There is some "chat" (means wife talks and I listen) going on here about getting back to a 2 vehicle family. Obviously I would let the Bullitt go and wife's Solara would be sold/traded (she has always said up to now that she wanted to keep it, but she is starting to think maybe not). She likes the Highlander and would drive it (but I like it also so we'll see). Anyway, the HL stays, period. Both the Bullitt and the Solara are owned by us with no debt owing on them. The Bullitt might have to wait to spring to sell it but who knows?
What I would want to replace those two would have to be:
- no more than $37,500 list price before taxes,
- doesn't need to carry more than 2, but 4 is OK
- doesn't need to carry Drake (115#s)
- would serve as main "grocery getter" and around town car
- would have to be drivable year round (with snow tires of course)
- has to be fun to drive (but not extreme like a S2000 or a WRX)
- doesn't have make long trips on hiways (but should be able to).
Knowing wife, I am not rushing into this as she may change her mind a few times yet. She is very practical and having 3 vehicles in the garage bugs her, particularily in the winter when the Bullitt is under wraps and not plated.
My initial thoughts are (new only so all 2006 models)(no particular order):
- Mazda MX-5 Miata w hardtop and A/C,
- Mini Cooper S coupe
- Honda Civic Si or even EX coupe (less than cost limit)
- Toyota Yaris (even less than limit)
- Mustang GT coupe (some concern about winter even with snows)
No Subies, no Saabs, no Saturns, no Audis, no DC vehicles, no smart cars, no trucks or SUVs please. Would look at GM but don't think there's much there that fits (love a Vette, forget it).
Others possible but less inclined:
- Acura RSX (TSX too pricey?)
- VW
?
- Solstice (don't think so, first year problems??)
What am I missing here?
CAVEAT - this is only the present situation - it could change based on wife's feelings.
