Help Us Help Our Daughter - Rav 4, CR-V, CX-5/50, or Other?

[BurntMusic]

Is the new this year CX5 bigger? Because the last generation had less space than a Corolla Cross. I looked when I bought Rav and couldn’t figure out why anyone with a family would want one - too small.

This is from the latest press release for the next gen CX5 "The end result of these design changes, beyond the visual impact, is a notable increase in size. The all-new CX-5 is 4.5-inches longer in overall length and in wheelbase, while also being over half an inch wider than the previous model."

So is it bigger? Yes, but I couldn't tell you if it any more functional than the current gen.

 

[rstcso]

One last thing, boo me all you want BITOG, but maybe consider a Toyota Sienna as a van instead? I know vans are frowned down upon but they really offer the most utility for the cost. I will say though the Sienna's start at 40k so that may be out of your price range, but they would be great for the kids and storage space.

This does bust the budget and doesn't really fit with her current needs. I agree the CX-5 is long in the tooth, but the lack of bells and whistles is appealing, at least to me. But she's been driving CR-Vs (all two of them) for the past 15 years, and there's something to be said for familiarity.

Other than when I was in high school in 1976 and had a 1975 Corolla E5, I'm not had any direct experience with Toyotas. But I know of their reputation.

 

[walterjay]

Is the new this year CX5 bigger? Because the last generation had less space than a Corolla Cross. I looked when I bought Rav and couldn’t figure out why anyone with a family would want one - too small.

Same experience here. Had a rental CX-5 provided for me while my car was in the body shop. It felt small and growly. Did not climb steep hills well.

When I got my SantaFe back after two weeks I felt like I was driving an Escalade. It was that much different.