hutchinson.shannon
I have had a 2004 Accord sedan for 12 years, and loved it. Now I need something with more cargo space for a dog and kid equipment. I liked that my Accord was fuel-efficient, reliable, and responsive. I don't like tall or large SUVs because I am small (barely 5'3"). I live half-way up a small "mountain", so I drive up and down hill everyday. I care about function much more than form: my car always has food, drinks, kid stuff, and dirt/sticks/leaves/dog hair in it. I have test-driven:
2014 Subaru Outback - Really liked this, but wonder about reliability. I am accustomed to Honda. I expect my car to perform day-in, and day-out with minimal drama, for a decade. I am fine with regular maintenance and replacing electrical, A/C, audio over the years, but I want the engine to run well for a long time.
2012 Volvo XC 70 - Really liked it, except for heavy, tank-like drive. I guess the safety comes with significant weight.
2014 Acura MDX - Loved the first one I drove. Second one that I planned to buy had a funny hitch when changing gears. I looked this up and found that transmission in this model is known for this problem. Not interested in this anymore.
2016 Honda CR-V - This is what I'm driving as a loaner from the Honda dealership where my car was being repaired. I like the interior, the height for getting in and out, and the cargo space. I don't like the drive. It feels top-heavy on turns, and just rides a little high for my taste. Maybe I just miss the sedan maneuverability of my Accord.
2016 Honda Pilot - Overall liked this alright. Feels a little too large. Difficult to see out rear sides for lane changes. They have a camera for this, but . . . still. The rear cargo area was pretty high for me. I'd have to lift groceries and such above my waist.
Do I just need to stick with Honda if I expect excellent reliability? I would like to go with the Outback, but don't want to regret the decision in 5 years. I had a Dodge Stratus as my first car, and was pretty frustrated with the repairs, so I bought a Honda. Anyone ever switched between these two brands (Subaru and Honda)?
Priorities: Reliability & durability / Fuel economy / Cargo capacity
Need minimum of 5 seats
Will consider both new and used cars
Maximum mileage: 50000
Maximum age: 3 years
Maximum price: US $ 35000
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