Help my girlfriend buy a new car.

"JEM" (jem)
06/03/2015 at 14:19 • Filed to: None

Ok Oppo, put your car buying hat on here and give me some suggestions.

The story:

My GF just got her first job out of vet school as a doctor in NH. Last Tuesday, someone ran a red light, hit her 2000 Focus and did enough damage (she’s fine) that it’s new car time. Obviously she doesn’t have much money and will need to get a loan. Also, since she’s a doctor, she could be going into work at all hours/weather conditions in NH so I suggested something with AWD. She also might eventually do mobile vet work so something like a small SUV/wagon would make sense for the future.

The first big question is used or new? I’m voting new here since she needs something dependable that she doesn’t have to worry about. She’ll be paying over $300K of student debt so a loan plus car repairs would be a bad financial thing. Also, looks like there are some decent incentives on 2015 new cars right now. Blah .. blah... we’re looking at a new car.
The cheapest one we can find, probably a budget cap of ~$25K.

My first and best suggestion is the Kia Sportage. The base AWD model is $25K but with $4K discounts at the moment, it’s $21K.

Also, not bad looking:

Subaru Impreza is also a contender but she doesn’t drive manual and I’m trying to steer her away from anything with a CVT since that’s a possible source of problems.

Also considering Hyundai Tucson, Ford Escape.

Nothing European, too expensive to buy/fix for what you get.

No Fiat/Chrysler products due to problems with the Fiat engines and the Chrysler transmissions lately.

Welcome to any and all suggestions!

DISCUSSION (50)

Smallbear wants a modern Syclone, local Maple Leafs spammer > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:23

If she enjoys driving, Subaru Outback. If she doesn’t... you’ve pretty much covered it.

Rico > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:24

You can get a used 2013 or 2014 Mazda CX5 for under $25k. You can get a brand new one for under $30k.

RamblinRover Luxury-Yacht > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:25

This was just a front page discussion, sort of, which HondaBro actually brought back to Oppo to point out the flaws with - in the sense of being a “first car” which doesn’t apply here. Given my suggestion was to buy a ‘40s Pontiac Torpedo straight-eight for $15k instead, I fear I have too many impulses in goofy directions to be helpful.

Coty > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:25

If I had a Tuscon on the lot for her to try I would welcome her to, but I sold our last one not too long ago, still waiting for Hyundai to send us another.

I do have like 3 new Escapes in your price range, though.

If you have any questions about anything I can email you a number to call, we’re pretty low pressure, I know you’ve just started looking.

If you did start looking at used, I’d be more than happy to help you there too.

We’re in White River Junction, Vermont, right over the line for Lebanon.

shop-teacher > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:26

I think you’re right in that she should get something new. I would suggest looking at the Mazda CX-5. We bought one for my wife last year, and we really love it. It’s a great compromise of ride and handling. It handles pretty damn well, especially compared to the way most CUVs handle, but the ride is still fairly smooth.

JEM > Rico
06/03/2015 at 14:26

Yeah that’s definitely a contender. I need to get her to look at one at least. Forgot about that one when I typed this up.

spanfucker retire bitch > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:29

Subaru XV Crosstrek.

SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:29

She’ll be paying over $300K of student debt

Please tell me that that’s a typo. Sportage is probably a good choice. I’m quite a fan of the Hyundai/Kia lineup for bang-for-buck and all of the ones I’ve ever seen apart from the early 2000s V6s have been nigh unkillable.

G_Body_Man: Sponsored by the number 3 > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:29

Kinja'd!!!

CX-5 sport. Is it more expensive? Yes. However, it is a better cute ute.

Rico > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:30

Mazda’s in Vermont

2013 - 36k miles - $20k - http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/…

2015-21k miles - $25k: http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/…

2016- New - $26k: http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/…

Obviously with all 3 of these there will be room to negotiate but I can’t see you not getting out the door spending more than $25k total on any one of these.

JEM > Coty
06/03/2015 at 14:30

She’s in Manchester, NH and I’m in Worcester, MA so that’s a little out of the way but a really good option to have, thanks dude!

Where have all the lightweights gone? > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:31

I would go with either the CX-5 or a Honda CR-V. The CR-V is a very versatile hauler when you need it to be. I fit a large deep freezer with the seats down and could still close the tailgate!

505Turbeaux > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:31

Jeep Renegade looks to be a good contender in that price slot.

JEM > spanfucker retire bitch
06/03/2015 at 14:32

Yep, one of the first things I thought of as well. Doesn’t come with a regular automatic though, and I’ve seen too many reports of problems with CVTs to be convinced that it’s ok to get one. Granted those are mostly other manufacturers but still.

JEM > Rico
06/03/2015 at 14:32

Actually, I just checked and it looks like an AWD 2016 CX5 starts at $25K so it’s definitely a contender.

Coty > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:33

No problem, keep me in mind. Here’s the site if you need it for anything. We have a CPO Tuscon, but FWD. Womp womp.

duurtlang > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:33

She’ll be paying over $300K of student debt (...) a budget cap of ~$25K.

This is something I don’t understand, but maybe that’s just me. I would’ve picked something without needing another loan.

Rico > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:34

In my other response I put autotrader links to a 2013, 2015 and a 2016 model.

JEM > 505Turbeaux
06/03/2015 at 14:34

Except I’m still sketched out by Chrysler’s Gazillion speed new automatic and the seal problems with Fiat engines.

Believe me, I would love nothing more than to recommend a Renegade to her but I just can’t in good conscience.

Honestly, I’m not sure I can recommend ANY new Jeep except a Wrangler :-/

Textured Soy Protein > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:35

Anything in the cheaper end of the non-Euro crossover market:

Buick Encore
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Trax
Ford Escape
Honda CR-V*
Honda HR-V*
Hyundai Tucson
Kia Sportage
Mazda CX-3**
Mazda CX-5
Nissan Rogue*
Subaru Forester*
Subaru XV Crosstrek*
Toyota RAV4

* = CVT
** = Not out yet

If you really want to be smart about it, look at what tires come on them OEM and check the test results and survey ratings for those tires on Tire Rack. Because while these all have all-season tires on them, some all-season tires are laughably bad in the snow. Don’t want to buy something with the intention of it being good in the winter and then be let down by the OEM tires.

505Turbeaux > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:35

yeah after me ripping Sally’s down I don’t know why I said it. BUT if you have a good warranty period on it and stay up on what needs staying up on, by the time you are past the warranty they should have everything DIY doable

JEM > duurtlang
06/03/2015 at 14:37

1: When you’re in debt that much, a car loan is peanuts.

2: She has a very stressful job/career ahead of her, in hazardous driving conditions in the winter, the last thing she needs to worry about is being able to make it there.

JEM > 505Turbeaux
06/03/2015 at 14:37

I’m not going work on it, my name’s not Tony ;-)

Rico > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:38

Jeeps are eating transmissions left and right, which sucks because the Grand Cherokee looks really nice inside and out.

Rico > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:39

Also they get amazing gas mileage out of those skyactiv engines so that’s a plus.

JEM > SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie
06/03/2015 at 14:39

It’s not a typo.

If you have a pet, and wonder why vet bills are so expensive, that’s your answer right there mostly.

spanfucker retire bitch > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:41

Subaru has probably the best CVTs in the business, you don’t have much to worry about.

Let me guess, all the issues you read about where about Nissan cars, right?

Gamecat235 > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:43

If budget is truly a concern, what are your thoughts on the Kia Soul (rear seats fold down) or the Honda Fit (ditto, but better) - nevermind, I forgot it’s a CVT ? Cheap, kind of spacious, has basic required options for a new car... And is budget centric.

505Turbeaux > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:44

or Turbeaux, or my real name

JEM > Gamecat235
06/03/2015 at 14:45

I love the Soul!!! That is literally my #1 choice for a cheap new car.

Thing is, this area just got 120” of snow this year. And she could be going/coming from work at all hours when roads aren’t plowed. This is one of those situations that an AWD vehicle really does make sense.

JEM > spanfucker retire bitch
06/03/2015 at 14:45

Nissan, Mazda, and I think there was another one. Admittedly I’m still skeptical of CVTs in general.

spanfucker retire bitch > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:47

Mazda doesn’t use CVTs. Not anymore anyways, not that I knew they ever did.

All their new vehicles use the SkyActiv 6AT, which is a hybrid multi-plate clutch/torque converter design.

Gamecat235 > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:49

Yeah, Soul in snow? I could see that. Living in Arizona, I forget about these things. But yes, the Soul is a great cheap car. I got one as a rental a couple of months back, and came away thinking “you know, if I need a new cheap car, this is what I’m buying.”

JEM > Gamecat235
06/03/2015 at 14:49

Haha!!! I had one as a rental too and loved it.

JEM > spanfucker retire bitch
06/03/2015 at 14:50

Hmm.. Ok maybe this was an older CVT they used? Or I could be confusing brands. Either way, I noticed there was a definite trend with CVTs having a problem across a number of manufacturers. To me, it’s an un-needed variable that I would rather eliminate.

random001 > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:54

Crosstrek. Have one, really nice, CVT is the best one of the bunch.

Bytemite > JEM
06/03/2015 at 14:58

If driving is like loading the washing machine for her, then CUVs are thr way to go i guess. I think the Sportage and Tucson are rebadged twins but theyre both good value and good looking. Cross shop between them and see which is cheaper/better.

JEM > Bytemite
06/03/2015 at 15:01

She likes driving but honestly, I think she’s more interested in getting a motorcycle than a new car. Also, she really doesn’t know where to begin with car shopping (she’s never really had to before).

JEM > Textured Soy Protein
06/03/2015 at 15:04

I really dig the looks of the Buick Encore. I have no idea why, and I never thought I would utter than sentence EVER but... do you (or anyone) know about the quality of that and the Trax?

I didn’t even know the Honda HR-V existed!!

My only thing against CRV/RAV4 is I know Hondas/Toyotas are popular to steal parts off and she lives in a not so great area. Also, they tend to demand more of a premium than I think they should.

Stapleface-Now Hyphenated! > JEM
06/03/2015 at 15:06

I had a Crosstrek and it really wasn’t a bad vehicle. The CVT with the flappy paddles was perfectly acceptable. I’d be willing to bet most people couldn’t even tell it wasn’t an auto.

The car itself could pretty much go anywhere you want it to. In the winter with snows on it was unstoppable for everything I put it through (although NJ winters aren’t as bad as NH, obviously). Gas mileage I got a consistent 27.5 mpg, which I didnt think it was that bad.

Only reason I traded it in was I wanted something cheaper and I get bored of cars easily.

Bytemite > JEM
06/03/2015 at 15:07

If shes interested in motorcycles...wouldnt she rather want something light and convertible to sort of get the motorcycle feel without dying?

...Miata.

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > JEM
06/03/2015 at 15:09

The Subaru CVT in all honesty has been reliable for us. 2012 Impreza with a smidge over 71K, mostly highway, miles on it. Beast in the snows of Northern New York too. Only problems are the dent in the door from the winter and the thin ass paint Subaru uses.

Confused Miata > JEM
06/03/2015 at 15:10

I recommend a used Subaru Outback but only the 3.6R because it has an actual auto and not a CVT. Too bad you’re not interested in Euro, the Volvo xc70 would be perfect.

Skamanda > JEM
06/03/2015 at 15:12

If you’re in NH, check Craigslist for Subarus. You’re in a gold mine of cheap 2005+ Outbacks! The 2005-2009 didn’t use the CVT, and offered a regular automatic with manual mode. Just make sure if it’s got near or over 100k miles, its had its head gaskets done, or the $2200 or so for that work will be on you.

blackchair > JEM
06/03/2015 at 15:33

I'll chime in here and say my 2012 Impreza with CVT (same as the XV without the lift) runs great. Chain driven CVT too so it's a bit stronger and maintenance free.

mazda616 > JEM
06/03/2015 at 16:00

We’ve had my wife’s 2013 CX-5 since November 2012 and haven’t had any issues. 26 MPG average in all city driving. Regularly gets over 30 on the highway. I think we paid $18,000-ish new. With a $5,000 trade and $1,000 Mazda owner loyalty cash.

I’d look into a certified pre-owned CX-5 for sure. Mazda’s CPO cars come with 100k mile warranties.

m-b-w loves his SUBAROO > JEM
06/03/2015 at 16:00

Subaru has one of the best CVT transmissions in the business, so I wouldn’t let that be a deal breaker on a new Subaru. I’d have her look at an outback, forester, Impreza, or crosstrek. I’ve put 10,000 miles on my 2015 Outback in the last 5 months, and it feels like it was made for the long haul.

The Hyundai and Kia aren’t exactly bad cars, but the 10 year warranty is bullshit, I know from experiences with my old 2014 Elantra which needed to be bought back under the NC Lemon Law for constant transmission issues.

Textured Soy Protein > JEM
06/03/2015 at 16:57

HR-V just came out. It’s based on the Fit but has the motor from the Civic. Potential downside is it has the torsion beam rear suspension from the Fit which has a crappy ride over expansion joints.

I did a search through the OE tires and their snow traction to narrow down the list some.

Encore, Trax, Tucson, Sportage, CX-5, Forester, Rogue 18”, RAV4 18”, Equinox 18”, Equinox 19” and Escape 19” all come with terrible tires. Do not buy them unless you want to buy new tires before it snows.

The only ones with actually-good-in-snow tires are:

Ford Escape 17” - Continental PureContact - pretty excellent for an all-season

Honda HR-V - Michelin Primacy MXV4 - above average

Nissan Rogue 17” - Hankook Dynapro HT RH12 - above average
(There are 5 possible OE tires on the Rogue and the other 4 suck)

Others with tires that are at least average in the snow:

Chevy Equinox 17” - Michelin Latitude Tour or Kumho Sense - average

Honda CR-V w/ Continental CrossContact LX - average
(The other CR-V OE tire, Bridgestone Dueler HP Sport A/S, is crap)

Subaru XV Crosstrek - Yokohama Geolandar H/T G95A - average

Toyota RAV4 17” - Continental CrossContact LX or Michelin Latitude Tour HP - average
(Other RAV4 OE tires are crap: Dunlop Grandtrek ST30 & Yokohama Geolandar G91AV)

JEM > Textured Soy Protein
06/04/2015 at 10:25

Oh I already told her that she would have to get snow tires. If I ever belonged to any religion, it would be the Cult of Snow Tires.

Mostly I’m concerned about what’s going to last a long time and have the fewest problems. She plans on keeping this vehicle for at least 10 years.

Textured Soy Protein > JEM
06/04/2015 at 14:29

Welp, if she’s getting snow tires then that opens up the options since you don’t have to worry about whether the OE tires will work in the snow. Honestly for keeping something that long, I’d steer towards Honda. I know you don’t like CVTs and they have CVTs now but I’m sure she’ll get a good 10 years out of an HR-V or CR-V.