Help me find a vehicle....?

Question

I am looking for a 4 door vehicle that will handle 2 teenagers, a lab and his traveling kennel (large), decent on gas and isn't too low to the ground. I'm not sure I can afford a full size truck but need something similar or with lots of room. Any ideas?

Answer 1

Try a Ford Escape, Its also available in a Hybrid version & should have enough cargo space for a kennel, but bring a tape measure or the kennel so you can check out the size.

You can find out the interior dimensions from home @ http://fordvehicles.com

Next size up would be an Explorer (in SUV's) but you can also check out the Freestar (minivan) & the Freestyle (crossover)

All of these vehicles can be new or per-owned, so look at their sizes for your needs 1st from the web site then you can find a new or pre-owned one that works for your budget.

Answer 2

Sounds like you need a small or midsize SUV. Toyota Highlander is one of the best, but they can be pricey. The six cylinder has decent power and good mileage. You didn't mention your cost range. I wanted to buy one for my wife but needed to stay below 15,000. I ended up with a 2003 Ford Escape with less than 32,000 miles for 13,900. (in Jan 2006) This was loaded with leather and lots of options. It gets about 23 mpg on highway and 19 mpg in town. The Highlander will get better mileage and give a smoother ride because it is built on a Camry chassis. Some others to consider - Saturn Vue (the 3.5 liter 6 is very powerful AND gets great mileage); Honda CRV or Toyota RAV4 - these are smaller but get great mileage. If you prefer more of a car or wagon - look at the Dodge Magnum. Very sporty and has decent room inside. Just don't get the Hemi if you want gas mileage.

And finally, if you want to make the best financial decision - don't even consider buying new. I've learned this lesson in 25 years of buying cars. Buy a nice low mileage late model used car and let the original owner take the big hit on the first couple years of depreciation. The Escape we bought - I can hardley tell it apart from a new one. It looks and runs great and I saved at least 10 grand off original sticker!

Answer 3

Jeep Grand Cherokee is a good car and gets 20+ mileage with room for 5 and a lab kennel in the back. If you don't believe me, go test drive one. You will like it.

Answer 4

Chevrolet Impala. A used low mileage 2005 is good. They are cheap, already taken the hit for depreciation. 5 star safety. 30 mpg on highway. Big trunk, lots of seating, consumer reports best buy etc.. You can get a really nice one for under 15k.

Want to spend more? How about a Chevy Silverado crew cab, you can get a new one for around 20k . If you want foreign, you can get a new Tacoma crew for 20k if you shop right.

Answer 5

I have had 6 Jeeps, and all still run. Current one:1994 Ltd. Grand Cherokee sux the gas, but is big enough, and I love it. I have never been slowed down in the snow, or flooding. My first was an 88 Ltd. and it was $1200.00, not too bad, on price. Parts are costly, though, but I feel it is worth it.

Answer 6

i like fords and Chevy's .you should consider a double cab model truck with diesel eng..buy a truck with 30000 or less and not older then 3 years if you can find one that you like you well get a great truck at over half the price of a new truck and you well still have factor warranty .there are a lot of trucks looking for you good luck remember 30000or less and 3 years no older .

Answer 7

hey want don't you search for a car at car max.com they do have cars that just might help you , I sure did or just shop around till you find the right one then narrow it down to three then decide on it . But make sure it's what you are looking for , For the teenagers.

Answer 8

Ford Escapes or Mazda Tributes ( same vehicle ) are nice.

Answer 9

A Vue is kind of a truck

Answer 10

I liked the plymouth voyager ........it has all the things you are looking for , and can be found used or new .........good luck