I recently posted this on another forum that I frequent:
Seeking advice on new SUV
Looking to purchase a new mid-size to small SUV type of vehicle. Primarily her car, main usage would be daily commuter of 40 to 50 miles a day. Must be able to navigate forest roads & desert dirt roads, plus the occasional road trip. We typically keep our vehicles for 15 to 20+ years. I perform basic maintenance such as oil changes & filters. Interested in models that require the least amount of trips to the dealer or mechanic. I’ve typically purchased American vehicles, but did own a Toyota truck for a while. It was nice, but underpowered (3.0 V6) for work.
We have been looking at the Subaru Forester, Outback & possibly the Crosstrek. I’ve recently read several reports/complaints about the CVT transmission failing, excessive engine oil consumption & head gasket problems that have made these vehicles look much less appealing.
We live at 5K elevation, have many steep grades, over 100 degrees in summer & some ice in the winter. Thinking along the lines of front wheel drive or AWD with a solid reliable automatic transmission & an engine in the +/- 200HP range.
A few replies suggested the Mazda CX-5. I'm not very familiar with Mazda's products. I recall the rotary engine, the RX-7 & the Miata. That's about it. We test drove a loaded turbocharged CX-5 the other day & I was impressed. We've also tested the 3 Subarus listed, plus a Toyota Rav4.
Anyone care to discuss the pros & cons of the CX-5? How is the reliability & longevity? I saw a few posts on this forum about excessive oil consumption & an internal engine coolant leak. I find those problems unacceptable. How durable is the transmission?
How is the new car purchasing experience with Mazda dealers? Is it possible to locate models at or below MSRP? Which trim levels offer the best value in a naturally aspirated model?
Thank you
Seeking advice on new SUV
Looking to purchase a new mid-size to small SUV type of vehicle. Primarily her car, main usage would be daily commuter of 40 to 50 miles a day. Must be able to navigate forest roads & desert dirt roads, plus the occasional road trip. We typically keep our vehicles for 15 to 20+ years. I perform basic maintenance such as oil changes & filters. Interested in models that require the least amount of trips to the dealer or mechanic. I’ve typically purchased American vehicles, but did own a Toyota truck for a while. It was nice, but underpowered (3.0 V6) for work.
We have been looking at the Subaru Forester, Outback & possibly the Crosstrek. I’ve recently read several reports/complaints about the CVT transmission failing, excessive engine oil consumption & head gasket problems that have made these vehicles look much less appealing.
We live at 5K elevation, have many steep grades, over 100 degrees in summer & some ice in the winter. Thinking along the lines of front wheel drive or AWD with a solid reliable automatic transmission & an engine in the +/- 200HP range.
A few replies suggested the Mazda CX-5. I'm not very familiar with Mazda's products. I recall the rotary engine, the RX-7 & the Miata. That's about it. We test drove a loaded turbocharged CX-5 the other day & I was impressed. We've also tested the 3 Subarus listed, plus a Toyota Rav4.
Anyone care to discuss the pros & cons of the CX-5? How is the reliability & longevity? I saw a few posts on this forum about excessive oil consumption & an internal engine coolant leak. I find those problems unacceptable. How durable is the transmission?
How is the new car purchasing experience with Mazda dealers? Is it possible to locate models at or below MSRP? Which trim levels offer the best value in a naturally aspirated model?
Thank you