Which Crossover/SUV?

Less · 04-23-09, 08:05

I'm thinking about getting a new vehicle. I currently have a 2006 Infinity G35 6MT sedan.
I love it...alot.

But it's a stick shift and my wife refuses to learn how to drive it. If her van needs repairs, maintenance, or detailing, it's impossible for us to switch cars. Doesn't sound that bad, but it leads to alot of inconvenient situations.

It's also RWD, which is absolutely arduous in the New Hampshire winters. Also, not the safest ride for me and my 3 kids.

I don't want to spend alot of money. My budget is around $8-$10K plus the trade in value of the G. I'm guessing a dealer will probably give me around $16,500 for it. It's got some wear and tear, one severely curb-rashed wheel, and some damage to both bumpers that will most likely require a respray.

I've just started looking, but I think my options are probably narrowed down to 1) Honda CR-V 2) Mazda CX-7 or 3) Nissan Rogue.

I may also consider a certified used car, which opens up my options a bit I think. If I go that route, I can probably include an Acura RDX, Infinity FX35, etc.

I'm really looking for something that is AWD, Automatic, 20+ MPG, handles like a car, but provides more backseat and cargo room than the G35.

Blake · 04-23-09, 08:10

Our daughter and son in law have a Rav 4 and love it. It sure seems to be a very nice vehicle. It is V-6 and gives great gas mileage.

Accumulator · 04-23-09, 08:44

Less- IMO you and your wife need some seat time in the ones on your short-list. When we looked at smallish-SUVs, we found that the interior room wasn't always what we'd expected, and some of them had visibility issues (blind spots).

Also, you wife might like/dislike things like turbocharged engines (think trubo lag and/or uneven power delivery).

I'd also give some consideration to the dealers you'd be doing business with. My Mazda dealer is pretty awful and they sure don't make our ownership experience any easier.

And yeah...people sure do like their Rav 4s, especially with that six. Ditto for the little Lexus SUVs (I kinda prefer the Rav myself).

UpNorth · 04-23-09, 09:52

I live in Alaska and have a 2007 AWD CX 7. It is great in the snow (with good tires).

Given what you are coming from, I think the CRV may be too dull. The cx7 is truly fun to drive, but it is also pretty well mannered when you don't gun it. I went through the first model year glitches, but I think those are pretty much resolved. I selected the CX 7 in part because it was a top safety pick. It's got a great solid feel and for a car this big, great fun. I have loved my road trips on our windy roads. And the brakes are amazing. (I'm actually selling it though and moving to a smaller car with a manual transmission as I find I just don't need something so large.)

But as wisely stated above, you and your wife should both try out the options on your list.

gchristopher9 · 04-23-09, 10:00

I have an FX35 and would highly recommend it. Interior space isn't anything to write home about though. Cargo area is pretty small, and anything more than 4 adults and things start to get cramped. It has some pretty serious blind spots as well, with it have such thick A and C pillars. That being said, this probably the most fun Crossover on the road today. Feels great through corners, and even the V6 has plenty of power. I've added a couple suspension mods (springs, bracing) and it truely feels like its riding on rails. Not to mention it is one of the boldest looking SUVs out there.

corrswitch · 04-23-09, 10:02

Its all about what the significant other wants. Not sure if you considered the Subaru Forester (the newer one), it fits most of your criteria and very car-like and non of your other choices beats the Forester in the snow.

All pretty good choices except you might have to worry about the CX-7 and the turbo. Maintenance and lag could be a problem.

If you get to try out the cars in slippery or wet conditions, then you can see if which one handles the best according to your driving styles.

If all else fails, look into which car protects you and your wife the best. search IIHS on google.

Hope this helps.

cptzippy · 04-23-09, 10:09

My wife has an Acura MDX and the RDX might be a good fit for what you've described. We've been very pleased with hers and haven't had a lick of trouble.

As for the subie forrester, I had one before I got my car (think is was a 2004). It was very reliable but not comfortable at all. Not sure if they've fixed that in the new ones but it was so bad I ended up selling the thing. Also mine only got about 17mpg but it was a turbo version.

Haven't looked into prices or specs but the Toyota versa looks like a nice bet.

Lastly, fits very few of your criteria but have you considered a Mini Cooper Clubman?

Blake · 04-23-09, 10:22

Quote:

Originally Posted by cptzippy

Haven't looked into prices or specs but the Toyota versa looks like a nice bet.

Think that is the Venza?

There are a ton of choices but the main thing will be price, dealer, and most importantly your own wants.
I love my RX but it may not fit your budget. Last time I was in Florida I rented a Highlander and really liked it. It is a good crossover but maybe not too cute.
This is not an easy choice.

dublifecrisis · 04-23-09, 10:53

CX-7, VW Tiguan

SCoach · 04-23-09, 11:21

How about something like a Forester? Rather than getting saddled with something as boring as a 4-banger mini-ute, why not get something that is actually AWD and a lot of fun.

The engine is a detuned STi motor, so if you are so inclined, you can do a quick retune and have one heck of a sleeper. Fuel mileage is about where you want it too.

Cargo room is decent, back seat room isn't much different than with the smaller crossovers, and since it's lower to the ground, you won't feel as unstable in crosswinds.

I wanted one of these, but it was a bit spendy for me, so I got a WRX instead.

Price should be just about where you need it.

snowskate · 04-23-09, 11:31

+1 on the Forrester. It's a great total package.
It should be completely redesigned from 2004.
Check out the Venza as well. My parents just got one (Black - oh great!).
It seems roomy, but could be at the higher end of your price range.
CR-V looks sharp, but I expect it's time for a redesign.
RAV-4 just got a freshened look as well.

Darkstar752 · 04-23-09, 11:36

Acura RDX. AWD, good handling, decent gas mileage, faster than my mom's 5.7L Grand Cherokee, very reliable.