Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson..UPDATE: Bought a Car

Apr 20, 17 5:19

Post #1 of 40 Views: 3211

Toyota has a sweet deal right now with 0% for 72 months (we would pay off sooner) for the Rav4. Out the door price was given to us at 22,985 (including the destination charge-which I won't pay for). I will be adding a warranty to it, but not buying from the dealer, will do so with another dealer at a greatly reduced price. My wife has always wanted the RAV4 and we currently have an older Highlander (07) that has treated us well. I want to look at the new Highlander and drive the CRV and the Tucson.

I know that the CRV has had problems with the vibrations and I think it is due to their CVT Transmissons. Doesn't seem to be too many good reviews from them lately. I like the look of the Tucson, but have yet to be inside one.

If I go the route of the RAV4 our payment will be about $280-300 a month depending on what we put down.
The Highlander will be in the $400s, but be a much bigger vehicle
I am guessing the Tucson and CRV will likely be in the mid to high $300s a month.

We have a corolla with 160k on it and we are keeping it for a run around car. I figure I would only get 2.5K if I am lucky-it is worth more to me than that.
This purchase is not a need but a want, and it will make the wife happy and then I will get some benefits! We will likely get the Rav, but she is open to other cars.

Just looking for your experiences and or comments regarding the cars.

Thanks

Last edited by: littlefoot: May 2, 17 13:57

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 5:36

Post #2 of 40 Views: 3203

we're looking at the exact same type auto's right now as a replacement for the wife's Element. We're fixing to gift the Toaster over to our daughter.

We've driven the CRV in touring edition and really liked it but so far the Subaru Forrester is our leading contender. We also drove a Volvo XC60 that we really liked but it's $$ to maintain downstream and a little to rich for us. Later this week we're going to take a gander at the Rav4 and she if she likes it.

best of luck on your search

/r

Steve

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 5:36

Post #3 of 40 Views: 3203

I have a RAV4. It is a good vehicle, but it doesn't ride well and has some road noise. My parents have a 2014 Rav4 and have said the same thing.

Mine has served its purpose, but I'm ready for something that rides better.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 5:42

Post #4 of 40 Views: 3198

I've had 3 CRV's over the last 4 years and i am currently renting one long term

Its ok, don't need to think about it but hardly inspiring

I have driven a couple of xc60's and they were great but significantly more in maintenance

Prior to the crv we had a touerag and we have just ordered a skoda kodiaq

Not sure if the skoda is being brought to NA but in europe spec wise it crushes the competition in value for money and kit

I would say - when we got our crv's that i prferred the stylobg over the RAV's and i now quite like the new x-trail

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 5:47

Post #5 of 40 Views: 3193

I have a 2011 Tucson. Never had an issue with it.

I don't think you can really go wrong with any of these cars. Pick the one you like the best.

Having said that, the Tucson is easily the smallest of these cars. So if you are looking for size, look elsewhere.

How does Danny Hart sit down with balls that big?

Last edited by: BLeP: Apr 20, 17 5:48

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 6:12

Post #6 of 40 Views: 3164

We looked at all of those last may and ended up with a Ford Edge, our requisite was to fit a dog kennel behind the second row. The package we got was as loaded as you can get before the titanium package and it is pretty sweet. In one year we have had to do 1 part under warranty (electronic throttle body). I think my wife has put 12,000ish miles on it and has never second guessed getting it.

We did 0% for 55 months I think it was.

The 2017 ford escapes were really nice looking. I have had bad luck with direct injection turbo engines so the other requirement was a larger NA motor.

Pactimo brand ambassador, ask me about promo codes

Last edited by: MTBSully: Apr 20, 17 6:13

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 6:25

Post #7 of 40 Views: 3153

At 0%, why would you put any money down?

Pink? Maybe. Maybe not. You decide.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [Steve Hawley] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 7:19

Post #8 of 40 Views: 3118

We've driven the CRV in touring edition and really liked it but so far the Subaru Forrester is our leading contender. We also drove a Volvo XC60 that we really liked but it's $$ to maintain downstream and a little to rich for us. Later this week we're going to take a gander at the Rav4 and she if she likes it.

I'm looking at the Rav4, CRV and Forrester also. Can you let me know what you end up getting.

My brother has the Rav4 and picked it over the CRV (he only looked at the 2) so I'd be interested in your opinion.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 7:32

Post #9 of 40 Views: 3105

Everyone looking at this class should at least take a quick look at the Mazda CX-5. I tested all of the usual suspects, but ended up going with the Mazda as it was just a lot more fun to drive. I've had mine for three years now and it hasn't given me any trouble. The entertainment system sucks as far as functionality with an iPhone goes (takes a long time for the phone to sync up), but I think that's probably a little better with the newer models. Oh, and don't bother looking at the model with the smaller engine, no fun there.
Check out the reviews and head to head tests and it's always in the mix or at the top of the class. My girlfriend has a 2016 Tucson Luxury and it is nice too, with way more features, but not as peppy.
In any case, they're all really nice vehicles, but that one just made me happier on the road.
Good luck with your decision.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 7:40

Post #10 of 40 Views: 3102

Jaguar F-Pace. You think you "will get benefits" for a Rav, buy the Jag and see what you get!

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [Sanuk] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 8:02

Post #11 of 40 Views: 3091

WILCO amigo

FWIW we've loved our Honda Element but it's a 06 model i bought when i came back from OIF and retired from the Army on Oahu. At the time i was still doing Tri's (did Honu three times) but i had serious back problems from years of jumping out of airplanes and humping heavy rucks over hill and dale. So i rode a Softride Roadwing I had Mr. Cobb set up for me when he still had his shop in Shreveport. That was a TALL bike and the Element was the only vehicle i could fit it into without taking any wheels off. It's over 10 years old now and has 130k miles on it but our daughter should easily get another 100k out of the Toaster if she keeps the oil changed.

We really liked the XC60--solidly built and very very quiet. But it's really in a whole nother class and not one we're really a member of.

So we've still to check out the RAV4, and the Mazda too. I really like the boxer engine in the Subie but it's a buzzy little SUV. However coming from the echo chamber that is a Element any these little SUVs will be quieter.

/r

Steve

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 9:02

Post #12 of 40 Views: 3060

Do you have kids? These cars are pretty small.

_________________________________
I'll be what I am
A solitary man

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [chowder] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 9:21

Post #13 of 40 Views: 3050

Glad you reminded me-I wanted to also add that to the list. I am not sure she is keen on the styling of the exterior, but worth a look. I wish they made a cx-7. I think I want something a bit bigger than the 5, but not necessarily as big as the 9.

I will keep you all posted. I expect to get something in the next 7-10 days...hopefully

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [japarker24] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 9:22

Post #14 of 40 Views: 3049

Just to get the payment super low. That is all. We can afford the 450ish payment, but if I can have a 275, why not?

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [rick_pcfl] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 9:34

Post #15 of 40 Views: 3044

rick_pcfl wrote:

I have a RAV4. It is a good vehicle, but it doesn't ride well and has some road noise. My parents have a 2014 Rav4 and have said the same thing.

My work car is 2016 Rav4 AWD and it sounds terribly loud in one power band range (typically at about 90km/hr (50mph) under light load)

Recently I bought a Kia Soul. Its smaller than the Rav4 or CRV but similar to the Tucson or Honda HRV. I'm very happy with it.

I used to like the Hyundai Santa Fe's - it was my go-to rental car on weekly business trips (between 2010 and 2012).

Remember - It's important to be comfortable in your own skin... because it turns out society frowns on wearing other people's

Last edited by: Guffaw: Apr 20, 17 9:37

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 9:53

Post #16 of 40 Views: 3029

littlefoot wrote:

Just to get the payment super low. That is all. We can afford the 450ish payment, but if I can have a 275, why not?

0% is free money. Let's say for instance you were going to put $1,000 down. Instead, invest that $1,000 and if you can get even 0.01% return, then you've come out ahead.

Pink? Maybe. Maybe not. You decide.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [Guffaw] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 10:32

Post #17 of 40 Views: 3003

Guffaw wrote:

rick_pcfl wrote:

I have a RAV4. It is a good vehicle, but it doesn't ride well and has some road noise. My parents have a 2014 Rav4 and have said the same thing.

My work car is 2016 Rav4 AWD and it sounds terribly loud in one power band range (typically at about 90km/hr (50mph) under light load)

Recently I bought a Kia Soul. Its smaller than the Rav4 or CRV but similar to the Tucson or Honda HRV. I'm very happy with it.

I used to like the Hyundai Santa Fe's - it was my go-to rental car on weekly business trips (between 2010 and 2012).

Does this mean you DON'T like them now? Or, that you liked them when you used them during that time period?

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 10:41

Post #18 of 40 Views: 2995

littlefoot wrote:

Toyota has a sweet deal right now with 0% for 72 months (we would pay off sooner) for the Rav4. Out the door price was given to us at 22,985 (including the destination charge-which I won't pay for). I will be adding a warranty to it, but not buying from the dealer, will do so with another dealer at a greatly reduced price. My wife has always wanted the RAV4 and we currently have an older Highlander (07) that has treated us well. I want to look at the new Highlander and drive the CRV and the Tucson.

I know that the CRV has had problems with the vibrations and I think it is due to their CVT Transmissons. Doesn't seem to be too many good reviews from them lately. I like the look of the Tucson, but have yet to be inside one.

If I go the route of the RAV4 our payment will be about $280-300 a month depending on what we put down.
The Highlander will be in the $400s, but be a much bigger vehicle
I am guessing the Tucson and CRV will likely be in the mid to high $300s a month.

We have a corolla with 160k on it and we are keeping it for a run around car. I figure I would only get 2.5K if I am lucky-it is worth more to me than that.
This purchase is not a need but a want, and it will make the wife happy and then I will get some benefits! We will likely get the Rav, but she is open to other cars.

Just looking for your experiences and or comments regarding the cars.

Thanks

I test drive the RAV4 when I was looking for my car. Hated it. Terrible ergonomics, bad ride.

#hondasforlife

===============
Proud member of the MSF (Maple Syrup Mafia)

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 11:19

Post #19 of 40 Views: 2979

We just got a new Highlander a few weeks ago and love it. We (she) wanted a 3rd row and that was the best fit for us compared to other brands.

Do you need a 3rd row? They started around 30k out the door here after taxes and crap.

It has been a sweet ride, even as the base model. Lots of nice features, especially compared to our 2007 Saturn Vue that we traded in. We have no regrets about buying it.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 11:29

Post #20 of 40 Views: 2972

littlefoot wrote:

Guffaw wrote:

I used to like the Hyundai Santa Fe's - it was my go-to rental car on weekly business trips (between 2010 and 2012).

Does this mean you DON'T like them now? Or, that you liked them when you used them during that time period?

I haven't driven in one for a good while. I think they are still great looking cars but I can't personally vouch for the recent versions.

Remember - It's important to be comfortable in your own skin... because it turns out society frowns on wearing other people's

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 12:25

Post #21 of 40 Views: 2960

Just went through the same process with the same list of vehicles, including the 4Runner which we felt was too 'truck like' (I have a Tundra I absolutely love so wasn't expecting the 4 Runner to ride like a Bentley)...

We actually ended up buying a used Lexus RX350 - the certified warranty and free service is really amazing. It's a very boring vehicle in all respects but is just a big nicer than the vehicles you're considering, rides and handles great, decent gas mileage, and will have good resale value. And great reliability even compared to the others youre comparing.

Good luck, hard to go wrong with any of your candidates.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [Steve Hawley] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 12:39

Post #22 of 40 Views: 2951

Steve Hawley wrote:

we're looking at the exact same type auto's right now as a replacement for the wife's Element. We're fixing to gift the Toaster over to our daughter.

We've driven the CRV in touring edition and really liked it but so far the Subaru Forrester is our leading contender. We also drove a Volvo XC60 that we really liked but it's $$ to maintain downstream and a little to rich for us. Later this week we're going to take a gander at the Rav4 and she if she likes it.

best of luck on your search

/r

Ha! I own an '08 Element SC which is going to the son (who calls it the chrome toaster). I looked at all of the above: Rav4, Escape, CRV, Subarus, etc. By happenstance stumbled on a 4Runner and bought that. Love the ride and the auto reminds me of my old Trooper.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [JD21] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 13:51

Post #23 of 40 Views: 2930

I am not opposed to the Lexus line (would have to be used). Any chance the Lexus has to use the Premium Gas? I heard that about Lexus and that was a deterrent for me.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [last tri in 83] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 13:55

Post #24 of 40 Views: 2924

I have 1 kid, and hoping to be done there...although I actually had a dream last night my wife was expecting again! Aahhh.

I agree they are small. My wife is not a big fan of the bigger SUV, but she likes the older highlander and is open to giving it another shot (even though it is much bigger).

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 13:56

Post #25 of 40 Views: 2896

I rented a new Nissan Rogue recently and was very impressed by it. You may want to add it to your list.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 13:58

Post #26 of 40 Views: 1376

The RX350 consumes regular unleaded

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [fartleker] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 14:01

Post #27 of 40 Views: 1374

I got a Highlander Hybrid last week. It is a really nice automobile! They changed pricing so a Hybrid was less than a $1400 adder on the model I got and increased mileage over 20%. I love how quiet it is. It's awesome not firing up the engine for school drop off line.

I tested all of the ones you mentioned. My 6'5" husband said no the RAV4 so it was down to CRV and Highlander. The Highlander was not much more for what seemed like a lot more car.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 17:39

Post #28 of 40 Views: 1353

It's 0% or $1750 off.

“Read the transcript.”

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 20, 17 17:57

Post #29 of 40 Views: 1347

littlefoot wrote:

I have 1 kid, and hoping to be done there...although I actually had a dream last night my wife was expecting again! Aahhh.

I agree they are small. My wife is not a big fan of the bigger SUV, but she likes the older highlander and is open to giving it another shot (even though it is much bigger).

We have an older Rav4 and my inlaws have an older Highliner. I dont see a huge difference in practical interior space. With a carseat, they're both 4 seaters at best. The Rav4 works well for us with 1 kid and 2 large dogs, not enough space to go tenting for a weekend without using the roofracks but everyone fits comfortable with enough luggage for a weekend at Grandmas.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [fishgo] [ In reply to ]

Apr 21, 17 10:16

Post #30 of 40 Views: 1307

fishgo wrote:

Steve Hawley wrote:

we're looking at the exact same type auto's right now as a replacement for the wife's Element. We're fixing to gift the Toaster over to our daughter.

We've driven the CRV in touring edition and really liked it but so far the Subaru Forrester is our leading contender. We also drove a Volvo XC60 that we really liked but it's $$ to maintain downstream and a little to rich for us. Later this week we're going to take a gander at the Rav4 and she if she likes it.

best of luck on your search

/r

Ha! I own an '08 Element SC which is going to the son (who calls it the chrome toaster). I looked at all of the above: Rav4, Escape, CRV, Subarus, etc. By happenstance stumbled on a 4Runner and bought that. Love the ride and the auto reminds me of my old Trooper.

I have an '08 Element SC with around 180k miles now. Bought it brand new around August of 2008 and it's not let me down yet. My wife drives it every day. We just had our first child in December, so I'm now considering something else. It'll be hard to let go of the Element.

I also have a 2015 Toyota 4Runner Trail Premium. It's too small. The interior is tiny for the size it appears on the exterior. But no complaints other than that.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [kmill23] [ In reply to ]

Apr 21, 17 10:30

Post #31 of 40 Views: 1296

Yep, my Element just swallows bikes for inside storage. I'm requiring a vehicle now that has 4WD and a larger towing capacity. But it's hard to squeeze stuff inside like the Honda.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 21, 17 11:04

Post #32 of 40 Views: 1286

We just bought our second CR-V.

If you can find a 2016 still on the lots - snag it. They know how to make a CVT, great size inside. Our 2006 one is just about to hit 200K on the odometer.

The 2017s are newer, larger, and they are a turbo'd 1.5L on the mid-to-high end. Not sure if that's a deterrent.

----------------------------------
Editor-in-Chief, Slowtwitch.com | Twitter

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [Moonrocket] [ In reply to ]

Apr 22, 17 11:55

Post #33 of 40 Views: 1240

Drove the highlander last night and found it to be very impressive. I loved the smooth ride and it didn't seem too long (for me). If it was going to be my purchase I would go with the new highlander. But she will probably still go with her 1st choice of the rav4. I'll update you all in a week.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

Apr 24, 17 13:33

Post #34 of 40 Views: 1177

I was able to return to the dealer for a test drive in the Highlander. My wife was very impressed with it, and is considering going with it. We actually drove the 4 cylinder, and the engine was a bit noisy. I definitely will be going with a 6 cylinder if we go that route. I feel like the dealer is giving us a pretty decent offer. They are offering a 6 cylinder highlander FWD (we live in southern md and it doesn't get bad enough to need awd) out the door for 33,000. That isn't too bad.

So, now it is a make a decision time.
Rav4 for 22,000 out the door
Highlander for 33,000 out the door.

We likely won't trade in our older corolla with 160k miles, but might just to bring down the rate of the highlander.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

May 2, 17 13:57

Post #35 of 40 Views: 1081

So, we got the Rav4 last night. Not what I wanted, but the wife's dream car. She always wanted the Rav, and they just happened to have a purple one...

I wanted a Highlander, and they gave us a pretty good quote for the Highlander at 33k out the door (without warranty). I would have put 3 down to finance 30k. It would have been a bit much, so we agreed to not get it. We paid 27k out the door with warranty for 125. I bought the warranty because of all the electronics and potential issues. Funny thing-the finance manager comes out and says the warranties range from 1k-3k. So, I had my phone ready with a guy in Kansas who sells them on the cheap from Toyota. Low and behold, they matched his offer. They tried telling me that their warranty was 3k, and I had to do it then (even though I KNEW I had 3 years or 36,000 miles to make up my mind. So, we paid for the warranty at 1700.

They also tried to get me to buy a 5 year all major tune ups covered (but no brakes or tires) for an additional 1k. I told him no thanks, and we get the first 2 years free anyway!

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

May 2, 17 14:27

Post #36 of 40 Views: 1048

littlefoot wrote:

So, we got the Rav4 last night. Not what I wanted.......!

So she wears the pants........

Pink? Maybe. Maybe not. You decide.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [japarker24] [ In reply to ]

May 2, 17 15:23

Post #37 of 40 Views: 1023

No, it was her turn for a car. Letting her pick the color let's me get into her pants MORE.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

May 2, 17 15:52

Post #38 of 40 Views: 1005

What about the scratch warranty ? You didn't get that ? Because we DID on my wife's 4Runner. I was THRILLED and told her she should consider under coating next.

I like the Highlander's also.

Good luck with the purple people eater !

"I think I've cracked the code. double letters are cheaters except for perfect squares (a, d, i, p and y). So Leddy isn't a cheater... "

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [Leddy] [ In reply to ]

May 2, 17 16:24

Post #39 of 40 Views: 987

Haha. Thanks.

Re: Looking at New Rav4, Highlander, CRV & Tucson... [littlefoot] [ In reply to ]

May 2, 17 20:16

Post #40 of 40 Views: 945

littlefoot wrote:

Glad you reminded me-I wanted to also add that to the list. I am not sure she is keen on the styling of the exterior, but worth a look. I wish they made a cx-7. I think I want something a bit bigger than the 5, but not necessarily as big as the 9.

I will keep you all posted. I expect to get something in the next 7-10 days...hopefully

Your getting your wish. The CX-7 is coming back. It's in the works.

I had a CX-7 I bought new in 2007. I kept the car until 100k miles and I owned it 5 years until it was paid off. I switch cars pretty quickly, but I owned this car longer than any car I have had before. It fit my lifestyle as a do it all car.

Oddly, my 2006 Honda Pilot was getting tired with 145k miles on it and I was tired of fixing it with common little repairs. I found a 2007 CX-7 last week with only 38k miles on it ! Traded in the Pilot the next day. So, I'm on my 2nd CX-7.

I think the Mazda crossovers are a little nicer than the Rav 4 or CR-V, but that's opinion. All nice cars, but you need to buy what you LIKE! I have found that everything costs you money in repairs, etc. and I'm only mad when I spend money on a car I bought with my only goal was "owning an inexpensive car". Best all-around car I have had was a 2008 BMW 335Xi. All-wheel Drive and a twin turbo. A very fast 4 door grocery getter. Great car, ultra-reliable. Drove like it was still brand new when it had 100k miles on it when I sold it. Only reason I sold it was I projected KBB value would drop fast when it had 150k miles on it. Time proved me right, thus it was better financially to sell it when I did. I'm still sad it's gone!

Good luck- get what you WANT!

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