Vehicle for Denver? (Colorado Springs: buying, live in, cost of)

[Karoe]

I have accepted a job in Denver and will be moving there next week. I must purchase a vehicle right away, and I am wondering if I should purchase a 4-wheel drive. I will make frequent trips to Colorado Springs, probably once a week or so, so I am seriously considering a purchase of a very safe SUV. I would appreciate hearing from the locals regarding driving conditions and vehicle suggestions.

[Snikt]

You don't "need" one, many people here don't.

That being said I have one and it helps but I wouldn't consider it a requirement

[vegaspilgrim]

Personally, I think it would be really nice to have two cars-- a daily, get around town driver (a fuel efficient sedan or coupe), and a beater 4wd vehicle for bad weather, going offroading in the mountains, or hauling stuff.

There's nothing wrong with "wanting" something more than what you absolutely "need." If you really want an SUV as your primary vehicle, then get one-- it's your money, your decision. Boatloads of people who live in places like San Diego, Houston, and Miami drive SUV's too.

[TechMike]

Eh, you don't need 4WD. A good FWD vehicle will do just fine.

Instead of an SUV, I might suggest a Subaru.

[Snikt]

Originally Posted by TechMike

Eh, you don't need 4WD. A good FWD vehicle will do just fine.

Instead of an SUV, I might suggest a Subaru.

You said you don't need 4WD but you're suggesting an AWD car?

[denverian]

Originally Posted by Snikt

You said you don't need 4WD but you're suggesting an AWD car?

I've never needed 4WD in Denver. If there's snow on I-25 between here and the Springs, they plow it. A 4WD doesn't give you extra traction. The only reason I could think of for actually needing an SUV would be if you lived in the mountains where they get lots of regular snow and it gets deep.

I have traction control on my car and that actually helps a lot in snow.

[TechMike]

Originally Posted by Snikt

You said you don't need 4WD but you're suggesting an AWD car?

I can say it is not necessary and still suggest one.

They seem intent on buying a 4WD/AWD vehicle. I doubt numerous folks telling them it is not necessary is going to change that.

[denverian]

My main consideration would be the cost of gas. If you've got an SUV that gets 15 mpg., and I think COS is about 75 miles from here, the SUV would be around $34 round trip in gas. My Prius would cost you about $11 round trip. If you're doing this trip multiple times per week, it adds up.

[maciesmom]

Dependable front wheel or awd and good tires will serve you just fine here 99% of the time.

[davebarnes]

Originally Posted by maciesmom

Dependable front wheel or awd and good tires will serve you just fine here 99% of the time.

However, for the 1%, you need: BR 350 - Prinoth