People forget about this but the Escape hybrid and Escape PHEV are much cheaper than Toyota's similarly sized vehicles.I really enjoyed my 2015 and 16 CX-5’s. I really wanted a 2017+ model, but they had no hybrid options. So I moved on to a Ford Escape Hybrid, which I’ve been enjoying immensely so far. But both of my CX-5s had no issue reaching 180K miles with no major repairs except lower control arms in the front end (which weren’t really that expensive anyway).
I’m a big believer in hybrids after getting one. The smoothness, reliability, power delivery, and fuel economy are a no brainer for this segment of vehicle.
You will catch on to the (commander) control knob in about 15 minutes.....honestly! Park in a driveway or garage and simply play with it and you'll soon find it to be very intuitive. I can now use it by touch and without looking at the console. Radio volume knob is right next to it. You can also control most of the audio functions from the steering wheel if desired. There's good old fashion buttons and dials for climate control. Oil changes are a breeze. The drain plug and filter are located immediately adjacent to each other behind a easily accessible (small) panel. No special oil involved, just 5w30, and it runs on regular or premium fuel (for max H.P.). Above all else, great Mazda handling>Thanks for the input. I test drove the CX-9 and Outback. Outback doesn't feel comfy for my body build. The CX9 was wicked fun to drive, "Zoom Zoom" is right, and still a contender (though the knob/joystick for infotainment navigation will take some getting used to.
Sometimes I don't mind biting the bullet and setting a datum for maintenance.The Honda J series V6 timing belt / water pump replace is only like $1500 at the dealer. I wouldn't let that hold you back.
The years you have on the Pathfinder span 2 generations. Before 2020 it had CVT. I would avoid. 2020+ moved to a ZF 9 speed transmission.
Go drive some.
Why does Nissan always lag in mpg with their trucks? Are they a generation behind in engines?I would look at a Pathfinder if gas mileage is not that concerning.
might want to cross the rav-4 off too thenNeighbor has HRV, she loves it, but its smaller than what im looking for
Glad you’re safe. In your revised list, I’d look at the 2022+ Pathfinder. Also, just me, but I found the MDXs to be quieter than the Pilots. If you’re fine with the $1,500-$1,700 bill for the timing belt/wp, I’d look at the MDX instead.Narrowing this list down. I do like the slightly larger versions.
Pilot
Pathfinder
*Passport - lots of cargo w/o 3rd row
Possibly...Pallisade/ Telluride
RAV4 has on of the largest in class on interior and cargo space. It’s some sort of mystery of physics.might want to cross the rav-4 off too then
rav4 is 1inch wider than the hr-v and 2 inches longer.
Isn't there a button to defeat start/stop? There are also aftermarket plug ins that get rid of it.Thanks all
Test drove a 2018 MDX FWD with tech package. 86k miles. A plus is it has brand new CrossClimate 2 tires (currently my favorite tire for these types of vehicles)
Or a 2018 Pilot EX-L. It has the 6speed auto I think.
Gonna put my butt in the CRV and RAV4 just to check all the boxes.
There is a 2020 MDX with SH AWD & tech page with 100k miles, just outside of my desired budget. I read 2019+ has start-stop (is that a bad thing?)
I have it on my rental, marginally annoying, but nli do t think ts a show stopper, barring any issues that may be related to Start Stop.
Thoughts on start/stop?
How do they CPO a car that hasn't had the required belt change. I thought it was at 90K?I haven't been inside the 2020 yet, but I read there is a button.
Tomorrow gonna test drive the 2020 SH-AWD. It's Acura Certified Pre-owned. I think it offers 6 months, 7500 mile warranty. Dealer said it has not had the timing belt done yet at 102k.
Thanks for the link on VCM.
Doesn't the newer Murano use a normal automatic transmission?Murano is nice, well looked after CVT in newer ones does not seem to be a problem.