20k.Dad is ready to buy..V6 SUV..any advice?
09-28-10, 12:51 PM
#16
Lexus Fanatic
In this case, though, I disagree with their classification.....the Forester/Outback (and Venza/Crosstour, for that matter), IMO, are raised-suspension AWD cars. But, I agree.....the vehicle itself, and what you get for your money, is far more important than some bureaucrat's classification on paper. But both the automaker and the EPA have officially classified the Forrester/Outback and Venza as SUV's.[/QUOTE]
09-28-10, 12:59 PM
#18
Lexus Fanatic
Yep.....that even includes the EPA. In this case, though, I disagree with their classification.....the Forester/Outback (and Venza/Crosstour, for that matter), IMO, are raised-suspension AWD cars. But, I agree.....the vehicle itself, and what you get for your money, is far more important than some bureaucrat's classification on paper.
But both the automaker and the EPA have officially classified the Forrester/Outback and Venza as SUV's.
In this case, though, I disagree with their classification.....the Forester/Outback (and Venza/Crosstour, for that matter), IMO, are raised-suspension AWD cars. But, I agree.....the vehicle itself, and what you get for your money, is far more important than some bureaucrat's classification on paper. But both the automaker and the EPA have officially classified the Forrester/Outback and Venza as SUV's.
Don't just blame the bureaucrats at EPA on this.
The automakers purposely get these cars classified as SUVs to game the system and get more leeway with safety regulations, emission and fuel economy standards. Then they market them as cars/station wagons in brochures.
But I agree, classification doesn't determine the makeup of a vehicle for educated buyers.
09-28-10, 01:23 PM
#19
Lexus Fanatic
The automakers purposely get these cars classified as SUVs to game the system and get more leeway with safety regulations, emission and fuel economy standards. Then they market them as cars/station wagons in brochures.
[/QUOTE]
Yes, I know. Subaru, by their own admission (and some other automakers) are guilty of that to some extent. My 2006 Outback, though, seems to have the same safety/emissions gear as most regular passenger cars.
09-28-10, 01:58 PM
#21
Lead Lap
Thread Starter
+1...my in laws have a Nissan Armada(Bigger version of the Pathfinder)biggest piece of crap I have seen and driven...they bought it for 67K in 2004 brand new...I have been trying to unload the thing for 15k but no bites...it has 55K miles on it...the interior is like the worst I have ever seen.
09-28-10, 02:34 PM
#22
i believe they finally nixed that this year.I agree on the material quality; it's pretty plastic (dash, doors, center armrest; and a very cheesy headliner fabric). Limited models help by using leather on the seats, steering wheel, and shifter.
The V6 is very potent, and is able to tow up to 3500 lbs when needed. If not towing, it can easily be very brisk with 5 passengers and a trunk full of luggage. Functionality is utmost; it's spacious, especially without the tiny third row (pretty useless really). There's a hidden compartment underneath the trunk without that third row, which add to the cargo capacity. The rear door doesn't feel heavy with the full sized spare tire. There is a special Sport model (must be V6, AWD) which gets rid of the spare wheel on the rear in favor of run-flats. It's low maintenance, which is what most frugal buyers are looking for. I'm getting 24mpg for the V6 average, which is very good for an SUV with this much power.
The Sport model can handle very well. I say better than most FWD cars out there. I can push the car very easily and confidently, even with the expected body roll and torque steer. Now, it's not like Cayenne or RR Sport, but it handles much better that the previous generation RX330/350. I would even say that it handles better than most Toyota cars/SUV (not including Scion nor Lexus). The Rav4 is not top heavy, and is able to encourage confidence in freeway on/off ramps.
The Limited models have a lot of amenities that make it a lot more pleasant, such as leather surfaces; available Nav (you can buy plug-and-play in-dash aftermarket GPS specifically for the Rav4 about $500 on eBay); push-button start, etc. It does have a significant price premium, but you can get a better bargain if you find a used Limited Rav4 over a base Rav4.
So, for $20k, a used Sport or Limited V6 Rav4 provides a lot of car, cargo, and functionality; just don't expect Lexus quality/materials. Make sure you find one with some upgrades/options, and you'll be better off than new base/no-option competitors.
Last edited by PhilipMSPT; 09-28-10 at 03:16 PM.
09-28-10, 10:15 PM
#25
I highly recommend a used Honda Pilot.. my dad has one, and it is one of the best automobiles we've ever owned. i must say this car has been abused, but with 82k+ miles not a single prob so far.. my only complaint is the hard leather seats, but truly functional for our needs..
09-29-10, 07:32 AM
#26
Lexus Fanatic
I can see where a used Pilot or Highlander would rise to the top of OP's list (being practical, roomy, reliable, affordable, comfortable, safe, available with AWD and smooth V6's, etc.).
09-29-10, 12:46 PM
#27
Lexus Fanatic
A Highlander Hybrid would possibly be the cream of that group, but they are not easy to find as used-vehicles. And the expensive battery-pack is guaranteed eight years by Federal law, but, after that, you're on your own.
09-29-10, 01:02 PM
#28
Lexus Fanatic
Probably too expensive for a nice one, given his price range. The Highlander regular V6 would be more affordable and every bit as nice to drive.
