Considering a used Free Lander, Sportage, Vitara or Civic
Hi QLers,
I've been looking at buying a reliable used second car primarily for commuting to work. The biggest driving force is ofcourse the budget. I started off with 20000-25000 QR and want to stay around 2004-2005 year, not older. I found I might be able to get a Civic of 2004 or maybe 2005 with around 100-120k kms or an Accord of 2002 or 2003 with similar kms. The Toyotas that I found, all have higher mileage than the Hondas, and are also a few thousand more in price hence I thought Honda would be better.
Second option I'm considering is to buy a small SUV, which gives me the advantage of more space, (then it can also be used for the family), etc. I was looking at Honda CRV, Toyota Rav4, Suzuki Vitara, Kia Sportage and Landrover FreeLander. Honda and Totota of around 2004/2005 are above my price range. Between the Sportage, Vitara and FreeLander I'm confused. They all are around 30000 QR for 2004 which is the max I can manage.
Can you guys please advise what you think would be better. I'm also very concerned about repair costs of these cars as well as AC performance. Or should I just stick with a Honda Civic and sacrifice the extra space.
Thanks so much.
Waiting for your responses.....
Thanks guys. Joe, I don't see any decent pathfinders in my price range unless they are 2000-2001 and with high mileage.
Neo, I didn't realize freelander is that bad in reliability, I thought it would be a good car since its a land rover..?
Also, from my perspective I'm not too much concerned about resale value, as long as the car is reliable with a good AC, I'm ok with any manufacturer.
Does anyone have any personal experiences with Vitara, Sportage or Freelander?
I'm not ignoring the obvious better choices i.e. Honda and Toyota, but they just don't fit my budget.
Thanks
get a freelander if you want to see the service center that often.....spare parts are also very expensive...go for honda or toyota
i will never suggest you KIA, though they have so many attractive models now on road , it may take years before general public can accept this brand and you will find it really so tough to sell .
I suggest you stick to Civic and if you were to look for a SUV better go for one that is good brand like Pathfinder 5 seater etc which will cost about 35 to 40K
Good luck