What SUV for $25-$35k?
Discussion
Time for my own ‘what car?’ thread and hope you can all chip with a few ideas or perhaps make my life easier and confirm what I’m thinking are the right choices!
Similar to the other thread an impending baby means the need for change, not so much that what we have now (Lancer) is an unsuitable car but more what have is not ideal in the long term as the primary vehicle so might be changing shortly. Outline as follows:
1. The wife will primarily be driving it week to week with joint use at weekends so I get to suggest and she ultimately picks.
2. Must be Auto, newer than 2010, less than 60k kms, high up seating position, good kit (Bluetooth, ipod connector, reverse sensors etc), enough room for a pram and shopping at same time.
3. Smoothness and a bit of poke ideally – 4 or 6 cyl and doesn’t need to be AWD, can just be FWD.
4. Fuel consumption not such a concern as all fuel employer funded.
5. Have a little bit of decency with regards to looks.
6. Can be new or used – budget quite broad - $25k to $35k as funding method altered accordingly. Ideally sub $30k.
7. Cant be a normal car wagon or car based due to high seating position requirement.
Current thoughts in preference order:
2011 Mazda CX7 Luxury Sports (2.3L turbo version) c.$28k
2013 Mazda CX5 MaxxSport –(2.5L) c.$36k
2011 Nissan Murano TI c.$30k
2013 Honda CRV VTi Navi - $34k
Not so sure:
Tiguan, Dualis, Vitara – all perhaps smallish in respect to boot space
Prado, Patrol,Pajero – too agricultural, too big for the wife
Liberty, Forester/Outback – too car like or don’t like design (Forester)
Pathfinder/Hilux – too agricultural, horrible rear seat comfort
Kuga – Drove one – horrible CVT gearbox. Otherwise pretty decent.
Territory – Don’t like the interior as based on Falcon FG and looks dated inside. Perhaps too big for the wife.
Kluger – Nice but too old for budget.
Yeti – ok but not really the wifes ‘thing’
Freelander – I like my cars working and generally fault free.
I welcome any suggestions but don’t be put off I turn them down as I’ve been looking at a lot and literally run out of suitable options. Also, some have reasons that seem intangible for being turn down, they just don’t ‘do it’ for us.
What i would also really like is opinions, views or experiences on the CX5, CX7, Murano and CRV and which you would choose if it was one of these 3.
I must admit the CX7 ticks my boxes as it has loads of kit, lots of grunt, isnt that bad to maintain, looks modern and drives like a car but has all the other benefits.
Cheers!
Similar to the other thread an impending baby means the need for change, not so much that what we have now (Lancer) is an unsuitable car but more what have is not ideal in the long term as the primary vehicle so might be changing shortly. Outline as follows:
1. The wife will primarily be driving it week to week with joint use at weekends so I get to suggest and she ultimately picks.
2. Must be Auto, newer than 2010, less than 60k kms, high up seating position, good kit (Bluetooth, ipod connector, reverse sensors etc), enough room for a pram and shopping at same time.
3. Smoothness and a bit of poke ideally – 4 or 6 cyl and doesn’t need to be AWD, can just be FWD.
4. Fuel consumption not such a concern as all fuel employer funded.
5. Have a little bit of decency with regards to looks.
6. Can be new or used – budget quite broad - $25k to $35k as funding method altered accordingly. Ideally sub $30k.
7. Cant be a normal car wagon or car based due to high seating position requirement.
Current thoughts in preference order:
2011 Mazda CX7 Luxury Sports (2.3L turbo version) c.$28k
2013 Mazda CX5 MaxxSport –(2.5L) c.$36k
2011 Nissan Murano TI c.$30k
2013 Honda CRV VTi Navi - $34k
Not so sure:
Tiguan, Dualis, Vitara – all perhaps smallish in respect to boot space
Prado, Patrol,Pajero – too agricultural, too big for the wife
Liberty, Forester/Outback – too car like or don’t like design (Forester)
Pathfinder/Hilux – too agricultural, horrible rear seat comfort
Kuga – Drove one – horrible CVT gearbox. Otherwise pretty decent.
Territory – Don’t like the interior as based on Falcon FG and looks dated inside. Perhaps too big for the wife.
Kluger – Nice but too old for budget.
Yeti – ok but not really the wifes ‘thing’
Freelander – I like my cars working and generally fault free.
I welcome any suggestions but don’t be put off I turn them down as I’ve been looking at a lot and literally run out of suitable options. Also, some have reasons that seem intangible for being turn down, they just don’t ‘do it’ for us.
What i would also really like is opinions, views or experiences on the CX5, CX7, Murano and CRV and which you would choose if it was one of these 3.
I must admit the CX7 ticks my boxes as it has loads of kit, lots of grunt, isnt that bad to maintain, looks modern and drives like a car but has all the other benefits.
Cheers!
Edited by Pommygranite on Tuesday 5th November 05:25
Kia Sportage must be worth a look.
Not had a real crawl around one but you can surely pick up an ex-demo in your price range...the highest spec diesel is only $41K. Big warranty on them to.
My neighbours had a baby a couple of weeks ago and they got one in readiness. It appears to be a mid-spec diesel. Quite stylish and got a heap of kit on board. It fits in their single garage so I should think will be a bit more wieldy around town and busy shopping centres.
Talking of garage...keep in mind that a full size SUV might not fit. Even with a double garage you might end up parking in the middle and losing any other parking space. Remember height might be an issue especially with the door in the up position. A roll up door will reduce your garage opening quite a bit and an up n over door will reduce roof height by as much as a foot.
If the other half is driving it 90% of the time she has to be happy and comfortable driving it, parking it etc. I would wait a while and go along to a dealership with bub, pram, car seat, baby bag and all the other crap you have and just try loading everything up. See how hard it is, how much room is left over, how wide do the doors open (big doors won't open much in a regular parking spot) etc etc.
Not had a real crawl around one but you can surely pick up an ex-demo in your price range...the highest spec diesel is only $41K. Big warranty on them to.
My neighbours had a baby a couple of weeks ago and they got one in readiness. It appears to be a mid-spec diesel. Quite stylish and got a heap of kit on board. It fits in their single garage so I should think will be a bit more wieldy around town and busy shopping centres.
Talking of garage...keep in mind that a full size SUV might not fit. Even with a double garage you might end up parking in the middle and losing any other parking space. Remember height might be an issue especially with the door in the up position. A roll up door will reduce your garage opening quite a bit and an up n over door will reduce roof height by as much as a foot.
If the other half is driving it 90% of the time she has to be happy and comfortable driving it, parking it etc. I would wait a while and go along to a dealership with bub, pram, car seat, baby bag and all the other crap you have and just try loading everything up. See how hard it is, how much room is left over, how wide do the doors open (big doors won't open much in a regular parking spot) etc etc.
Because I like left field stuff:
http://j-spec.com.au/featured/2010-Nissan-Skyline_...
You'd have to import though.
http://j-spec.com.au/featured/2010-Nissan-Skyline_...
You'd have to import though.
Cheers chaps - appreciate the input.
Vitara is a little small. I think they're ok but perhaps dated. If I'm spending $30k I wouldnt mind something a little more modern.
On the diesel matter - i'm not sure - i'm a little reliability phobe on this and always worry i'm headed for bills. Also given work pays for fuel not such a big issue. They do suit driving here given that you dont cane it everywhere.
With regards to size, great point and ahead of you there! I measured and all seems ok. for reference my previous falcon was:
1868mm wide & 4967mm long & 1453 high
CX7: 1872 wide & 4693 long & 1645 high (all good)
CX5: 1840 wide & 4540 long & 1710 high (all good)
Murano: 1885 wide & 4835 long & 1730 high (this will be a squeeze).
Good point on the wait and drive. She wont be able to drive till December so will be waiting till then I actually think. I figure if she can handle the Falcons size (which isnt vast) then she'll be fine. However, your point is a good one.
Only issue is getting a commercial hire purchase on one - banks area little fickle on imports. Great suggestion though!
Bibbs said:
How do the modern Rav4s compare? They used to do do a FWD 5 door I think.
Friends have a Suzuki Grand Vitara, seems a nice motor (I'll add I've not really had a crawl over it). Could be a bit small.
RAV4 is actually quite pricey for the spec level. Unless you go over $40k its like being in a NoBirds rental. I think I have an issue with Toyota - once of those brands I dont get. Bit too vanilla. Ever so competent but without and 'charisma' (if a car can have such a thing).Friends have a Suzuki Grand Vitara, seems a nice motor (I'll add I've not really had a crawl over it). Could be a bit small.
Vitara is a little small. I think they're ok but perhaps dated. If I'm spending $30k I wouldnt mind something a little more modern.
papahet said:
Kia Sportage must be worth a look.
Not had a real crawl around one but you can surely pick up an ex-demo in your price range...the highest spec diesel is only $41K. Big warranty on them to.
My neighbours had a baby a couple of weeks ago and they got one in readiness. It appears to be a mid-spec diesel. Quite stylish and got a heap of kit on board. It fits in their single garage so I should think will be a bit more wieldy around town and busy shopping centres.
Talking of garage...keep in mind that a full size SUV might not fit. Even with a double garage you might end up parking in the middle and losing any other parking space. Remember height might be an issue especially with the door in the up position. A roll up door will reduce your garage opening quite a bit and an up n over door will reduce roof height by as much as a foot.
If the other half is driving it 90% of the time she has to be happy and comfortable driving it, parking it etc. I would wait a while and go along to a dealership with bub, pram, car seat, baby bag and all the other crap you have and just try loading everything up. See how hard it is, how much room is left over, how wide do the doors open (big doors won't open much in a regular parking spot) etc etc.
Kias a no go. Missus is a snob. I get it but I also wonder if thats a lot of money for what they are - get a lot kit but depreciation smashes them. I think they look pretty nice actually.Not had a real crawl around one but you can surely pick up an ex-demo in your price range...the highest spec diesel is only $41K. Big warranty on them to.
My neighbours had a baby a couple of weeks ago and they got one in readiness. It appears to be a mid-spec diesel. Quite stylish and got a heap of kit on board. It fits in their single garage so I should think will be a bit more wieldy around town and busy shopping centres.
Talking of garage...keep in mind that a full size SUV might not fit. Even with a double garage you might end up parking in the middle and losing any other parking space. Remember height might be an issue especially with the door in the up position. A roll up door will reduce your garage opening quite a bit and an up n over door will reduce roof height by as much as a foot.
If the other half is driving it 90% of the time she has to be happy and comfortable driving it, parking it etc. I would wait a while and go along to a dealership with bub, pram, car seat, baby bag and all the other crap you have and just try loading everything up. See how hard it is, how much room is left over, how wide do the doors open (big doors won't open much in a regular parking spot) etc etc.
On the diesel matter - i'm not sure - i'm a little reliability phobe on this and always worry i'm headed for bills. Also given work pays for fuel not such a big issue. They do suit driving here given that you dont cane it everywhere.
With regards to size, great point and ahead of you there! I measured and all seems ok. for reference my previous falcon was:
1868mm wide & 4967mm long & 1453 high
CX7: 1872 wide & 4693 long & 1645 high (all good)
CX5: 1840 wide & 4540 long & 1710 high (all good)
Murano: 1885 wide & 4835 long & 1730 high (this will be a squeeze).
Good point on the wait and drive. She wont be able to drive till December so will be waiting till then I actually think. I figure if she can handle the Falcons size (which isnt vast) then she'll be fine. However, your point is a good one.
Ten Four said:
Because I like left field stuff:
http://j-spec.com.au/featured/2010-Nissan-Skyline_...
You'd have to import though.
Ooh I like that - Infiniti for $60k more?! http://j-spec.com.au/featured/2010-Nissan-Skyline_...
You'd have to import though.
Only issue is getting a commercial hire purchase on one - banks area little fickle on imports. Great suggestion though!
If it wasn't for the fact that both me and Mrs PB prefer manual, we'd probably be in a Mazda6 wagon or CX7. I think the new Mazda6 is one of the best looking new cars around, and good inside too.
Looking around the local area to see what's popular, all the larger family cars seem to be Subaru (Outback and Forester, occasional Tribeca), Mazda (CX7 & 9), Volvo (XC70 & 90), Toyota (Kluger, Prado and Landcruiser - not Rav4) with a small sprinkling of the usual German suspects, and one or two Territories. So, Japanese or Swedish is preferred.
Not sure if any of that's useful...
Looking around the local area to see what's popular, all the larger family cars seem to be Subaru (Outback and Forester, occasional Tribeca), Mazda (CX7 & 9), Volvo (XC70 & 90), Toyota (Kluger, Prado and Landcruiser - not Rav4) with a small sprinkling of the usual German suspects, and one or two Territories. So, Japanese or Swedish is preferred.
Not sure if any of that's useful...
MonkeyMatt said:
Subaru Tribecas were also on my list but they are but ugly!
No pretty, no! A friend has a 2007 Tribeca, and, looks aside, loves it - that 3-litre flat six is a nice engine to use. It also has the required seat tether anchor points such that all five rear seats can be used for child seats - don't think any of the others mentioned do this.Come on, stop kidding every one, we know your wife is going to buy a Jeep. 
My daughter is really happy with her RAV4. It is the low spec front drive only, but she loves it, & particularly likes the high driving position. I think it was only about $25,000 new in Darwin, so should be cheaper down south.
I have only been in it when she drove me & the dog to the vet, & even the back with the seat down was OK to ride in.
My daughter is really happy with her RAV4. It is the low spec front drive only, but she loves it, & particularly likes the high driving position. I think it was only about $25,000 new in Darwin, so should be cheaper down south.
I have only been in it when she drove me & the dog to the vet, & even the back with the seat down was OK to ride in.
Pommygranite said:
Freelander – I like my cars working and generally fault free.
the old man has had 2 of these a series 1 and a series 2. Whilst i generaly dislike his choice in cars, the series 2 has been reliable with not a single fault on it and it has close on 200,000km on it and he has only had it 3 years.Edited by Pommygranite on Tuesday 5th November 05:25
its a little bit bigger than the Rav 4 and forester but not as big as a prado.
PomBstard said:
If it wasn't for the fact that both me and Mrs PB prefer manual, we'd probably be in a Mazda6 wagon or CX7. I think the new Mazda6 is one of the best looking new cars around, and good inside too.
Looking around the local area to see what's popular, all the larger family cars seem to be Subaru (Outback and Forester, occasional Tribeca), Mazda (CX7 & 9), Volvo (XC70 & 90), Toyota (Kluger, Prado and Landcruiser - not Rav4) with a small sprinkling of the usual German suspects, and one or two Territories. So, Japanese or Swedish is preferred.
Not sure if any of that's useful...
A few good ideas there - always fear European stuff will get expensive out of warranty - especially here in Oz where printer ink is cheaper than anything related to something european. Looking around the local area to see what's popular, all the larger family cars seem to be Subaru (Outback and Forester, occasional Tribeca), Mazda (CX7 & 9), Volvo (XC70 & 90), Toyota (Kluger, Prado and Landcruiser - not Rav4) with a small sprinkling of the usual German suspects, and one or two Territories. So, Japanese or Swedish is preferred.
Not sure if any of that's useful...
Personally I do miss using a manual but here it just seems so pointless due to the mind numbing driving environment.
Is the Mazda 6 very interesting to drive? Looks nice but seems a bit Camry, perhaps i'm wrong.
PomBstard said:
MonkeyMatt said:
Subaru Tribecas were also on my list but they are but ugly!
No pretty, no! A friend has a 2007 Tribeca, and, looks aside, loves it - that 3-litre flat six is a nice engine to use. It also has the required seat tether anchor points such that all five rear seats can be used for child seats - don't think any of the others mentioned do this.MonkeyMatt said:
Jader1973 said:
Holden Captiva?
Not a patch on the Mazda, Its basicaly a budget Korean SUVHasbeen said:
Come on, stop kidding every one, we know your wife is going to buy a Jeep.
My daughter is really happy with her RAV4. It is the low spec front drive only, but she loves it, & particularly likes the high driving position. I think it was only about $25,000 new in Darwin, so should be cheaper down south.
I have only been in it when she drove me & the dog to the vet, & even the back with the seat down was OK to ride in.
Actually Hasbeen - you might end up being right. She quite likes the Jeep Cherokee. Are they any good?My daughter is really happy with her RAV4. It is the low spec front drive only, but she loves it, & particularly likes the high driving position. I think it was only about $25,000 new in Darwin, so should be cheaper down south.
I have only been in it when she drove me & the dog to the vet, & even the back with the seat down was OK to ride in.
Rav4 - as said, quite expensive and unless you spend over $38k the interior is pretty basic like a rental. Look nice though.
ezakimak said:
Pommygranite said:
Freelander – I like my cars working and generally fault free.
the old man has had 2 of these a series 1 and a series 2. Whilst i generaly dislike his choice in cars, the series 2 has been reliable with not a single fault on it and it has close on 200,000km on it and he has only had it 3 years.Edited by Pommygranite on Tuesday 5th November 05:25
its a little bit bigger than the Rav 4 and forester but not as big as a prado.
Colonial said:
CX5 would be my pick.
Mistubishi Outlander/Peugeot/Citroen versions?
Standard auto version of the Kuga?
New forester?
I like the Outlander (old version) but given we currently have a Lancer wife isnt keen, especially on the interior. New one is a visual mess. Mistubishi Outlander/Peugeot/Citroen versions?
Standard auto version of the Kuga?
New forester?
Could I bring myself to buy PSA here in Oz? resell values and service is patchy but maybe i'm wrong.
Dont mind the Kuga but the non-CVT versions are pricy i think (over $40k).
New Forester is too car like for the missus - you dont sit high enough apparently...
WeirdNeville said:
2.3 Turbo in the CX7 is a monster (in things like MPS's). I'd be happy with that.
However, in-laws have had a Yeti for 2 years now, and it's a brilliant car. Proper AWD, really well thought out ergonomically, and if your Mrs is that much of a badge snob that she turn her nose up at a Skoda even now.... wellll.......
She doesnt have a Skoda image issue - in fact she has no view on Skoda but the Yeti is simply too car like and low down for her liking. I like them but practically not enough boot space with not really any more than the Lancer. Shame as its a interesting alternative.However, in-laws have had a Yeti for 2 years now, and it's a brilliant car. Proper AWD, really well thought out ergonomically, and if your Mrs is that much of a badge snob that she turn her nose up at a Skoda even now.... wellll.......
Interesting to see that the CX7 is getting a few nods even though its not made any more - gives me reassurance.
Mazda6 - not driven a new one, but the 2.3 hatch (manual) I tried some years ago seemed like fun for what it was, in the same way as the original Mondeo and Focus were fun. Would be too low anyway, because...
Forester too low?? First I've heard of that - same height as all the others, with more ground clearance than many, ours has been just right for being able to put an infant in, and for a small child to climb up into - don't want to always be lifting them in when they're older... New ones are really rather large on the inside. Anyway, understand the comment re looks.
Honda Odyssey?
Forester too low?? First I've heard of that - same height as all the others, with more ground clearance than many, ours has been just right for being able to put an infant in, and for a small child to climb up into - don't want to always be lifting them in when they're older... New ones are really rather large on the inside. Anyway, understand the comment re looks.
Honda Odyssey?
PomBstard said:
Mazda6 - not driven a new one, but the 2.3 hatch (manual) I tried some years ago seemed like fun for what it was, in the same way as the original Mondeo and Focus were fun. Would be too low anyway, because...
Forester too low?? First I've heard of that - same height as all the others, with more ground clearance than many, ours has been just right for being able to put an infant in, and for a small child to climb up into - don't want to always be lifting them in when they're older... New ones are really rather large on the inside. Anyway, understand the comment re looks.
Honda Odyssey?
The Foresters roof height is high but the actual seat seems low in comparison...or so I was informed Forester too low?? First I've heard of that - same height as all the others, with more ground clearance than many, ours has been just right for being able to put an infant in, and for a small child to climb up into - don't want to always be lifting them in when they're older... New ones are really rather large on the inside. Anyway, understand the comment re looks.
Honda Odyssey?
Odyssey? Nah. Too Bali airport pick up MPV like.
Sorry, not trying to dismiss all the suggestions just lots have been thought about.
Also, what I am realising is that sometimes there is no tangible reason to say no, its just 'because'. As much I'd like to be all manly and tell her she's getting what I say she'll be in it all week and its easier just to go with the flow.
Pommygranite said:
The Foresters roof height is high but the actual seat seems low in comparison...or so I was informed
Odyssey? Nah. Too Bali airport pick up MPV like.
Sorry, not trying to dismiss all the suggestions just lots have been thought about.
Also, what I am realising is that sometimes there is no tangible reason to say no, its just 'because'. As much I'd like to be all manly and tell her she's getting what I say she'll be in it all week and its easier just to go with the flow.
Drivers seat in Foresters can be raised...Odyssey? Nah. Too Bali airport pick up MPV like.
Sorry, not trying to dismiss all the suggestions just lots have been thought about.
Also, what I am realising is that sometimes there is no tangible reason to say no, its just 'because'. As much I'd like to be all manly and tell her she's getting what I say she'll be in it all week and its easier just to go with the flow.
Not been to Bali, but I'm thinking of the newer Odysseys that look like a long wagon, rather than a minibus.
Fully understand the 'just because' of it all. Fortunately Mrs PB will be happy with whatever is placed on the driveway, as long as its not too big, not too small, not auto, not yellow or pink, not too low, not too high, not too fast, not too slow, not too expensive, looks nice, and has an easy-to-operate sound system. Think that's it...
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