Aika's GoGo

Aikande

Looking for a mule....even a 7 seater if possible, that doesn't drive like one. The 7 seater Kia Sorento sounds interesting, but not sure about reliability. 7 seaters only come with 4cyl or v6, and people are not impressed with the Kia's v6. Always owned Hondas and may remain faithful. Thinking of settling for a CRV for price and everything that is good. Wondering about a base 2016 Pilot? Are they worth the money. Good gas milage, comfortable, and headroom of 40" if possible. Researching: Subaru Forrester (but turbo eng has bad rap), and the Mazda MX-3. Also the Hyundai Santa Fe? Will give up space for price and reliability, but is there a cheap(er) 7 seater worth it?

Priorities: Front seat room / Reliability & durability / Powertrain performance

Preferred Bodystyle(s): Wagon / SUV

Car Needs: Family transporter / Errands about town / Long trips

Primary Driver(s): Tall driver

Need minimum of 5 seats

Will consider new cars only

Maximum price: US $ 30000

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Do you really need 7 seats, or will 5 do? I ask, because the answer to this question greatly impacts your options and you seem to be giving mixed messages in your statement/question. If you want a fast/fun 5 seat midsized SUV, I would look at the Forester Turbo (as you mentioned) and the Mazda CX-5. The CX-5 isn't super powerful, but it handles well. Newer Subaru flat engines don't have the issues the older versions do so I think you would be safe with the turbo Forester. Other midsize options like the CR-V and Rav 4 tend to be more bland, but very practical/reliable. They don't have inspiring powertrains. Don't know much about the Kia/Hyundai options but they do look better than they used to and I've heard good things about the Sante Fe.

As far as 7 seaters go, there is the Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. These are all similar but for $30k, you would be getting a very stripped down base FWD version.

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so 7 seats under $30k - I know you said you want a SUV but a minivan would meet your requirements - afterall aren't most of the 3 row SUV just expensive minivans?

If you are sure an SUV is for you, then the kia is agood option and don't forget they come with a 5 year all in + 10 year powertrain warranty. Michael has commented before that make sure you read small print on these although I don't know what the issues are.

The 2016 Kia shows poor reliability but if you read the reports they are minor issues - Hyundai & Kia have a habit of fixing issues quickly (i.e. look for a 2017 model)

if you want smaller you could look at a Nissan Rouge 7 seat (although not very big 3rd row)

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The beat 5-seater for is a used 2016 Buick Envision Premium l for $29,XXX. It have a few miles on but will be the quietest and offer the smoothest ride compared to the economy cuv from Japan. The 2.0T is standard along with the beat AWD system offered this side of a BMW.

Heated seats and heated steering along with tri-zone climate control along with leather sests will win you over.

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