Buying my next used car... suggestions?

Long story short, my beloved Olds Alero was totaled last night when a deer jumped off a ledge on the interstate.


So now I've got to find a new car much, much sooner than I had expected, and I haven't got a clue where to start. I'd like to upgrade to something a little more suitable for my lifestyle than the Olds, although I will miss the sportiness.


The list (the would-be-nice-but-don't-HAVE-to-have)...


--AWD/4WD (I live off a lake where the temp drops well below 0)


-- Room for the dogs


-- decent mpg


-- does NOT drive like a boat


-- Safety ++++


-- would like to stay away from models in the "lemon" catagory


-- something with some git'up 'n' go (alero was a 6 cyl)





I was thinking about a Subaru Forester - haven't gotten out to drive one yet. I wasn't a big fan of the Outback - thought it was too heavy for the engine (I've got hills, curves, and mountains).
Buying my next used car... suggestions?
You forgot to mention the most important category...cost!





Assuming you're looking to buy a brand new or almost new vehicle, here are a few to consider. All of these are about the same size and will have more than enough power and decent gas mileage.





Honda CR-V


Subaru Forester


Toyota RAV-4


Toyota Highlander





If those arent quiet big enough/powerful enough, check out these:





Honda Pilot


Toyota 4Runner


Nissan Murano





All of these have AWD or 4WD, room in the back for dogs/cargo, get at least 25 mpg on the highway (some a little higher), handle like a car, are safe, and most importantly have excellent reliability!





You should also check out the Outback if you really like a car feel with cargo room...they are available in a 6 and 4 cylinder...the 6 has a TON of power.





Personally I'm a fan of the new CR-V, Murano, and Highlander.
Buying my next used car... suggestions?
Hyundai Elantra!! It's the top-rated car in it's category as far as reliability and safety, it's roomy, really fun to drive and economical. I love mine!! I bought a 2007 from a dealer and got a fantastic deal
Reply:easy.. Subaru Impreza!


2000 RS V6, got everything you could ever want


4WD


22/28 mpg


sedan


Perfect crash test rating


And subaru is well known for there handling and superiority!!


you can find one...oh fore around 5-8K


Good Luck ;))))
Reply:Toyota 4Runner





yeah it's a truck but it handles pretty good


(speed boat?)


and it's FWD capabilities are outstanding.





Subarus are very good cars a new version of the Forrester goes on sale soon? if your wanting pep the turbo XT is the ticket.