Replacing my wife's totalled Mazda Tribute

[chaos4NH]

2002 BMW X3 - 108,000 miles
2006 Saturn Vue 60,000 miles
Which one?

Same price, basically the same options.

[brucesallen]

I wouldn't be seen driving a Saturn. But then it is only your wife.

[paultg]

BMW with over 100K miles just seems like a bad idea to me. - Paul G.

[chaos4NH]

BMW with over 100K miles just seems like a bad idea to me. - Paul G.

Ya, that was my first thought.

[Mark Swinehart]

Good thing I reread your post.

I first read it that you were replacing your wife!!!!

[wizzman]

What about a Forrester XT? It won't have the fit and finish of the BMW but out does it in just about every other way IMO.

[breakaway500]

I put a LOT of wheel bearings/hub assys in Saturn Vues..either a front or rear every 60k miles.They aren't cheap,unless you buy the Chinese ones that fail in 10k miles..or less. Other than that,they are ok...some electrical issues.. I would not buy an X3..I'm not a BMW ute fan. Look at a Toyota Matrix/Rav4 or a Honda CRV/ Element if you need a dependable,economical ute around the size of a Vue.

[tommac]

Sam, I have an excellent opportunity for you. How about taking a chance on a real nice mazda miata? Very limited number of tickets to be sold. Only $50./chance. See me at NHMS.

[nateh]

My Forester did very well. Amos is still driving it, with probably a million miles on it now.

[Mark Swinehart]

I used to have a Forester XT and enjoyed it until I lent it someone last year and haven't seen it since!

[paultg]

Only note on the Foresster, I'd skip the turbo motor unless you need the extra power.
The turbo = premium fuel is sub-25 mpg. I drove a 2009 Outback Sport, have 66K on it already, average 27-30 mpg on 87, and the car has had no issues to date.

Paul G.

[chaos4NH]

Thanks for the replies and advice so far. I guess I will keep looking. Tried to talk the wife into a Forester, no deal. I will keep trying!
Just saw a clean 2004 Honda Pilot EXL, opinions?

[breakaway500]

Pilots have some issues..funky auto transmissions..paint peeling..over-heated seats...and only get in the teens for mileage.Otherwise,they are pretty good utes.Lots of room.

[tommac]

was that Tribute a 4 or 6?

[chaos4NH]

was that Tribute a 4 or 6?

Tom, it was a V6 LS model, leather, 6 disc, etc. Nice car, poor gas milage 16-18 highway.