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Author Topic: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?  (Read 1519 times)

Shaynelle

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What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« on: September 22, 2011, 01:27:22 pm »
Family of three, two adults, one 4 yr old.  We need something that will tow a small 4x8 utility trailer and a light tent trailer (not sure of the weight but can check if you need to know the rough weight) but is decent on fuel.  Something 5 yrs old max for under $15,000, and something that is decent on fuel and mechanically reliable.

Right now we have a 1996 Astro van that we love, but the engine is starting to die and it's a pig on fuel.  We're hoping by buying something newer (but still used) we can save money on gas and avoid being without a vehicle when the engine eventually does go.

We are a very frugal family, so a purchase of $15,000 for us is a huge decision.  We will be paying cash if that makes a difference.
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Offline blur911

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #1 on: September 22, 2011, 02:49:17 pm »
« Last Edit: September 22, 2011, 02:51:31 pm by blur911 »
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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #2 on: September 22, 2011, 03:04:40 pm »
or mitsubishi outlander with v6..  same fuel econ as their i4, but prob better for towing things.
like this guy
http://ontario.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-2008-Mitsubishi-Outlander-XL-V6-SUV-W0QQAdIdZ312497703
« Last Edit: September 22, 2011, 03:06:45 pm by aquadorhj »
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Offline monevasia

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #3 on: September 22, 2011, 03:14:31 pm »
Something similar to this would be really good for you. Mileage will not be as good as a 4 cyclinder but definately better than what you already have.

http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Ford/Freestyle/OTTAWA/Ontario/5_7457918_ON20071022103102842/?ms=trucks_vans

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Offline monevasia

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #4 on: September 22, 2011, 03:33:05 pm »
Here are a couple of more to look at, one is a 4 cylinder and the other is a 6 cylinder. The one with the 4 cylinder has some kind of tent option which you may find interesting if you enjoy camping.

http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Kia/Rondo/COBDEN/Ontario/19_4447158_/

http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Kia/Rondo/GATINEAU/Ontario/5_11335107_20100301131332485/
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Offline bridgecity

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #5 on: September 22, 2011, 03:58:47 pm »
If are towing a popup, a vehicle with a towing capacity of at least 3500 lbs would be your best bet.  Most (but not all) towing capacities are rated with one 150lb passenger.  Every pound added after that is subtracted from the tow rating.  Additionally, even if your popup weighs as little as 1000-1500lbs, by the time you have your gear packed you'll be substantially higher than the empty weight.

I'm biased, because I own one, and have towed with it extensively, but would recommend a 2004 Pilot.  Should be within your price range.  Other options would be Highlander, Outlander V6 as mentioned, Pathfinder, etc. 

Edit- just noticed your criteria of 5 years old max.  Pilot and Highlander may be out.  Additionally, most minivans are rated to 3500lbs with the tow package, so thats another option.
« Last Edit: September 22, 2011, 04:00:52 pm by bordercity »
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Offline monevasia

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #6 on: September 22, 2011, 04:26:00 pm »
This one has better towing capacity then the other ones I recommended. I think towing for is one is around 1532 kg around 3400 pounds.

http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Ford/Escape/NEPEAN/Ontario/19_4461131_/?ms=trucks_vans
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Offline bridgecity

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #7 on: September 22, 2011, 04:45:31 pm »
Quote from: monevasia on September 22, 2011, 04:26:00 pm
This one has better towing capacity then the other ones I recommended. I think towing for is one is around 1532 kg around 3400 pounds.

http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Ford/Escape/NEPEAN/Ontario/19_4461131_/?ms=trucks_vans

Oh ya, forgot the V-6 Escapes were rated to 3500lbs.
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Shaynelle

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #8 on: September 22, 2011, 08:01:03 pm »
Wow, I am so impressed with the number of replies, thank you all! 

It sounds like the Ford Escape may be the best of the ones listed for towing capacity?  I like everything posted but perhaps a 6 cylinder may be our best bet, and it would be nice to stay within the towing capacity when fully loaded so we're not putting too much stress on the vehicle.

Would around $14K for a 2007 or so with around 75,000 km be a reasonable price to pay?  Is there some sort of listing online that states what the average selling prices are, or should I just check what people are asking online and go from there?

Thanks again everyone, really helpful information!
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Offline rrocket

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #9 on: September 22, 2011, 08:04:28 pm »
Toyota Rav 4 V6
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Offline 2JDM

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #10 on: September 22, 2011, 08:10:12 pm »
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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #11 on: September 22, 2011, 08:11:43 pm »
An Escape would be a good choice - and should be lots around.  Generally are pretty reliable too.
Have a look on Auto Trader - a quick search found 52 around Ottawa:

http://www.autotrader.ca/a/pv/Used/Ford/all/Ford+Escape/?lloc=Ottawa%2c+ON&cty=Ottawa&prv=Ontario&ctr=Canada&vpt=45.2284072081932%2c-76.057513014774%2c45.6146796964855%2c-75.3262260134984%2c&prx=50&pRng=%2c15000&isnew=False&isrfn=True
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Offline monevasia

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #12 on: September 22, 2011, 08:12:15 pm »
NADA.COM is a good place to get a general idea of prices. This is an american site but it gives you an idea of what people are selling for. Autotrader.ca is another good site, just search for 2007 Escapes and you will get a variety of prices and options.

The link I sent you earlier sounds like a really good deal. It's a private seller who sounds like they really take care of the car. If you look at the pictures in his add I believe they even have a hitch already installed.

Here is a link for NADA.COM with info on a 2007 Ford Escape Limited similar to the one in the add. They priced it ar around 16K...consumer retail price.

http://www.nadaguides.com/Cars/2007/Ford/Escape-V6/Utility-4D-Limited/Standard-Equipment
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Offline Hammy

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Re: What types of vehicles do you suggest we look into?
« Reply #13 on: October 21, 2011, 04:59:03 pm »
I have a honda pilot, they are wonderful.
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