So, it's time for the soon to be Mrs and myself to start looking into a new vehicle. As most of you know my '04 Tacoma is gone now in favor of a Chevy 2500HD, but we each also have our own vehicles. Me a 1999 Subaru Forester S (awesome car) and her a 2000 Honda Civic DX (not so awesome car).
It doesn't really make much sense for us to own 3 vehicles when it comes right down to it, partly because she works (mostly) from home, and I usually take the bus. So with her car needing replacement, and in the grand scheme of things, wanting something newer, we're looking at 3 vehicles.
New/newer (2011+):
-Toyota Rav4 Sport/limited with the V-6
-Subaru Forester XT Touring
-Nissan Rogue SL with the SV package
Out of them all, I like the Forester, I feel it has the most 'utilitarian' feel to it, I love the turbo, and overall I like the styling the best. The Rav comes in a close second, I know the Rav with the V-6 hauls but I am not a big fan of the tailgate on those. I foresee too many situations where it would be a PITA. The Rogue is Nicole's favorite, but to me while it may look 'nice' (which is subjective) the design features make the rear view horrid, and I'm not a massive fan of the CVT transmissions.
We test drove the new Ford Escape, and that little thing can move too, but the dash seems forever long, and it's WAY to gadgety for me. Too many buttons, colors, etc to the point that it was almost distracting. Don't get me wrong, it's a very nice vehicle, but neither of us personally liked the interior.
So, for those of you that have pondered, owned, or researched any of these vehicles, I welcome any personal opinions!