Looking for another car

[SVXyGirl]

Ok to make a long story short. I'm looking to get another vehicle. Something that has more room than the SVXs. Aside from borrowing my fiances Jeep or my parents truck, I don't have a lot of room to haul stuff or doggies around in the SVX. I've packed a lot in the SVXs (example: Reading last year). I'm really interested in the 2004-2007 Forester XT. I'm also looking at the Outback, but I think certain years had head gasket issues. Is this true? Here are some things I would like to have in a vehicle:

- Manual
- Hatchback or larger back area (like the Forester or Jeep)
- AWD is a plus but not necessary.
- Decent gas mileage
- must have "get-up-n-go". I don't need a race car, but I don't want a slug.
- Being able to tow a motorcycle or two would be great.

Aside from the Forester and Outback, I was looking at non-Subaru vehicles like the Toyota Rav4, or Honda CRV. I also was looking at the Mini Cooper. I know that is different from the others, but I've always liked them. I know Mike had a lot of issues with his Mini, but I have a friend with one and she has never had a problem with it. Anything I get will be used. As of right now I don't plan to sell either of the SVXs because I wouldn't be able to get the money they're worth IMO. Plus no one wants my Claret. So I'm researching whats out there and I'm getting an idea about $$ too. Any suggestions, advice, etc is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[XxMattrimxX]

If you are looking for a 4cyl the EJ22t engine is the best I know of as far as durability and reliability. Its in legacy until 93? I think? Dunno if that helps at all.
But I always liked Baja's too. Lol.

[icingdeath88]

I think certain years of the NA 2.5 engines had head gasket issues.

[subeman90]

How much do you want to spend?

For what you want to do the first thing that comes to mind is an H6 Outback. Hands down this would do everything you want and wouldn't kill your wallet at the gas pump either. If you can get past the fact that it is an automatic.

Personally I would stay away from the turbo cars. Too much to worry about if they were or weren't taken care of properly. The turbos (Subaru) like to go out too on the newer cars (Mike Davis can chime in on this one).

2.5's do have HG issues. The newer the motor the less likely it will have issues. (2000 OB will sooner or later need it done, 2007 not as likely)

[SVXyGirl]

Originally Posted by subeman90

2.5's do have HG issues. The newer the motor the less likely it will have issues. (2000 OB will sooner or later need it done, 2007 not as likely)

Why do they have HG issues? design of the engine or something?

[subeman90]

Originally Posted by SVXyGirl

Why do they have HG issues? design of the engine or something?

poor HG design is what I have been told which doesn't surprise me since the 96-99 4 cam 2.5 had 5 revisions before they got that one right.

[SSSVX]

Originally Posted by SVXyGirl

to haul stuff or doggies around

How about a Honda Element? They definitely have a lot of room. You can also do picnic in the car from the seats' configurations, and they're pet-friendly vehicle.

You could find a manual one, it's amazing room for the interior, AWD available, decent gas mileage better than most subarus, not too slow, also can tow stuff if you like to, and it should be as reliable as the Honda CR-V.

Just thought of this car since you like doggies and need room to haul stuff.














PS: I have seen the option of picnic table in this utility vehicle. Heck you don't need to tow, you can probably fit two motorcycles in the vehicle. You and your doggies would be happy with it.

[subeman90]

you know an Element might be good for you. No carpet in them so they clean up easy.