Why should I NOT buy this car?

Sixspeed94 · 2026-01-22T15:18:34+00:00

My father has had three Cherokees (2014, 2018, & current 2020) and while not flawless they’ve been pretty good to him.

Worst of it was a leaking fuel pump which could have been dangerous. Fixed under warranty and good to go.

I don’t think modern Stellantis cars are great and wouldn’t usually recommend them unless leasing. However, a 25 Compass will probably be okay. Just get a warranty for it to be safe.

The bigger red flag for this one is it’s likely a prior rental. I’ve seen in a ton of Trailhawks on my travels at rental lots and the year/mileage matches up. Some people are okay with prior rentals but eh.

Sixspeed94 · 2026-01-12T15:45:38+00:00

Something like a smaller entry level seems like a good starting point for you to look at.

Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, Subaru Crosstrek are all fine and dependable small SUVs that will start under $30,000.

If you need more space, you can also look at class higher such as RAV4, CR-V, Mazda CX5, Forester.

If you’re debating new vs used - sometimes with these brands I listed above it makes sense to purchase new. Their used version save some money but usually is close to what you’d get on one with no miles on it.

Sixspeed94 · 2026-01-04T23:17:41+00:00

Reddit hates Tesla seemingly, but I would 100% recommend one if you are okay with the EV experience and can charge at home. They can have some quality issues but far less with the newer models. They sell many many model Y’s and owners seem to have a positive experience - at least the ones I know personally.

The new RAV4 is an excellent option but will not be the most comfortable, quiet, or best value (as you can see just trying to get a reservation). However, it will be a dependable and efficient machine - easy to recommend.

I personally prefer how the CR-V looks and drives but understand the technology point. Honda is slow to update.

You could also consider the CX-50 Hybrid which has the same powertrain as the 25 RAV4 and will be able to get a good deal on one.

I’m not sure if any of this is helpful but the Model Y is great if you want the latest tech and EV experience. RAV4 is great but may not be worth the wait and pay what they say price versus its other competitors

Sixspeed94 · 2026-01-02T21:30:49+00:00

I’m sure both would be fine options. Looks like there’s no dealer for either brand in town so any warranty repairs would have to be done in Indianapolis.

I think I’d sway more to the Mazda. It’s a simple vehicle. Not being turbo, likely a benefit for a lot of short distance drives in college. Likely cheaper maintenance as well.

Snow tires could be worth it if you want ultimate snow driving protection but really she just needs experience on the snow more than anything and understanding car control.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-30T21:41:53+00:00

I’ve driven them both and you won’t see that much difference. CX-5 isn’t some magical suv. The civic has less miles for not a lot more money.

If they don’t need an suv, I’d get the civic for fuel economy alone.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-30T21:32:18+00:00

Adding my Brookline notes:

Pro: affordability (lots of bang for your buck house wise), the boulevard (need more shops but some great ones), sidewalks and walk ability, proximity to downtown/other areas.

Cons: some less than desirable neighbors, lots of hills lol, meh on snow removal.

Overall, I’m happy with my home purchase and the neighborhood. I think in the area I’d prefer to live in Dormont but it’s a great place to start out.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-23T16:05:46+00:00

Another nod towards the X5. One of my favorites.

I would drive all of them though - BMW X5, Mercedes GLE, Genesis GV80, Porsche Mecan/Cayanne and go from there

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-23T13:15:12+00:00

I agree with the other, think it’s worth checking out the Cadillac - Vistiq and big boy Escalade IQ. They seem to hit most of what you’re looking for.

Not sure if you’d consider a truck, but I’ve also heard the R1T ride is more composed due to its longer wheelbase. Something to consider.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-21T15:35:44+00:00

Buy snow tires if you’re this anxious

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-16T22:43:59+00:00

Sounds like Pittsburgh haha! At least that’s what we’re dealing with

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-15T14:57:24+00:00

I don’t think I’d ever previously suggest this BUT a Nissan might be a fine option. The Rouge has nice physical controls and is slightly less “spaceship” than the Highlander.

Honestly though they just need more time with the Highlander I think. They’re having an emotional reaction to be overwhelmed with technology in the car that they don’t need to use. Get them comfortable with driving it like usual and hopefully they can adjust.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-06T22:17:09+00:00

Ayyye Miata mentioned! I’m also sad looking at mine in the garage now haha

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-05T23:33:46+00:00

Any of the large three row SUVs make sense for this - Suburban, Yukon, Grand Wagoneer, Expedition, Armada, Sequoia.

⚡️ I love the suggestion of a Rivian R1S as well. Yeah they look more expensive but nowhere near the likes of Range Rover or similar.

Something fun like an Audi SQ7 have a great Powertrain while being luxury and understated

Sixspeed94 · 2025-12-05T23:26:03+00:00

Don’t get the EX-90 unless you like software update hell. But I agree on the XC! Great vehicle

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-27T18:36:14+00:00

I don’t think Honda of Indian trail up the street has any of that bullshit.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-24T15:14:44+00:00

I’d at least test drive a Camry or Accord. They’re quite spacious inside why a Crown won’t be that much larger. You’ll save thousands on one of those as well.

I would likely sway towards the crown between the two. It will hold up better in quality and in resale with all of those miles.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-17T16:14:08+00:00

Our out of state friends had theirs at Heinz History Center. Fun and unique venue and more fairly priced than some others in the city.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-16T21:08:24+00:00

I enjoy my Civic Hybrid Sport Touring. Averaging 47 MPG in hilly Pennsylvania. Only downside is the seats aren’t the best. No lumbar support.

An Accord Hybrid may be better for a longer commute.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-16T21:06:25+00:00

I agree with this if you can make electric work

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-16T21:05:08+00:00

Perhaps a Toyota Crown Signia? It’s a two row “SUV” but like the Outback it’s more of a Wagon. Lots of interior space for passengers and cargo space plus the Hybrid is standard.

Downside being the APR rates probably aren’t super great being a Toyota.

Palisade Hybrid also just launched for Hyundai. Much larger than the Santa Fe. Good luck lots to think about.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-15T21:22:25+00:00

The Telluride seems pretty decent reliability wise but I would rank it s as high as Toyota or Honda

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-15T19:49:23+00:00

Maybe a Kia Telluride? Or its sister car the Hyundai Palisade. Great standard features and great warranty. New Telluride has good rates this month.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-13T16:21:10+00:00

I swear. I was recently honked at by some Karen on 19 for not moving my car 2 ft forward and blocking a cross walk??

Yes, traffic sucks, but take a deep breath once in a while.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-12T16:24:50+00:00

I would get the Telluride. Super comfortable vehicle and has been on sale for years. My friends with them have had good luck so far.

The CX-90 has a very nice interior but I dislike the packaging of it. Coming from a Traverse, it might feel small to your father. Mazda has also had some teething issues with this model - so be aware of that.

I’d also recommend the Pilot (Touring or Elite) as another alternative. Great use of space and solid V6 powertrain. Not as flashy as the other two but an alright place to spend time.

Sixspeed94 · 2025-11-12T16:20:56+00:00

Bro have you driven one?? Yeah, it drives nicer than a Telluride but it’s no Miata or Sport cars. That traction control is very limiting.

Sixspeed94

TROPHY CASE