We are 103,000+ car owners sharing real-world car information.

Join Us

Safe, reliable car for growing family

The Right Car for Me | TrueDelta

Grantkarl

We're in need of a second car, primarily (at this point) for my wife's commute and everyday driving but eventually it will be called on for family transport (1 to 2 carseats). We're on a budget, and we need a reliable, safe, and spacious vehicle.

We currently have a 2010 Toyota Prius, and we like that vehicle very much. Would it make sense to look for another one?

Or, are there other vehicles that would meet these needs better than a Prius would? There are a couple great deals on Nissan Versa hatchbacks in my area, but they don't score very well in safety tests and it seems that the general perception of Nissan isn't as favorable as, say, Toyta or Honda.

As for high- or low-mileage, we understand that our budget likely narrows our field to higher-mileage vehicles. I would have more reservations about that, but I know that different vehicles handle mileage very differently (our '10 Prius has gone from 110k, where it was when we purhcased it, to 153k with no major problems). So, suggestions for older, higher-mileage vehicles that because of their reputation for reliability and durability would be a good investment are welcome.

Thanks!

Priorities: Safety & braking / Reliability & durability / Cargo capacity

Preferred Bodystyle(s): Sedan / Hatch / Wagon

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

Need minimum of 5 seats

Will consider both new and used cars

Maximum price: US $ 7000

« Return to results

Sign in or join TrueDelta to post your own thoughts.

Sort responses by likes

Response from mkaresh

9:37 am February 24, 2016

Over 100,000 miles I'd have more faith in a Honda or Toyota than in a Nissan (or just about anything else). Some alternatives will have more space inside than a Prius. I'd suggest looking for a Honda Fit or Scion xB. A Toyota Matrix or Pontiac Vibe (essentially the same vehicle) might also be worth a look, but I don't like them as much as the related Scion.

This said, if you can find another Prius at a good price--more likely with gas prices low--it would also be a good choice.

5

Link to this reponse

Scion xB
Honda Fit
Toyota Matrix
Sign in or join TrueDelta to post your own thoughts.

Return to top