EntropySink
Entertainment & Artistry => Sports/Outdoors & Manpoon => Topic started by: kermi3 on June 16, 2015, 10:23:14 AM
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So I'm considering a new car and I don't even know where to start...so I came to you guys!
My current car is a 2007 Honda Civic. It was driveway bound for most of graduate school, so it only has 59,000 miles on it. I love it; it's a great car. However, it's 2 wheel drive, and I think I'm going to want AWD in Michigan. I'm also thinking that I may want something with a bit more cargo room if I'm planning on doing outdoors stuff (skiing and eventually kayaking etc).
I will probably end up buying something new. First priorities are winter driving, mileage, and reliability. Second is probably space and other features. If I can wait for the 2016's, I probably will because I am very interested in Apple CarPlay support - integration would be amazing, and it sounds like it will be widely adopted for the 2016 models (along with Android's version).
All that said - I don't even know where to start. I've always been a compact guy, but I'm thinking a compact or midsize SUV might be the way to go? I'm not sure about make's - I've always had Honda's, but would something like a Subaru be better?
This is really early in my process, but I guess I'm just looking for tips or suggestions to get me started....Anyone have thoughts?
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I want one so bad:
http://www.subaru.com/vehicles/xv-crosstrek/
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Hey... we're buying a new car, too. But our needs are a bit different. So many choices out there and we're somewhat flexible in price range so it's been hard to narrow down. I think we're coming to a conclusion, though, even if I don't love it.
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So I'm considering a new car and I don't even know where to start...so I came to you guys!
My current car is a 2007 Honda Civic. It was driveway bound for most of graduate school, so it only has 59,000 miles on it. I love it; it's a great car. However, it's 2 wheel drive, and I think I'm going to want AWD in Michigan. I'm also thinking that I may want something with a bit more cargo room if I'm planning on doing outdoors stuff (skiing and eventually kayaking etc).
I will probably end up buying something new. First priorities are winter driving, mileage, and reliability. Second is probably space and other features. If I can wait for the 2016's, I probably will because I am very interested in Apple CarPlay support - integration would be amazing, and it sounds like it will be widely adopted for the 2016 models (along with Android's version).
All that said - I don't even know where to start. I've always been a compact guy, but I'm thinking a compact or midsize SUV might be the way to go? I'm not sure about make's - I've always had Honda's, but would something like a Subaru be better?
This is really early in my process, but I guess I'm just looking for tips or suggestions to get me started....Anyone have thoughts?
Get a preowned Lexus SUV. AWD, low mileage, 100,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty for three years (you can get more if you wish). I love knowing that I get a better and more comprehensive warranty than a new vehicle. Lots of room yet it drives and handles like a car. I had one of these for a few days a while back and loved it. Amazing quality, awesome resale, and all the bells and whistles. Couldn't ask for a brand with fewer issues. Also the insurance for Lexus is sold at great rates. This will likely be the model we purchase to replace outs if it ever wears out.
Typical example.
http://www.bobbyrahallexus.com/VehicleDetails/certified-2013-Lexus-RX_350-AWD_4dr-Mechanicsburg-PA/2539354753
We have 153,000 miles on ours with a single issue so far. The alternator failed about a thousand miles ago. By the way parts costs are also awesome!! Lexus has stellar service teams. Could not ask for better.
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Get a preowned Lexus SUV.
Interesting idea, but my nearest lexus dealership will be 2 hours from my new home...so that won't work :).
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Ours is fairly far as well. They bring you a Lexus to drive while yours is out for service. Call them and talk to them. We thought we were too far and told them that was why we weren't interested in the brand. It was a non-issue. The only time you see the dealer again is to get another vehicle.
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I love my WRX (hatch). It has enough cargo for quite a bit of stuff but is still not terribly oversized. With snow tires it's also super fun in the winter.
I'd suggest looking into the Fit too and a good set of snow tires. That't might be enough for you and the new Fit actually looks pretty nice to me. IMO, they really need a Fit SI
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We loved our Tucson AWD before it got destroyed, great in the snow with a good set of snow tires. Love the Santa Fe so far too.
We also found that Hyundai's "lower end" models also include a lot of features that are extra with other brands, like heated seats, Sirius XM, etc...
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Jeep wrangler. Why? Because jeep
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but on all seriousness, what is your budget?
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I like my Fit but that doesn't seem to 'fit' your requirements. I like my Honda CRV quite a bit so I'd recommend that or Knuck's suggestion. The only reason we didn't do Lexus was cargo space. The trunk was smaller (not sq ft) but the arrangement made it smaller depending on what you want to put in it.
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My wife and I LOVE our Subaru. We have the Outback which isn't what you're looking for, so in all seriousness, I think the Crosstrek fits your requirements. That crossover style sits like a sedan but drives like a SUV. You get sportiness and all wheel drive and roominess when you need it without feeling like your driving a giant van/suv/truck.
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but on all seriousness, what is your budget?
I really don't know it - this is super early stages, but I'm hoping mid 20's...maybe could go a bit up. Going to be financed by family probably, so I have to speak with them. Want to figure out what's out there a bit and then go from there...
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Thanks for all the tip's above all. Obes - why not the fit? What's the misfit? And Hyundai's is now on the list! Yea - I've been eyeing one of the Subaru SUV's micah - I'll have to look more closely at the Crosstec. Thanks!
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PERFECT MICHIGAN CAR (http://www.luckymotors.com/web/used/Jeep-Wrangler-2007-Villa-Park-IL/21491261/)
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:D
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LOL x2
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The only reason I would avoid the fit is because of your location and AWD requirement. I do drive mine in pretty bad weather but you will be in an area that gets way more snow than Cleveland. It has plenty of cargo room and stuff otherwise and I love the car.
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a coment on the Hyundai, just make sure you get the AWD model. We had a Tuscon that we really liked but it was just FWD and when the tires got even half worn they would slip and slide all over a wet road. It had a high center of gravity and no weight in the back. We had some really hairy drives in snow storms with that car 5 or 6 years ago.
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Thanks!
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a coment on the Hyundai, just make sure you get the AWD model. We had a Tuscon that we really liked but it was just FWD and when the tires got even half worn they would slip and slide all over a wet road. It had a high center of gravity and no weight in the back. We had some really hairy drives in snow storms with that car 5 or 6 years ago.
I'm guessing that was before the redesign? The new ones are really quite nice, though I do agree with you on the AWD, definitely worth the extra $$.
Kermi, sounds like you're looking for the same kind of car we were, small cross-over with AWD and decent mileage. Our short list included:
- Hyundai Tucson
- Honda CRV
- Toyota Rav4 (the new ones are really nice)
We also really like a few others, but rules them out quickly because of price:
- Chevy Equinox
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Ford Escape
- Probably a few others...
When you start comparing features and which model you have to buy to get things like AWD, heated seats, blue tooth, etc... you'll see where the value of Hyundai, Toyota, and Honda stand out.
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Am I the only one that puts Hyundai and Kia in the same quality bucket? They both seem so cheaply made in comparison to Honda or Toyota.
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I've owned 4 Hyundais and drive one now. I don't maintain my cars well so I can't speak to the quality (because they all turn to crap after a few years of neglect), but you do get a lot of bang for your buck. Base models come with all the power features that other cars make you buy the mid-grade model for. Little things too that you might not think of, like side mirrors painted the same color as the rest of the car, an air conditioning vent in the glove box and an 1/8th" audio-in jack and usb port in the center console.
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FYI, my brother really likes the new Honda HR-V. I hate crossovers; I think they're just oversized hatch backs. My brother has worked on a handful of them lately and say's they're pretty nice. Looks like they come in AWD so that might be a good one to look into too.
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Nothing at all wrong with an oversized or even standard hatchback. :dunno:
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I like the hatchbacks. My first car was an '86 Chevette and my wife's was a '95 Escort :)
My current car is an Elantra Touring (http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Hyundai_Elantra-Touring/2010/photos-exterior/angular-rear/).
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Am I the only one that puts Hyundai and Kia in the same quality bucket? They both seem so cheaply made in comparison to Honda or Toyota.
I think that is a 20 year old stereotype. Both of these brands, and especially Hyundai, has improved their quality tremendously. Most vehicles they produce are very well made, have abundant standard options (like perspective mentioned) and come at a much lower sticker price than both Honda and Toyota. When I was researching new vehicles these past few months, new cars from Honda and Toyota did not have favorable ratings.
And as a side note - I will NEVER buy a Toyota or a Honda. I have owned a Hyundai though!
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Kermi, sounds like you're looking for the same kind of car we were, small cross-over with AWD and decent mileage. Our short list included:
- Hyundai Tucson
- Honda CRV
- Toyota Rav4 (the new ones are really nice)
We also really like a few others, but rules them out quickly because of price:
- Chevy Equinox
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Ford Escape
- Probably a few others...Honda HR-V
This is an amazing thank you. I see nothing wrong with a hatch back in principal. I have to spend more time with them...
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Jake, what's your beef with Honda and Toyota? I've owned both and would do so again.
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And on the 20 year old stereotypes comment, I personally disagree. In my car shopping over the past decade I have not been impressed with Hyundai or Kia. You can just feel the difference. I'd say the same based on my rentals in both brands.
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All of the Hyundai models have been completely redesigned around 2011 to 2013. They were completely different vehicles before then and aren't really comparable. The new ones are a lot nicer and more powerful than the older ones, time will tell if the longevity holds up!
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Jake, what's your beef with Honda and Toyota? I've owned both and would do so again.
This is based on nothing else but passed on beef from my Dad ;) he hated Japanese cars.
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so, did you decide yet?
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Yep...
Oh... you meant kermi? ;)
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congratulations Charlie! I see a very happy face in there!
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New option?
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:lol:
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Nice charlie! No not yet. May start looking after the move.
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Did some research as we drove...Here are the thoughts right now....
Knuck - the Lexus looks a bit pricy for what I'm looking at - Upper 30's for something with reasonably low mileage.
Other front runners:
Honda-CV
Any of the Subaru SUV's (Crosstec is the most likely)
A Kia?
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/1506_the_big_test_2015_2016_subcompact_crossovers/viewall.html
That guy is influential in my thinking. Any thoughts?
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Nah. Never purchase new cars. Can't afford the depreciation.
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Went out and looked at the Subaru's last night. Just a first look - not even a test drive. Nicer than I expected. I liked them all, but I think the Outback is too long for me. I'll take a closer look at the outback and the crosstech. Also going to look at the Honda CRV...A friend here wants to buy my Honda so...I may get off the stick and really look at this before I leave Louisiana.
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Went out and looked at the Subaru's last night. Just a first look - not even a test drive. Nicer than I expected. I liked them all, but I think the Outback is too long for me. I'll take a closer look at the outback and the crosstech. Also going to look at the Honda CRV...A friend here wants to buy my Honda so...I may get off the stick and really look at this before I leave Louisiana.
I've said before, we LOVE our Outback. that said, we're a family of 4. We have a few different friends with Foresters which are a little shorter and cheaper - I think their kinda ugly but it is a nice car. Subaru's are pretty sweet.
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Well - I reserved a fully loaded 2016 forester last night. Arrives in a couple weeks. No obligation though, so I'm getting ready to test drive a CRV.
Thoughts?
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Not really anything useful.
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Both nice, is still recommend you check out a Tucson while you can.
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Forester for sure.
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I just found out a family friend partially owns a Hyundia dealership...going to go check it out Monday I hope Prelude! Thanks!
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My potential new Forester should arrive at the dealership today or tomorrow. I ran the finances, and I can just barely afford it. Going to go check it out tonight or tomorrow! I have not committed to buying (no knuck - the lexus is not an option).
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Not to state the obvious, but owning a car is expensive... Maintenance, insurance, winter tires, headlights, brakes (ask Micah ;) ). Make sure your budget a little extra when considering the total cost of ownership.
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You can get the price of the upkeep very accurately from most dealerships. They will have a program to keep you under the warranty of the manufacturer and it is easily priced out over 100K miles.
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and research the cost of maintenance for the specific vehicle too.
My last car had stupid sporty low-profile tires that cost like an extra $50 each when I needed tires. And it used "H11" headlight bulbs that they don't sell at walmart but autozone/pep boys/napa charged a shit-ton of money for them.
here's kinda a cool tool: http://www.kbb.com/new-cars/total-cost-of-ownership. Looks like our Newer Subaru is gonna cost about $1000 more (on average) over 5 years for maintenance then my new (used) Hyundai.
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Car parts. Quality car parts can be had online for very reasonable pricing. Aftermarket is fine for many components.
Even the Lexus dealership suggested, and I agreed, that I install an aftermarket alternator.
The VW has quite a few AM parts. Headlights, brakes, rotors, filters (fuel, air, cab, oil), side light fixtures, break lights, suspension parts, and even a bumper cover. Nothing wrong with this at all. They are quality parts that cost a fraction of the price. Many are even machined or specified to be of a higher grade than OEM parts. Great way to save money. Also, do some of your own basic work. Most bulbs are reasonable to self change (hint clean them with alcohol first and don't get your grimy skin oil on them) as are air filters for engine and cab. Clean your car. Inside and out. At least four times a year. Seal it when it is clean. Good sealant is cheap and wipe on and walk away. OptiSeal (http://www.autogeek.net/optimum-opti-seal.html) A bottle of this should last two vehicles at least four years if not six. Clean the car, dry it, and put this on. Done. No wiping it off. Ten to twenty minutes per vehicle. It will layer if you wish to add a coat or two. If so wait 12 hours for each coat to cure. Coat 2 and beyond will take about half the time.
Find local mechanics and body shops that will work with you. The forums for your brand and make are full of them. You can use the forums to talk with the mechanic and former customers. This is how probably 50% of all VW work is done in the US.
Am I still being a tool?
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I fixed your link. And no one was calling you a tool. You're always very helpful and your points were valid. But maybe I see you differently knowing you IRL.
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Not a tool at all, I'm going to try that optiseal stuff. I've been looking for something like that.
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Thanks Knuck. Appreciate the tips (from everyone). And no - I never thought you were being a tool, just different approaches and price points. I have factored in the cost of ownership into things - Hopefully it's not going to be too much more than what I'm paying now for my Civic, and part of the reason I'm going with the Subaru is that Motortrend says that it has the lowest cost of ownership out of the types of car that I'm looking for. I'll take that!
PS - I can't connect to BFC mumble on my new laptop :idk:
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Not a tool at all, I'm going to try that optiseal stuff. I've been looking for something like that.
There are a couple of other awesome options.
http://www.autogeek.net/gtechniq-c2-liquid-crystal.html
Some light wiping required. More like removing a soft very light dust. Easy as pie.
Very durable.
http://www.zainostore.com/product/Z-CS.html
Pricier but best in class.
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Knuck I will look into Opti Seal. Can you recommend a good product for getting rid of bugs. I am having the hardest time cleaning them off even with my power washer. I bought some product from autozone but it is not working very well at all.
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Yes.
P21S TAW and a Pinnacle bug sponge. Cut the sponge in half. That makes it last 2x longer and much easier to handle. I use an electric or serrated knife.
If you ever get desperate use a shower scrubby thingy.
http://www.begreeninfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/shower-puff.jpg
Soak the area well and use normal car wash soap to loosen the easy stuff. Then spraying the TAW on the sponge only work it in. Keep at it until all is well. Wash the area again with car shampoo and rinse really well.
http://www.autogeek.net/p2totautwas.html
http://www.autogeek.net/pinsafscrub.html
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To briefly high jack my own thread...it's all mine! Signed the papers and drove it home this morning (and now I'm headed out of town for the weekend). Got a good price compared to the average paid I've read online. 5 year/100k warranty, with 50k on the tires, and 2 years maintaince because they're trying to pump up sun belt sales. I'll be selling my car to a friend on Sunday for 700 more than the dealerships final offer. It's a very pretty car. 5 year loan that doesn't kill my cash flow! Score!
I'll post more pics once I'm home and I can post them!
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congratulations Kermi. Very nice vehicle. Subarus are awesome.
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:dblthumb2:
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Congrats, love Subaru !
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Thanks! I'm about to take it out for it's first real spin! Excited (even if it is for a funeral)....
Alright Knuck - you've listed a lot of cool things. What would you suggest I do for a brand new car? :)
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http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2015/09/25/do-really-need-awd-in-snow/?intcmp=hpff
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http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2015/09/25/do-really-need-awd-in-snow/?intcmp=hpff
So the answer is yes. we do. Just understand its purpose and limitations.
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Yup...'course most folks don't.