Torn on my next vehicle purchase.... (sell, for sale, year, best)

[CortlandGirl79]

I've heard bad things about Jeep quality, but i'm not sure on what models. Have you thought about a Chevy Trailblazer? It's a midsize SUV. I have an '03 that I got in '02 and i've yet to have a problem w/it. Mine has a straight six in it, not sure if later models used the same engine. GM did stop production of the Trailblazer last year so you might be able to find one brand new for pretty cheap. BTW, the Trailblazer was assembled near Dayton, Ohio and i know mine had something like 85% U.S. content when it was made if that matters to you.

[StealthRabbit]

I'd do a VW TDI wagon, the 50 mpg is ez to get used to, and the torque makes for fun mountain driving. I prefer the '96-97 passat wagons, as 25 gal tank + 50 mpg = get down the road aways before you have to stop for fuel (1,000miles). They are no power houses, but can be chipped. I have several with over 300k, know of a few with over 500k

For FS pickup trucks, I prefer the 12v cummins in a Dodge. They will get 22 mpg on the hiway.
you can 'home brew' fuel very easily Biodiesel Appleseed Reactor Plans (http://www.biodieselcommunity.org/appleseedprocessor/ - broken link)

[Ceezer]

Thanks for the continued suggestions, folks. I'll try to touch on a few of these points:

Janb - I was trying to steer away from a Euro wagon (which I've always been drawn to, even as a hot rodder; I'm also a 3rd generation air-cooled VW enthusiast) because a) of quality issues over the last several years and, b) I know how easy it is to sink a bunch of money into them without even realizing it. Why the preference for the 96-97 Passat wagons?

CortlandGirl - I'm not really in the market for an SUV, as my wife already has a Tahoe and we use that for trips and stuff (and hauling the trailer, which is why I don't really need 4WD/AWD). I was just considering the Jeep Cherokee for it's utility, it's long flat roof (for my Yakima racks) and, admittedly, it's somewhat-manly appearance (they look great with a slight lift!).

Dave - I actually admire the Flex and consider it a stable competitor of the Outback. I just don't think it's been on the market long enough to substantiate a track record or to saturate the market and bring used prices down a bit. See previous comment regarding the Traverse (though my wife does like those).

[M3 Mitch]

With the distance you commute, in South Carolina where neither snow nor rust is an issue, I'd be looking at some sort of car with good MPG yet good performance. I'm assuming you drive to work alone or at most with one passenger. How about a Honda Prelude? BMW 3-series? If you really want to throw Detroit a bone, how about a Focus? Anyway I am thinking 2-door compact. You need a reliable, long-lived engine, good A/C, and I would suggest manual trans of 5 or 6 speeds. Toyota and BMW both stand out in my mind as capable of racking up mega miles if well cared for.

As for smelling up the car after the gym - doesn't your gym have showers? In any case you can find washable seat covers if that's a concern.

[truemuck]

Originally Posted by sailordave

Be careful when going to your Jeep dealership. Some Jeep models are based on the same platform as the Dodge Caliper.

I actually have a Jeep Patriot which is one of the Caliber based models. If you're coming from a Subaru, it'd be a good choice. It has the utility of any SUV and has a car-like ride, but is probably more truck-like than some crossovers. Its got a lot of room for its size.
I've put over 48K on mine with no trouble. I don't regret buying it. But with the future of Chrysler being in doubt, it may not be the best time to buy a Jeep, but you would like the vehicle.

[samsam26]

Originally Posted by Drover

Would you consider a low-mileage Subaru Baja? If you need more grunt, there's a turbo option that puts down 230 HP...

Are you looking to sell this Baja? I have been looking for a yellow Baja for over 5 years. If you are selling this Baja can you please email me all the info on the car? samsam26@mac.com

If you do have a yellow Baja for sale, you will be my new best friend and would be willing to donate an organ if you ever need one. Im begging, sorry don't want to embarrass myself or give you the wrong impression. You have no idea how long I have been looking for this car.

Hope to receive a good news email from you.

Thank you,

samsam26

[GTOlover]

have you checked out a used low mileage 06-08 Hummer H3T Alpha
The H3T is based on the H3 model, and is a crew cab pickup truck. With a 5-foot (1.5 m) bed, the H3T lands between mid-size and full-size truck classes. it also come with a 242HP 3.7 liter I5 or a 300HP 5.3 liter V-8. the 5.3 V8 being the best choice IMO

[The Continental]

Get a Subura BRAT, haha ok get a Baja or Jeep

[PeepoRsheep]

Originally Posted by Drover

Would you consider a low-mileage Subaru Baja? If you need more grunt, there's a turbo option that puts down 230 HP...

This one's cool. Why don't I ever see these on the roads?

[jc76]

Your 175K Subaru could well outlive a brand new Chevrolet (French word). Subaru's are built to last. If your used to that carefree maintenance lifestyle you may want to reconsider and just get another Subaru, or a Honda. I'll take a smack for this comment but avoid about 80% of the crap people are recommending to you (me not included). Newer Jeeps, Trailblazers, none of them will be as carefree as your Subaru.