I'm about to get my first vehicle. I'm having a hard time deciding. I want the versatility and room of an SUV but the mpg and handling of a car. Any suggestions on what to look at. Preferably around 20000 if possible.
6 Answers
I found the Hybrid Ford Escape to be just the ticket for me. It saves me money at the pump with the 34/30 MPG, features a comfortable drive/ride, and offers the versatility of a SUV.
There are several small to mid-sized SUV's built on car platforms that will allow for the car-like handling and decent MPG: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV-4, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Forester to name a few :)
Toyota Venza is the jewel! It drives like a Lexus RX350 but you pay the price of a Toyota. It's roomy and the gas mileage is not so bad. Toyota RAV4 is a very popular small size SUV as well. I would stay away from Mitsubishi, the resale value is very low, that goes the same for Ford Escape. JunisLLC.com
Guess What?? I actually bought a 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander SE AWD with 30k miles for only $17k with a helluva lot more standard features than a Base Model RAV-4 OR Base Model CR-V, which would have STILL cost me MORE ...in the neighborhood for $20- 25k with similar miles ..AND it's built in Japan (not somewhere in Kentucky or whatever) with good fit and finish...If I were to sell the Mitsu today, I'd get what I paid for it :)
Unfortunately not: ( I personally like Mitsubishi myself, and I also know the resale value is not desirable.
I'm basing my answer ont he assumption you're looking at buying new. If by "versatility and room of an SUV", you meant a wagon back instead of a trunk, you have plenty of choices. Size aside (because I don't know what size vehicle you need) there are compact hatchbacks/wagons today that do just that for the price range you mention above ( depending on what trim level and options you pick). Some good examples that have been redesigned or refreshed in the last year or 2 are the Subaru Impreza, Mazd3, Ford Focus, and Hyundai Elantra Touring. For a little more, you can look at the Subvaru XV Crosstrek, which is an Impreza hatchback with higher ground clearance. If you meant for something bigger, no problem. You will just need to spend a little more. Other good choice for small car based crossovers starting in the low to mid 20s are the Subaru Forester, Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Santa Fe. Happy to chat further, as I follow the industry closely, and have a service that negotiates new vehicles nationwide. Happy to help you whittle down the choices further given more specific parameters. My contact info is below. Mike Fromcartofinish.com 240-403-1069