I am wanting to know what small to mid SUVs that you moms drive that you love or hate. I have a Nissan Armada but am looking to downsize as the cost of gas is ridiculous and would like to get care payments down as well. I have researched and checked online info about Kia Sorento, Honda Pilot, Chev Transverse, and a few others. We would like to stay around $25,000 or less.
Hondas are fabulous. We have had a Honda CRV and a Honda Pilot and loved them both. Absolutely wonderful cars - reliable, and really hold their value. You won't be disappointed! Good luck!
Four years ago, I bought a used 2004 Honda Pilot after driving a minivan. I absolutely LOVE the Pilot. It now has 103k miles on it and other than a dead battery once, it has never given me a bit of trouble. I am diligent about oil changes and scheduled services.
The only negative I can say is the mileage isn't so great. My old Nissan Quest minivan actually got better mileage.
If you have a CarMax dealership nearby, stop in there and test drive everything you are considering. Its a great place to see all the different manufacturers in one spot and the salespeople are very low pressure. Also, check Consumer Reports and the National Highway Traffic Safety ratings on the ones you're considering.
Good luck
I have had my CRV since 2007, love it! I feel safe, I don't feel I must apologize to the trees, and I don't hog the road. :)
Funny - I just rented a Ford Escape, too and I loved it. I hear great things about the Pilot and CRV, too. And the Rav 4.
I'd say go take a few drives and see what you feel best in.
LOVE the Pilot!! It is soo nice! Ours is a 06 and we haven't had any problems with it other than normal wear and tear. I think they now make a hybrid version. . . don't quote me on that. If they do, I'm sooo getting one when I buy a new car :D
*Oh I am planning on buying an older style of the CR-V. It's my parents Pilot, and I don't need anything that big right now. But the CR-V would be perfect.
I have a Toyota RAV4 and love it.
I drive a Buick Enclave and love it to death! I'm sure you could find a used one within the price point you are trying to stay at.
I love my Jeep Compass. It's great on gas- 25 city/29 hwy. Had it since 2008, with the first release of the model. The new model has a slightly different body, and seems to be more roomy. But I still love mine!
I have the Honda CrV and have no complaints. It's sturdy, safe and decent on gas (though it could be better IMO). I plan to keep it a long while. Happy shopping!
I've had a Honda Pilot for the last 4 years now. I was afraid it was going to be too small after my Expidition (I have 2 boys), but it has been great! It is the most reliable car I have ever owned and I planning on buying one again when this one gets too old. We paid about $27,000 brand new for it in 2007. It is the top model they had at the time. There are a couple of features that I miss (mostly back up indicators), but I still love the car. Oh yeah, I haven't had to do anything but regular maintenance on it, much better than my Ford, Pontiac and even Mitsubishi.
I rented a Ford Escape Hybrid a few years ago when visiting family (lot of driving). I absolutely loved it and hope to get one when we need a new car. It was great on gas mileage, had a smooth quiet ride and plenty of room for kids and stuff! Hope you find one you love!
I have a Toyota Highlander and love it. I am hoping to get a new one soon. Mine is a 4 cylinder, so the gas mileage is great. I am also considering the Sorento. Not sure on gas, but I know it is rated really well as far as SUVs and I think it was #1 on safety. It now offers the 3rd row seat.
I went from a ford Explorer (with a third row) to a Subaru Forrester....love it! great on gas and very reasonably priced!
I love my 08 Ford Explorer!!! It is so easy to use the third row too if needed. I only paid 16,000 for mine too (used)......
