responsible for this person buying a vehicle because he/she THINKS he/she will get 31 mpg, but then not. So I'm going to stick with EPA. That way, its their fault. ;b
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Yes, I looked for rating for a truck that size to compare to what she is reporting...I guess they must be exempt. Closest I can come is the 5800 pound, 5L V10, diesel VW Toureg, which gets EPA hwy rating of 20 mpg.
But, on the other hand, you are confusing what YOU get in the real world with what everyone would get. ;b
True...let me revise that to...in CR freeway driving tests my car, got 33 mpg, which matches my experience pretty closely and same for my spouse and her car. Our cars are rated at 28 and 29 mpg hwy by EPA.
In the EPA test there are a number of vehicles, that are larger than Honda fit, and get 30 mpg hwy. 4 Cyl Altima, Accord, and Camry are at 31 for example.
After looking through EPA ratings at http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/byclass.htm for more efficient, utility type vevhicle from Ford or Chevy, ran across the Chevy HHR at 30 mpg hwy.
is that much heavier than the fit, btw?
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
You know you could just look up the weights right here on enmunds :P ...I did and found the HHR is about 3100# Fit is about 2400#...so, yeah, it is a lot heavier.
I'm not sure I could recommend the HHR, personally. ;b I would not call it a recomendation, just something that seemed to meet her criteria, given that Ford or Chevy would be more convenient for her.
What about a focus wagon? is that still around? i don't feel like doing the research.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Used 5 door and wagon Focuses (or is it Focii?) aren't too hard to find, though, and since she has a Ford dealer in town, if any recalls pop up, it wouldn't be too much of a hassle to bring it in.
What about the Dodge Caliber? It's not the most refined of vehicles, but has decent fuel economy, has room for all of her gear, and I'd venture to say that she has a Dodge dealer in her town.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Pontiac Vibe, perhaps? A Toyota Matrix that has the GM 5 yr/100K warranty?
Also PT Cruiser is rated at only 24 mpg hwy :surprise: and Caliber is at 27 (those figures are for automatic trans).
Vibe does get a 31 mpg hwy rating.
Sporty, but not a sports car
Comfortable Ride
Quiet ride
Awesome sound system
Want to spend less than 30K for a car that has less than 30K in miles.
Fuel efficient
4 or 6 cylinder
What should I look at??
Maybe a brand new Altima? Accord Coupe?
Take a look at them at the links below.
Nissan Altima
Honda Accord Coupe
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
You could also try a Mazda3 or Mazda6 at the lower end of your budget; all of these options you could purchase absolutely brand new and except for the Mazda3, you can choose either a 4 cylinder or a V6.
Towards the middle range of your budget, you could look at an Acura TSX (around $28K) Saab 9-3 2.0T (the '07s are around $25 or $26K, the '08s are closer to $30K), a Mini Cooper or a Volvo C30. You could buy all of them brand new, if you go easy on the options. The TSX and 9-3 get mileage in the upper 20's range, and the Cooper and C30 get closer to 30 MPG, I think. (The Cooper might even be over 30, if you get the base model instead of the S model)
For used options closer to $30K, you could try a CPO BMW 3-Series (pricey, but many would say its worth it) a CPO Infiniti G35 or a CPO Cadillac CTS. The CTS will be the cheapest of the 3, but none of them will be particularly fuel efficient except for maybe a 325i or a base CTS with the 2.8L V6, as all of them have rather powerful V6 engines tuned for performance instead of fuel economy.
I am currently driving a low key Ford Escort 1997, this car is cheap, cheap and also very cheap to operate if I didn't mention that yet.
Anyhow I was the witness to a deadly accident right in front of my sub-division and it shook me up (2 dead, 2 seriously injured including 1 pregnant woman critical life lined in helicopter, 1 lucky guy walked away).
The 2 dead were in the front of an old Buick with no airbags.
My wife has been telling me for years to get a safer car than my escort and I think it's time to do it.
After talking to a guy at work who knows car well he recommended Volvo to me and also mentioned Volkswagen for my needs.
I can spend up to $6000, 1st criteria would be safety, 2sd would be fuel economy, 3rd would be long lasting car that can take high mileage as I keep cars usually until they die. I don't care about fancy bells and whistles I have no girlfriend to impress.
My current Escort has no A/C and no power windows.
I would like a sedan but wagons or SUV ok, no pick up truck.
A quick search online returns Volvo S70, V70 which I really like the look but the S90 would be ok, they range $3500 to $6000 and are 1996-1998. What other brands and make shall I look at for safety in my price range?
I appreciate the help.
Patrick