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hmm the problem with having a car like that is they are going to gouge you on trade-in because they will have to buy out the reminder of the loan from the finance company you might get a better deal if you sell it yourself then payoff the reminder of your loan then go look at a new car
The trade in amount I was given is over what I owe. I'm going to go to Carmax to see how much they will buy it for. I was told by a friend they are much more reasonable than a trade in.
The Fusion is a good car but the Sonata looks a lot sharper and is light enough that its 4cyl won't feel lethargic. The Fusion is very far from sporty so comparing its sporty characteristics with the Sonata is downright pointless. The OP also mentioned that he'll be going with base models to reduce cost which means that the V6 and AWD are not part of the equation. The Sonata's 4 cylinder also produces 198hp compared to the Fusions 175hp and I believe the Sonata is lighter than the Fusion as well. In fact, using the OP's criteria and the given facts about both vehicles, the Sonata is a no brainer unless you somehow find the Fusion to be a more attractive vehicle and are willing to sacrifice all of the improvements offered by the Sonata.
The Fusion chassis is much better than the previous Sonata. The Fusion is indeed sporty and has much in common with the Mazda6. The Sonata is very comfortable but is a bit soft in chassis tuning.
My comments about the Sonata are the previous model, not the one just introduced.
I have owned the Mazda6 4 cyl, currently own a 2008 Fusion 4 cyl, have driven several V6 Fusions, and driven several 2009 Sonata 4 cyl.
The 2.3L Fusion is not quick by any means. But the new Fusion has a 2.5L. The V6 Fusion is much quicker. We bought the 4 cyl because it is my son's car and we wanted more fuel economy.
I will view the youtube video at home. It is blocked at work. I guess I should've included I currently drive a 08 Mustang GT. I moved and drive way too much now for a v8. Plus, the monthly payments are killing me. Looking for something cheaper and a bit more gas friendly.
Use this browser at work and you can get through any filters.
Plus, the monthly payments are killing me. Looking for something cheaper and a bit more gas friendly.
Unless you carry 3-4 adults regularly (i.e. back seat is in use), why not go for something a little smaller? Civic, Corolla, Mazda3, Focus, Golf, Elantra - there are a lot of choices out there. Sometimes a Fit/Focus/XB/Matrix-style hatch is more practical than a Sonata/Fusion-sized trunk.
Today's Civics and Corollas are almost the same interior size as the Accords and Camrys from a couple generations back. Our perception of an "average" or "mid" sized car keeps changing with every generation, but in reality the same size from yesteryear is now being offered on a smaller nameplate.
Thanks for trying but it is blocked. They got some top notch stuff here. I would consider a smaller sedan but I just can't picture myself in a Honda or Toyota. I'm considering something a bit bigger because they are overall better rated vehicles. I do kinda like the Mazda3.
I've driven the outgoing generation of the Mazda3 many times and I really like it. I definitely like it more than its contemporary Civic and Corolla. I find the hatchback really good-looking for its segment, and it has some decent utility too. However, if you prefer the sedan, you'll save some money. Either way, I think it's a great way to save money on purchase price, gas and probably insurance/taxes.
I have a 2008 Fusion S. The interior is not so good in my vintage, but the new one seems to be much improved. I test drove a Hyundai Elantra before buying the Fusion, I thought it was fine but it was really stripped for the price that they wanted to charge me. The Ford was much better equipped and at the time, it was a steal. I don't know about now with Ford's sales through the roof.
If I drive like an old grandma, I get 29 mpg. Standard San Jose spirited driving, about 26. This is about the same as my Honda Element, so it's a little disappointing, but it cost me a lot less than a Honda or Toyota, so it all levels out.
It rides really well. I get into my dad's RX-8 or mom's CX-7, and they feel really ragged by comparison on San Jose's ruined freeways. The Ford takes the hard impacts much better and refuses to bottom out.
I'm a Ford guy. Compared to Hyundai, or Kia, two Korean brands that have lots of press and great fit & finish but are not known throughout the automotive industry to be on their game yet. They are selling LOTS of them, especially over the past year, and Hyundai, Kia and Subaru are the only brands to actually increase their market share last year. They were up 15% while the rest of the industry was down 21%.
I am a Subaru diehard. Their assembly lines (in Indiana) cannot keep up with demand and after 15 years of driving them I am hooked. Just give them a try, see what you think.
Yea, I'm a Ford guy as well hence why I'm leaning towards the Fusion. However, I'm leaning towards my wallet more than my gut right now. I actually get 23.5 mpg with my Mustang because I drive so much freeway. I don't think I'll save too much gas wise but monthly payments is where I'm looking.
Hyundai guy/family here. We have an 05 sonata and love it. V6 is good, ride good, comfortable. Car was flawless until 101K mark - 2 weeks past warrenty expired. Driver door handle on outside broke. No other issues. There are currently 6 hyundais owned by 4 brothers and parents. No issues with them either.
I am at heart a ford guy though, and the look of the fusion has grown on me. I have read great things. Test drive em and see which hits you best.
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