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1. •  
     CommentAuthorgrumpy old man
   • CommentTimeJun 25th 2008

    
   I'd like a cross-over. Good on gas. Quality. I like the new Toyota Rav 4 and the Jeep Compass
   
   Any experience with these models? Any other recommendations?
2. • CommentAuthorEdWin
   • CommentTimeJun 25th 2008

    
   I drive a 2008 Toyota Matrix. I really like this car. It's fantastic on gas; I can get by for 3 weeks of city driving on one tank.
3. • CommentAuthorallstonj
   • CommentTimeJun 25th 2008

    
   I went through this a year and a half ago. I test drove a RAV 4, a Honda CRV, a Subaru Forrester and a Nissan X-Trail.
   <p>
   My first impression of the Subaru was a cheap looking plastic interior. That pretty much turned me off this vehicle even though the performance was probably the best of the lot.
   <p>
   The CRV seemed to be way overpriced compared to the others. I found the seats to be a little narrow and I'm not on the heavy side. Performance was ok.
   <p>
   The RAV4 was my second choice. Nothing really wrong with it, but it didn't match up with my list of desired features as well as the X-Trail.
   <p>
   The must have features I wanted included a 4 cylinder engine with standard transmission, selectable all or two wheel drive, sun roof, heated seats (not leather) and air conditioning. Only the X-Trail had all these features. Nissan also had a low interest financing plan available at the time. As an added bonus, on the day I made the deal, Nissan upped the ante with a $2,000 rebate. The decision wasn't hard to make.
   <p>
   I have no qualms about recommending this vehicle.

   Thankful People: grumpy old man, Omega
4. •  
     CommentAuthorNorthlands
   • CommentTimeJun 25th 2008

    
   I've only experience with the RAV 4. Not much either since I don't own it. My mother owns an '07 , but this one has a 6 cyl ( not sure if you are looking for a 4 cyl, or not. ) It's interesting to note that the EPA ratings between the 4 and 6 cylinder models didn't vary too much. ( 23 city / 28 hwy 4 cyl ) and ( 22 city / 29 hwy 6 cyl ). The 6 has pretty large hp 267bhp I think, and it CAN move .. be careful of those radar cams : ) , and will haul 4 people pretty easily. I've driven the thing around four dozen times ( yeah, I love vehicles... ) and find the throttle to be pretty touchy. Apparently that was an issue for this model ( 4 cylinders included ) and the Camry does the same thing. Rides a little stiff, less car like than the last generation RAV. In typical Toyota fashion, the dash layout is pretty simple and easy to use.
   
   So far no mechanical issues ( 12k kms ) Everything works pretty good maybe except the air conditioning. It's a little weak. Taking it in and hoping this isn't a common experience for other owners.
   
   
   Honda CRV is in the category. Consider test driving one of those? Dodge also has that new crossover , the " Journey " Kind of reminds me of a smaller and much cooler looking minivan. Haven't been in one yet.
   
   I've no experience with the Compass , yet.

   Thankful People: grumpy old man
5. •  
     CommentAuthorJimmytufish
   • CommentTimeJun 25th 2008

    
   Check out the Hyundai Santa Fe. It's maavelous...simply maavelous. This is coming from a guy that has driven Cadillacs for years.
   
   http://www.auto123.com/en/hyundai/santa-fe-awd/2008/review?carid=1082500607&artid=96815
   
   http://www.auto123.com/en/hyundai/santa-fe-fwd/2008?carid=1082500601

   Thankful People: grumpy old man
6. •  
     CommentAuthorjim
   • CommentTimeJun 25th 2008

    
   I will secound that as I have severel freinds give it high marks.
7. • CommentAuthorInTheKnow
   • CommentTimeJun 25th 2008 edited

    
   grumpy
   
   I'd like a cross-over. Good on gas. Quality. I like the new Toyota Rav 4 and the Jeep Compass
   
   rav 4 stay away from jeep/chryco
   
   and for bang for the buck like jimmy said check out the hyundai, its not a toyota but getting close, you pay more for toyota and always get it back in resale or if u happen to have to write it off
   
   quality rav 4
   price hyundai
   remember quaility is remembered long after price is forgotten

   Thankful People: grumpy old man
8. •  
     CommentAuthorpegcity
   • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

    
   Import. Yes I know most import cars are built in North America, but ever since those sunfire's and cavaliers/cobalts came around, I've changed my mind about sub-compact/compact domestic cars. I'm sorry for hating.
   
   Yeah, I think it's time for a new car for myself too, gotta start saving.
   
   I would seriously consider a hybrid, but if not I would personally recommend any type of Honda vehicle, I don't want to jinx anything but the 98 Honda Civic I've been driving has been great to me for the last 10 years, only real problems have been the wear and tear kind of things (knock on wood).
   
   10 years and no A/C, it's time, well soon.

   Thankful People: Sputnik
9. •  
     CommentAuthorOmega
   • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

    
   I only buy used cars as it's no secret vehicles are overpriced.
   
   I'd be checking out the Dodge journey. If you have cash to blow, for sure Toyota. I take my car purchase very seriously and I hope to keep people employed in North America in good jobs - especially Canada if possible. Lame, I know.
   
   Mind you, this is all coming from a guy who's happy driving an '06 Sebring plain jane (4 cyl). Great car!!!
   
   Allston's requirements are awesome for a crossover and I do agree with many - these are the future of cars. Really gorgeous and a great balance.
   
   I love the <b>look</b> of the pacifica. I think it's just a sexy car, but I do believe it's based on a van?!
10. •  
      CommentAuthorSputnik
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    I would go with a Honda or Toyota.
    
    Definitely cars you never have to worry about as long as you maintain them.

    Thankful People: grumpy old man
11. • CommentAuthorgrdpndr
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    If you're looking at the Matrix, I'd seriously consider the Pontiac Vibe. Same car, but alot less $$ since it's a Pontiac - enough to pay for the gas for a year for most people. As far as the Jeep, don't bother. Even basing it upon fuel alone, you're better off buying my 99 Explorer. I get 25-28 mpg on the highway, which is only a couple less than the Jeep, but at a $20K price difference, that is fuel and repairs for ALOT of years.
    
    A couple other options would be the Santa Fe as mentioned, or take a look at the Kia Rondo or Nissan Versa. Those little buggers are a surprising little ride! Peppy, lots of room (I'm 6'3" 250 lb), and very good fuel economy.

    Thankful People: grumpy old man
12. •  
      CommentAuthorSputnik
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    The Matrix really isn't an XUV. It's more like a hatchback sedan.
13. •  
      CommentAuthorwpg_idiot
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    I once posted this on a different message board. I figure this may help in this thread:
    
    
    Buying a car?
    
    I have a few tips for you people who are interested in buying a car (from a dealer).
    
    When Purchasing New:
    -Be weary of Demonstrator units. Demo models aren't always maintained properly, and some are put to the test quite vigerously (not normally by customers, but by staff)
    -Ask the salesman about additional fees. Some writeup fees and whatnot can cost a few extra hundred dollars.
    -If a brand offers you great amounts of cashback, and deep discounts, usually that means the product isn't selling to well due to quality or performance issues. You get what you pay for.
    -A salesman works by routine and flow. If you feel he/she is moving too quick for you, throw in some oddball questions (i.e. Where did you get that suit?)
    -Ask the salesman what they would personally buy, and what they drive. You might be suprised.
    -Be weary of brand new and newly redesigned models. The first year is usually the trial year where they fix alot of bugs. Ask the service department about any warrenty recalls for that particular model.
    
    When purchasing used:
    -inspect the vehicle rigurously. Look for irregular gaps between panels, miscoloured paint (a good way to see this is with different pairs of sunglasses and the naked eye) and rust.
    -if possible, drive other cars that are similar to see how they sound, handle, and brake to get a general feel of how the car SHOULD be (if your buying a neon, drive the other neons of the same type also, not just the one you want).
    -check under the hood. Inspect bolt heads and other unpainted metal to see if there is rust. On a local lease return there should be little to no rust.
    -be weary of eastern cars, as they are usually driven harder, and have more rust issues as to a local car. Some telltale signs that a car is eastern (other than rust) are the clock settings, radio stations, owners manual (french or english) and window stickers.
    -talk to a mechanic. If you're looking for a good reliable car, ask to speak to an experienced mechanic to see what their opinion is about the cars your looking at. Some might suggest other model years than the one you're looking at. Remember a mechanic is paid for the work he does, not the time he spends with you. Make sure he's rewarded for his advice ($5.00 is generous) and remember, most times, coffee is free.
    
    If you have a problem with a car, make sure you state it and its acknowleged by the dealer BEFORE you write the deal. Once the deal is written, there isn't much they will do.

    Thankful People: grumpy old man, Northlands
14. •  
      CommentAuthorwpg_idiot
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    My personal favorite for the crossover vehicle (if you could call it that) is the Honda Element. Yes, its a box on wheels. Get over it! Its built on a solid, tried and true platform, and is mechanically similar to the Honda CR-V. If you do a lot of city driving, or hauling things around (say, deliveries), the Element is EXCELLENT and is definitely worth a look. This is one vehicle that shouldn't be ignored. And, although it is expensive, its not a big seller for Honda (damn those things are ugly), so you can bargain about the price.
    
    I just got out of the car business, but still know a lot of great people in there. If you want help talking to GOOD people, let me know. Any jerk can be a good salesman, the people I know are good persons.
    
    Other vehicles I'd consider looking at are:
    Toyota Rav 4
    Kia Sportage (Hyundai's brother)
    
    The Sportage really impressed me when I drove it a few years ago, but I never used to consider Kia as a good vehicle. Surprisingly though, Hyundai's (err, Kia) quality has really improved in the last few years, and in a few more, you'll see that the Korean manufacturers are big contenders in the North American market.
    
    Something to keep in mind: Think about how long you want to own your new vehicle. If you're leasing it, you need to consider the depreciation value of it. If you're buying it, and looking to drive it till it dies, you should consider the quality and reliability factors. I'd suggest the last production years of the current style. By the 4th year, usually they have all the bugs fixed ;).

    Thankful People: grumpy old man
15. •  
      CommentAuthorcherenkov
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    Hyundai Tuscon is smaller than the Santa Fe, if you're looking for something a little smaller.
    
    The quality gap between Honda/Toyota and other manufacturers has virtually disappeared, so don't place too much weight on their reputation when comparing vehicles.

    Thankful People: grumpy old man
16. •  
      CommentAuthorgrumpy old man
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     

    Posted By: OmegaI'd be checking out the Dodge journey. If you have cash to blow, for sure Toyota. I take my car purchase very seriously and I hope to keep people employed in North America in good jobs - especially Canada if possible.

    I did ask the sales rep if the RAV 4 was Canadian built. Not yet I'm afraid. Too bad. The Toyota plant in Cambridge is know for producing high quality.
    
    

    Posted By: grdpndrAs far as the Jeep, don't bother. Even basing it upon fuel alone

    Were you referring to mileage in the Compass? I'll likely get the 4 cylinder or MAYBE the 6. You believe the mileage in those engines is poor? I know my current Jeep has poor mileage but that's because it has an 8 cylinder engine.
17. •  
      CommentAuthorNorthlands
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    The Compass will land you about 24 city/ 27 hwy with the CVT transmission. ( US Gallons, I'm staring at a car magazine at the moment... ) It'll kick out one more mpg on the highway if you get a 5 speed manual. Both engine offerings are four cyl. One is a 2.0 and the other is a 2.4 L . Hope any of that helps.

    Thankful People: grumpy old man
18. •  
      CommentAuthorGrumpy_Old_Guy
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    There are no savings in buying the cheaper Jeep. The Chrysler products crash in value and any price advantage at purchase time will be more than wiped out at resale or trade in time. Japanese or Korean is the only way to go in this category.

    Thankful People: Jimmytufish
19. •  
      CommentAuthorStBPegger
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    My thoughts, coming for a quality priority perspective, as I hate when things keep breaking down on cars. (NEVER own a Jetta)
    
    1. Buy a car that is made either in Canada/US or Japan. I own a Matrix and husband owns a RAV4. Both are quality vehicles with only minor problems - had to replace the hatch opening-thing. Good service when taking in for maintenance. Biggest complaint is lack of power on both vehicles, especially when passing on single-lane highway. Note both cars are stick, so I'm not too sure if that's part of the problem. All in all, we would recommend both vehicles.
    
    2. A friend was comparing RAV4 and CRV, and went with the RAV4 because he found you got more stuff for $.
    
    3. My mechanic friend says to stay away from Kia.
    
    4. When we were vacationing last year we rented a Ford Edge, which has similar milage to the RAV4. It was crazy roomy, was super quiet and had a load of stuff in the vehicle. While we still have the belief that Ford's quality is dubious, depending on the market when we're looking to buy again, it might be actually on the consideration list it impressed us so much. (And we literally drove all around Nova Scotia in the thing, so we spent a lot of time in it!)

    Thankful People: grumpy old man
20. •  
      CommentAuthorcancelbot
    • CommentTimeJun 26th 2008

     
    Moderator
    FWIW I have driven a series of GM cars over the past decade (I'm about the functionality, what can I say) and I have found the quality to be quite good. I have never had to bring any of them in for major repairs, and routine maintenance seems to do the job nicely. They have come a long way from even the early 90s...
    
    I guess GM doesn't hold value as well as some of the more popular Japanese makes like Honda or Toyota, but I get the impression that the price differential between Honda/Toyota and GM, which was justifiable 10-15 years ago, really isn't anymore. GM has closed the quality gap and they take cars seriously now instead of just treating them as afterthoughts to their line of trucks/SUVs.
    
    I'm not going to say GM makes the best vehicles out there, but I will say that owning one is relatively carefree, and they deliver very good value for money.

    Thankful People: grumpy old man