Used Cars: Used car, bmw 5 series, buick lacrosse

Question
Roger
Since our kids are grown it is time to trade in the 02 Escape for a smaller more fuel efficient vehicle. No real preference except it must be automatic and four door. My wife likes compacts, I like full size.
What is out there,  from 2009 and up, that is roomy but good on fuel?
Also, I dont expect to get much for the Escape, but what is your ball park trade in value?

Answer
Hi Bud thanks for writing....

Here is my advice ...with regards to the Escape ...sell it yourself and DONOT trade it in. I have attached a copy of the book sheet for a generic XLT Escape w/ 138k Miles (which is the 0 point for miles on an 01) ...Wholesale in this example is 3500 and its worth about 3k to a dealer (actual cash value) ...you can sell it yourself for 4000-4500 on craigslist which is what you should do

I am super rushed for time right this second but I would looki long and hard at the late model Kia's and Hyundais ...they are making some really cool cars right now ...my personal favorite for the last several years has been the Buick LaCrosse...nicer than any comparable Honda Toyota or Lexus...or a 4-5 yr old BMW 5 series ...We get over 26 MPG on the freeway going 75  more later !! Wanted to let you know I saw your question and am on it and you can ask as many follow ups as you want about specific cars or what you should pay and what the best way to buy it is!!