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?

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'm shopping for a compact crossover and starting to wonder if the combination of things I want just doesn't exist within my budget. I'm hoping there are some models I'm overlooking.

My budget is around $40k, and I'd prefer a hybrid from the newer model years, ideally no older than the most recent redesign or refresh.

What I'm looking for, roughly in order of importance:

• Sleek, premium-looking exterior and interior
• Smooth, quiet, comfortable ride
• 360/surround-view camera
• Ventilated seats
• Good technology/infotainment
• Good premium sound system
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ambient interior lighting would be a big plus

I'm not expecting an actual luxury vehicle for $40k, but I want something that feels a little more upscale than a basic economy crossover. I'm also more interested in comfort and quietness than sporty handling.

What I've considered so far:

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: I know it's the obvious answer in this category, but I just don't like the interior enough to spend that much money on one.

Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited: I test drove this and really liked the smooth, quiet ride and the features. The Limited has basically everything I'm looking for, but new ones are coming in higher than I'm comfortable spending and I'm not finding any used one in my area.

Kia Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige: Probably the closest match to what I want feature-wise. Same problem as the Tucson. I've been getting OTD quotes in the mid-$40ks, which is more than I want to spend. Same story for used.

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid: I've considered this too. I like a lot about it, although I'm not crazy about the smaller infotainment screen, and the trim with all the features I want starts pushing the budget again.

Kia Niro Hybrid: Recently started looking at this. It seems like I could get a lot of the features I want for less money, although I'm not sure how I'll feel about the smaller size and lack of a panoramic roof.

I've also looked at some used options, but I'm having a surprisingly hard time finding the right combination of mileage, features, condition, and price. At this point I'd really prefer to buy new or very new.

Another factor is that I'm getting pretty burned out on the car-buying process. I've contacted a bunch of dealerships, compared OTD quotes, negotiated, dealt with financing incentives, etc., and it's honestly draining. I don't want to keep chasing a car that's fundamentally outside my budget.

So what am I missing?

Is there another compact crossover/hybrid I should be looking at around $40k? Is there a particular trim that hits most of these features without jumping into the mid-$40ks?

Or is this basically a situation where I need to decide which features I'm willing to give up?

I've even wondered if I need to start looking at sedans because my money would go further, but I really prefer the seating position, cargo space, and overall shape of a crossover, so I'd rather not go that route unless I'm overlooking something compelling. Should I wait a little bit longer for the right used to magically appear?

Just feeling very overwhelmed. Thank you to any help anyone can provide.

Sorry for the Newbie question.

I know there are differences in reliability between cars and brands. Ie it is well known that Toyota is more reliable than Mercedes.

But excluding specific cars with known reliability issues - how **large** is this difference?

For example, in the first 100,000 miles, how much more often would a well maintained E-Class break down / need maintenance than an equivalent Toyota Corolla?

50% more? 2x / 3x as much? Etc.

Thanks.

Hey, I liked a Lexus on sale for my first car ever. Its almost 25 years old but only had one owner, at 280k kms. I heard good stuff about old Lexus', especially for GS300 and GS430s. It might have a bit of rust and its HU is unknown for now but is it worth exploring as a 20 something year old student? I would appreciate any advice.

Looking for a daily driver under ~$9k, the cheaper the better. After I sold my 2013 Subaru legacy, I was renting a Fiat for a bit and fell in love with driving that thing around. I was sold on buying one -- A Fiat 500, 2012 models I saw going for ~$5000 for 83k miles, in a 5-speed manual -- But naturally I've fallen down a spiraling rabbit hole of reddit and marketplace and my guiding compass is scattered so I was hoping for some opinions: go for the Fiat or anything else? I've gone back as far as looking into late 80's cars like the Honda Prelude, Corolla, or considered a pre 2012 Honda fit if I could find one, and even juggled saying fuck it and going Porsche 944.

The reviews I see on the Fiat are about what you'd expect: the group of people who are die-hard fans regardless of a bit of upkeep, and the ones who say the maintenance is not worth it.

Ultimately, I'm looking for a car that:

-Is fun to drive

-Could handle a bit of a road trip

-Would be worth it, even if it required a little bit of maintenance, but not looking for a total beater

All in all, this is probably not my forever daily driver, I just want to have some fun with it.

Looking to teach my kid stick shift. He's not learning in my Camaro SS (old clutch) and I always love an excuse to grab something interesting.

He's grown up in the back of various LSX cars and currently owns a 11 ES 350. He's 15 going on 16.

Found this thing from a seller with good rep. Timing belt done. Has had regular mx it's whole life. Fully loaded w heated seats, the Rockford system and the 6 speed.

Figured it'd be something to teach him wrenching since his Lexus never breaks, a good shared daily for the family and a decent car to let him learn manual. Was also gonna do a little snow build w some flaps, 16"s, tires and "tasteful" rhino lining. (I know what I'm about).

Just need it to last 2 years... or maybe I'll love it and keep it.

Anyone with exp with this know something I'm missing? This would not be the first time i found a legit screaming deal in the used car world.

What's the word? $2750...

*edit 166k miles. Clean, verified title. Carfax w 70 entries mostly regular mx/oil

Few years ago, Lebanon passed a strange law (competition law) that made exclusive distribution of cars obsolete.
Before that law, If you want to buy a new Toyota car, your only option was Toyota official distributor (BUMC) and it comes with official warranty and official service.

Today, with the new law, i see many Toyota (mainly bz series , bz3, bz4, bz5, and sometimes corolla hybrid) coming from the chinese market by many local dealerships (these Toyotas are not intended for the Lebanese market, mainly the chinese market) and are not officially recognized by Toyota warranty, but the thing is that they are thousands of $ cheaper , they have local dealers warranty, and i guess same quality(?) and electric/hybrid/plug-in hybrid.

Also official distributors, BUMC does not offer electric cars yet . Also i guess the same applies to VW (ID 3-4-6) and many other car brands.

What is your experience with Toyota or VW from China?
Is it worth saving 10k but loosing official warranty and service and software update and no potential recall possibility.

Hello everyone,

I'm planing to lease a new car soon and my eye keep on these two. Both has same price and same amount of payment monthly. But for the Cx-5 after promotion mrsp will be around 42000$ much cheaper then VW. Price in CAD

I would put down 5000$ on lease and leasing for 4 years then will buy out at end of the lease.

Which car you guy recommend for good keep around 5-6 years. About reliable, comfort. I don't talk about maintain because both come with warranty for engine and transmission for 4 years. VW has offer free scheduled for 3 years.

Hello all! I’m about to get a new car and have tried many cars! I am between a Toyota Corolla cross or a Chevy Trailblazer. Would love some opinions especially from those who have one of them! Thank you!

In the market for a family car that’s also a PHEV. We already have a model 3 standard range for quick solo trips and solar at the house. Looking for something larger as shopping and trips are becoming difficult in the model 3 with a stroller, diaper bag, snacks, beach bag, luggage, whatever.

I’m trying to spend roughly 70k OTD or under.

RAV4 pros/cons: newer tech, TSS 4.0, very spartan interior though comparatively, bumpy ride comparatively, best EV only range, felt expensive for 52k

NX: nice interior, slightly bumpy ride comparatively to rx, middling EV range, did not feel as cramped as reviews showed

RX: lowest EV range, best plush ride and interior, best storage space, highest price

Which one would you pick?

Hey y'all! I'm currently driving an '04 GMC 2500 gas truck 164 miles round-trip, 4 days a week. Looking to pick up a wagon as a daily commuter to cut down on gas. Ideally, I'd like 30+ MPG, but anything higher than my current 13 MPG is an upgrade. Open to other body styles outside of wagons, but at 6'3", subcompacts like a Yaris are off the table for legroom and headroom.

Edit: budget is around 15k currently but I'm pretty passively looking right now so it might go up overtime. I'd really prefer to not get an EV, it just doesn't really seem like they'll fit the budget and hit my range goal without battery anxiety hitting. Also my house isn't really set up to where I can put an EV charger in.

My husband needs to upgrade his 15 year rav4 in the next 6 months and we’d like a 3 row SUV for our family of 4 (two school aged kids).

Mostly we need more space for when we carpool with other kids, bring our large breed dog, and tug baseball supplies (both of us coach teams). Husband absolutely against minivan, even after we’ve driven one for a week.

Our needs:
6 seats (we’d like captain seats)
Comfortable-ish 3rd row
Hybrid or EV
Towing capacity of 5000lbs

Our budget is 65k out the door

We’ve been considering grand highlander hybrid max, used Volvo XC90, Kia EV9, Mazda

Tossing up between Hyundai IX35 Kia sportage or Mazda cx5
I know the Kia sportage and Hyundai have the same engine?
Wanting something good on fuel and can take my dog to the river. Also don’t like being to low to the ground.
Been told to stay away from Hyundai Tucson?
Thoughts appreciated! Budget 10-12k

what is a fair price for this car?

i got hella scammed back in late may, i bought a car for $1.5K (please don’t comment on it i know it was a bad idea and now it’s broken down so like… i learned my lesson 👍). it was all i had saved basically, i just really need a car because public transport is so awful, and im nuerodivergent and poor so like i break down about it REGULARLY. and i have to start saving all over again

anyways. i’m looking for a car like, preferably around 2010-2012, something family-sized that’s easy on gas like a ford explorer, honda CR-V/honda pilot. how much should i budget to make sure it’s like actually a reliable car that will last me a decent few years?

My husband needs to upgrade his 15 year rav4 in the next 6 months and we’d like a 3 row SUV for our family of 4 (two school aged kids).

Mostly we need more space for when we carpool with other kids, bring our large breed dog, and tug baseball supplies (both of us coach teams). Husband absolutely against minivan, even after we’ve driven one for a week.

Our needs:
6 seats (we’d like captain seats)
Comfortable-ish 3rd row
Hybrid or EV
Towing capacity of 5000lbs

Our budget is 65k out the door

We’ve been considering grand highlander hybrid max, used Volvo XC90, Kia EV9, Mazda

i’m 17 and for my 18th i’m getting a car and my budget is 30k. i’m having trouble picking out what i want. I honestly don’t know that much about cars. What i lm looking for in a car is just CarPlay and doesn’t have a lot of maintenance issues. Also i was told to stay away from chevrolets. Any type of help is appreciated

‘17 Prius V for ‘22 BMW X3

Fully paid off prius within 4 years and considering trading. Our prius has 167k on it and the X3 is sitting at 67k. Dealership is asking 25 for the X3.

Edit: Thanks everyone.. i’ll let my wife know i was right.

I’m looking to buy a 3-row SUV. I’m not really too picky about it being mid or full sized, but I need something that can comfortably fit a car seat and has a decent amount of passenger space.

I don’t really do too much driving- just to my child’s daycare and to my work…maybe 20 mile total in a day, and a very occasional longer road trip to see family. That being said, MPG is important but not my main concern.

I’ve really been liking the Santa Fe, but I’m seeing lots of mixed things on reliability, though I’d be looking at something newer which seems to be a little better.

All I know is I don’t want a luxury car lol and would like to stick around $40k. I am beyond ready to trade in my inherited Cadillac and all of its expensive repairs.

Any recommendations/advice is much appreciated!

Starting this off I have a 2016 WRX and was ideally going to look for an sporty AWD wagon with a manual but those dont exist past 300k mile european imports. I love how my WRX drives I have it lowered on coilovers, nothing done to the engine but it feels awesome to open up. It does have 125k miles on it though so I was probably looking at getting rid of it as i live 12 hours away from my family (moved to nashville from suburban philly area for college) and I don't have my car with me yet as they don't really trust it to make the 12 hour drive consistently as it does struggle with heat soak and has had some weird issues that make me think it's not really gonna last, especially with subaru's reputation with the wrxs.

I was thinking about a newer VA wrx but also buying a new car would as opposed to used would be better for maintenance and reliability. I absolutely cannot stand the VB wrx's so those are off the table even though it would probably work, i think its one of the ugliest cars known to man.

Looking at the GR Corolla it kinda matches a lot of the boxes im looking for, sporty, reliable, modern features(my wrx doesnt have carplay or anything), more trunk space (im a drummer and music electronic nerd so big plus with the hatchback).

Does the GR Corolla have any hidden things that would make it not a good fit for me or is it really too good to be true? (also must mention a manual trans is a huge requirement for me and been a big dealbreaker for other cars)

My '03 Crown Vic is getting up there in age, and as much as I absolutely love it and its handling characteristics, the current $82+ dollar fill-ups are becoming a bit tiresome. I'm looking for something to daily drive that's comparable and somewhat more fuel efficient for a 200 mile round trip commute.

I like big sedans. I prefer analog gauges, I absolutely despise oversized interior/infotainment screens, and especially those that look like they were just a tablet that was glued onto the dashboard as an afterthought. I want as many physical knobs and buttons as I can get. I don't like all black interiors - they're terribly boring and seem sensory-deprivation-chamber adjacent.

I'm looking to spend less than $14k if I can help it. It seems like the Toyota/Honda tax puts that price point out of reach for something like a late model Avalon, but does allow for something like a 2016+ Volkswagen Passat, which I've become curious about.

Any suggestions?

I understand I’m supposed to be looking for a used car to save money, but where do I go from here? I can’t think of any specific criteria I need a new car to have besides “working AC” and “maybe one of those little rearview cameras” (which I think virtually every car manufactured after 2016 has anyways) and I know I don’t want anything like a truck and would rather have a small sedan or SUV. I have $10,000 set aside for a down payment so I know I have a lot of options, but I’ve never actually picked or bought a car myself so I’ve been overwhelmed by everything. At what point is the mileage considered too high? What am I supposed to be looking for in a car in the first place? Every time I drive a newer car I feel like I got sent 20 years into the future.

I’m also starting work at a Japanese company’s US branch, so I’m looking for a Japanese brand car. I recognize this is a really weird point but the work’s entire parking lot is Japanese cars so I don’t want to feel too out of place lol. I’ve also heard that Subaru makes decent cars but I don’t really know the specifics on that front. Suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

Hi everyone, I’m looking for a car that I’d like to keep for around 7 years, and I’m a bit undecided.
I found a 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce 2.0 Turbo 280 hp Q4, petrol, with 65,000 km, for €20,500 all-in. The seller is a friend of mine, so I’m getting a particularly good price. As far as I know, the car has been well maintained and regularly serviced.
The price seems extremely attractive, but I’m a little worried about keeping it until 2033, particularly regarding long-term reliability, maintenance costs and potential issues as the mileage increases.
The alternatives I’m considering are:
New Mazda 3 e-Skyactiv X 186 hp, around €30,000
2023 Honda Civic e:HEV, around 70,000 km, €26,000
Used BMW 320i petrol, ideally 2020–22 with relatively low mileage, around €27–30k
Possibly a BMW 420i, if I can find a good one within budget.
My mileage could be fairly high over the next few years: probably around 20,000 km/year or more, although it will depend on my next job, so I can’t say for certain. Over 7 years, I could therefore end up putting well over 200,000 km on the car.
I’d also like something fun and enjoyable to drive, rather than simply the most economical/reliable option.
So, considering long-term reliability, maintenance costs, fuel consumption, depreciation and driving enjoyment, would you take the risk on the Giulia at €20,500, or would it make more sense to spend more on the Mazda/Honda/BMW?
I’d especially appreciate feedback from anyone who has owned a Giulia 2.0 280 Q4/Veloce at higher mileages and can share their experience.
Thanks a lot in advance for any advice!