Small SUV or Family Sedan?

We'll be in the market for a new car later this year/early next year. We have a 99 Camry just over 110K (00 resale???). We'll be trying to start a family next year, so we'll need something to tote baby & gear.

We're deciding among many models but the front runners are: Mits. Outlander, Honda CRV, Accord, Toyota Rav4, new Camry, or Subaru Forester (not sure about trims on any model yet).

We've done research on Cons Rpts and now we're looking for opinions from ppl who have owned, researched and/or test driven these cars. Important to us: gas mileage (live in So. Cal), best cash price, reliability, safety, owner satisfaction, replacement parts costs, room/ease for family (getting baby in and out of car seat), warranty, and comfort (I'm 5'1", he's 6'1"). Looks, luxury, & bells & whistles not that impt. Loans/Lease deals not important at all.

We don't want to test drive 6 cars, so if you can help us narrow the field, it'd be much appreciated.

Comments

8 Responses to “Small SUV or Family Sedan?”
  1. shoemanshoe says:

    I own a Honda CR-V, and it is a wonderful vehicle, not a scam as others have stated. I have a Great Dane and need the room, and live in rural Wisconsin so I need the AWD and ground clearance. It looks like for your needs a Camry or Accord would be great, unless you plan on using it for camping or hauling dogs to the dog park, etc. You have to think long term on these things. I have a big dog and am a triathlete so I needed a larger vehicle to fit my life into. Honda and Toyota are the way to go right now for gas mileage, reliability and overall satisfaction. I owned a Toyota for many years with only a small transmission problem later in it’s mileage. Subaru has a lot of catching up to do to be considered a contender in the auto world, and Mazda nearly went bankrupt a few years ago. Mitsubishi has great engines but if you look at the numbers for safety, not as good. If you only plan on a couple babies in the near future, here is how I would rate the vehicles from best to worst for YOU.
    1. Honda Accord
    2. Toyota Camry (very close second, trans. problems in some)
    3. Honda CR-V
    4. Toyota Rav4
    5. Mitsubishi Outlander
    6. Subaru Forester
    Good luck!

  2. Ravi s says:

    Honda crv

  3. sookie says:

    I used to sell cars and highly recommend the Subaru forester. It is very, very safe car. It has the best all wheel drive system out. Toyota owns Subaru and the residual value is high. Good luck.

  4. markp says:

    unless you SERIOUSLY plan to go offroad or up some rough tracks, the traditional family car. despite what your primal Parents Instinct says, the SUV will actually offer junior LESS protection in general – and be a worse car to drive plus being heavy on the fuel.

    also the smallest engine you think you will suit your needs, keeping costs down (fuel, tyres, insurance) without leaving you on the starting line. a family car doesnt need a great top speed, or faceripping acceleration that could lead to various troublesome upholstery stains, but might then also be towing a heavy trailer at times

  5. Minderaser says:

    Sedan….Camry is best for families. Dont go SUV’s route, They are just a scam

  6. butchsellscars says:

    Two suggestions:

    Test drive and test drive some more. Understand that it might be a timely process, but I haven’t bought a pair of shoes without trying them on, let alone a CAR.

    Put a Dodge in your garage. If you like a big, but high quality, good gas mileage, and very easy to look at, check out the Dodge Charger SXT. You’ll be glad you did.

  7. racer_boi25 says:

    scrap them all..try the Mazda6…same prices, just as much room, plus u can choose from either a sedan,hatch or wagon…plus theres the economical 4-cyl or powerful V6(even though both pack a punch)cool looks, great Karakuri seat-system so great 4new parents.great quality, respectable fuel-economy,great looks,easy-to-use interior…its all good with the Mazda6.try one out,u will love it

  8. carlos says:

    First of all i would not get a new car. We had a camry with 230,000 miles on it before we got in a accident. the car was running great. your car only has 110K. Thats about half its life span. If you want a new car i would go for the new camry. Newly designed. Very quiet ride, heard its like a cheap lexus. Its also very safe which should be a concern for you. The honda accord is another very reliable and safe car. I would get the camry or accord. They are both good cars and go for the one you get the best deal on.


 
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