Hope to purchase a small, subcompact SUV soon, suggestions?

[appalachiablue]

We want a 2019-2020 model if possible and are aware of current dealer shortages related to semiconductors.

The higher cost Rav4, Honda CRV and the less expensive Hyundai Kona are possibilities. I liked the Kona size and have driven one. (We're aware that some Hyundai 2.0 eng. models now have a recall for loose bolts on the engine).

We're familiar with the Subaru Forrester, Honda Pilot but don't want a SUV that large or expensive.

Maybe trade in a 10 yo Ford Escape in very good condition.

We've never used resources like Carmax which I've read are good for some people. But 2 months wait time and any delivery costs are a negative.

Thanks, any ideas are appreciated. (Is buying from a major Car Rental Company a no-no?).

https://www.npr.org/2021/09/24/1039620891/shopping-cars-new-used-dealers

[markie]

1. no real life advice here

I drive a Forester and love it (I also have a Chevy Spark that I love more)... I want to get an EV and my first choice would be the Kona EV... I like the Kona, either way, and my research tells me it is a good car

[appalachiablue]

6. Thanks, good video, I've watched a few and read up

on the smaller SUVs.

The Kona is it, I agree with what the experts in the video said- in general a very good car, fun to drive, comfortable, interior styling well done, clear, functional infotainment system that's not overly complex.

Now it's locating a Kona- the dealers I've contacted in my area are in low supply except for the new 2022 model. Onward! thanks again.

(We've had two Foresters, one for me and one for a niece, good car but a little pricey for now).

[LakeArenal]

2. All I can give as info;

Here in Costa Rica on the mountain roads, Toyota’s most popular. Then Kia or Nissan. Many Hyndaes(sp). Never see a Subaru

Mitsubishi, Suzuki, but no Subaru.

We owned two Subarus in US so we aren’t biased. Here we have a Nissan. Our mechanic says he can keep it running forever.

[appalachiablue]

8. Thanks, I may look into Nissan if no luck w Kona.

[rsdsharp]

3. For what it's worth, we bought a 2021 Kona Ultimate in May.

It has the 1.6 liter Turbo with a 7 speed DCT and AWD. We’ve been quite happy with it, but at 4 1/2 months and 750 miles it’s too early for issues to show up.

We bought for existing stock, and even as semi conductor shortages were becoming an issue, and without a trade in, we paid about 4 grand below list price, out the door. The Kona does have less trunk space than the others you mentioned, as you probably know.

[appalachiablue]

9. You got a good deal, I've seen Kona's trunk space, it's fine for us.

Thanks!

[hlthe2b]

4. I wish you luck. Even used ones in my area are going for 10% or more over Blue Book.

Tough time to buy with the chip shortages and after the COVID shutdowns.

I hope you find those who are not looking to exploit the situation.

I'm nursing mine along with crossed fingers, a wing and a prayer.

[appalachiablue]

10. Yes, and in my area subcompacts are popular. It

could be tricky, but I'll give it my best. The last car purchase was in a rush and a mistake - boxy, tool large and rough riding Ford Escape.

[Xoan]

5. I've bought 4 cars with CarMax ..

and happy with all of them.

[appalachiablue]

11. Good to know, thanks. Was there a wait, and

how much of a shipping charge if not local?

[Tomconroy]

7. The rental cars will have high milage but probably highway miles. They

Will be properly maintained.

[appalachiablue]

12. Thank you, good to know. I have no familiarity and

wonder about service, maintenance and warranty policy, if any, with purchasing from a rental car co.

[Tomconroy]

13. There are worse deals out there. Some will still have

Something left on the manufacturer warranty. You have to check each model. My last car was from Carmax and I was very happy with the experience. I stopped buying new cars many years ago. But I guess today for any car it's a seller's market

[appalachiablue]

14. I'll def check out Carmax, thanks for the info.

[Phoenix61]

15. I've got a 2014 Ford Escape with a 2.0 turbo

which was needed for the tow package. Absolutely love it! MPG varies with the amount of ethanol in the gas, anywhere from 19-28 mpg in town and highway. Lots of spunk in town and cruises the highway at 85 with plenty left for passing. Drop the back seats down and I can get 15-20 big bags of mulch in it. I’ve got 86,000+ miles on it and no issues just normal maintenance.

The 2014 was the first year of a major redesign for the Escape.

[appalachiablue]

16. Sounds perfect, glad for you. We just missed the 2014

redesign and are selling our 2012 Escape (if you can! lol) bread truck, heavy and poor drive, yuck.

[Thomas Hurt]

17. My step sister has a Subaru, very nice car.

[appalachiablue]

18. Yep, had a Forester, but want smthg. less exp. now.

[Stuart G]

19. Please, Please, please....use and look at.... .Consumer Reports...it will help with this purchase or

any purchase for that matter

[appalachiablue]

20. The first thing I reviewed was CR, but we've also

Last edited Sat Oct 9, 2021, 12:22 AM - Edit history (1)

found a lot more info online at other consumer sites and videos since first posting. We're getting close, considering the Subaru Impreza Hatch and a couple other makers. Thanks for commenting.