Need recommendation on a mid size car.

Tex Star Detail

Tex Star Detail

Formerly TexasTB
Not sure if they are going to total the car that was involved in the hit and run the other day. Just wanted to get a running start just in case.

Looking for a MID-sized car. Import or domestic. HAS to be 4dr., Automatic, and prefer 6 cylinder.

So, shoot me some info on a car that YOU have owned or driven. NOT something that you seen that looked cool or have no clue about. I want real feedback. MPG, cabin quiet?, the ride, trips, dependability, ect...

Not looking for a NEW car, probably around a 2004(ish).
Price range is not set, so I guess somewhere around $10k and under is where I would guess.

Until I find out more from the insurance adjuster, I want to "shop around".
 
I don't like BMW interiors.
Plus, the car will not be mine. Will be my Womans. She doesn't like leather either. Has to be kid friendly. ie. fit 3 booster seats in the rear and enough trunk space to carry all the goodies. Not looking for "fun choices" by any means. Looking for practical, family friendly choices. I know 10k isn't going to get a new car, but whatever the insurance company gives, plus our budgets play a part. I REFUSE to get in over my head. I learned my lesson YEARS ago about the difference between Wants and Needs. I want big boy toys, but need family toys...
 
How about a Ford Fusion? We test drove a Mercury Milan (same thing basically) when we bought the Mariner. It was extremely quite, handled superbly, and does good on gas. I loved it but my wife really liked the "height" of the Mariner, so that's what we bought.

I've known 2 people who bought Fusions and they love them.
 
They bought Fusions for $10k?

If you're looking for a family hauler, and you need it on a budget, it's darn hard to beat the Accord. Reliable, good on gas, decent interior.

Had we known about your other criteria from the beginning I wouldn't have said BMW. BUT, I would still have a look at the Subaru. Honestly, have you looked at their Forester Wagon? Don't sell it short. I had intended to buy one when I got my WRX. VERY surprising vehicle. The AWD of the Subarus is also very nice in wet weather. Very surefooted, and exactly what you want if you're hauling kids around. Excellent crash safety as well.
 
A GM mini van of that vintage would be a better choice, in my opinion. Sure not as sleek but with 2 adults and 3 car seats, theres still plenty of room for groceries. Ours got 20 mpg, and it was a short version of the Chevy Venture. And stiil room for grandma if needed. We traded for a Trailblazer cause the a/c went out and the intake manifold was leaking. Something that happens on the 3.4 engines. WHY NOT leather? It would be much easier to clean! I realize it gets hot down there , but they do come with light colored leather sometimes.
 
We have a 99 Accord with 95k on it. We picked it up in 05 with 35k on it. Invested money in oil changes, air filters and 1 set of tires from 05-09. This year I had it in for Timing belt, water pump, front pads and rotors (the rotors only needed to be turned but I wanted them replaced), front caliper sealas and that was it. I believe in 02 they got away with timing belts and used a chain. So that would be 1 less thing to worry about. In the city I avg 20-22mpg, city/highway 26-28, all highway 80-90mph with AC on 32mpg. The Fuzion is a great car, but Im not sure if you can find one under $10k yet. The CTS would be a nice car to own but I think they are still more then $10k. A minivan would be a great idea as well. I personally would love an Astro van, family trip and for mobile detailing.
 
For the price I would suggest a V6 Toyota Camry. I drove one as a demo for a couple of months. To me it doesnt even compare to anything American. The ride is quiet and much more refined. The drivetrain is smoother than anything else in it's class. Nothing breaks on them ever. Gas milage is also above similar cars in it's class. I got over 24 mpg and it's all stop and go here in NJ. I used to be a service manager and have seen all types of cars this is about as safe a buy as you can get.
 
Larry A said:
Hyundai Sonata!
Click to expand...


LOL, she actually got one as a rental car today. I don't like them, but it's not up to me She has a liking to the Chevy Equinox as well. I guess we will be looking for a vehicle now over $10k now if the car is totaled.

Mini vans and wagons.... you might as well buy her a bike instead, she'll get more use out of it.

I myself was leaning to an accord or camry. Fuzions are nice too.
 
A Ford Taurus/500, Chevy Impala or Pontiac Grand Prix would be my choice in that range. They are solid cars with plenty of room and excellent engines and drivetrains.
 
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