The "S" trim had that engine through 2019.
Recommend SUV for mother in law for $8k
- Thread starter Kurtatron
- Start date
In that price range, it's easier to tell you what not to get (IMO). I have heard of models but I won't mention them as I have never had a first-hand experience w/them.
Tough budget. $5k is beater territory these days. 8K it’s possible to find something decent but it will take some searching and flexibility in colors and trims etc.
I would look for a well cared for Mazda CX-5 with the 2.5L NA motor and 6 speed transmission.
I would look for a well cared for Mazda CX-5 with the 2.5L NA motor and 6 speed transmission.
There is an easy answer to this question.
2007 thru 2011 Honda CR-V with around 120k to 150k
1) It should have at least one transmission fluid changes.
2) Absolutely avoid any from a rusty part of the world. This is the reason why.
3) The maintenance history is the most critical ingredient. These are not invincible machines. But they will drive wonderfully with over 250k... but only if it had the right owner. Records matter.
I doubt I'll work well with your $8k budget unless she's comfortable with dings, dents, scuffs, scratches, etc. It sounds like she wants a showhorse when that price range is pure workhorse territory. Take care.
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Cx5 isn’t as good an option? I see they are much cheaper for the miles and age.
That's too general.
The ones he's looking at with that price range wouldn't be cvt or the more problematic engines
Elkins45
Site Donor 2026
The CX-5 still has an index of 85. That’s not too shabby.
Good choices! My '08 has 346,000+ miles on it and the only thing I'm truly diligent about is oil changes and keeping up with fluid levels.
It still drives like a new car; tracks straight and true, no rattles, no leaks. It's starting to look its age a little but all in all, good, solid car!
That's crazy! The mighty K24 for the win! I highly suggest checking valve clearance, but you must be doing something right!
Well done!
True. But it won't fit his current budget criteria.
Does she really need an SUV, or just any tall vehicle would be good enough? How "big" is she?
For 8k you either need to buy a beat up worn out durable SUV, a questionable unreliable one, or a fake SUV that's pretty much similar to a Corolla Wagon lifted up higher?
Will she be ok with a Scion xB? or a Matrix? or something like that?
For 8k you either need to buy a beat up worn out durable SUV, a questionable unreliable one, or a fake SUV that's pretty much similar to a Corolla Wagon lifted up higher?
Will she be ok with a Scion xB? or a Matrix? or something like that?
I bought my daughter a 2011 Rav4 it had 136,000 when I bought it for 8 grand. I changed shocks brakes and the dull headlights. It runs great she drives the heck out of it. The 2.5 engine a 2011 seems strong to me. The all wheel drive was amazing this winter we took it out to see how it would do.
Get a brand-new Chevy Trax, and use the $8k towards the payments to lower them or hold them off for a bit.
There are soooo many of them on the road up here, it is unreal, they must be not giving people problems.
She is not mechanically knowledgeable; so something that will require nothing for a while would seem to make sense.
There are soooo many of them on the road up here, it is unreal, they must be not giving people problems.
She is not mechanically knowledgeable; so something that will require nothing for a while would seem to make sense.
ls1mike
$50 Site Donor 2026
8k does not get much anymore. Like others have said condition and history would be what I focus on. I don't envy you. I felt like this when my 17 1 ton was totaled. I don't know how soon you need it, but take your time, there is one out there.
Is there a retirement home close by? If so ask if or what residents have listed for sale. Sometimes there are real bargains to be had.
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