The best SUV for my buck.?

Question

I'm a first time SUV buyer and looking into the 2008 Mazda Tribute or Ford Escape (yes, I realize these are basically the same vehicle), but I'm finding a lot of mixed responses on reliability. Are these good vehicles? Reliable? Is there anything in the same price range that would be a better choice?
I need something that's going to last me 5-10 years. How realistic is this? What about Hyundai or Kia's SUV's? Are these better than Ford or Mazda. I would GREATLY appreciate any information on this!

Answer 1

the jeep patriot

its cheap, and has good quality

Answer 2

This is what Consumer Reports has to say on these two vehicles and it gives the 2006 models a "very good" (which is sort of a 4 out of 5) for predicted reliability based on past performance, so unless the manufacturer has made a big change, that probably still applies:

"This is a twin of the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. The 2008 freshening includes standard electronic stability control and curtain airbags. A hybrid version may arrive later, although that model won't offer stability control. The interior is roomy, and the rear seat is spacious. The Ford-supplied 3.0-liter V6 serves up adequate acceleration but unimpressive fuel economy. Handling is quite nimble, but the ride is stiff. We did not recommend the previous Escape and its siblings because of a tip-up in the government rollover test. The addition of stability control for the 2008 model has remedied that problem."

In the same price range, the Honda CR-V is CR's favorite, the Toyota RAV-4 is next, followed by the Suburu Forester. All are CR recommended vehicles. The Ford and Mazda are not, but that doesn't make them bad cars--just not as good as the recommended ones.

For what it's worth, depending on what it is you want from an SUV, the 2008 Scion xB might be worth your consideration. It has the versatility and cargo space of an SUV and has been redesigned for 2008 so that it's a LITTLE less boxy, a foot longer and it now has a Camry 4 cylinder engine. I test drove it and found it to be surprisingly spunky, huge and attractive on the inside, and a fabulous bargain at about $16K.

I owned a Mazda once and wouldn't hesitate to buy one again. Although I realize the Mazda and the Honda are essentially the same vehicle, in my opinion, Mazda tends to put a little more quality into their interiors. It may not be the case in the models you are looking at, but you may want to pay attention to those details if it's a toss up.

Good luck to you!

Answer 3

1. any Nissan SUV or if you want to buy American, the Chevy Trailblazer
2. both have very good reliability ratings, get good mileage (for an SUV), and either one will easily be good for 5 years, and even 10 years if maintained properly
3. the Chevy is layed out very nicely inside with good legroom
4. I hate to buy foreign stuff, but it's hard to go wrong with any Nissan - they just build excellent equipment
5. I'd look hard at buying a "new" used SUV - the biggest price depreciation comes the minute they roll off the lot (about 35% or so), so a newer used model with low miles can be a good deal, save a ton of money AND may still be under warranty !! Sweeeet !!

Answer 4

It's realistic enough if you purchase a Honda or Toyota.

Though I would recommend buying last years model from a private seller with low miles (10-20k'ish). This way you'll probably avoid taking the HUGE first year depreciation.

You'll probably be upside down in the Ford, Kia and Hyundai pretty quickly.

But keeping a new vehicle for 5+ years is never a great idea. You'll be making payments for 5+ years and still be driving a 5+ year old vehicle. I would suggest switching up every 2 years, no down payments and only buying Honda or Toyota. This way you'll always be in a newish car, you'll be selling the car with some factory warranty remaining, and you should never be upside down in the loan if you buy Honda or Toyota.

Answer 5

Do you NEED an SUV? In today's world of ever increasing gas prices, I would strongly advise against it unless you have the need for one.

Do you need AWD? There are sedans that have that. Will you be happy with the SUV when gas prices hit $5 per gallon?

I strongly disagree with Izzy S, the car salesman. His formula results in plenty of sales and revenue for him. The best financial decision you can make is to buy a quality vehicle, finance it for 4 years or less to avoid being upside down and buying more vehicle than you can afford, and then keeping it for many years after it's paid off.

I've done that with every single car I've owned. It's a wonderful feeling driving for YEARS after it's paid off, making no further car payments.

Answer 6

I can't imagine why someone would want to keep a new vehicle for 5+ years, especially as new models roll out about every 5. Trade em in, and help your credit history.

Answer 7

Pssssst. I'm going to let you in on the best kept automotive secret in America. SUZUKI GRAND VITARA. The best transferable warranty in the automotive business. Do yourself a favor and go look and drive. You will save money too! It's kinda like a ............miracle. I currently own two Suzukis, no Grand Vitara, and have owned another. I've recommended these to extended family and friends who ask my advice. They love me and the Suzuki. You're gonna love me too!

Answer 8

Look at and drive both the Hyundai Santa Fe and Tucson. They have the best warranty and ride. You will be surprised with the way they handle as well.

Answer 9

I have an '05 Tribute and it runs great, I have no complaints and I keep to my maintenance schedule. You can also look at the CR-V, the Rav-4, and the CX7

Answer 10

as much as i dislike this company,kia is currently the highest rated car maker in this field.
best warrante and best impact test results.not a bad price either.