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What's the best car/vehicle on the market today, dollar to value? (Original Post) HuckleB Jan 2012 OP
Elantra! All Hyundai vehicles are great. nanabugg Jan 2012 #1
Yeah, they seem to be good and getting better. HuckleB Jan 2012 #4
Anything Porsche OffWithTheirHeads Jan 2012 #15
Yes! EvolveOrConvolve Jan 2012 #18
Please send me some of what you are smoking Mopar151 Jan 2012 #25
Well, I guess "best" is reletive. OffWithTheirHeads Jan 2012 #27
Agreed had to go with Santa Fe but I wanted an Elantra.... excellent car, we sold our old one NotThisTime Jan 2012 #108
Have Driven The Cruze Several Times As A Rental - Very Nice Car cantbeserious Jan 2012 #2
I am hearing very good things about it, as well as the rest of the Chevy line up. HuckleB Jan 2012 #10
I bought a Cruze last May, I have almost 10000 miles on it and doc03 Jan 2012 #14
OT: madokie Jan 2012 #64
I was a Ford fan and had my mind set on the Focus ever since seeing it at doc03 Jan 2012 #68
a friend just got a Honda Fit and likes it a lot renate Jan 2012 #3
The Fit has been around for quite a few years. HuckleB Jan 2012 #6
sorry--I don't speak car :) renate Jan 2012 #12
Buick Lacrosse looks like good luxury value taught_me_patience Jan 2012 #5
Please explain why you think the Fit is tops. HuckleB Jan 2012 #8
Here's what Car and Driver says in its 10 best list: taught_me_patience Jan 2012 #13
That doesn't make it comfortable to sit in... HuckleB Jan 2012 #35
I have a FIT NV Whino Jan 2012 #16
Sorry, I've sat in one. It's tiny. HuckleB Jan 2012 #36
Must be why there are so many of them on the road NV Whino Jan 2012 #60
Why I like my Fit. rog Jan 2012 #123
Arctic Jodie picks hers up Monday from the dock. Arctic Dave Jan 2012 #21
Are you in Alaska? Hence the "dock"? Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #103
Yeah, she ordered it from Seattle Arctic Dave Jan 2012 #107
My friends in the biz Mopar151 Jan 2012 #7
How can one "hide recalls?" HuckleB Jan 2012 #9
Run as a "service campaign" - done when car is in for other service Mopar151 Jan 2012 #24
A service campaign... meaculpa2011 Jan 2012 #57
No shit, sherlock! Mopar151 Jan 2012 #59
How can Toyota... meaculpa2011 Jan 2012 #62
Toyota "got out in front" of recalls Mopar151 Jan 2012 #66
There is a scrap yard a few miles from me, I have seen hundreds of Toyota Tacomas doc03 Jan 2012 #69
1972 4x4 Chevrolet Blazer CST. cherokeeprogressive Jan 2012 #11
I used to have a '72 K5. The all metal interior was bad assed. Edweird Jan 2012 #17
The fiberglass top on the 69-72's reached all the way to the windshield frame but you knew that... cherokeeprogressive Jan 2012 #30
Chrysler 200 KeepItReal Jan 2012 #19
(facepalm) flvegan Jan 2012 #23
I bought a 200 in November, no uncontrolled acceleration or other defects like an import. Kurmudgeon Jan 2012 #26
(facepalm) again flvegan Jan 2012 #29
I'm heavily considering a 300 for my next car. Initech Jan 2012 #28
Toyota Tacoma Fla_Democrat Jan 2012 #20
All four of them are almost equally dreadful. flvegan Jan 2012 #22
Thanks for the pointless response in regard to four very good vehicles. HuckleB Jan 2012 #37
Notice, most everyone else liked all of your choices, and... Atman Jan 2012 #50
I actually kind of liked the Dodge Caliber, the couple times I've driven it as a rental. HuckleB Jan 2012 #52
we like our caliber. nt lumberjack_jeff Jan 2012 #98
The new Focus is really nice looking tammywammy Jan 2012 #95
I don't know if such a thing is important to you, but Heywood J Jan 2012 #31
I've been looking at small SUVs - more for fun than to actually buy one right now. phylny Jan 2012 #41
GMC blue_onyx Jan 2012 #49
Yes, my Honda was actually made in Japan. phylny Jan 2012 #72
The Focus is assembled in Wayne, MI. GoCubsGo Jan 2012 #47
Subaru MattBaggins Jan 2012 #32
They're great vehicles, but the interior space is small, and they're not cheap. HuckleB Jan 2012 #39
My 2007 prius has 90,000 miles and running strong. mucifer Jan 2012 #33
West Coast boots: bemildred Jan 2012 #34
it depends on your driving habits and needs Motown_Johnny Jan 2012 #38
I've driven a Cruze, own an Elantra; driven Equinox, own a Santa Fe Atman Jan 2012 #42
The Santa Fe is comparable to the Chevy Traverse, not the Equinox. HuckleB Jan 2012 #44
I just got rid of my 98 Saturn last year Motown_Johnny Jan 2012 #45
The Sonic is a sweet little car. HuckleB Jan 2012 #46
Then why did you start this thread? Motown_Johnny Jan 2012 #101
What answer? HuckleB Jan 2012 #111
you said that The Sonic can't be beat Motown_Johnny Jan 2012 #116
And I was asking a question about a specific price point? HuckleB Jan 2012 #118
No, but since the price point is so low Motown_Johnny Jan 2012 #121
Actually, I'd never even heard of the Sonic, but... Atman Jan 2012 #48
Absolutely. HuckleB Jan 2012 #112
The Ford Fawke Em Jan 2012 #40
Fawken-A! Agree! Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #104
buy American :0) DonRedwood Jan 2012 #117
my mazada cx-9 Corgigal Jan 2012 #43
It does look like a nice vehicle. HuckleB Jan 2012 #54
I hope you'll buy American. JNelson6563 Jan 2012 #51
Pssssst. HuckleB Jan 2012 #53
Awesome! Congratulations! JNelson6563 Jan 2012 #65
Chevrolet Volt B Calm Jan 2012 #55
Hyundai's 5 yr, 60K warranty bumper-bumper is hard to beat. AlinPA Jan 2012 #56
New cars? Because the early 1990s Camry is probably best value cthulu2016 Jan 2012 #58
Best dollar value? bvar22 Jan 2012 #61
The rust factor is interesting. HuckleB Jan 2012 #73
We like the old Toyotas, bvar22 Jan 2012 #109
I've had a 2011 Hyundai Sonata... meaculpa2011 Jan 2012 #63
The Sonata is a nice car. HuckleB Jan 2012 #74
I'd go with the Hyundai. Warren DeMontague Jan 2012 #67
Funny my last car was the Hyundai etherealtruth Jan 2012 #70
The new Elantra seems to be a completely different breed. HuckleB Jan 2012 #71
I'd tend to buy a Ford.... hunter Jan 2012 #75
Depends on what you need and how you plan on using it. LeftyMom Jan 2012 #76
The Forester is a nice car. HuckleB Jan 2012 #77
Yeah, but mine's pushing 200K miles and the biggest repair it's needed was a clutch job. LeftyMom Jan 2012 #78
Again, I partly agree, but objectivity is not something that should be ignored. HuckleB Jan 2012 #87
I will 2nd the Forester tabbycat31 Jan 2012 #81
Subaru Impreza we can do it Jan 2012 #79
Why? HuckleB Jan 2012 #80
I Like It we can do it Jan 2012 #82
I'm Sorry we can do it Jan 2012 #83
OK, then. HuckleB Jan 2012 #85
They (Impreza's anyway) Seem To Be More Spacious Inside This Year we can do it Jan 2012 #125
For years the best vehicle from conception to junk yard was the FORD Ranger.. Tikki Jan 2012 #84
No argument here. HuckleB Jan 2012 #86
'88 Escort with no air. Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #88
Where did/do you live? HuckleB Jan 2012 #89
Chicago Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #90
No AC in the summer there? HuckleB Jan 2012 #91
I have perfect AC. I prefer driving with my windows down during July and August. bluestate10 Jan 2012 #94
Are you sure you live in Chicago? HuckleB Jan 2012 #96
When i was a kid my parents called it 440 A/C. Open all 4 windows and go 40. Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #99
You wanted value. You didn't say anything about sweating your balls or ovaries off! Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #97
Oh yeah and it was stick shift no air. Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #92
Those are great cars! HuckleB Jan 2012 #93
The boyfriend's parents are yooking at an '02 Lesabre with 50k miles. Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #100
I still shudder when my boyfriend wants to look at Hyundais. Hassin Bin Sober Jan 2012 #102
Is it union? cyglet Jan 2012 #105
Three of the four in the OP are union made. HuckleB Jan 2012 #110
Isn't this the Democratic Underground? PowerToThePeople Jan 2012 #106
lol justabob Jan 2012 #122
We love our CRK7376 Jan 2012 #113
Man, that is a lot of mileage for such a short period. HuckleB Jan 2012 #114
German cars flamingdem Jan 2012 #115
I have a friend zoechen Jan 2012 #119
It is not on the market new anymore Ohio Joe Jan 2012 #120
Anything that doesn't use gas Iwasthere Jan 2012 #124

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
4. Yeah, they seem to be good and getting better.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:24 AM
Jan 2012

Alas, they need to do some work on the dealership front. Too many possible customers are driven away by dealerships using 1970s sales techniques.

 

OffWithTheirHeads

(10,337 posts)
15. Anything Porsche
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:55 AM
Jan 2012

Hey, you didn't say cheapest just best.

Dollar for dollar, Porsche is the best car in the world.

Mopar151

(9,965 posts)
25. Please send me some of what you are smoking
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:55 AM
Jan 2012

I can't even FIND the sparkplugs on my friend's Carerra S, or the battery on another friend's 928. The Boxster requires you to unbolt the engine cover to check the oil!
Service accesability issues alone make them expensive, and a pain in the ass to own, as do fast-wearing ex$pensive tires and fragile wheels.

The drive beautifully, and go like the hammers, but it ain't magic that does it.

doc03

(35,148 posts)
14. I bought a Cruze last May, I have almost 10000 miles on it and
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:45 AM
Jan 2012

have zero complaints. For a small car it rides good, handles good and has solid feel. Consumer Reports showed the Cruze much better than average or better than average in every category except one and it was average. But yet even though it had no reported trouble spots they gave it a much worse than average reliability score. As always their prejudice against American made products continues. Consumers Digest gave it a Best Buy rating, go figure.

madokie

(51,076 posts)
64. OT:
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 05:37 PM
Jan 2012

I've found that when consumer reports says something is the best you can bet that is not what you want to be spend your hard earned money on. Very biased and I suspect they take gifts under the table IMO

Personally I'd go with a ford product such as a focus. Focus EV is what I want

doc03

(35,148 posts)
68. I was a Ford fan and had my mind set on the Focus ever since seeing it at
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 07:56 PM
Jan 2012

the auto show a couple years ago. It finally came on the market and I waited months until one showed up at a local dealer. In the mean time I took a test drive with the Cruze and was very impressed but not being a Chevy fan I waited for a chance with the Focus. Finally I got a test drive on the Focus and the first thing I noticed it had a lot of road noise compared to the Cruze and the auto transmission was a disappointment. The next week I took the Cruze out again and I was sold. Another thing the Focus has a much higher price than the comparably equipped Cruze. My number one choice was the Mustang V-6 but being in Ohio I didn't want to go back to a rear wheel drive car.

renate

(13,776 posts)
3. a friend just got a Honda Fit and likes it a lot
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:23 AM
Jan 2012

But it's new enough that it's probably too early to say anything about dependability, etc.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
6. The Fit has been around for quite a few years.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:25 AM
Jan 2012

It is dependable, but it's quite small for the mileage it gets. it boggles my mind to realize that my first 1992 Saturn was bigger and got better mileage than the Fit. Yes, it had slightly lower horsepower. But that was 20 years ago!

Thus, I'm not a fan of the Fit.

renate

(13,776 posts)
12. sorry--I don't speak car :)
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:33 AM
Jan 2012

I meant her own car is too new to have built up a repair record (which would be purely anecdotal, of course), not that the model is new or old, which I would have no idea about. All I know about cars is that they tend to have four wheels. I only remember that she has a Fit because we're looking at getting a new car, too.

I've read good things about Hyundais for sure, but (in reference to another post on this thread) it looks like the Fit is about the same price as the Elantra:
http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Honda_Fit/

 

taught_me_patience

(5,477 posts)
5. Buick Lacrosse looks like good luxury value
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:25 AM
Jan 2012

My #1 bang for the buck is Honda Fit. No other small car is even close.
Mazda 5 has a complete monopoly on the mini mini-van. Great value.
Hyundai Genesis competes with cars $20,000 more. Looks great too.
Ford Focus looks great and seems to be a good value.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
8. Please explain why you think the Fit is tops.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:26 AM
Jan 2012

It's tiny. Gas mileage is weak. And it's not cheap. Thus, I'm not a fan of it.

 

taught_me_patience

(5,477 posts)
13. Here's what Car and Driver says in its 10 best list:
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:33 AM
Jan 2012

Excellence comes in many sizes, but when the Fit first earned its way onto our 10Best list in 2007, it alone offered that quality in the B-segment, a size class that was largely an afterthought in the go-go Aughts. Now, the class is bursting with legitimate pint-sized threats from Hyundai, Mazda, Ford, and Chevy, but Honda still wins with best-in-class passenger space and cargo capacity. It also offers the most flingable chassis and a five-speed manual that is among the great ambassadors to the stick. That transmission would no doubt sway even more converts if it had a sixth gear to calm the engine on the highway. Overall, though, the Fit is not just a triumph over other small cars, it’s a triumph of engineering. It makes the minds behind other cars seem lazy. There are so few intrusions into the capacious interior that you’d think the structure consists of a thin layer of aluminum foil stretched over some toothpicks, even though this body shell is astoundingly rigid. All hatchbacks offer folding seats, but the Fit’s create a completely flat load floor and open up 57 cubic feet of cargo volume—13 more than you’ll get if you flop the back row in a Ford Explorer. In other markets, this tiny Honda is sold as the Jazz, which is appropriate: It exudes all the unflappable cool and versatility of a session drummer.

http://www.caranddriver.com/features/2012-10best-cars-feature-2012-honda-fit-page-8

NV Whino

(20,886 posts)
16. I have a FIT
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:56 AM
Jan 2012

It holds five people. Six footers are astounded at the head room. Rear seats fold flat for an amazing amount of carrying space. I've carried 12' 2 x4s (stocking out the passenger window). Mieage is 33 to 38 mpg. My cost out the door was $16,750. What's not to like?

rog

(647 posts)
123. Why I like my Fit.
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 04:42 PM
Jan 2012

re: "Tiny," ... not really. I'm a musician and I can get all my stuff in there with room left over. Drove to a gig not too long ago with all my guitar gear (full sized jazz guitar, amp, stool, music stand, etc.), plus the bass player's gear (full sized upright bass, no less, plus amp, etc.). The bass player rode with me, about 6'4" tall, comfy in the passenger seat. We rode in style. Gas mileage over the last year is 43.5mpg, combined city and highway ... I'd say I do about 65-70% on the freeway, the rest in town.

Price: less than 17,000 out the door, brand new.

It's an '09 model ... NO mechanical issues, other than routine maintenance.

Mine is the Sport model ... has all the features except the GPS. Manual transmission, which I LOVE. I didn't realize how hard it was to get a stick shift these days. USB port in the glove box ... just bring a USB drive w/ your tunes, talking books, etc. on it. Sweet.

.rog.

 

Arctic Dave

(13,812 posts)
21. Arctic Jodie picks hers up Monday from the dock.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:12 AM
Jan 2012

She is in looooove with it.

I finally talked her into buying American. Union made in America and shipped and handled by union labor.

Mopar151

(9,965 posts)
7. My friends in the biz
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:26 AM
Jan 2012

Give Hyundai good marks. And they are the same ones who told me about how Toyota has hidden recalls for 25 years.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
9. How can one "hide recalls?"
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:28 AM
Jan 2012

Why does every mechanic I consult tell me to buy Honda or Toyota?

Oh, wait.

Hmmm.

Mopar151

(9,965 posts)
24. Run as a "service campaign" - done when car is in for other service
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:42 AM
Jan 2012

Sometimes without an owner's knowledge or consent. Toyota's are notorious "rust buckets" (they bought back a LOT of pickups for rotten frames a couple years ago), and older Honda's have rust issues too.

meaculpa2011

(918 posts)
57. A service campaign...
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 04:24 PM
Jan 2012

is not a recall. Recalls have strict rules, even to the point of tracking down and notifying second and third owners.

Mopar151

(9,965 posts)
59. No shit, sherlock!
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 04:41 PM
Jan 2012

Toyota managed to duck those rules for a long time, to A) save money and B)maintain their hyper-reliable image.

meaculpa2011

(918 posts)
62. How can Toyota...
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 05:29 PM
Jan 2012

hide a government-mandated recall?

I've administered more than few recalls. It's not like I can just toss the notifications in the waste basket.

I don't know anything about the inner workings of Toyota, but if you have evidence of corruption involving NHTSA, let us in on the secret.

It's after 4PM. You can stop being snotty.

Mopar151

(9,965 posts)
66. Toyota "got out in front" of recalls
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 06:38 PM
Jan 2012

By managing the reporting of defects to NHTSA - like buying back all of those pickups at 125% of book, with no mileage deduction, so that owners were eager to turn them in.
Ford's big mistake in the notorious Pinto fires was stonewalling the acknowledgement of a problem until there were plenty of horrendous examples in public view.

doc03

(35,148 posts)
69. There is a scrap yard a few miles from me, I have seen hundreds of Toyota Tacomas
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 08:07 PM
Jan 2012

going to the crusher and still do. I own a 2006 Tacoma and so far it has been flawless mechanically but I am keeping my fingers crossed on the rust, so far the Tacoma has been OK from 2005 on. The first generation of the Tundra were rust buckets too.

 

cherokeeprogressive

(24,853 posts)
11. 1972 4x4 Chevrolet Blazer CST.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:33 AM
Jan 2012

Bought it in November in Salt Lake City for $7,000. Factory tilt, factory air.

Plus, it's convertible.

I'm in the process of rebuilding the suspension.

Pictures when I get finished with it.

 

Edweird

(8,570 posts)
17. I used to have a '72 K5. The all metal interior was bad assed.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:59 AM
Jan 2012

I wish my '97 Suburban had it. It had the fiberglass top which, while removable, was a heavy and unwieldy thing that I had no place to put. So it stayed on during my ownership. My only problem was the lack of A/C in the humid South Florida summer - the windows fogged up and it was hot as hell....

 

cherokeeprogressive

(24,853 posts)
30. The fiberglass top on the 69-72's reached all the way to the windshield frame but you knew that...
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 02:30 AM
Jan 2012

73's and later had a hard-top that reached to a point behind the front seats. So when the top's off, it's exactly like a convertible. I found a K5 website where a guy has plans for a block n tackle setup that lifts the top all the way to the top of the garage.

It runs like a top, with a recently rebuilt 350 and a new transfer case.

The only issue is rust. I'm going to have to buy new door shells, ($500+), and body panels ($750-1000+). The labor cost for the body panels will probably cost somewhere near a grand or more, but I have a paint guy who'll do the primer/paint for cost + 2oz of good weed.

When I'm done with the rust, paint, carpeting, and sound... it'll sell on Ebay for upward of $18,000 but I plan on this being the last vehicle I'm ever going to buy. It even has the uncut holes for the stereo, and I've found a place that makes "vintage" radios that'll accept my XM radio and iPod Nano.

It's almost exactly like the one my Grandpa had when I was a kid. When I'm done with it it'll be a vehicle he would have been proud to drive, and totally appropriate for the place where I live which is 7,000 above Los Angeles.

All in all, it's a nod to to the UAW men and women who dreamed it, designed it, tooled the plants in Michigan, and built it.

flvegan

(64,389 posts)
29. (facepalm) again
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 02:28 AM
Jan 2012

"like an import" is kind of subjective, yes? No, hold on...I'm going to rewind to where this idiot drops in. Have at it.

Initech

(99,912 posts)
28. I'm heavily considering a 300 for my next car.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 02:24 AM
Jan 2012

I didn't like the last model - I rented one and it felt like driving a boat, but I hear the new one is a huge, dramatic improvement. Car & Driver liked it better than the Hyundai Genesis in some tests.

flvegan

(64,389 posts)
22. All four of them are almost equally dreadful.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:26 AM
Jan 2012

Value for money? Egads, what a horrible group to decide from. Short the Focus. The Focus is good. Dreadful, but from the group can be quite good.

Atman

(31,464 posts)
50. Notice, most everyone else liked all of your choices, and...
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 03:46 PM
Jan 2012

...he made no recommendations of his own, just shat upon others. Although, I tend to agree with the Chrysler facepalm. I've never driven one that wasn't a total turd, including the Dodge Avenger I rented two weeks ago in Florida.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
52. I actually kind of liked the Dodge Caliber, the couple times I've driven it as a rental.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 04:06 PM
Jan 2012

But, yeah, I'm still a little wary of Chrysler. I hope the reported quality improvements are true.

And, yes, you're right about the posts in question.

tammywammy

(26,582 posts)
95. The new Focus is really nice looking
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:58 PM
Jan 2012

Well, at least on the outside, I haven't seen the inside personally.

Heywood J

(2,515 posts)
31. I don't know if such a thing is important to you, but
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:53 PM
Jan 2012

I can tell you that the Equinox is union-built in Ingersoll. If the Cruze is built in Lordstown, it should be union-made as well.

I have no idea about the other two. The 2012 Focus is a new design that I don't know much about.

phylny

(8,353 posts)
41. I've been looking at small SUVs - more for fun than to actually buy one right now.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:42 PM
Jan 2012

I like the GMC Terrain, Chevy Equinox, and the Ford Escape. The problem with the GMC is it's not made in the US. My current car is a 2005 Honda, which has been extremely reliable. My only issue is with the finish - inside and out. The paint near the door handles is scratched, and I do not have long nails and the interior is scratched (daughters' soccer cleats) and the seat material is impossible to get clean.

No matter, I'll be keeping my CR-V for quite some time.

GoCubsGo

(32,061 posts)
47. The Focus is assembled in Wayne, MI.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 03:16 PM
Jan 2012

At least those sold in North America. I believe that is a union plant.

MattBaggins

(7,894 posts)
32. Subaru
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 12:55 PM
Jan 2012

but I live near Lake Ontario and lake effect snow and horrible winters are a figure in my TCO where as others might not consider those issues.

mucifer

(23,373 posts)
33. My 2007 prius has 90,000 miles and running strong.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:02 PM
Jan 2012

I get an average of 42mpg. I've had very few problems. The fuel pump and the regular battery have been replaced. (Not the $3,000 battery) That is all besides tires of course.

 

Motown_Johnny

(22,308 posts)
38. it depends on your driving habits and needs
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:38 PM
Jan 2012

I would say that the Leaf might be the best because of the savings in fuel costs from a pure electric. If you can get by with driving 100 miles a day, or less, they this might be the best car for you. The Prius is also an option and there are many versions to choose from so I don't want to start down that road but you should look at them.


A similar argument can be made for the natural gas version of The Civic.


For an gasoline powered internal combustion vehicle I could make the case for the Chevy Sonic (because it is being built in Lake Orion Michigan).

The Sonic starts at less than $14,000 and has fuel efficiency ratings as high as 40 MPG. I sat in one at the auto show last year and it is a pretty nice little car.

http://www.chevrolet.com/sonic-small-car/



If you compare the Sonic to something like the Elantra, the Elantra starts at over $15,000 in a 2 door while the Sonic is a 4 door. The gas mileage is very similar, depending on exactly which model you choose. You would also need to take into account that American made cars tend to be less expensive to maintain than foreign makes but this is a generalization. The last thing is the cost of insuring the vehicle and you will need to check that yourself since this tends to vary. Also the Elantra is being manufactured in right to work states, not in union factories, if that matters to you.


The Focus is similar but starts at over $18,000 so I'm not sure how to make an argument for this vehicle, even though by brother sells Fords. Maybe I should call him about it.

The Equinox is a crossover SUV, so if you need a larger vehicle then you really shouldn't be comparing things like the Elantra or Focus. You can't get one for less than $23,500 and the MPG is only 32 highway.

The Cruze stars at $16,800 and has mileage only slightly better than The Sonic. If you are serious about looking for a vehicle you might want to start looking at both the Cruze and the Sonic and then base the rest of your choices on these two options. I might go with the Sonic but I don't need a very big car and the thing is being built "in the neighborhood" relatively speaking. I also like the 4 door models of smaller cars. I am to old to climb in and out of the back seat of small vehicles with only 2 doors and I can't expect anyone else to do it either.




Atman

(31,464 posts)
42. I've driven a Cruze, own an Elantra; driven Equinox, own a Santa Fe
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:52 PM
Jan 2012

My Elantra is older, 2006 5-door that everyone thought was a Saab when it was new. Love that car. Never had any repair issues, it has lots of room, a very solid feel. But I recently drove a Cruze as a rental...very impressive car. I would consider purchasing one, but they're kind of pricey. I'd probably go with the new Elantra if I were in the market, just because of the excellent experience I've had with the two we currently own.

The Equinox was also very nice, but not nearly as roomy as my Santa Fe. Still giving my recs to Hyundai.

Also have a 2002 Saturn...has had some ac problems, but it's not a bad car.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
44. The Santa Fe is comparable to the Chevy Traverse, not the Equinox.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 02:39 PM
Jan 2012

The Hyundai Tucson is what competes with the Equinox. The Tucson is a very nice vehicle, but much smaller than the Equinox and it also gets worse gas mileage than the Equinox.

 

Motown_Johnny

(22,308 posts)
45. I just got rid of my 98 Saturn last year
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 02:49 PM
Jan 2012

I loved that car and it was still getting anywhere from 28 to 32 MPG for me.


Have you looked at the Sonic? It is similar to the Cruze but a bit smaller and much less expensive.

 

Motown_Johnny

(22,308 posts)
116. you said that The Sonic can't be beat
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 02:57 PM
Jan 2012

at it's price point. I was inferring that you then accepted The Sonic as the best deal. Since it's price is so low I don't see how you are going to argue that another vehicle is a better deal.

 

Motown_Johnny

(22,308 posts)
121. No, but since the price point is so low
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 04:02 PM
Jan 2012

how can you make an argument that any other vehicle is a better deal?


Why pay more when the Sonic is "a sweet little car"?

Atman

(31,464 posts)
48. Actually, I'd never even heard of the Sonic, but...
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 03:20 PM
Jan 2012

...we paid off the Elantra last year and it's still like new (except for a couple little dings here and there). We decided it was nice having the "extra" income rather than perpetual car payments!

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
112. Absolutely.
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 01:20 PM
Jan 2012

We haven't had car payments for five years. We had a zero percent loan our 2002 Saturn, so that wasn't so bad. Still, we try to keep our vehicles 10 plus years. I'd rather use the money for other things.

Fawke Em

(11,366 posts)
40. The Ford
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 01:39 PM
Jan 2012

The Hyundai should be tariffed out of existence on American soil. The Focus is being brought home and Americans will have jobs.

DonRedwood

(4,359 posts)
117. buy American :0)
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 03:00 PM
Jan 2012

I've never been able to buy a new car but, when the day comes, I'll buy the best American car that I can.

Corgigal

(9,291 posts)
43. my mazada cx-9
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 02:18 PM
Jan 2012

everytime we take it to the mazada shop, it triggers the sales floor and someone always comes out to try to buy it from us. We can give you 20,000 dollars right now. We also get letters from mazda telling us they want to buy it. She is 2007 and just paid it off. The cx-9 is number 1 right now on U.S. News for it's size. The answer is NO im not selling her.

http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Mazda_CX-9/

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
54. It does look like a nice vehicle.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 04:13 PM
Jan 2012

It's bigger than what we were looking to purchase. On the other hand, I remember having Saturn trying to buy our vehicles throughout the '90s. We were happy with them, but they weren't the best vehicles around. Still, perception led them to have value at the time. My current suspicion is that similar perceptions are keeping Honda and Toyota moving forward. Not that they don't offer fine vehicle, but that they can charge more for an equivalent vehicle compared to other makes, which have equaled and sometimes surpassed them in quality.

cthulu2016

(10,960 posts)
58. New cars? Because the early 1990s Camry is probably best value
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 04:31 PM
Jan 2012

I would guess that the only full-sized car you can pay under $2000 for that has a real chance of making it another 100K miles without huge repairs is probably the 1992-1995 Camry.

Look around any parking lot and there's an eeire number of those 20 year old cars on the road.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
73. The rust factor is interesting.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 09:04 PM
Jan 2012

It's not a concern here in the northwest, so I forget about it. But, yes, a good 10-year-old vehicle is the cheapest one around. We have a 25-year-old Toyota pick up, and it seems ready to go another 25 years.

bvar22

(39,909 posts)
109. We like the old Toyotas,
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 12:46 PM
Jan 2012

...but prefer to buy American iron,
though it doesn't really matter in the "used" market.
Thankfully, my wife prefers to drive a "stick",
so we don't have to fool with automatics.

We live way out in The Woods at the end of some brutal dirt roads.
4WD is a must, also the ability to carry firewood and the occasional hay bale, and pull a light trailer.
EZ maintenance and access to cheap parts are a prime consideration.

A 99 Ford Ranger 4X Stick Off Road is our primary transportation,
and we are pleased with it.
We also own a 2002 GMC Jimmy 2dr 4WD Stick.
It is nice, but not a "tough" as the Ford which handles these rough, poorly maintained backroads better.

We bought both with over 100K miles, and both have proved to be more than a good deal.
They easily paid for themselves in the first 18 months, and now we are driving on Lagniappe.
We only carry Liability since the Book Value isn't worth carrying Collision.
If we damage one beyond my ability to repair....Oh Well.


meaculpa2011

(918 posts)
63. I've had a 2011 Hyundai Sonata...
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 05:37 PM
Jan 2012

for the past ten months. So far so good. My wife used a 2003 Elantra to commute. She retired last year and my daughter is using it. 120,000 miles and it's about ready to give up the ghost. We got our money's worth, though.

I have 1995 BMW 525i. 150,000 miles and still going strong. Dollar for dollar it's the best car I've ever owned. I hope to get another 150,000 out of it.

etherealtruth

(22,165 posts)
70. Funny my last car was the Hyundai
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 08:26 PM
Jan 2012

My current vehicle is is a 2010 Ford Focus.

The 2005 Hyundai .... sadly was a lemon (it happens), but when it wasn't experiencing major mechanical problems it was comfortable and got very good gas mileage (manual 5-speed transmission)

My experience with the Focus ... 40 miles a gallon on the freeway ... no major issues. Its been in the collision shop for a month ... not the fault of the Focus but an other driver that decided it would be wise to occupy himself with other activities when driving on a major metro freeway during rush hour

hunter

(38,264 posts)
75. I'd tend to buy a Ford....
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 09:21 PM
Jan 2012

... but if I ever have to buy a new car, I will be very, very, very unhappy.

If somebody gave me a new car I would give it away to someone who could appreciate it.

I hate cars. Vile things, all cars are.

My cars are old and I will keep them as long as I can. They hate me, I hate them, I loathe them, and they know it. I think they live long, mileage to the moon and going back, just to spite me.

LeftyMom

(49,212 posts)
76. Depends on what you need and how you plan on using it.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 09:45 PM
Jan 2012

I wouldn't buy any of those, not because there's anything wrong with them but because they wouldn't meet my needs especially well. I have a very reliable Subaru Forester with tons of cargo room, the sport package and a manual, which is exactly what I need. If what you need is a compact vehicle for a long commute it would be an awful car for you, no matter how much I love mine.

There's no one best deal out there, you have to narrow it way down to what you actually need and go from there. Your list has vehicles that don't really have anything in common except four tires and internal combustion, so I can't really suggest anything without a better idea of what you need and want in a car.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
77. The Forester is a nice car.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 09:57 PM
Jan 2012

However, one of the bigger problems with Subarus is the cargo space. They are very reliable, but one can get much more cargo space and leg room with the Equinox, for example, compared to the Forester, for a few grand less. The question on longevity of the Equinox remains, but early assessments indicate it will be a vehicle for the long haul.

Yes, it is about what one needs, but there are "best deals" dollar for dollar out there. Too many of us put too much stake in emotion, advertising, and the fact that one had good luck or bad luck with a single vehicle of a certain make.

LeftyMom

(49,212 posts)
78. Yeah, but mine's pushing 200K miles and the biggest repair it's needed was a clutch job.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 10:21 PM
Jan 2012

Not bad considering I bought it used for slightly more money than can be found under the cushions of the average sofa.

My point is that no car is perfect, and that the best deal is the one that's closest to perfect for you, knowing how long you'll keep it and what you plan on doing with it. For example if you're going to trade in after a few years you probably don't want a Hyundai anything, because their resale is perfectly awful. If you drive your car until the wheels fall off resale matters nothing but long-term reliability is paramount. I don't really care about leg room because I'm 5'2", for me adjustable pedals would be a bigger selling point, maybe for you that's different.

Which car is the best compromise between what you need, what you want and what you can afford is different for everybody. Picking out a few models as unusually good values with no other criteria is like picking out a few houses somewhere as unusually good deals: sure, that enormous $5K fixer in Detroit might be a hell of a deal, but the $100K starter house near your job is probably a better choice for you.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
87. Again, I partly agree, but objectivity is not something that should be ignored.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:38 PM
Jan 2012

Most car purchases are made with too little objectivity. If it were otherwise, we would all have better options as consumers.

tabbycat31

(6,336 posts)
81. I will 2nd the Forester
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 10:59 PM
Jan 2012

Mine's pushing 200K and I love everything about it. When it comes time to replace it, I will get another Forester.

we can do it

(12,118 posts)
83. I'm Sorry
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:13 PM
Jan 2012

Stability and exceptional safety features, great in winter. Pretty good on gas. Lots of room for plants, tools & whatever in back (I like the wagon). My big & not very flexible dad fits nicely without complaining in front seat, he never fit in my cavaliers.

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
85. OK, then.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:35 PM
Jan 2012

I like Subarus. Their reliability is fantastic. I was a bit surprised to find them to be so small on the inside, however.

Nonetheless, a vehicle is what it is to its owner. For me, if the vehicle gets decent mileage, keeps going and fits what I need inside it, then I'm good.

Cheers!

we can do it

(12,118 posts)
125. They (Impreza's anyway) Seem To Be More Spacious Inside This Year
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 08:53 PM
Jan 2012

I'm more into functionality and guts than style anyway.

Tikki

(14,537 posts)
84. For years the best vehicle from conception to junk yard was the FORD Ranger..
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:21 PM
Jan 2012

truck. The 4cylinder, I believe. That is for all aspects of car ownership.
Only problem is that in reality even the extended cab is a two-seater.

And now I hear FORD is discontinuing the Ranger, to work on a passenger car
that can meet the same goal, I hope.

We own a 10 year old Ranger with under 40,000 miles on it..at this rate we are
betting it will last the rest of our (seniors) lives.

The Tikkis

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
86. No argument here.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:36 PM
Jan 2012

The Ranger and other larger trucks (well, as well as the older small Toyotas) have been the kings of longevity.

bluestate10

(10,942 posts)
94. I have perfect AC. I prefer driving with my windows down during July and August.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:56 PM
Jan 2012

I just like the live feel of air blowing through my hair.

Hassin Bin Sober

(26,272 posts)
97. You wanted value. You didn't say anything about sweating your balls or ovaries off!
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 12:02 AM
Jan 2012

I'm mostly kidding. Obviously the '88 escorts are just about all dead by now. I was in the buiz. in the mid to late '90s.

Still, I nver thought new cars were a good idea. But the focus always seemed like a good value. The boyfriend looked at them. I helped put a friend in one a few years ago. The boyfriend ended up with a 1 year old Mercury Milan. He wanted that sync gadget stuff. He was looking at the Fusion and Milan and we found a good deal on a Milan. We tease him because after he bought the car one of the write-ups on it was how it was popular with the ladies. We all refer to his car as the lady Fusion. LOL

Hassin Bin Sober

(26,272 posts)
92. Oh yeah and it was stick shift no air.
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:53 PM
Jan 2012

The idea was it was a bare bones car that no one wanted but would run for ever.

Last time my boyfriend was looking I spotted a gran marquis (used) with 40k miles on it and said now this is the car for you! He almost threw up (he was trading a mini convert).

HuckleB

(35,773 posts)
93. Those are great cars!
Sun Jan 29, 2012, 11:56 PM
Jan 2012

We've had one for the last 16 years, but it's not so bad in the Willamette Valley.

Hassin Bin Sober

(26,272 posts)
100. The boyfriend's parents are yooking at an '02 Lesabre with 50k miles.
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 12:11 AM
Jan 2012

Now THAT'S a good value. That 3800 engine is bullet-proof. I put my dad in one years back before he passed.

The in-laws are getting rid of th '95 Riviera with 200k miles and going with something a little less flashy as they ARE 68 and 78. They still have the Miata convert with 200k miles for funning around. FIL is a retired commercial pilot and FBO operator who believes in maintaining his machines.

I would by an older used Buick in a heart beat. I worked in a Buick dealer for ten years.

Hassin Bin Sober

(26,272 posts)
102. I still shudder when my boyfriend wants to look at Hyundais.
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 12:23 AM
Jan 2012

I know I know they cleaned up their act and have a good warranty. They're sharp too. His friends have one and love it. The value seems good too.

When I was in the business, we couldn't get our new Kias financed because of what Hyundai did to all the lenders. The banks all loaned money on them to people with marginal credit with $100 dollars down. I mean why not? A new car for $6k and a warranty? The trouble was when the warranty was up and the cars took a shit, people stopped paying for the car. It damn near crippled a several banks.

When Kia came to town, the lenders were like no more Korean cars. Things have changed and Hyundai rehabbed their image.

But still.

The Kia was crap too. Half the new cars came back on the hook in 2 or 3 days. Electrical problems. But I hear they cleaned up their act (owned by Hyundai).


Now come to find out our LG washer/dryer combo is actually LUCKY GOLDSTAR maker of shitty crappy electronics in the '80s. Rebranded to Life Is Good. I just had to replace the drum on 5 year old dryer.

justabob

(3,069 posts)
122. lol
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 04:16 PM
Jan 2012

I love the 240s. I had a wagon in college, and a slightly newer 240 sedan later. Both were still running when I got rid of them at 175K and 150K miles.

CRK7376

(2,187 posts)
113. We love our
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 02:33 PM
Jan 2012

Toyotas! My wife has an '06 Sienna minivan with 142,000plus on the odometer. I am in an '05 Tacoma with over 167,000k. No major/minor problems with either vehicle other than kids spilling drinks, dropping fries and burger crumbs on the seats/floor....

 

zoechen

(93 posts)
119. I have a friend
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 03:42 PM
Jan 2012

He owns, or rather owned a Porshe Carrara and a Mercedes AMG.

The AMG wins hands down, with him anyways.

Beats me, I drive a 99 Dodge Diesel truck.

Ohio Joe

(21,655 posts)
120. It is not on the market new anymore
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 03:46 PM
Jan 2012

[IMG][/IMG]

Ten years with basic maintenance and it still runs like a dream.

Iwasthere

(3,138 posts)
124. Anything that doesn't use gas
Mon Jan 30, 2012, 05:02 PM
Jan 2012

I personally drive a 2001 Ford Excursion Deisel for free. Been doing it for 3 1/2 years now. Paid itself off in no time. Easy to convert most deisels to run straight veggie (buy an old mercedes for $500.00 and convert yourself for another $500.00). Plenty of restartants are willing to help out the little guy and give us oil fro free (they have to pay to have it taken). If it isn't avaiable that way then you can buy oil for 1 to 2 bucks on craigslist in most cities. Side benefit, my exsaust actually helps the plant life, I am NOT spewing junk into the air. We have to do what we have to do.... We don't have the money for a new car... upside down on mortgage (almost $2000.00 a month too) and they won't refi us cause we have a PMI

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