probstp1
I am in the market for a fun, practical 2015-2016 mid-size sedan that I will feel comfortable handing over to my daughter in 4 years when she gets her license. Reliability, safety, handling and quiet comfort are all important to me but may be unatainable for what I will spend since cars are such a poor investment. After reading my story below, I would appreciate your thoughts, opinions or actual experiences of the two cars I am seriously considering or tell me if there is another car I should also consider and why. After reading numerous reviews, unless there is something terribly wrong, most folks are happy with their cars so I'd also like to get more insight on what about their car folks would change if given the chance. Whatever car I do buy, I plan to keep the Ridgeline.
I've been driving a pick-up since 1988 and have had my current Honda Ridgeline since 2008. During this time I've also owned several roadsters and a Saab convertible as 2nd, but not always practical, fun cars. In the early to mid-80's I also owned two, 5-spd manual BMWs- a 318i and later a 533i. Loved the 533i - it was my perfect car but sold it to buy a house. I replaced the 533 with a new, top of the line Accord EX. After a week of ownership, I started to dislike the Accord (as much as I now like my Ridgeline, I detested that Accord) and within the year traded it for a used Mazda 626. That was a fun car.
My super reliable Ridgeline now has over 120k and has been a mostly perfect vehicle for our needs but is not very much fun to drive. My wife replaced her 2009 Outback Ltd with a 2015 Outback Ltd and everything about the new model is so-ooo much better than the 2009 that a 2015-16 Legacy is a consideration. That said, while Subaru owner satisfaction is high, their reliability had been middling at best. My top consideration is the Mazda6 since it can be had with a 6-spd manual trans (though the jury is still out on whether man or auto), is fun to drive and has some nice features. That said, while it offers most of the driving pleasures I want to experience in my next car, after multiple test drives of 2015 and 2016 Mazda6 Touring (both man and auto trans) and GT models, I found that my 7-year old Ridgeline has a much quieter ride than any of those testers. Although it might be tolerable driving around town, I am concerned it could be a problem on long trips.
Preferred Bodystyle(s): Hatch / Sedan
Car Needs: Long trips / Errands about town / Family transporter / Daily commuter
Primary Driver(s): Senior driver / New driver
Need minimum of 5 seats
Will consider both new and used cars
Maximum mileage: 20000
Maximum age: 2 years
Maximum price: US $ 30000
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