SUV Shopping.

[basslover1]

It'll be used in the 10k or less price range.

Here's what I've been looking at:

2002-2005 Honda CR-V
2003-2006 Honda Element
2001-2005 Toyota Rav4

All come in manual (huge plus), and all have optional AWD, not that I'd use it a lot but it'd be nice to take it on some easy trails just for fun.

But I'm having a hard time deciding on which, here are a few things I've noticed:

CR-V: Doesn't have an armrest up until 2006MY (I think), seriously no armrest? Seats 5, decent cargo space.
Element: The seatbelt thing could get annoying but I don't generally have more than one other person with me so no biggie. I'm not sure whether I like the rubber floor or dislike it. Seats only four, and has massive amounts of cargo space but more than I'll ever use. Love the flip up/down tailgate thing here.
Rav4: It's a Toyota, haven't really found anything that stands out but it's reliable and has features that I like.

I know the CR-V and Rav4 are more comparable, but something about the Element really stands out to me and no I don't mean the UPS truck styling.

I also wouldn't mind something that handles pretty well, not that my Passat was all that great but I can't go from that to something that feels like it'll roll over doing 30 around a turn.

What say you ATG?

 

[herm0016]

an element is not and "suv". its just a boxy car, but if thats what you want, then look in that direction. you do not need to have awd or 4x4 for dirt roads.
Even most of the more technical routes we have explored have been fine in 2wd.

 

[Dr. Detroit]

Saturn Vue - seriously!

Subaru Forester - seriously!

Both are cheaper used and pretty darn reliable. Vue is quite spacious as well. If a v6 interests you - all Vue's used Honda sourced engines.

 

[basslover1]

I think I've crossed the Element off the list. It's pretty cool, but I don't know if I could live with it on a daily basis.

The Saturn Vue looks nice, especially the 2006+ with the updated interior, no manual on anything but the 2.2L model. Forester is also a consideration, but if I got one it'd have to be an XT and they're hard to find within my budget.

CR-V is still the front runner for me, I just need to take a day and go out and find some local to me and test drive as many as I can.