New car decision

[Kristi2k]

We just sold our older car and need to purchase a new car. We currently have the Honda fit (2009) and plan on keeping it as it's great on gas.

We want something that is bigger so when we go to Home Depot or wherever, we can fit larger items in the back. We will go camping or kayaking during the summer, and in the past came across some dirt roads that had large rutts that we wouldn't pass over with the car.

What we like so far from test driving:

Honda CRV - Cons for us is that it doesn't seem very high off the group, but higher than the Fit, not 4x4

Jeep Patriot 4x4 - Cons for us is that I've read some complaints about easy rusting but am not sure how wide spread it is.

I'm looking for comments on the two we've test driven so far and any other suggestions. The price range is limited to $24k.

 

[Vetterin]

Don't think you can go wrong with a Subaru Forester or Outback.

 

[Funyuns101]

another vote for the Subaru's~

 

[Arkaign]

Just grab a 4x4 Cherokee that's a good few years old. You'll save a boatload of cash that would look better in savings It's always more comfortable going offroad and hitting the trails in something that already has a few scratches and dings, and has already depreciated a ton.

$10k, ~70k miles, 4x4, Reliable 6-cylinder motor, win.

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.j...e=b&num_records=25&cardist=767&standard=false

 

[Kristi2k]

I'd prefer not to go used as well, just a personal preference.

 

[CRXican]

I'd prefer not to go used as well, just a personal preference.

and an absurd one

best value in used cars, especially a second/fun/utility vehicle

 

[Eli]

I agree, you would have to be insane to buy brand new for this type of vehicle.

Spend 16k on something really nice and pocket the 8k for a rainy day.

 

[Kristi2k]

I listed those uses off because we would be using it for that, but not ONLY for that. I am still planning on buying new, regardless of the opinions here.

 

[cr2250]

I listed those uses off because we would be using it for that, but not ONLY for that. I am still planning on buying new, regardless of the opinions here.

Seem like the bmw x5 guy, suit you well

 

[PricklyPete]

and an absurd one

best value in used cars, especially a second/fun/utility vehicle

Not exactly true depending on the car you are looking at. Used car prices are absurd these days...especially for certain models. If she were to go with the Honda CRV...it is likely that new is nearly the same deal as used. When it is even close, why now buy new?

 

[pauldun170]

Honda Element - They should be giving those things away.
Jeep Liberty
Stop by a Hyundai dealership?
Subaru's are ok but they do have some issues.
Rav4?
Nissans?

 

[Jumpem]

Outback. It's roomy inside, AWD, good ground clearance, and 30mpg.

 

[alfa147x]

You have a small list. Go drive them and see what you think.