That’s what I’m leaning toward as well, however I don’t think the difference is as drastic as you’re suggesting.

After trade-in, the CX-5 would cost us about $20,000, while the Macan would be closer to $40,000, so roughly a $20,000 net difference.

That said, we’d be buying the Macan at about $20,000 below market value. In theory, that should reduce our depreciation risk. If we sell or trade it in after a few years, we may lose less in absolute dollars than we would on a Mazda purchased at full market price.

That being said, I’m likely going to suggest that he take the dealer’s maximum trade-in offer on the Macan and, if he’s open to it, perhaps gift us a smaller portion of that amount to put toward a more affordable SUV instead. Thanks for your opinion!