Finding a car

[Kaitlyn]

Okay, so I am looking to get a new car in the very near future.

- Brand new car
- Probably a 2006 model? (cheaper?)
- $20K - $25K
- Mid-sized, 4-door car (currently have Buick Century - want something smaller but still big enough to be 'safe')

Can anyone help me go about finding some cars from which I can start narrowing down?

EDIT: I should also mention some things I wish to add if not already standard:

- Heated (driver) seat
- MAYBE a sunroof
- Climate control (Set temperature at 21 degrees)
- Ideally an aux input for my mp3 player

[new_vr]

Okay, so I am looking to get a new car in the very near future.

- Brand new car
- Probably a 2006 model? (cheaper?)
- $20K - $25K
- Mid-sized, 4-door car (currently have Buick Century - want something smaller but still big enough to be 'safe')

Can anyone help me go about finding some cars from which I can start narrowing down?
Get a Corolla. It's actually pretty roomy inside, and fairly safe. Don't let size make you think it's safer. Check crash test results instead. http://www.safercar.gov/

[frogger]

Unfortunately generally bigger is safer all else being equal, thats the reason they show crash test results by product category. If they compared midsizers to compacts, the compacts wouldn't do all that well. Make sure you get side and curtain airbags where available.

I find the Corolla overrated. Drove one on a rough road and the rattling and general amount of flex of the chasis was surprising. The engine was pretty weak though it does get good fuel economy.

Make sure you test drive whatever vehicles you consider on a variety of surfaces and different speeds.

$25K + or $25K all in taxes etc?

[Kaitlyn]

Unfortunately generally bigger is safer all else being equal, thats the reason they show crash test results by product category. If they compared midsizers to compacts, the compacts wouldn't do all that well. Make sure you get side and curtain airbags where available.

I find the Corolla overrated. Drove one on a rough road and the rattling and general amount of flex of the chasis was surprising. The engine was pretty weak though it does get good fuel economy.

Make sure you test drive whatever vehicles you consider on a variety of surfaces and different speeds.

$25K + or $25K all in taxes etc?

Mom is helping me pay and its not like a $26,000 car is completely out of question. As well, I am likely going to pay above and beyond that range to get some things I just WANT... like heated seats perhaps, but am not putting that into the cost restriction.

[frogger]

The Saturn Aura XE is in your budget and won car of the year, you might want to try that as well as test out an Accord and Camry 4 cylinder models. I suggest the Saturn because their dealerships won't pressure you or ignore you if you say you're not sure what car you want yet and you are early in the process.

If you want to consider compact cars, see about testing a Corolla, Civic, and/or Mazda 3. I think after driving one compact and one midside, you will know whether you want a compact or midsize for sure.

[VivienM]

- Probably a 2006 model? (cheaper?)

You're probably not going to find any 2006s left...

Saturn Aura is one possibility. You could add Pontiac G6, too...

[Kaitlyn]

I should also mention some things I wish to add if not already standard:

- Heated (driver) seat
- MAYBE a sunroof
- Climate control (Set temperature at 21 degrees)
- Ideally an aux input for my mp3 player

I was looking at the Aura and the climate control is only available on the XR which starts at $31,xxx....

[VivienM]

You could look into a Chevy Malibu - with the incentives they must now be offering, the LTZ model might squeeze into your budget. (Be careful about relying on MSRP when it comes to a GM product, as you often end up paying less)

Also, consider a Pontiac Grand Prix. They're offering decent incentives on those, and you can get everything except perhaps the AUX input (but you may be able to get a CD changer iPod connector instead, which would be a lot better).

Otherwise, I doubt you'll be able to find much with heated seats and climate control for $25K. You can probably get both in a 4 cyl. Nissan Altima for about $29K, and Honda/Toyota fans will let you know if Accord/Camry can give you those for the same price.

BTW, your criteria rule out all compact cars that I know of, as I don't think any have auto climate control... someone else may correct me if I'm wrong.

Have you considered going used? If you liked your Century, say, you could consider something like the 03-04 Buick Regal, which has everything on your list except the aux input, but that you could buy used for $13-14K (maybe a bit more if you want an optimum certified one), which leaves plenty of money for a replacement audio head unit or one of those iPod CD changer cables.

[VivienM]

I was looking at the Aura and the climate control is only available on the XR which starts at $31,xxx....

There were some incentives available on the Aura a few weeks ago that would have lowered that a bit... however, now that it won that fancy award in the US, I'm guessing GM isn't going to need to lower price to get buyers to notice the Aura...

[frogger]

Auto Climate Control is going to be tough to find in your price range on a brand new car. Lots of options used like a 2003 Acura TL or similar.

[Kaitlyn]

You could look into a Chevy Malibu - with the incentives they must now be offering, the LTZ model might squeeze into your budget. (Be careful about relying on MSRP when it comes to a GM product, as you often end up paying less)

Also, consider a Pontiac Grand Prix. They're offering decent incentives on those, and you can get everything except perhaps the AUX input (but you may be able to get a CD changer iPod connector instead, which would be a lot better).

Otherwise, I doubt you'll be able to find much with heated seats and climate control for $25K. You can probably get both in a 4 cyl. Nissan Altima for about $29K, and Honda/Toyota fans will let you know if Accord/Camry can give you those for the same price.

BTW, your criteria rule out all compact cars that I know of, as I don't think any have auto climate control... someone else may correct me if I'm wrong.

Have you considered going used? If you liked your Century, say, you could consider something like the 03-04 Buick Regal, which has everything on your list except the aux input, but that you could buy used for $13-14K (maybe a bit more if you want an optimum certified one), which leaves plenty of money for a replacement audio head unit or one of those iPod CD changer cables.



I'm not looking to fit those extras into the budget, but when a car that is capable of the upgrades is $31,000 starting... then it doesn't quite work out...

None of the xtras are a MUST but mainly heated seats/climate control would be really nice to add in...

[VivienM]

I'm not looking to fit those extras into the budget, but when a car that is capable of the upgrades is $31,000 starting... then it doesn't quite work out...

None of the xtras are a MUST but mainly heated seats/climate control would be really nice to add in...

Beware of the MSRP trap - often, some automakers compete on financing rates, and 1-2% financing vs 7% will make a HUGE difference in your total costs.

Also, have you considered leasing?

[Kaitlyn]

So I've compiled a list of some cars that I like that are within budget. Obviously I can get a price below the MSRP, so all prices would end up in budget:

Make ------ Model ---------- MSRP
Saturn ---- Aura XE -------- $24,990
Toyota ---- Corolla LE ------ $21,900
Toyota ---- Camry LE ------ $25,800
Honda ---- Accord DX-G ---- $26,000
Hyundai --- Elantra GLS ---- $23,095
Hyundai --- Sonata GL V6 --- $26,295

Does anyone have ANY input on the above? Some other car you recommend I add to the list (I am not done looking...)

[Elektronauts]

So I've compiled a list of some cars that I like that are within budget. Obviously I can get a price below the MSRP, so all prices would end up in budget:

Make ------ Model ---------- MSRP
Saturn ---- Aura XE -------- $24,990
Toyota ---- Corolla LE ------ $21,900
Toyota ---- Camry LE ------ $25,800
Honda ---- Accord DX-G ---- $26,000
Hyundai --- Elantra GLS ---- $23,095
Hyundai --- Sonata GL V6 --- $26,295

Does anyone have ANY input on the above? Some other car you recommend I add to the list (I am not done looking...)

Have you looked at the suzuki SX4. I purchased one recently and took advantage of their 0% for 3yrs. You could get the top of the line JLX for $22,595 MSRP. AWD, 6 airbags, climate, cruise, 4discs, ABS...etc (www.sx4.ca). Its fun to drive with the higher seating position and handles really well, the downside is that it's not very powerful and has bad mileage compared to civic/corrolla/versa/fit.

[VivienM]

Some other car you recommend I add to the list (I am not done looking...)

F*rd Fusion
Mazda 6
Pontiac Grand Prix
Pontiac G6
Chevy Malibu
Chrysler Sebring
Buick Allure (hey, you're driving a Buick now...)

There's probably more, too...

[cereal83]

I test drove a 2006 Grand Prix GT (supercharged) a few weeks ago. Now I wanted to get a import after hearing that imports are the best but after test driving that Grand Prix, WOW. It has dual climate, Sunroof, everything. I looked at the top of the line model and it was $25k plus tax (demo car) and was it ever nice. If it was in a color I liked, I would have gotten it. It was a great ride, had tons of power whenever you put your foot down and it was just a great drive. I had lots of room. I think I am going ot get one of those.

The G6 is probably also a great car but it's only a few dollars cheaper for a moderately equipped car so I would look at the Grand Prix.

I would stay away from Toyota, Hyundai. Sure they might go 20k more without problems but they have no sports appeal to them, they are just crappy cars IMO.

[Kaitlyn]

I would stay away from Toyota, Hyundai. Sure they might go 20k more without problems but they have no sports appeal to them, they are just crappy cars IMO.

I am not looking for a "sports appeal" car... not that I would avoid one, but I don't really care either way...

[cereal83]

I am not looking for a "sports appeal" car... not that I would avoid one, but I don't really care either way...

I would say Camry then as it will last and you will have a decent car for year sto come. They are also safer then most domestic cars

[gheart008]

So I've compiled a list of some cars that I like that are within budget. Obviously I can get a price below the MSRP, so all prices would end up in budget:

Make ------ Model ---------- MSRP
Saturn ---- Aura XE -------- $24,990
Toyota ---- Corolla LE ------ $21,900
Toyota ---- Camry LE ------ $25,800
Honda ---- Accord DX-G ---- $26,000
Hyundai --- Elantra GLS ---- $23,095
Hyundai --- Sonata GL V6 --- $26,295

Does anyone have ANY input on the above? Some other car you recommend I add to the list (I am not done looking...)

so you still havent really answered is $25K MSRP or off the road? Other than the Corolla listed above, none of those cars will fit into your budget if you're talking about $25K off the lot price since you still have to consider freight + PDI + government taxes + misc taxes.

[Kaitlyn]

so you still havent really answered is $25K MSRP or off the road? Other than the Corolla listed above, none of those cars will fit into your budget if you're talking about $25K off the lot price since you still have to consider freight + PDI + government taxes + misc taxes.


Ya but all prices I could get are going to be less than the MSRP.

And I'll have to discuss further with my mom as to how much she'll help out, but like I said before, the budget isn't super strict and more of a guideline

[Dailow]

Are you 100% set on a brand new car?

A used 2004+ Acura TL includes at least the sunroof, heated seats and climate control (not sure about aux port). The models in prior years had transmission issues, hence the 2004 and newer recommendation.

Otherwise, the 2007 Honda Accord sedan starts at $30,500 for the EX-L model which includes heated seats, and climate control.

[Kaitlyn]

I am basically 100% on a new car... don't want to take a used one, at least not this time around

[Kaitlyn]

Alright so I have my list of cars:
Make Model MSRP

Saturn Aura XE $24,990
Toyota Corolla LE $21,900
Toyota Camry LE $25,800
Honda Accord DX-G $26,000
Hyundai Elantra GLS $23,095
Hyundai Sonata GL V6 $26,295
Suzuki SX4 JLX $22,595
Ford Fusion SE I4 $25,049
Mazda Mazda3 GT $23,945
Mazda Mazda6 GS-I4 $25,495
Chevy Cobalt SS $21,600
Chevy Malibu LS $20,230
Chrysler Sebring Sedan $22,995
Pontiac Grand Prix $26,230
Pontiac G6 SE $23,930

I may or may not add 1 or 2 to the list - but how do I go about narrowing it down from here? Should I test drive every one? I don't see myself having much luck at the dealerships being a 19 year old female...

How can I start narrowing this list down!? :)

[cereal83]

I would study them on the internet to see what they do and don't offer and then maybe your list will get smaller. Then see how much you like the look of each car and take out the ones you don't like the look of and your list will get even smaller.
Then go test drive all the ones you have left in your list and your list will get smaller until you buy one.

I don't think people will care that your 19. Lots of 19 year olds have brand new cars.

Goodluck

[VivienM]

Alright so I have my list of cars:
Make Model MSRP

Saturn Aura XE $24,990
Toyota Corolla LE $21,900
Toyota Camry LE $25,800
Honda Accord DX-G $26,000
Hyundai Elantra GLS $23,095
Hyundai Sonata GL V6 $26,295
Suzuki SX4 JLX $22,595
Ford Fusion SE I4 $25,049
Mazda Mazda3 GT $23,945
Mazda Mazda6 GS-I4 $25,495
Chevy Cobalt SS $21,600
Chevy Malibu LS $20,230
Chrysler Sebring Sedan $22,995
Pontiac Grand Prix $26,230
Pontiac G6 SE $23,930

I may or may not add 1 or 2 to the list - but how do I go about narrowing it down from here? Should I test drive every one? I don't see myself having much luck at the dealerships being a 19 year old female...

How can I start narrowing this list down!? :)

My advice is to go to the dealer for each one. Different people have different tastes in cars, so the only way to really know if something fits YOU is to check it out. You probably won't test drive every one - it may be that once you sit in a particular car, something will seem 'off' to you and you'll cross it off your list right there. But every car that passes the 'showroom test' should be test driven.

Advice on test drives:
- if you can (and your age may make this difficult), try and test drive without a salesperson in the car; if there is a salesperson in the car, shut him/her up if he/she starts a sales speech
- insist on your own test drive route - salespeople tend to pick routes where you will see the best of the car
- make sure your test drive route is varied - some freeway, some city traffic, some roads in bad conditions (some sportier cars may have too firm a ride for your taste), etc.
- check that the model you are test driving is identical to what you are considering. e.g. things like sport packages, upgraded tires, etc can make a substantial difference.

In a way, your age may almost be an advantage, in the sense that if they take you less seriously, they won't go and get out the crazy aggressive sales tactics. However, I do understand that car dealerships (other than Saturn ones) are not female-friendly places, so as much as I hate to say this, if you have a boyfriend or older brother or someone like that, it may be worth dragging him along. :(

Oh, and one last thing: if you can, go to dealerships at a quiet time. When salespeople are bored, they're more likely to be willing to spend time with someone who might not seem the 'typical' buyer profile.

[frogger]

Bring someone with you to the dealerships if at all possible who knows a little about cars. It will definitely help you feel more comfortable and keep agressive salespeople honest. People who like cars generally like going to dealerships to check new models out anyways.


Alright so I have my list of cars:
Make Model MSRP

Saturn Aura XE $24,990
Toyota Corolla LE $21,900
Toyota Camry LE $25,800
Honda Accord DX-G $26,000
Hyundai Elantra GLS $23,095
Hyundai Sonata GL V6 $26,295
Suzuki SX4 JLX $22,595
Ford Fusion SE I4 $25,049
Mazda Mazda3 GT $23,945
Mazda Mazda6 GS-I4 $25,495
Chevy Cobalt SS $21,600
Chevy Malibu LS $20,230
Chrysler Sebring Sedan $22,995
Pontiac Grand Prix $26,230
Pontiac G6 SE $23,930

I may or may not add 1 or 2 to the list - but how do I go about narrowing it down from here? Should I test drive every one? I don't see myself having much luck at the dealerships being a 19 year old female...

How can I start narrowing this list down!? :)

[NorthYorker]

Alright so I have my list of cars:
Make Model MSRP

Saturn Aura XE $24,990
...
Pontiac G6 SE $23,930

How can I start narrowing this list down!? :)
U R talking MSRP, aren't you? U probably want to get some "on-the-road" (i.e. real transaction price with all MSRP discounts and delivery charges and taxes and what not thrown in). Otherwise, I'd say 1st and easy step is to get rid of Elantra. Gee, Korean compact for 2K over Corolla? Gimme a break. It should be 2K cheaper for comparably equipped model or same price with all bells and whistles thrown in. Fusion is probably too bulky for you. Do you want to be seen in SUV? Mazda3 GT is nice car, but 24K? Isn't it too steep? Top-of-the-line Cobalt versus mid-line Malibu? Tough call. Generally, compacts in your list don't look too attractive price-wise (with exception of Corolla). They cost just couple of Ks less for a lot less car.

[frogger]

Another option if you can wait is check them all out (but no test driving) in February at the Auto show, narrow your list to ones you want to drive at that point.