used mdx '05 or new xterra '08 -- each arround 15k

[eleison]

Thinking about a used '05 mdx ($14.99K

"This Acura is in great shape and interior looks and feels brand new. This has all the options including steering wheel controls for the audio and all power options. This has new brakes, good tires and drives and rides fantastic. This has a clean title no accidents, no flood, no rebuilt or salvage, and is actual mileage (61,515)...

or

a new xterra '08:

2008 Nissan Xterra X SUV 4x4 ($14.84K)
THIS TRUCK COMES IN SILVER LIGHTINING WITH GRAPHITE CLOTH INTERIOR WITH POWER WINDOWS AND LOCKS AM FM CD STEEL WHEELS AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSON ROOF RACK REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY AND FLOOR MATS. (your basic xterra x)...

Which do you guys think I should get? The gf likes the mdx.. but I sort like the xterra for the cargo space and the coolness factor. I already have a car (bmw e46) so mpg is not going to be a big concern of mine.

 

[vi edit]

Two really different vehicles under the skin. The MDX is an AWD Minivan, the XTerra is a body on frame truck with an enclosed bed and a true 4WD setup.

The MDX will certainly be more comfortable on the highway and offer more comfortable seating to both front and second row passengers.

The XT will be much more at home off road and in really rugged terrain.

If you currently own a BMW and you just want more room with some cargo hauling ability, the MDX will be much more up your alley.

If you plan to do any towing or true off road action then the XT will be a better fit.

Cargo wise, the MDX should be a little better. The Xterra isn't really that big of a vehicle. It's tall, but not that wide or long.

 

[eleison]

Thanks for the advice... I'm debating -- having the minivan would be nice.. When I have friends come over, we can pile up and go somewhere -- roadtrips . However, the Xterra would be cool to have also. I'm trying to get into bicycling. The Xterra has slots in the rear to easily carry two bikes (i'm sure you could pile in more..) Not to mention, if I ever decide to go off roading which I haven't really done.. but it sure does sound fun.

I guess the biggest factor is that both are the same price. However, one is new and the other is 3 years old. Obviously, the creature comforts of the mdx would be great also. But I really leaning towards the xterra because it would be new... decisions.. decisions... maybe I should just wait and play the "'how low can they possible go' game" -- it seems like every day, suv's get cheaper and cheaper..

 

[StageLeft]

How are you with repairs? It goes without saying, or should, that cost of ownership for a luxury brand vehicle with 60k is going to be a hell of a lot higher than an entry SUV from a ubiquitous japanesse brand.

 

[krunchykrome]

I would get the Xterra at that price. I like the MDX, but the Xterra is brand new, and has a new warranty as well. The MDX has 61K more miles. If I'm correct, I think the MDX gets worse mpg as well.

I test drove an 08 Xterra. I liked it; it had plenty of power and cargo space. Rear seats were a bit cramped though.

 

[Throckmorton]

If you want to take your bike to the mountains or whatever, get the XTerra. Offroading is a great hobby itself, and if you stick to light trails it's not expensive. The Xterra is a capable vehicle even stock. If you aren't going to go to any trails, definitely get an efficient car and forget this SUV business. The MDX is nothing more than a minivan, and what's more it's a CHICK CAR. To me there is absolutely no justification for buying it- get a sedan or wagon instead.

 

[Throckmorton]

BTW, wouldn't driving an Acura MDX make you feel old?

 

[KDKPSJ]

I second the others' opinion, get XTerra or something else, but not older-gen MDX. If it were newer-gen, I'd love to get one, but older-gen? Meh.

 

[alpineranger]

If what you want is utility in terms of cargo and passenger capacity, why not get a real minivan? Minivan sales are suffering too, and you might be able to get a decent deal on one. Minivans are eminently practical vehicles with an image problem.

 

[eleison]

Originally posted by: alpineranger
If what you want is utility in terms of cargo and passenger capacity, why not get a real minivan? Minivan sales are suffering too, and you might be able to get a decent deal on one. Minivans are eminently practical vehicles with an image problem.

Yes, minivan would be the best financial answer. But like most car discussions, a lot of them are made based on emotions. Yea, looks like I'll probably get a xterra especially if I can get it for 15k out the door which is likely

In all honestly, I thought the mdx was a manly car -- my cousin has one. I guess I was wrong... Next time I see him, I'm going to bring this up and laugh in front of him... muuahhhhha...

 

[KDKPSJ]

To me, older one is for soccer mom, just like Lexus RX. But, on the other hand, I never thought RDX or newer MDX are girly.

 

[ElFenix]

Originally posted by: Throckmorton
If you want to take your bike to the mountains or whatever, get the XTerra. Offroading is a great hobby itself, and if you stick to light trails it's not expensive. The Xterra is a capable vehicle even stock. If you aren't going to go to any trails, definitely get an efficient car and forget this SUV business. The MDX is nothing more than a minivan, and what's more it's a CHICK CAR. To me there is absolutely no justification for buying it- get a sedan or wagon instead.

you say that as if the xterra isn't a chick car

 

[OdiN]

Get the Xterra.

I have an 04 and love it.

FYI - if you do like camping or something, the X will get you into less used places that a typical passenger car wouldn't be able to make.

I have done a 5 out of 10 rated trail in my stock Xterra and made it just fine. I was quite surprised at that. I did have good spotting at one particularly hard rocky section.

So the Xterra may not have quite as much cargo space - but that's good for off roading as it means a shorter wheel base.

Also - new car with factory warranty is going to be better than a used with 60K. Even though it's an Acura. Sure it has more luxury features, but to me for a utility type purchase I wouldn't care.

ElFenix - calling the Xterra a chick car is laughable. Not even close.

 

[iamwiz82]

Originally posted by: ElFenix

Originally posted by: Throckmorton
If you want to take your bike to the mountains or whatever, get the XTerra. Offroading is a great hobby itself, and if you stick to light trails it's not expensive. The Xterra is a capable vehicle even stock. If you aren't going to go to any trails, definitely get an efficient car and forget this SUV business. The MDX is nothing more than a minivan, and what's more it's a CHICK CAR. To me there is absolutely no justification for buying it- get a sedan or wagon instead.

you say that as if the xterra isn't a chick car

No, it's a vehicle preferred by the Andy Bernard type.

 

[BlahBlahYouToo]

that's an insane deal on a brand new xterra.
that is all.