Topic: 08 Rav4 lease up, what's next?

[Snowman]

That truck aged well, still sharp very after 5 years.

-it's not a truck 

Otherwise an excellent choice, esp. with a V6. I test drove it years ago. It's quiet, powerful, should be even better with a recently updated 6auto. It is their soon outgoing design, but they must have nailed every bug in it by now.
Like I said before, in terms of future resale, reliability and driving enjoyment you can't beat the 6cyl.

I tried a Santa Fe, sure is no truck, could not get comfortable driving it

I rented one four or so years ago and thought it was just fine. I was very impressed and thought it was comparable to my 2002 Highlander for fit and finish. Based from what I have seen form Hyundai lately I would wait for the new model, I'm sure it will not disappoint.

[Hammy]

There are really good lease rates on the 2011 crv and rav 4 now, with new models coming out shortly.  If you want reliable and cheap that is the way to go.

[Jaeger]

I tried a Santa Fe, sure is no truck...

I didn't understand the OP's father-in-law to be in the market for an F150.  He's replacing a 4-cyl RAV4.  That's no truck, either.

I rented one four or so years ago and thought it was just fine. I was very impressed and thought it was comparable to my 2002 Highlander for fit and finish. Based from what I have seen form Hyundai lately I would wait for the new model, I'm sure it will not disappoint.

Good point.  The one reservation I would have is that I'm not sure that Hyundai's whole "fluidic sculpture" design theme translates well to upright CUVs.  The new Tuscon, for example, just doesn't look quite right to my eye.  The new Santa Fe will benefit from a number of upgrades, I'm sure, but styling might not be one of them.

Jaeger

[Spec5]

Good point.  The one reservation I would have is that I'm not sure that Hyundai's whole "fluidic sculpture" design theme translates well to upright CUVs.  The new Tuscon, for example, just doesn't look quite right to my eye.  The new Santa Fe will benefit from a number of upgrades, I'm sure, but styling might not be one of them.

Jaeger

I agree - the fluidic sculpture design just doesn't do it for me on the Tucson. If they do go that way with the styling of the new Santa Fe hopefully the fact that its longer (and I hear there's supposed to be an extended wheel-base version as well) will make it look more appealing than the Tucson does.

[mmorriso]

forester, santa fe, cr-v and sorento all got first drives.

waiting for a debrief.

i drove a 2012 cr-v ex-l.  i think it will be tough to beat.   

local mazda dealer won't have a cx-5 until march.

[mmorriso]

debrief

the korean brands are winning the race due to the features/$ ratio and smooth v6 engine.

[rrocket]

^^What about the Sportage?  Too small?  The 260+ turbo 4 banger is pretty neat!

[mmret]

New Sportage is uber stylish.

[rrocket]

New Sportage is uber stylish.

Yea!!  Plus the turbo engines power is up there with the V6s.

[mmorriso]

^^What about the Sportage?  Too small?  

yep.  too small.

it is a toss up btwn santa fe (v6, awd, limited) and sorento (v6, awd, ex).  overall the kia is slightly more appealing, however, if the hyundai can be had for less that will be the winner.

any idea why the posted fuel economy is better on the santa fe?

[mmorriso]

and the winner is...

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited AWD Titanium Silver

it was purchased instead of leased.

first impression is that it is a more plush ride than the rav4.

i noticed it is a bit of a climb to get in and out of compared to a rav4 or cr-v as well as a higher loading height in the rear.

[Careener]

Congrats!!!

[1TSX]

Congrats!

[Brigitte]

and the winner is...

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited AWD Titanium Silver

it was purchased instead of leased.

first impression is that it is a more plush ride than the rav4.

i noticed it is a bit of a climb to get in and out of compared to a rav4 or cr-v as well as a higher loading height in the rear.

Very nice!  And yes, having tested most of them, it does sit higher than the compact CUVs out there.  Enjoy!   

[Jaeger]

Congrats and happy motoring.  Pics in show 'n shine please.

Jaeger

[dr_spock]

Congrats.  You'll get used to the higher climb and load height in no time. 

[mmorriso]