Buying my next used car... suggestions?

Question

Long story short, my beloved Olds Alero was totaled last night when a deer jumped off a ledge on the interstate.

So now I've got to find a new car much, much sooner than I had expected, and I haven't got a clue where to start. I'd like to upgrade to something a little more suitable for my lifestyle than the Olds, although I will miss the sportiness.

The list (the would-be-nice-but-don't-HAVE-to-have)...

--AWD/4WD (I live off a lake where the temp drops well below 0)

-- Room for the dogs

-- decent mpg

-- does NOT drive like a boat

-- Safety ++++

-- would like to stay away from models in the "lemon" catagory

-- something with some git'up 'n' go (alero was a 6 cyl)

I was thinking about a Subaru Forester - haven't gotten out to drive one yet. I wasn't a big fan of the Outback - thought it was too heavy for the engine (I've got hills, curves, and mountains).

Answer 1

You forgot to mention the most important category...cost!  

Assuming you're looking to buy a brand new or almost new vehicle, here are a few to consider.  All of these are about the same size and will have more than enough power and decent gas mileage.

Honda CR-V

Subaru Forester

Toyota RAV-4

Toyota Highlander

If those arent quiet big enough/powerful enough, check out these:

Honda Pilot

Toyota 4Runner

Nissan Murano

All of these have AWD or 4WD, room in the back for dogs/cargo, get at least 25 mpg on the highway (some a little higher), handle like a car, are safe, and most importantly have excellent reliability!

You should also check out the Outback if you really like a car feel with cargo room...they are available in a 6 and 4 cylinder...the 6 has a TON of power.

Personally I'm a fan of the new CR-V, Murano, and Highlander.

Answer 2

easy.. Subaru Impreza!

2000 RS V6, got everything you could ever want

4WD

22/28 mpg

sedan

Perfect crash test rating

And subaru is well known for there handling and superiority!!

you can find one...oh fore around 5-8K

Good Luck ;))))

Answer 3

Toyota 4Runner

yeah it's a truck but it handles pretty good

(speed boat?)

and it's FWD capabilities are outstanding.

Subarus are very good cars a new version of the Forrester goes on sale soon? if your wanting pep the turbo XT  is the ticket.

Answer 4

Hyundai Elantra!! It's the top-rated car in it's category as far as reliability and safety, it's roomy, really fun to drive and economical. I love mine!! I bought a 2007 from a dealer and got a fantastic deal