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Hmm maybe look at a 2007-current Mitsubishi Lancer SE/GTS AWD they are as fun and reliable as a Subaru WRX and cost 1/2 the price on the used market and are a great bang for the buck AWD Sporty mid-size Sedan.
I didn't think the lancer came with awd unless it was an EVO
I didn't think the lancer came with awd unless it was an EVO
The GTS is a detuned EVO with a less aggressive AWD system in GTS, SE and Ralliart trim(s) then again we get different models/optioned Lancers here in Canada and AWD is a huge selling point so it might just be our Canadian market only models
AWD is expensive to repair when it fails. The transmission in my sister's Legacy failed and cost over $5k to replace.
It may be pushing it, but if you could find a "certified" (CPO) Sonata it would be a good deal. CPO cars still keep the 10yr/100k factory powertrain warranty. Even if you found one for $16,995 I bet you could still haggle it down to $15k.
What is the most common car driven in your area? That might give you an indication of a good choice. Also, it might be good to see what sort of mechanics you have available. Getting a car that can't be worked on or doesn't have parts available isn't very useful. Although, we live in a rural area, so if you're in town, then there's probably more options available to you.
$15K seems like a lot for a car. It's just going to depreciate down to nothing eventually. Getting an older car that's already depreciated is always good, IMHO. If you are looking for a car that makes some sort of personal statement, then a vintage something or other might be an idea. Frequently, those cars are much easier to work on, too, and no special tools are required. We have a kit car that's a fiberglass 1952 MGTD body on a VW frame/motor and that thing is actually economical to keep around. Ungawdly cute, too, although it probably wouldn't work in your area because the heater is marginal. It was inexpensive to buy, too, since it was found on Craig's List and needed a bit of work. But old cars like that are easy to work on.
Have you factored in the cost of use for the proposed new vehicles? Gas mileage, insurance, replacement parts, size of tires, etc?
For general transportation, the Japanese 4 cylinder relatively modern cars are pretty good. Honda Civics, Accords, etc. The Toyota Camry, etc. But, look around and see what's popular in your area. There will be a good support base for those particular cars and if you need parts used ones will be available and save you tons of money should you need them.
For $15k, you might be hard pressed to find something current gen. I'd look at previous gen Accords or a previous gen Acura TL or recent TSX. All are reliable, fun to drive, and hold their value extremely well. The TL has a great sound system (one of OPs nice to haves).
I'm going to disagree on a Mitsubishi. Have you seen their resale value lately? Could be an orphaned brand here in the US in the next few years too if they don't turn things around.
Send them the approval back and spend 2k-5k cash for a decent used car. Take the money used to make the payments if you were to accept the loan and save it for half the time and pay cash for the car you want in 2-3 years.
Just my opinion that car loans suck. Also not to mention the fact that most cars today are made to only last 5 years so they get you to get another car loan as soon as you are done with almost zero resale value. You might be happier with a pre China car like an 03 -05 model much better then the junk they sell today.
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