Lets talk SUV's

[Rumpy Stumpy]

I have a Lexus 400h and I'm basically waiting to die!

:-)

 

[JCE]

Also keep in mind whatever I get literally has to be something made after 2004 at least. Would prefer 2006+. Also, the future wife shot down all my attempts at getting a large executive saloon. So all my hard work researching all the Audi's, Merc's, BMW's, Jag's and etc were pointless.

Compromise...bleh. I told her I want something fast or with a massive V8 if I get something bigger.

I didn't know SUV's were supposed to be fun to drive. Well, at least CUV's anyways.

Go with the 4Runner then.

Or the FX. If fun is what you want, I guess you can't go wrong with a Z chassis and engine.

Unless I find one with an already installed supercharger it's not at the top of the list. At least half of my chioces are better by just enough to make the 4runner purchase a bit "meh". I'd have to get the top of the line model DIRT CHEAP to choose it over the other front runners. I still put it up there to hopefully get someone here who has owned the generation I posted a picture of to give their ownership experience. And I could find one cheap.

And of course the FX is fun. Either engine is a real gem.

Well, my sister got a 4WD Honda CR-V. She loves that thing to death and I like it more than her old Yaris. It's a really comfortable car and I also read it's the best in class. My advise, if you get it, is to go for the red, which is better than the multiple shades of gray they offer.

No thank you, I'll pass. There are 2 SUVs I hate more than anything. The CR-V is one and any GM is second minus the SRX. The CR-V is cramped, has no athleticism, has a cheap feel and did I mention it's too cramped? I worked at Honda in the middle of the last decade (2005ish) and drove these things daily and they are just not for me in any form or fashion. GREAT for girls, old people and any short man who wants to be boring and insignificant.

Then stay away from the 00-06 Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon. Speaking from experience, the steering in those things is super light, numb, and gives no feedback from the road at all.

No problem here as I literally hate every single GM SUV minus the Cadillac SRX. So there isn't going to be an issue with me getting one. You couldn't pay me to take one actually, I'd rather take a Jeep Commander or Dodge Durango over the GM--and that's sad. And did I mention yet I will never buy another GM product ever again.

Interesting question. Although trucks are typically not my forte, there are a few that tickle my fancy, and strangely they all come from Toyota.

Actually, I wouldn't call all of them trucks--and that really isn't how I'm looking at it. I'm looking at the utility part of it.

1. Toyota FJ: Although it is not nearly as practical as the 4Runner on which it is based upon, the look and feel is awfully unique. I've never driven one, but I assume it would be similar to the 4Runner. Neither bad nor good, just a truck, and that's about it. The offroadability would probably be the best overall reason to grab one, but that really depends on what you want out of it.[/QUOTE]

Ugly, cheap interior and absolutely not cool what-so-ever. I hate these almost as much as the CR-V and the GM's. They are woeful and irritate me just by looking at it. Give me an original FJ maybe, this...NO.

2. Toyota 4Runner: Give or take, it is probably the most reasonable SUV on the market today. It isn't too big to scare me, but it isn't too small to not really be an SUV. The capabilities of the vehicle are impressive, the interior is comfortable and quiet, and altogether they seem to be quite reliable compared to the other SUVs around it's size range.

Yes the 4runner is good and is very reasonable. However, I (we) want something large and if I can get something larger and more powerful but still handle reletively the same that's gravy. The Sequoia and is much more appealing. Also, having a choice between the 4runner and the FX, Flex or Edge the 4runner will be last. Good vehicle, just there are ones just a bit better for what I (we) want. It's not totally out of the equasion though, it's just almost last on my list.

3. Hummer H3: I'm not joking. First things first, why not? Secondly, why not? The size is pretty reasonable, the performance is capable, and with the V8 option, it is a pretty awesome smaller-sized SUV. Sure, you have to deal with all of the negative Hummer stigma, but credit where credit is due... It was probably the best SUV that GM sold for some time.

*-see me hating GM SUV's. And the best GM SUV that ever sold under their brand was the 1st gen Cadillac SRX, and that's been castrated now into a slush-mobile going FWD for gen 2. Plus, the vehicle that's based on is one of the worst vehicles GM has ever made--the Canyon/Colorado. Not even a good engine can save either of these.

4. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited: What more is there to say here? It is a Wrangler, and that's about it. They go for a million years, no matter what you do to it. I'm not sure how hard the hardtop versions are to find, but that would be the way to go. The only problem is that the new Wrangler is that much better. And I'd probably be quite sad not having that new interior or the Phoenix V6.

We both do like the Wrangler, but, it just won't work for our needs. It is SO not a daily driver AT ALL. Great toy offroader, fun to throw around some dirt and hills but terrible on the road daily. Our commute in the new house is 30 minutes for about 18 miles...this would just be painful daily. Plus the interior cargo room is a shoebox--that's just not enough. If they made the Wrangler the size of the Commander maybe--oh wait that would defeat the purpose of the Wrangler. Nevermind.

 

[CodeRedR51]

What about a Pathfinder V8? Super hard to find, but totally awesome in every way. (for me at least)

 

[BrutherSuperior]

Also keep in mind whatever I get literally has to be something made after 2004 at least. Would prefer 2006+. Also, the future wife shot down all my attempts at getting a large executive saloon. So all my hard work researching all the Audi's, Merc's, BMW's, Jag's and etc were pointless.

Compromise...bleh. I told her I want something fast or with a massive V8 if I get something bigger.

Well there's your problem.

Not to get too off topic but if a woman is already telling you how to spend YOUR money, figuring out what kind of $20k+ automobile to own is going to be the least of your problems down the line.

I don't mean to offend, I'm just looking out for your best interest...not hers.

 

[JCE]

Well there's your problem.

Not to get too off topic but if a woman is already telling you how to spend YOUR money, figuring out what kind of $20k+ automobile to own is going to be the least of your problems down the line.

I don't mean to offend, I'm just looking out for your best interest...not hers.

I think you maybe took that a bit different than what I had intended. I'm "blaming" the future wife and using her as a scapegoat really. I actually do want a larger vehicle.

 

[freedomweasel]

MB G-Class

It has space, class, power, and it can do stuff like that.
Only slightly out of budget.

 

[Cale]

Flex Ecob00st with an intake and tune will run over 100mph and ~13.5 sec in the quarter. Sleeper like a BAWSS

 

[JCE]

MB G-Class

It has space, class, power, and it can do stuff like that.
Only slightly out of budget.

Dude, I would LOVE to own that. However as you pointed out it is a bit out of budget and the repair costs would make me broke. Still, it would look very pretty sitting in my driveway regardless if it was broken.

Ehhhhh...

Number one.
Number two.

Number two's mileage scares me...

Flex Ecob00st with an intake and tune will run over 100mph and ~13.5 sec in the quarter. Sleeper like a BAWSS

I saw a video of a stock one accelerate from 0-70mph and I was like "omgwtf", how can something that large and heavy go that fast without a V8 and or Mercedes badge.

 

[neanderthal]

Buy the car that you want.

Rent an SUV/ truck for the things you want to move. Seems dirt simple to me.


Why you would want to buy an SUV so that you can move your stuff into your house just befuddles the mind. Unless you move every six months it's moot point.

 

[Jim Prower]

Why not the brand new Explorer, the CUV-based one?

and if you're really feeling road rage??

Sure, Mr. Dan Patrick will still sell you one of these...

 

[The Vanishing Boy]

-> In my opinion it realy depends on what would you really going to do on the vehicle in general, but here are my take:

5-seater

1. Subaru Forester XT ('06-'07)

- Well what can I say!? It's the last fun CUV/SUV that I could decipher in North America. Most of my Subie buddies recall that the transmission of the XT is far tougher than the WRX (the one I got), and ever since I regretted of owning a WRX (went into 2 of them ['04 &'06] with the same sychro problem). After this generation Forester, the new one is like 'been there, done that' manner and I hate it!

2. Toyota FJ Cruiser (2010 spec)

- If utilitarian is the game I'm going to pick this one. As of the moment the weakness of this 4x4 SUV is outside visibilty and its M/T (with its 'chirping' problem). Other than that, you get 3rd world-grade toughness from the L/C Prado with the luxuries of the 2nd-gen 4Runner!

3. GMC Terrain

- I was quite surprised on this one after driving it last year. For the size and packaging, it possesses the best balance of confort and practicality. And its better than the Equinox (GMC's twin) overall.

6-8 seater

1. Ford Flex *any model* Ecoboost

- Even though I havent driven it yet, I already fell in love on this morbid-WAGON. I just love the way this vehicle is packaged (on the 7-seat model), and its sleeper profile only made it far better! A fully-black Titanium model looks devistaingly sinister! Why buy a utter boring Lexus RX when you have this!?

2. Toyota Sequoia

- What more can I say!? A ginormous SUV that drives like a minivan!? It's packaging is just right (SR5), its already up to you if you wanna go Lexus-y (Platinum model) on which can defeat the purpose.

3. Ford Expedition EL

- Sequoia not big enough? Than this would be the obvious choice. Although it still carries the old 5.4L V8. If it ever comes out with its Ecoboost V6 or the 5.0L V8 from the F-150, than it would be perfect!

 

[Sniffs]

if they made something that could satisfy the guys I drive, it'd be an absolute miracle (you can't have roomy, goes in snow/mud, and economical at the same time)

 

[JCE]

Went to the Dallas Auto Show Saturday and saw what might be my next vehicle.

...

A MINI Countryman Cooper S All4. Yes, you read right. I take back all the negative things I said. No it's not fast, no it's not as practical as almost all my other choices. It is however something my fiancée and I loved at first sight in the flesh. I cannot wait for a test drive. Plus, we can afford it new!

 

[Joel]

I know it's not on the list, but the Buick Enclave is a very nice vehicle. Very smooth drive in it, a very quiet vehicle too. It's a little bit of a hog on gas but in the grand scheme of things isn't too bad for what it is. However, if you're looking for something a little sportier, it's not really an option. It's not slow for an SUV, but it feels like you're driving a car in GT5. Even my mom's '03 Corolla has sportier suspension than the Buick.

 

[JCE]

I know it's not on the list, but the Buick Enclave is a very nice vehicle. Very smooth drive in it, a very quiet vehicle too. It's a little bit of a hog on gas but in the grand scheme of things isn't too bad for what it is. However, if you're looking for something a little sportier, it's not really an option. It's not slow for an SUV, but it feels like you're driving a car in GT5. Even my mom's '03 Corolla has sportier suspension than the Buick.

Sorry but I hate GM and I will never buy another one of their products.

 

[Joey D]

A MINI Countryman Cooper S All4. Yes, you read right. I take back all the negative things I said. No it's not fast, no it's not as practical as almost all my other choices. It is however something my fiancée and I loved at first sight in the flesh. I cannot wait for a test drive. Plus, we can afford it new!

If you want a Countryman I wouldn't recommend an All4, all the reviews on the All4 basically have said avoid. It's slower then the FWD version and it's not an all the time AWD system, but only puts power to the rear when it's needed.

It's not that slow either, it'll hit 60 in about 7.5 second which isn't awful for an SUV and it is awesome in the corners. I've only driven a FWD S model and I must say I loved it. It was 90% of all the fun of a normal Cooper with a back seat that could actually fit people comfortably.

 

[JCE]

Why do you suppose the AWD version lacks? The reviews I've read say it's pretty good and you can actually get throttle oversteer.

 

[YSSMAN]

There is one major problem with the Countryman:

Although the looks are more controversial with the Nissan, it is without a doubt the better vehicle. The size is "just right," the performance is on par with some sporting sedans and coupes, and ultimately the AWD actually does something. Plus, the fuel economy isn't half bad, and the torque curve is as flat as Kansas. Sure, you aren't able to row your own gears, but the iCON system is nifty, and at least you can say you've got a vehicle with a lot of personality.

All of that, and the Nissan is significantly cheaper. In general, a $23K SV will get you everything you need.

 

[Carlos]

I'm suprised, I am so suprised, not to see this car here:

I just owned all the cars in this thread. BAMM. POOF! Just like that..

Toyota Sequoia = Extremely good road manners and handling for such a large beast. Very good engine (381bhp 5.7L V8, 0-60mph in 6.7s), and makes all the right noises. Very comfortable and has a good interior quality feel. Was pleasantly surprised on how awsome it actually was from every angle. The 2008+ models are very good looking too. If I can get a 2008 model with the 5.7L in my price range I'd be hard pressed to not get this over the FX or Edge. I really do love this thing, and it's from a car company I do not like as a whole. Odd...

Except this one... I love this thing really, we don't have it in Europe, it's all import, but seen one, driven one, and LOVE it!

But I would buy this:

Look at dat ass!!!

 

[JCE]

Carlos, the reason why you do not see a Land Rover is because it is on my "do not want" list. Too expensive regardless of which direction I go.

There is one major problem with the Countryman:

Although the looks are more controversial with the Nissan, it is without a doubt the better vehicle. The size is "just right," the performance is on par with some sporting sedans and coupes, and ultimately the AWD actually does something. Plus, the fuel economy isn't half bad, and the torque curve is as flat as Kansas. Sure, you aren't able to row your own gears, but the iCON system is nifty, and at least you can say you've got a vehicle with a lot of personality.

All of that, and the Nissan is significantly cheaper. In general, a $23K SV will get you everything you need.

You cannot outrun or discount enough ugly. I hate that car. I'd rather pay more for the Mini. Also, again, I do not care about fuel economy.

You said "just right" well that is how the fiancée and I felt about the Mini when we sat it both the front and back seats. We literally fell in love with it. Plus the warranty is a BILLION times better with the BMW Mini than the Nissan. I can also extend that factory warranty to 6yr 100,000 miles. Let's not forget the excellent complimentary service items BMW does FOR FREE for the first few years. Brakes, oil changes, filters and etc. That's a bunch of $$$ saved over that time period.

 

[Danoff]

You cannot outrun or discount enough ugly. I hate that car. I'd rather pay more for the Mini.

Granted the Nissan Puke is revolting in a way that few cars can manage. But the mini isn't exactly a looker in my book - it looks like a hearse.

If you're shopping mini you should consider the A3 - but I have documented the reasons I didn't get the A3.

 

[xNEVER-ONEx]

The Rover is way above the price range of the other SUV in question, and worst of all, from what I hear, has a horrible reliability record.

 

[YSSMAN]

You cannot outrun or discount enough ugly. I hate that car. I'd rather pay more for the Mini. Also, again, I do not care about fuel economy.

The looks are polarizing, that is a given. However, you cannot fault Nissan for going out on a limb and taking a chance. Especially when it performs as well as it does. Think of it this way: You don't have to look at it from the outside as long as you're driving it.

You said "just right" well that is how the fiancée and I felt about the Mini when we sat it both the front and back seats.

Two cents on the back seats: The slidy-bar thing is nonsense. Last I heard, MINI is supposed to make a standard bench seat an option on the Countryman soon. I'd wait for that.

We literally fell in love with it. Plus the warranty is a BILLION times better with the BMW Mini than the Nissan. I can also extend that factory warranty to 6yr 100,000 miles. Let's not forget the excellent complimentary service items BMW does FOR FREE for the first few years. Brakes, oil changes, filters and etc. That's a bunch of $$$ saved over that time period.

Only for a little while. As Joey has mentioned, the reliability of the MINI brand overall is quite low, and you're definitely going to need that warranty to keep your pockets from running dry. It being the first year, on both vehicles frankly, I'd be willing to wait a while. That being said, I'd be far more likely to trust Nissan on their turbo and AWD combo.

Either way, do your research. Inside Line is running a long-term test on both the 2011 Juke SL and 2011 Countryman All4. While they like both vehicles generally, the Nissan gets knocked frequently for being polarizing in the looks department, and the MINI gets knocked for little things here and there. Both are excellent vehicles, but the thing is, the Nissan is better.

 

[JCE]

We are going to test drive a set number of these choices and see whats what.

So far the Infiniti FX, Ford Flex, Toyota Sequoia and Mini Countryman are the front runners.

 

[The Vanishing Boy]

^ You're a Ford guy, the Flex Ecoboost is already perfect for you (and me). Why bother for a Honda Fit-sized lifted MINI? Anything smaller than the Flex would be the Forester XT and thats that!

-> Or you could wait for the very smart (Grand) C-Max. Too bad the C-Max doesn't have a M/T.

(And this is the US-spec version, look at the licence plate very American-ish)

 

[niky]

Funny thing is, the Countryman isn't lifted very far off the ground.

In fact, it's just the right height... not tall enough to be or feel tippy, and not low enough to bottom out over tall humps, like the original Mini and the Fit (they do it a lot where I live).

Not entirely sold on the looks, as I like the 3-door better, but looks a million times better in the flesh than I thought it would, and not quite as awkward as the Clubman.

I'd hit a FWD Countryman S with an auto, definitely.

 

[Sniffs]

a LR? you have GOT to be kidding they're a Luxury marquis over here, and they're rigged with ultra thirsty engines and extra heavy weight (they also have a premium insurance cost to go with). Americanizing a LR just adds weight. i also heard that a lot of the older Ford owned versions were POSes.

that mini actually looks GOOD as a hearse. they should use that silver for hearse colors. makes it look more dignified in this day and age.

 

[Joey D]

The AWD system on the Countryman just doesn't measure up. I'm going based on reviews, both from MINI blogs and members who own them on various MINI forums. It's not a bad system, it's just the general consensus is that it isn't worth the money.

One thing you should know about owning a MINI is that it is very expensive to maintain. Most of the services must be performed at the dealership because they require special tools, odd reset of sensors, or parts other places can't get. A couple examples of this: You have to get an alignment done at the dealer to the tune of $200, it requires a special key for the alignment and is done with some unique system. I've been to numerous shops in my area and the only other place that will do it is a import garage that is just as expensive. Parts are stupidly expensive too. I just spent almost $500 to put a wheel bearing in my car and most of that wasn't even labour. It was $400 for the bearing, plus $25 for hardware. Granted it was OEM but still aftermarket bearings ran $300-$325. Oil changes are another thing that's very expensive as well since they require a dealer visit to perform.

The 1.6L turbo Prince isn't a crowning example of quality either. The non-turbo is very reliable, but for some reason the turbo just causes all sorts of problems.

I'm not trying to talk you out of a MINI, I just think you need to be aware of things before going into looking at one. I'll be happy to share experiences and answer questions for you.

On the Juke. Based on everything I've read it's a rather thirsty car. Automobile mag averaged 18mpg and with such a small tank they were getting less then 200 miles between fill ups. That would drive me up a friggen wall.

 

[Anghammarad]

Why not a Subaru Tribeca? Or a Toyota Landcruiser

 

[The Vanishing Boy]

^ Too quirky, smallish 3rd row/cargo, and odd (Tribecca).

-> And even I adored the Land Crusher (L/C 200) its just plain too expensive.

-> For a 5 seater, why bother getting either a Juke or a Countryman? The SG Forester XT fits the bill in both gas mileage (although it drinks 91 octane), better cargo space, better soft roading capabilities, and fun to drive for a much lower price. And most of all, why get a CUV for its shouty styling!?