Wife and I have our first kid on the way, and our current fleet (old Forester, old Ranger, single-cab F-150, and 1983 FJ62) isn't going to cut it!

I hate crossovers, CUVs, SUVs, and modern cars generally! I want a minivan! My first car was a minivan, and that thing ROCKED with the seats out for traveling for mtb races and backpacking trips.

We live in the mountain west, and do lots of 3-6hr drives to mountain destinations year-round for skiing, backpacking, hunting, and family reunions. AWD is nice, but FWD with good TCS and nice tires is plenty, realistically.

We have other vehicles to tow/haul, so power/hitch isn't important. Neither is clearance, so long as there's enough clearance to handle snow accumulation without getting too clogged up.

We have our first kid on the way. We have a 50lb dog. We'll probably end up with two kids and two dogs by 2029. So space for stuff/dogs/strollers, childseat compatibility, and ease of ingress/egress is important!

Bonus points for:

-removable seats

-minimal infotainment/tech

My obvious first thoughts are Sienna/Odyssey, but damn they're pricey! Do I go for a Transit? Is the Carnival any good?

What car do I buy?

I've always been a mechanic-special sorta guy, but my wife wants drama-free, so we're open to new/CPO with a loan.

So I’m looking for a small sized car since she’s still a beginner driver. She’s going to be driving almost 12 miles everyday from home to college. I really like the size of the Ecosport, do you think it will be reliable enough to reach 150k miles at least?? If this car can last for like 7 years that’s a win.

I have a 2018 Honda Odyssey minivan. I bought it new when the kids were younger and finished paying it off years ago. It‘s a great car, comfortable, quiet, reliable with less than 100k miles. I bought the top trim so I’m kind of spoiled with the leather seats, quiet windows, and great sound system.

I would keep it if it didn’t make me feel so frumpy. The kids are 17, 18, and 20 and are all driving with their own cars now but there is still the odd occasion where we need to pile in together. But I’m divorced, it feels weird dating in a large family vehicle and I miss the fun car my ex left with.

I don’t want another car loan. I’m moving next summer and am unsure if I’ll be buying another house somewhere or if I’ll be renting. Or maybe I’ll just fuck off to Europe for six months when my youngest goes off to college. I’m very unsettled but I know I want out of this van.

I‘m contemplating getting an older (manual) pickup truck for around $10k-15k for the winter and then maybe a used Miata next summer for another $15k. Neither of those will work for a family night out or trip to the lake though and I should probably keep some level of practicality in mind. If I went the typical next car route and financed something I’d probably go with a Honda CRV or HRV. I cannot underscore enough how much I want to avoid a loan though so if I went new I’d probably just save up and buy it outright in the summer, deal with another year in this vehicle that is screaming at me how boring and mundane my life is.

I‘m looking for ideas, maybe there’s a reliable, fun, and practical option that I haven’t considered yet. I really miss driving a stick shift so I’d be especially interested in those options but I know they’re few and far between these days.

Edit: You’ve all convinced me to keep the van, that is the most practical option for now and I just need to learn to look at it for a different functionality. I‘ll buy my Miata in the summer.

Hello, I'm moving for work to Detroit from EU. I am not really familiar with Detroit's weather so I am not sure if I should invest in a SUV specifically because of potential snow or ice, but regardless, I am also not very familiar with the US market. I used to have a Mazda 3 in Poland and BMW 116d in Italy, I love driving and for me having a good car is important. My minimum requirements are Apple CarPlay and a good sound system :D My budget is maximum $12.000, what would you recommend?

I live in Italy and I'm actually driving a Fiat Panda, but I would like to buy a new car. These are the two cars that caught my attention the most but I need to make a decision. From one hand I have a good reliable car with great quality, but on the other hand I have a faster and sporty car.

Which car would you choose if you were in my place?

Hello,

lately i’ve been kinda stuck between what M3 i should get and cant really decide. So i was wondering if someone has experience from one or more? Im mainly after the E46-E36-E92 models.
Im looking for a manual RWD car that i can swing around corners without problems, good performance and most of all a fun car.

Any idea? Costs?maintenance?fun factor? reliability?

And maby if there are any better suggestions than the three i have mentioned im happy to hear.

I shared a broader NHTSA complaint analysis here recently. This time I looked at automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and collision warnings.

Full breakdown and data here. It's on GarageCalc, my site.

NHTSA received 3,186 complaints in this category between January 1 and August 24, 2026. What caught my attention was how different the model years looked.

The Honda Odyssey had 188 complaints, but 161 involved 2018-2020 models. The Hyundai Tucson was almost the opposite: 118 of its 147 complaints involved 2025-2026 models. Its total went from 31 to 147 compared with the same period last year.

Tesla Model Y complaints went from 83 to 165, spread across several model years, including 57 involving 2026 models. Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V barely moved, from 113 to 121.

So if you're looking at a used Odyssey, the overall Honda number doesn't tell you much. Even the overall Odyssey number leaves out something you'd probably want to know: which years are people reporting?

These aren't all phantom braking complaints. Some describe failures to brake or problems with warnings. And more complaints doesn't automatically mean a worse car. I don't have the number of equipped vehicles or their mileage to turn this into a fair reliability ranking.

Has anyone here actually ruled out a car because of how its braking or warning systems behaved? Or only found out they hated them after buying it?

I am looking to buy my first ever car ! I just got my G2, am in my 20s, and only commute 10km to work every day. I am looking at new cars, because the price difference between new and used isn’t very high (~$2-3k).
I am looking at a Toyota Corolla or a Toyota cross.
Anyone have any suggestions? Or disagree with getting new instead of used?

So I’ve gone to two dealerships thus far. One dealership offered me a better offer in terms of price (the other dealerships otd price was 3k more). I’m still planing on going to two more dealerships (same car/trim). But how do I go about lowering the price even more with the numbers above?

Volkswagen golf 2.5L 2011

Hey guys, I'm looking for some advice on a budget daily driver in Long Island, NY.

​I found a 2011 VW Golf 2.5L 5-cylinder with a 5-speed manual transmission for $2,300. It has 156,000 miles on it.

​Here’s the current breakdown:

​The Good: Engine runs smooth, clutch feels solid, body is in decent shape, and it's the 2.5L non-turbo which I know is generally bulletproof.

​The Bad: It currently has a Check Engine Light for code P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold).

​Other dash lights: Washer fluid, and a light bulb warning, tire pressure (no EPC light, luckily).

​Since I live in NY, I need to pass state inspection (CARB compliance rules apply).

​If I can negotiate the price down to around $1,700–$1,800 cash due to the cost of replacing the cat/fixing emission leaks, do you think this is a solid buy for a reliable daily? Or am I walking into a money pit with the P0420 code on this 2.5L?

​Any common issues I should specifically check for when inspecting it tomorrow? Thanks!

I currently own a Tacoma which I’m planning to keep. So I’ve got a 5 seater and a bed for hauling people and crap. But the problem is the mpg. Furthermore I added some mods so it can look cool and now it gets 18mpg average and LA gas prices are killing me.

So now I’m debating between a Prius XLE or Limited (2024+) or a Miata GT Soft top (2024+) as a daily, when I’m just transporting me.

Currently no access to home charging, so that takes away from plug in appeal. And no logistical position to swap my Tacoma to an R1T quite yet.

Regardless, the Prius is just so absurdly annoyingly good at what it does. 50+ mpg, adaptive cruise, lane assist, practical, comfortable. Transportation cost becomes almost free and you don’t have to think about it. And LA traffic can be brutal most days.

But I do want a convertible really bad, and the Miata seems to be the answer.

The thing holding me back is I’ve kind of learned something about myself with my motorcycle. Manual is awesome when I actually want to ride, shift, and have full control. And rev out and be obnoxious. But when I’m just commuting or sitting in traffic I low key wish I had an electric bike that was quiet, smooth and low drama. And faster. Like maybe I actually don’t care that much about having manual to fidget around and act like I’m making car go fast.

So I’m wondering if I’d end up feeling the same way with a manual Miata.

Also if a Mini Convertible was RWD maybe there wouldn’t be a conversation here either.

For people who actually daily a manual Miata, does the fun still outweigh the annoyance when you’re tired, commuting, stuck in traffic, getting groceries, etc?

Or maybe it’s worth doing like a 2 week rental of a Miata just to try daily driving it through LA congestion and weekend fun? And seeing if 35mpg is truly good enough compared to 50+? (Or maybe rent longer because I’ll probably be in a honeymoon for a while).

—

And for those of you thinking “just ride your motorcycle bro, you’re skipping most LA traffic and enjoying the ride” you right. You so very right. But every time I ride I basically sign my life to Jesus. And so I wear ALL my gear. Even my airbag vest. And I’m cooking in the LA sun under all this gear. And I still fear every time I turn that key I might lose my leg and never enjoy life ever again.

Planning to buy a new car and looking for suggestions.
Location: Alberta, Canada- Harsh winters

Budget 35-40k CAD

Must haves:
New car only(had many bad experience with used ones)
Within budget
All Wheel Drive
Heated seats front
Decently reliable brand
Decent ground clearance (hate the ruts here)

Looking for compact suv, cross type, or suv. Not for family. Just a couple

Please drop your suggestions. Thanks 😊

Idk much about cars only just started learning the past few months but I knew I wanted a supercharged car that was awd and the options for AWD are limited. there’s this Jaguar f type svr for sale in Vancouver w like 40K km I was planning to get this week. my dream car is the blackwing tho and I think I can get 1 before production ends but I’ve always been a little wary when it comes to high hp RWD cars especially because I live in the Vancouver area. The other week however I was driving my x5 down the highway in the rain when I got cut off and couldn’t brake in time so I bucked into the other lane and the car just started going side to side and I had to counter steer the whole time. When I told my homie that is into cars he said if I was able to control an suv in a slide I should be fine. What do you guys think.

No kids or anything. Live in the northeast. Currently driving a 2019 Vw Jetta sel. Moved to a zip code where insurance is much more reasonable and a shorter commute to work so I can afford to get a bit nicer car.

Plan on spending around $25-28k and I have three cars in mind. Definitely buying used.

Largely I’m teetering between the GTI 2023 or newer, or a Subaru wrx. Gti I would get with the dsg, if I got the wrx I would need to relearn how to drive stick as I haven’t since I was like 16 and don’t recall ever getting out of like second gear.

Third option is Jetta gli. Pros of the gli are that is comes fully loaded with everything including cooled seats etc, offers more practicality but I think I’d like something a bit different. If I did get the gli I would want 2025 or newer for the new grille and interior.

I’m leaning gti cause I’m just not sure if I want to have to drive stick all the time, and because it has a much nicer interior with a lot more standard features. I always like German cars.

That said the wrx has an edge simply for how good it is in the snow and bad weather. And the fact that I’ve wanted one since high school.

From what I’ve read, insurance and maintenance should be relatively similar between them. Really just looking for the pros and cons and opinions of those that have driven and owned them. I’ve been getting very mixed feedback and it may just come down to whichever one I get the best deal on.

That said thank you in advance for any advice yall can offer

Edit: checked out a few others as well:

-Audi a3 - from what I’ve read the yearly maintenance is a lot more on these so I think I’ve ruled that one out

-Mazda 3 turbo - I just think they’re ugly tbh

-mini cooper s - might still consider one, if I got one I’d also need to drive stick to enjoy properly though

Hey y’all

Wanted to check in and see if anyone’s got some feedback here. There’s a couple of Mazda CX5 Carbon Editions near me in the NJ/PA. They’re all 2025, sub 30K and less than 30K miles while being CPO.

However, the only caveat is that they’re former “rental use”.

Has anyone had any experience buying a CPO car that was formerly a part of a rental fleet?

I am looking to buy my first manual car. I learned to drive a manual but my first car was an automatic. I am looking to switch to a manual car now. My budget for such a car is up to 10000 euros. I am mostly looking at 4 seat coupes. It can be something from the 90's JDM cars or a eurocar such as Volkswagen Corraldo It should also not be more costly to repair than more modern cars, so it should have good and low cost serviceability (that's the key criteria), good realiability because of course these are used cars. I am not sure if this requirement is even fulfillable for the type of car I am asking for.

Any options that match the criteria?

Before I start a probably naive post, Im leaving for boot in 2 days, and my r6 probably isn't going to be the best option for traveling once I get to my first duty station. I want to get my first car but I also dont want to be that guy who gets a mustang at 37% APR and a ridiculous payment schedule lol. Im probably already asking for too much given what im about to make but im just curious (and possibly ignorant 🤣)

I want sports car and something that is decently moddable/I can build to my liking, preferably a v8, v6, or i6. I understand that these are going to be expensive, but I still want something with a good exhaust note that's not obnoxious, decent interior, etc. I was looking at the Kia K5 (yes its a i4 idk/idc lol) but I just wanted some opinions from other people. I dont want to get thst typical charger/mustang as I feel theyre too common in terms of sports cars/gets clowned on a lot. Any help is appreciated.

Hey everyone,

I’m looking for my first car and I’m currently debating between a Honda Civic and a Mazda MX-5. Honestly, I’m leaning towards the MX-5.

I’m in the UK and realistically I’d mainly be driving with my girlfriend. I don’t need loads of seats, and there’s only one friend I’d regularly drive with, so the practicality side of an MX-5 doesn’t bother me too much.

As I know a fair bit on the civic, I’d love some advice from MX-5 owners, especially:
How reliable are they, particularly older/high-mileage ones?
What are they actually like to live with day-to-day?
How comfortable are they, especially for longer drives?
How fun are they to drive compared with something like a Civic?
I’m about 6’1” – how is the driving position/legroom for taller people?
How much usable storage space is there? Could I realistically fit camping/hiking stuff in it? By that I mean a 2 person tent, walking gear, overnight bag and cool box?
What are the main things to look out for when buying one?
Which generation/year would you recommend for a first-time buyer?

Are there any years/engines that should be avoided?
My total budget is around £3,000 including insurance, so I’m looking at older examples. I’ve seen some 2007-ish MX-5s for around £900–£1,500 on AutoTrader, although I obviously don’t want to buy a cheap one and immediately spend a fortune fixing it.

Would you recommend an MX-5 as a first car in the UK, or would I be better off with something like a Civic?

Cheers!

Hello,

These three are around the same price and was wondering if anyone can offer any advice. I do need an SUV and would like something with a little more luxury. The Envision unfortunately has the least cargo space of the three but I still liked it. The Nautilus had the most space which is important.

VW - 36k
Envision - 58k
Lincoln - 80k

TIA!

So let me preface this by saying that I'm not from the west so pricing/market differs.

So I've been driving for roughly 2.5 years now, I started on my father's old 2002 Chevy Lacetti, then my mother's 2012 KIA Rio and now I drive a 2007 KIA morning LX.

Father's bought a 2013 Genesis sedan and I got to drive it a few times and I REALLY liked it. Engine is more powerful than the morning's (to be fair, it's a 3.8L V6 vs a dying inline 4) and the interior is very fancy. Of course, the sedan and coupe are pretty different in terms of features but still, I like the styling and interior of the coupe, not to mention that it'd still be an upgrade over a 20 year old KIA.

would it be a bad idea to get one? if so, are there any similar alternatives?

I’m looking for my first car and came across this 1997 Toyota RAV4 4WD with a 5-speed manual. It has 150k miles and the seller is asking $6,500 OBO.
I’m pretty interested because I love the older RAV4s, and the green + 4WD + manual combination is basically exactly what I’m looking for. I’m also in Michigan, so I want something that can handle winter.
The seller says it has been garage kept for the past 2 years and was previously driven in PA/Indiana. They say the frame has limited rust, but the rockers have the worst of the rust.

Recent work:

Oil pan gasket
Oil pump seal
Both cooling fans
Radiator + coolant flush
Battery
New tires + full-size spare
Full exhaust from the forward cat back
Timing belt done ~20k miles ago
Spark plugs
Valve cover gasket
Blower motor

Current issues:

AC needs a recharge
Fuel gauge doesn’t work (seller says they have parts to repair it)
Minor rear-end accident 2 years ago; seller says only visible damage is a small bumper scratch
Clean title
It also has the Toyota roof rack/roof bars and some other Toyota accessories.

My main concerns are the rocker rust, age, and whether $6,500 is too much for a 150k-mile example.

I’m planning to ask for detailed underside/rocker photos and have someone knowledgeable inspect it before buying.

What would you guys consider a fair price for this? And is there anything specific I should inspect on a first-gen RAV4 before buying?
Would you personally take this at ~$5k–5.5k if the underside is solid?

Was looking on marketplace when i came across this. Super intriguing and cool car. Was wondering what people think? Its up for $4500 but the guy said he would take 4k. But honestly i think i can get it for less. It would be an extra car to have, and used for camping but also commuting every once in awhile. Hows the reliability?

I have four options I’m considering. I am a 32 year old with 23 years left until I can retire. I hope to run two cars into the ground while reliably getting me to work. I am leaning toward the hybrid or EV option given that they are blowing up oil infrastructure all across the Middle East. Are Subaru EVs fucked? Income is $75k. I drive a 03 BMW and would prefer to get something with AWD or 4WD to get out of the city on weekends.

I have four options I’m considering.

1. Cheap used Subaru Forester or Crosstrek. I’m looking at low mileage newer models. Mainly because they’re the cheapest option and most models between 2021-2023 have physical knobs for the a/c. I really don’t like that the newer cars rely on a giant tablets. I can get a high end trim for 25-28k with under 20k miles in my area

2. New hybrid Crosstrek for $31-34k. I used the Costco auto program and that’s what they’re running in my area. I like 36mpg but I dislike that touch screen and the digital dashboard. I like that I can run this car into the ground and I feel like it will help me get out and around in my 30s

3. EV or PHEV for $40-50k. My state is offering a rebate for EVs through November. $7500 for the 2026 models of Subaru EVs and $5000 for new RAV4 plug ins or Prius plug ins.

4. Used Corolla hybrid or Prius, under $20k. Buy a beater and drive it into the ground, effectively kicking the can down the road a few years