- Dec 20, 2005
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Yet another new car thread.
So in the past week, our beater (early '90s Dodge Spirit) went from being an unreliable staller to a staller with virtually no brakes. Flooring the pedal will only bring it to a gental stop now, so after thousands in repairs, it's finally time for a new car.
We are looking for a budget, moderately sized Japanese car. Aside from the questionable future existance of the Big-3, we've driven American for 20 years unhappilly, so we're looking for change; yes, I know that newer American cars are as reliable as Japanese ones, but too little too late.
The short-list right includes the 2009 Toyota Matrix or Corolla, or the 2009 Honda Civic DX. At the moment, they all hover around $23k CAN after taxes. With the Matrix as a benchmark, the Corolla is ~$2500 cheaper and the Civic is $500 more. The Honda Fit and Yaris have been considered, but both have been deemed 'too small'.
I'm leaning towards the Matrix cause of the hatchback styling and the slightly smaller size. In terms of experience, I've driven a 2006 Civic and loved it, especially response, customizability and controls layout. I've also driven a 2002 Corolla, and am ambivalent. It feels 'cheap', especially the plastics and interior. However, I hear that it has been redesigned.
Usage is generally light. It'll mainly be a grocery store runner or a 'shuttle'. Not much highway usage planned (might change).
I'm doing research now, but I'd love to hear some opinions on what you'd choose. Other suggestions are also welcome.
Edit: Also want to ask if anyone knows any bargaining tips. What do we ask for, how is the game played?
Edit2: Added a new poll with a list of alternates or the "lesser-A" list.
Edit3:
Update: got the Civic DX 2009.
So in the past week, our beater (early '90s Dodge Spirit) went from being an unreliable staller to a staller with virtually no brakes. Flooring the pedal will only bring it to a gental stop now, so after thousands in repairs, it's finally time for a new car.
We are looking for a budget, moderately sized Japanese car. Aside from the questionable future existance of the Big-3, we've driven American for 20 years unhappilly, so we're looking for change; yes, I know that newer American cars are as reliable as Japanese ones, but too little too late.
The short-list right includes the 2009 Toyota Matrix or Corolla, or the 2009 Honda Civic DX. At the moment, they all hover around $23k CAN after taxes. With the Matrix as a benchmark, the Corolla is ~$2500 cheaper and the Civic is $500 more. The Honda Fit and Yaris have been considered, but both have been deemed 'too small'.
I'm leaning towards the Matrix cause of the hatchback styling and the slightly smaller size. In terms of experience, I've driven a 2006 Civic and loved it, especially response, customizability and controls layout. I've also driven a 2002 Corolla, and am ambivalent. It feels 'cheap', especially the plastics and interior. However, I hear that it has been redesigned.
Usage is generally light. It'll mainly be a grocery store runner or a 'shuttle'. Not much highway usage planned (might change).
I'm doing research now, but I'd love to hear some opinions on what you'd choose. Other suggestions are also welcome.
Edit: Also want to ask if anyone knows any bargaining tips. What do we ask for, how is the game played?
Edit2: Added a new poll with a list of alternates or the "lesser-A" list.
Edit3:
Update: got the Civic DX 2009.