Originally Posted By: FutureDoc
JC1: A hybrid Porsche would be a good option, but my Porsche requirement is that it have a manual. Actually, since the next Supra will only have an automatic, my next car is likely a 981 Cayman. I will be in the hunt in about 5-6 years to add to my collection. MR2, Ginny, Cayman... oh the DD options. Maybe if Toyota releases the S-FR or MR2 Hybrid, I might get distracted but unless it is a hyperlight and/or mid-engine 'yota.
Ok, mini-update: did some heavy family/car planning. She even watched some Youtube video reviews (I am shocked as she will watch Doug Demuro, but that is about it for my car videos). Her requirements:
1. MPG - 50mpg minimum... and really that is actual MPG that she could get, not advertised mileage so I counting it is either the Prius or Ionic. Otherwise plug-in hybrid with at least 25 mi range.
2. Cargo Space (stroller/dog) - has to be "enough" but more space is not "better"
3. Carseat Space (yes/no according to her personal metric)
4. Heated Seats & Sunroof
5. Hatchback - No Sedans - She is not a sedan person.
The thing driving it is her old Honda Fit. She really wants that fuel economy back. She wants to do the full-blown hybrid (or electric - but the driving to the parents is the limiter there). Somethings are kinda bothering her with the Outback. The CVT... which kinda shocked me. I like it, she doesn't but it is a vague dislike as she did not know that it was the CVT she was hating. Now, the other thing is that if she can't go full 50mpg, she says she will just keep the Outback for a while.
I am trying to send her to the dealerships without me (but with both carseats). Let her install and fiddle with it. Let the dealerl with her "requirements" and then she can report back. She is pathologically opposed to making a decision and has about 5 minutes worth of patience for any "paperwork" side so I have no fear of her buying a car. Muhaha!
Here we go...
FutureDOC,
I will wait patiently for an update.
Me, I would keep the Outback for the next 5 years and go from there....
Now just trowing it up there, and does not meet some of the criteria but the space:
-Prius V Three: has space for stroller + dog
-Mazda 5 Touring/GranTouring: used in 2+2 configuration has space for stroller + dog, sliding doors, and now it should be cheaper than most offering in its class...