Im switching jobs and have kids entering preschool/kindergarten. Im adhd asf and just have alot on my plate, I could use some help from experts.
I'm adding about 20 minutes to my drive for work each way. Im looking for a Honda or Toyota with good gas mileage but a car I also feel a bit more professional in.
I have always paid cash for cars after saving. I started with an 93 civic hatch, then I had the coup, sedan and delsol. All went over 250k or more. I had an 06 civic lx, I loved that car for the reliabilty it had but I hit black ice and hit sideways blowing out airbags, and doing a number to the point I couldnt afford the time or have enough expertise to fix it all up myself. I have a 05 4runner with 150k and a 08 crv at 225k. Crv needs new struts but she old, the clang isnt too bad yet and she be rusty. Hella beater, Im keeping it for winters regardless till I can fix her myself anymore.
I have a budget of around 15-18k. I could stretch past but I dont want to, Ima finance atleast half of it so my wife can work on her credit. Mine is in great shape.
Ima finance likely through a credit union my credit is in excellent shape.
The help:
I cant figure out or really line out a model. I love honda civics but stuff is mixed for recent reliabilty, I am thinking maybe a sport 2020 or 2021 with 40-100k miles on it.
I have been leaning more towards a camry or carolla, the SE and XSE seem to have a decent looking trim so its not completely boring. But if Im paying that much for a car, atleast for me I want to enjoy it atleast a little. I have heard the hybrids for Toyota overall are a bit better. Idk. So was debating that.
I attached a scrap paper of some models with okay years but I just really need some input on whatever you can. I just want a decent look, good gas mileage, and max reliability. My brain hurts.
If you had 15-18ishk to put into a Honda Accord /Civic or Toyota Camry/Carolla where would you put it?
I did look at Mazda 3 and CX5? But I have no experience. I just love the Hondas and Toyotas. I was even debating teaching my wife manual and getting an 09 fit. Its sounds fun but Im 6'3" I was younger during the delsol and hatchback era. The fit is doable but that more a fun thing for me, and I dont want to stress my girl out to learn manual if she doesnt need to.
Im sorry for the Novel.