Brother looking for new car...

[DanTMWTMP]

He's just looking for a daily driver to drive for the upcoming winter months. He's very active, so the car has to be a hatch to fit his gear in (snowboard, bicycling, etc...)

He lives in Chicago, and will move to Virginia/DC area next year. Any ideas?

Nothing expensive. He's a budding doctor, but he's not too much into performance. He's ultra utilitarian, and figures the regular impreza hatch fits his needs.

Thoughts and suggestions?

EDIT: new car btw..although dealer-serviced used car isn't out of the question...

 

[desy]

Suzuki SX4?
Vibe AWD

 

[MiataNC]

If he is going to be playing in the snow, his best bet is any flavor of Subaru with AWD.

Other practical hatches to consider...

Rabbit (If he wants to take a chance on VW reliability)
Mazda 3 (well respected, and stylish, but not great on gas)
Honda Fit (lacks power, but great on gas)

Another option would be a wagon or 5-door version of the Mazda6. Very practical car with tons of cargo space and closer to a camry/accord when it comes to size and amenities.

 

[spaceman]

the car i regret getting rid of the most was my 98 impreza hatchback.
i loved it 🙁

 

[Vetterin]

I live in Chicago, drive a Subaru and think your brother is making a wise choice. He just might want to also consider the Legacy which is not much more in price.

 

[apac]

Originally posted by: Vetterin
I live in Chicago, drive a Subaru and think your brother is making a wise choice. He just might want to also consider the Legacy which is not much more in price.

I <3 my legacy. Everyone who rides with me comments on how much more space the back seat has compared to compacts.

 

[Vetterin]

Originally posted by: apac

Originally posted by: Vetterin
I live in Chicago, drive a Subaru and think your brother is making a wise choice. He just might want to also consider the Legacy which is not much more in price.

I <3 my legacy. Everyone who rides with me comments on how much more space the back seat has compared to compacts.

Actually, I've got the legacy wagon so I have space up the wazoo with great handling to boot.

 

[Funyuns101]

I was about ready to buy this car when gas prices started going through the roof.
Looks aside, it's a great, little, reliable, and convenient hatchback.
If it could achieve anywhere near Corolla/Civic mileage... it'd be over.

FYI: The 2009 model should be coming out where the "Premium Package" gets a moonroof (along with other goodies like disc brakes) whereas the 2008 didn't offer that.
He may be able to score a good deal on the outgoing 08's.

He won't NEED AWD in the DC area, but if he continues to go snowboarding...
It gets about the same mileage as the Mazda3 hatchback but with AWD... might as well~

 

[thomsbrain]

I'd say it's between that and the Matrix/Vibe AWD, given his needs.