That's too bad about the seats. Years ago I bought a new Honda civic Si that I had to eventually sell because of the seats. The seats felt great during the test drive and at other times I had driven them, but after about 45 minutes of steady driving my lower back started bothering me. I did a lot of road travel at the time for work, and that's what I bought it for, but couldn't stand the longer trips after a while so I sold it within two years.
I was worried that might also happen with both my roadsters as they have a similar raked seating position to the Civic Si but neither bother me in that way, so lucky there.
Yeah the next vehicle will need to pass the hour drive test before I pull the trigger. I have so many options come next summer I'm not sure which would be best. Part of me would really like a comfy luxury cruiser and part of me wants something fun to drive, that's why I like my Golf R so much.
I've even considered getting a pickup simply because it would come in handy, I've always found them comfy to ride in, and I feel like I wouldn't stress over every paint chip or scratch.
I'll have enough money saved and equity in the two paid off vehicles that my wife's new CUV should be paid for plus leave me a little for a down payment. We'll be comfortable with a $400 bi-weekly payment. One of the bigger considerations this time around is reliability and resale value.
I totally left out Subaru in my above list by accident, my wife really likes the Crosstrek and I'd consider the WRX if the new one comes out. I don't think my wife realizes how underpowered the Crosstrek is. If she had her way she'd be upgrading her V6 for a V8 but I've told her a 4 cylinder is in her future.