Mid-life crisis car plan

[MCompact]

It's the opposite - sitting up higher allows you to see the lines more clearly. However, being able to see the lines when you park is a function of how your mirrors are adjusted, IMO.

Also, CUV's feel incredibly planted nowadays -- ever drive a Porsche Macan/Cayenne or any of the sportier examples? You'd be shocked.

I had an X5 M for a press loaner back in 2018 and it was an entertaining drive. Ditto for a previous generation X3 M40i.
If I had to drive a CUV I would be reasonably happy with a GLC 43 or GLC 63. The current X3 is too ugly inside and out to merit any consideration. I’d also consider a Macan GTS if I felt more confident in my local dealer.
Having said all that, when the time comes to replace my C43 I’ll likely pick up either a C53 or a CLE 53.

 

[MCompact]

Be aware that acquiring a C8 often requires an additional investment in an appropriate wardrobe.

 

[AuthorEditor]

Choose the vehicle you want to drive and ignore what anyone else thinks about it. That's one of the features of aging: you learn that life gets better when you follow your own path.

 

[wander2039]

Just based on my wife's BMW X3 I'd look at BMW flavor. Don't know about the cars enough to recommend one. That X3 is just regular and it's a hoot to drive. CarMax close to you? Those are good to just go and set in a couple and test drive. I'm stuck in the mid-life crisis time of life also but already have 2 tractors, 2 scooter, motorhome and 5 vehicles - 1 borrowed so the billfold is crying time out please time out!

 

[IndyIan]

Maybe get a cheap Miata to start? My Dad had a 1991 and while it is "slow", that is a feature to make it a very fun car to learn how to drive "briskly" on public roads. You could play with the balance in the corners with the throttle, blip a couple heel and toe downshifts, all at the corner of your block.

 

[Fifth87]

What's the appeal of that? I can't imagine your social circle (or your kids) being respectful towards that position.

I personally think that emulating a 20-yr old you through a vehicle choice is a pointless exercise.

My 20-yr old self was driving a Dodge Diplomat having vaguely interpreted the Blues Brothers as a driver's instructional video. I can do a great Elwood impression, so says my wife. I wouldn't do it again as a middle aged adult for sure.

 

[fdcg27]

Choose the vehicle you want to drive and ignore what anyone else thinks about it. That's one of the features of aging: you learn that life gets better when you follow your own path.

You also find that you care much less about what others think.
I agree completely that the OP should just decide what he likes and buy that.
I know what I like but my tastes may not coincide with those of the OP.

 

[slo town]

Tall vehicles do nothing to me but feeling planted is what I enjoy. I came from low riding good handling cars, or light weight bouncy ones that I can hear the exhaust leak.

Once again, this spells GTI of Golf R to me. With VW sales in the tank right now great deals can be made.

Scott