Next project

[msmemory_archive]

OK, on to the next thing. I need a new car. At least, new to me. Candidate makes and models include Toyota (Prius, Corolla, Matrix), Subaru (Forester, Outback), Chevy something, Saturn something, Honda something. Or something else I haven't thought of.

Must have: mpg comparable to Prism (~30), auto trans, CD, excellent acceleration (I do have to drive in Boston), support system convenient to my home, rear window defrost. I expect to drive it for more than 100,000 miles, so reliability is key.

Comments

[metahacker.livejournal.com]

galaneia and I are in the throes of this as well, with similar criteria. A few from our list that aren't on yours, with caveats:

VW Golf/Jetta: milage isn't quite as good. Quality is spotty; if you get a "good one", it's very good, but some have build issues. The TDI, which we can't find for hell or high water, get 50 mph diesel and have excellent torque for those 0-30 mph runs.

Honda Civics: what tpau said.

Subaru: also look at the base Impreza. It's narrow, but the wagon has decent space plus a roof rack. It's the cheapest Subaru, but still "expensive" in this class due to AWD etc.

If you're willing to buy American, the Ford Focus might be on your list. I've heard some good things, some bad.

Cars.com currently has an overview of compact hatchbacks that might help.