Tips on Buying Cars: Follow up to choice of buying SUV, decent gas mileage, mitsubishi outlander

Question
Hi again Ray,

I wish to thank you for your suggestions.
Having worked with Nissan for 12 years, what do you think of their vehicles?

OK. Here are my choices:

1. Nissan Pathfinder
2. Nissan Murano
3. Chevrolet Equinox
4. Toyota 4 Runner
5. Mitsubishi Outlander
6. Mitsubishi Endeavor

Like I mentioned earlier, I am looking for style, dependability, good warranty, decent gas mileage, safety and something that is not going to be too hard on my wallet. I am 26 years old and I intend to keep my new SUV for a long time.

Please advise. I will be eagerly looking forward to your reply.

Thanks again.


Jascha





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Followup To
Question -
Hi Ray,

I live in Florida, but due to the nature of my job, there is always a possibility of relocating.
I am looking for an SUV(not a mid-sized) that has style, dependable, gives me a decent gas mileage and safe. A good warranty would certainly help. Four wheel drive is preferrable and for right now, it's just my wife and I. I dont need a tow package.
I intend to finance it. I currently drive a 2000 Chevrolet Blazer(4-door)
and I want to trade it in for a new SUV.
My budget would be under $30K.
I intend keeping the new SUV for a long time, hence, I want to be thoroughly sure that I'm making the right choice.

Looking forward to your comments.

Thanks!
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Followup To
Question -
I reside in the US(currently in Florida, but could relocate anytime if job demands)
I am planning to buy a brand new SUV that's not too heavy on my wallet, however, with the entry of newer makes and models in today's market, I am rather confused on what I need to look for when buying one.
What in your opinion, should be my first choice and could you list a few good SUV's.

Thanks.
Answer -
Hi jascha

BEFORE YOU SHOP
KNOW YOUR WANTS AND NEEDS
Ask yourself with pen and paper… Size... Equipment and what options is a MUST…
I cant guide you... i first must know what your needs are as SUV's really comes in about 4 sizes...
EXAMPLES
Size of family ( kids-grandma-dogs )
Need a Tow Package ( fishing-hunting-mobile home )
let me know and i will be more than happy to air what i would consider buying not being to heavy on the wallet
Regards
 Ray





Answer -
Hi again
I have worked for Honda for 5 years...Nissan for 12 and GM for 10 years and am now semi retired reading your Q...and there is nothing that will change my mind...the best value out there today is MITSUBISHI...

The new warranty is up to 10 yrs...
They are the oldest Japanase makers of cars...but did not market like HONDA but will with time... ( your edge in savings )...
and trust me on this one...the quality is same saving thousands like buying designer jeans with a label or same no brand...

It makes me happy that you even asked the Q whats the best buys out there today...its shows you are not a LOGO buyer but looking for value...

Check out the Outlander for size but make sure its an AWD as they also make 2wd...about same size as your Blazer smaller engine yes...but much less in gas cost...

If you want to step up for more power and space Test Drive the Endeavour 6 cyl...

SUMMARY
Look at the warranty 10 yrs...and its my guess within another few the prices will be same as HONDA and TOYOTA

I have no ties or profit from telling you about Mits...but it would be my first choice saving mega without having to show a label...
I will be interested about your thoughts after test drive...
let me know...
Regards
 Ray  

Answer
I cant comment on Equinox but your other choices i know inside out having driven them hundred of times...
you have made a great selection and now it really comes down to personal taste as to design handling and pocket book as they will all last a very long time...

As i deal mainly with used cars i still see the odd Pathfinder and Toyota Land Cruiser as they were called before switching to 4 Runner from the mid 80's lots of rust but the engines wont give way...

You cant go wrong with your wise selection and only you can narrow it down...but i will give you my personal thoughts was it me making a decision...

First i would never buy brand new as the depreciation factor being 27 to 30% the first year...unless i won the lottery...
I would most likely be looking for a 2004 model being a former rental or from someone that cant handle the payments and with your selection i would be saving around $ 10.000 ...my second factor would be gas intake as i am not happy with the cost...
If you consider this route let me know as now it becomes buyers beware getting valid value...
Ray