Researching a New Car

[Caladan 19]

Our $100 Chevy Venture is on its last legs (wheels?), and so we're looking to get a new car. We're thinking of something small, and have been intrigued by the Honda Fit, but we're still in the early stages of looking, and could use suggestions, whether it's cars you've driven and liked, or good resources beyond the usual U.S. News/Consumer reports-type listings.

Only preferences really are small, fuel-efficient, and economical. Thoughts?

[Heracles 417]

The Nissan versa's are okay cars in that price range.

[Otto 83]

And the budget is?....

[Amby 490]

You bought a car for $100?

[one...two...tree 2,762]

The Nissan versa's are okay cars in that price range.

They've tested poorly compared to other cars in that category.

The Honda Fit sounds like the car for you - great fuel economy. I believe they recently changed it slightly - giving it a little more interior room. My colleague here at work has one and has been happy with it.

[Ban Hammer 12,863]

Our $100 Chevy Venture is on its last legs (wheels?), and so we're looking to get a new car. We're thinking of something small, and have been intrigued by the Honda Fit, but we're still in the early stages of looking, and could use suggestions, whether it's cars you've driven and liked, or good resources beyond the usual U.S. News/Consumer reports-type listings.

Only preferences really are small, fuel-efficient, and economical. Thoughts?

fit is a good choice, i've not seen one thing negative about them.

[Caladan 19]

And the budget is?....

Small? Call it $15-25K, or thereabouts.

Yup, Amby, we did. Bought it from C.'s cousin, put in a new transmission for $400, loaded it full of his junk, and drove it 3000 miles across the border a year and a half ago. It was supposed to 'just make the trip', and it somehow has survived another year and a half.

[one...two...tree 2,762]

Here's Consumer Reports Top Picks for 2008:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/ne...-picks-2007.htm

Hyundai Elantra is on the list - we have a 2005 and it's been a great car for the value.

Hyundai Elantra SE

Redesigned for 2007, the Elantra is a well-rounded small car. It provides good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and an interior that’s quiet, roomy, and well equipped. It also has standard electronic stability control, a proven safety feature that’s absent on many other small cars. The Honda Civic EX and Mazda3 are more fun to drive, but lack ESC on more affordable versions. Price: $18,000.

[Amby 490]

And the budget is?....

Small? Call it $15-25K, or thereabouts.

Yup, Amby, we did. Bought it from C.'s cousin, put in a new transmission for $400, loaded it full of his junk, and drove it 3000 miles across the border a year and a half ago. It was supposed to 'just make the trip', and it somehow has survived another year and a half.

WOW!

[caybee 21]

Our $100 Chevy Venture is on its last legs (wheels?), and so we're looking to get a new car. We're thinking of something small, and have been intrigued by the Honda Fit, but we're still in the early stages of looking, and could use suggestions, whether it's cars you've driven and liked, or good resources beyond the usual U.S. News/Consumer reports-type listings.

Only preferences really are small, fuel-efficient, and economical. Thoughts?

fit is a good choice, i've not seen one thing negative about them.

If we could swing a new car, the Fit would probably be our first choice. My sister is seriously considering it. My parents are holding out for something that plugs in.

[Ban Hammer 12,863]

Here's Consumer Reports Top Picks for 2008:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/ne...-picks-2007.htm

Hyundai Elantra is on the list - we have a 2005 and it's been a great car for the value.

Hyundai Elantra SE

Redesigned for 2007, the Elantra is a well-rounded small car. It provides good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and an interior that’s quiet, roomy, and well equipped. It also has standard electronic stability control, a proven safety feature that’s absent on many other small cars. The Honda Civic EX and Mazda3 are more fun to drive, but lack ESC on more affordable versions. Price: $18,000.

the rav4 is on that list - i guess nessa will be happy. that's what she wants to get to replace the camaro.

[EstebanTrabajos 7]

I'm about to buy a Honda Civic, and those suckers are well rated and recommended, if you are good at bargaining and patient as well, you will be able to find a good final price. However, do not expect to get better offers than those brands that are going belly-up.

American made cars are ####### anyways, you are better off with a japanese made car or at least a Korean one

Edited December 5, 2008 by TävôLuDô

[Otto 83]

Am partial to VW's - can pick up a nice used one (well cared for) for well within your budget..

[Mononoke28 134]

I'm with Tavo, I've heard nothing but good things about Honda and Toyota and if fuel efficiency in that price range is what you're looking for, then that's your best and safest choice.

Diana

[one...two...tree 2,762]

I'm with Tavo, I've heard nothing but good things about Honda and Toyota and if fuel efficiency in that price range is what you're looking for, then that's your best and safest choice.

Diana

The Ford Focus is a decent small car from what I've read.

Actually...take that back:

What Edmunds.com says

The 2008 Ford Focus is much improved and still fun to drive. As a value-driven choice, it works very well, but those seeking a top small sedan or coupe should look elsewhere.

Pros

Plush ride quality, responsive steering, simple controls, very good fuel economy, quiet interior, low price.

Cons

Bland interior design and materials on most models, no rear headrests.

http://www.edmunds.com/ford/focus/2008/review.html

Edited December 5, 2008 by Mister Fancypants