Quote:
Originally Posted by Hugh R
Honda or Toyota if you want it to last.
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Sorry Hugh but you're about 20 years behind the times. Nowadays most Toyotas are pretty mediocre compared to the competition, more expensive, and no more reliable. That's what happens when you regress in quality while your competition improves.
edgemar, how many kids? We have three and went through this process about one year ago, the CX9 was by far our favorite but we ended up with.......a Nissan Quest. The problem with anything short of a true full sized SUV is that the 3rd row seats are nearly worthless, the 2nd row isn't that big, there is zero space behind the 3rd row, and entry and egress is difficult with the flip folding seats. Our van can carry seven real adults in comfort, has captain's chairs in the second row, had nice power doors that are easy for the kids, and can haul a family of five's vacation luggage in the back with room to spare. Food for thought, but you have to come to terms with the minivan concept. We can't imagine not having one for kid duty.
Now that I've answered your question with an answer you didn't ask for, also consider:
Chevy Traverse/GMC Acadia/Buick Enclave/Saturn Outlook - probably the biggest crossover SUV you can buy.
Ford Explorer - current bodystyle, they are about the same sized as the above GM models but nicer inside and to drive.
Lincoln MKT - the Lincoln version of the Flex, really nice inside and have some minivan like features. Good punch with the Ecoboost, we considered these as well.
Nissan Pathfinder - current bodystyle, similar to the Explorer.
Volvo XC90 - if you need a European one.
Kia Sorrento - Kia is building some really nice stuff.
Hyundai Santa Fe - ditto the Kia comment.
Audi Q7 - probably the most luxurious option.
Mazda5 - sorta van/wagon crossover thing, but it drives like a sports sedan and has some nice minivan features without the look. We had one for several years and loved it, but outgrew it. Perfect if you only have two kids. Brand new a loaded Grand Touring is only $24k before discount. Or you can get a base model with a stick.
Note that I'm thinking $30k purchase price for something slightly used on most of these, you won't find much for $30k brand new.