6 Passengers and a dog - recommendations? - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

kramus · 01-02-2008, 09:20 PM

This coming spring the old Volvo wagon will be traded in for something or other. What, I don't know.
I wondered what your thoughts are. We have 4 kids and a large dog to drive around. We go camping for a week at a time, and go on 600 mile road trips a few times a year. We also live in a big city which gets snow a few months per year.
I am more interested in road-worthyness, cargo space and passenger comfort than I am in gas mileage and parkability (but we can't ignore these factors). My Lady is not thrilled with passenger vans, however we drove a rental for over a thousand miles this week and it turned out ok. We wondered what cross-overs there were between SUV's and wagons. I liked the Dodge Challenger until I saw one stuck in the snow 2 weeks ago.
Any thoughts on what a worthwhile vehical to check out would be?

Ilow · 01-03-2008, 06:36 AM

Nissan Armada, Chevy Tahoe/Suburban, Ford Expedition all come to mind. Pretty much any of the grande SUVs should do it. It will be nice to hear of someone using all of the capabilities that they are designed for!

Bill O'Rights · 01-03-2008, 07:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ilow

Pretty much any of the grande SUVs should do it. It will be nice to hear of someone using all of the capabilities that they are designed for!

Very true. Pretty much any vehicle has an ultimate use. And it sounds as if a full size SUV is a good match here.

As far as getting stuck in the snow. Any vehicle, no matter how well equiped, can get stuck in the snow. As my father told me thirty some years ago; "Don't get to confident with the 4 wheel drive. All that is for is to help you get out of a situation that you shouldn't have ever been in, in the first place." Lots of wisdom in that.

BadNick · 01-03-2008, 08:34 AM

I don't know what your budget is, or taste/preference, but if I needed a large SUV type thing, I'd go for the Toyota Land Cruiser, new or used.

kramus · 01-03-2008, 08:44 AM

Thanks, guys. I haven't cracked a flyer yet and I found the idea a tad intimidating - everything will sound like it is just perfect in the dealer handouts.
The large SUV's do seem a good fit. I'll check the brands listed for sure, and especially the Toyota. Didn't their pickup get good marks recently by some consumer group?

Craven Morehead · 01-03-2008, 09:09 AM

I like Mazda's CX line.

http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/mostw...3/article.html

amonkie · 01-03-2008, 09:11 AM

I would suggest you strongly try out a true pickup by having everyone climb in before getting it for a passenger load of that size. A full size SUV usually has 2 rows of passenger seats, behind the driver/front passenger, which is where you will find the extra space to *comfortably* travel with 5 people and a dog.

Scorps · 01-03-2008, 11:12 AM

The new Tahoe from Chevy has a E-85 option

BadNick · 01-03-2008, 12:04 PM

I also like the Mazda CX but I can't see being comfy in it with six people and large dog.

We just purchased a new '07 RAV4 LTD, with AWD, V6 (269hp), tow pkg, JBL, leather ...I really like it though it's not heavy off road capable since I don't need that; ride is very comfy and supple; but not large enough for what the OP defined, so I suggested the larger Land Cruisers which I ride in frequently between those owned by neighbors and friends ...a great large SUV with unparalleled reliability and durability ...imo.

silent_jay · 01-03-2008, 06:14 PM

Rover, Rover

https://www.landrover.com/ca/en/Vehi...3/Overview.htm

kramus · 01-05-2008, 05:57 PM

I have to admit that I had a crush on the Tahoe many years ago - but not as many as the Land Rover! It was in the 60's that that car was the coolest do-anything vehical I'd ever heard of.
Rover Rover = yummy

Now, to find a way to finance it . . .

Willravel · 01-05-2008, 06:03 PM

What's your budget, Kramus?

kramus · 01-05-2008, 07:08 PM

Hi will - no budget as yet. This will be a spring thing, and I may be going as high as $500/month when the time comes. No idea what that will mean in vehical ticket price.
That is my dad's method of costing - monthly carry cost instead of final ticket price

Fotzlid · 01-05-2008, 07:32 PM

$500/month will cover about $26k in financing over 60 months with around 5%apr.

Willravel · 01-05-2008, 08:01 PM

Fozlid, read my mind.

For around that budget, I'd get a 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid ($33,700 MSRP), which means around $39k when all is said and done. It's really an impressive vehicle.

Ilow · 01-05-2008, 08:45 PM

Nissan Pathfinder now has seating for 7, and you could probably get a 4x4 for around $33k. I like that off road package.

MSD · 01-06-2008, 05:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by silent_jay

Rover, Rover
https://www.landrover.com/ca/en/Vehi...3/Overview.htm

From my experience, those have jack shit for interior room. Have they improved much?

Willravel · 01-06-2008, 05:38 PM

A bit, but not enough for 6+animal issues.

The_Jazz · 01-06-2008, 05:50 PM

The Rover also has maintenance issues. They were a big thing in my office a couple of years ago (5 folks got them), and every one of them had problems. I've been told in no uncertain terms not to get one.

If you get one, I hope your results vary.

We're also looking at a new car since Bec's Infiniti M35X doesn't have enough room in the back seat. Max constantly kicks the seat in front of him, which is both annoying and damaging the seat. Moving him isn't an option with the new baby. We're thinking of going the SUV route, so does anyone have any thoughts on SUV's with a lot of leg room in the back? My alternative is to get her an Audi A8, but I'm not sure I really want to do that for a lot of reasons.

Willravel · 01-06-2008, 06:04 PM

Jazz—My 2006 Audi A6 was the worst investment in my life. As you said above, if you get one I hope your results vary.

If it's in your price range, the Cayenne is quite an impressive vehicle. If not, then Lexus is doing good things with SUVs.

BadNick · 01-06-2008, 08:23 PM

if you want a smaller SUV ...maybe now adays it's midsize... with surprising amount of rear leg room even with the front seats moved to accomodate largish adults, I am very surprised how roomy my '07 RAV4 is back there. But the big Lexus and Toyota SUV's are of course much larger.

kramus · 01-06-2008, 08:32 PM

I need to keep the 70 pound dog separate from the kids (dog-breath and slobber are Not welcome during a 9-hour cruise) - which means an extended vehical with comfortable seating for 6 passengers in 3 rows, and cargo space large enough for Haili to cheerfully sit in for a few hours at a time. The dog in the cargo area means a roof rack and pod (towing a trailer would be nice, but there is no trailer storage that would be cheap, secure and convenient where we live).
I have been looking at the suggested vehicals and going through links. Some fine looking automobiles. My final choice will in part depend on my future employment because it will be my paycheque that carries the loan, and I am presently looking for work. The bad vibes from Land Rover experience are noted with thanks.

Willravel · 01-06-2008, 08:53 PM

To be honest, most 3 row vehicles make room for that third row by making the trunk small. If you need a big trunk, fold down the back. If you need a third row, then the back seats are up. Even on beasts the size of the Expedition or Tahoe, the back is tiny when the back seats are not folded down.

You may need 2 vehicles or an economy van to transport 6 persons and a large animal.

Plan9 · 01-06-2008, 09:08 PM

Get a Suburban with a dog-cage for the rear area.

The Suburban's "cargo area" is much larger than the Tahoe's.

The only difference between the two vehicles, really.

kramus · 01-06-2008, 09:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by willravel

To be honest, most 3 row vehicles make room for that third row by making the trunk small. If you need a big trunk, fold down the back. If you need a third row, then the back seats are up. Even on beasts the size of the Expedition or Tahoe, the back is tiny when the back seats are not folded down.

You may need 2 vehicles or an economy van to transport 6 persons and a large animal.

We drove a Chrysler Town&Country van a total of about 1200 miles last week, and the dog seemed quite content with the cargo space, and the kids were comfortable in the rear 2 rows of seats. I had to strap the suitcases to the roof, and drove through a horrible snowstorm all the way across the top of Lake Superior at night, mind you. My Lady doesn't see herself as the Minivan type though, so that is why I am asking for advice on alternatives. Personally, I loved my Honda Oddessy 2002 that I had a while back. That predates a marital breakup and the dog though - it would probably do just fine actually.
The cage is out, Crompsin. The dog is not going to be boxed. Sometimes convenience isn't enough of a reason to do something.

Willravel · 01-06-2008, 09:28 PM

The trunk of a 2008 Suburban:

kramus, does that look big enough? I've got no idea how big your dog is.

kramus · 01-06-2008, 09:33 PM

Will - you wondered about size - Haili is the blonde one. She'll be seated in the back. My Lady is the dark haired one in the chair with the beautiful smile

Your Suburban looks just fine.

Willravel · 01-06-2008, 09:38 PM

It's a big time gas guzzler, which is why I went with the Highlander Hybrid first, but if the shoe fits. At least you won't be one of those people who drives a Suburban and has one kid and a chihuahua.

The trunk of the Highlander (IN THE END THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE) is smaller and probably couldn't fit a Golden Retriever.

Plan9 · 01-06-2008, 09:47 PM

Suburban is less of a gas-guzzler than it has been, but still a deadly sin unless you've got four kids.

Baraka_Guru · 01-06-2008, 09:55 PM

I know what it's like traveling with a lab. Also, I come from a family with six kids. Go big, or stay home.

But, ultimately, my votes are for the Toyota Highlander or the Nissan Armada. Hybrid option preferred.

kramus · 01-06-2008, 09:58 PM

In this day and age you catch flak no matter what. If I have an SUV and I am doing groceries or at the hardware store, and there aren't 7 people sitting in the damned thing while I do my errands, I am going to catch some nasty looks and probably a snide remark. So long as I can either suck it up or manage the proper rejoinder that keeps me from getting shot or my vehical keyed, I am going to do ok.
Now to choose something.

snowy · 01-06-2008, 10:13 PM

What's wrong with another Volvo? The Volvo XC90 has gotten good reviews. Their XC wagon also has a surprising amount of room.

Another choice would be a late model lease return, especially if you're looking at a nicer car. It'll knock thousands off of the price but the car is almost new, and some even come with warranties remaining, or a dealer certification.

Buying a car takes a lot of research. Find out if there is an auto show near you--that way you can take care of sitting in a lot of the cars you want to see all at the same time.

Ilow · 01-07-2008, 07:05 PM

For all those suggesting small midsize SUVs like the Volvo, Highlander, etc, I don't think that will ever work for 6+dog. you will need a full size SUV (Suburban, Armada, whatever Toyota's fullsize is, or a Expedition.) Course you could always just get a used Chevy Express full size van or something for your trips.

BadNick · 01-07-2008, 07:52 PM

Lately I see these Dodge Sprinters on the road once in a while and the passenger versions seem practical if you need the space; 3L V6 turbo diesel, not sure what OTD price is but looks like about mid $30k:

Ilow · 01-08-2008, 06:34 AM

My roommate's girlfriend, who sells Hondas is pissed that I did not mention the Honda Pilot, which she informs me now "seats 8." So there you go...

kramus · 07-28-2008, 05:56 PM

Well, we got a 2006 Honda Odyssey van - EX, but I don't recall if it is an EX-L. It has 47,000 kilometers (about 28,000 miles) on it - in great shape except for some carpet staining in the trunk. Not an issue - the dog sits there on a blanket.
Remote power sliding side doors, a sunroof, DVD player, leather seats . . . . all for $27,800 Canadian. We did a lot of research, looked around at different lots and did test drives - read a few used car guides and went through a lot of online information. The end is a van for a price which seems fair to us - we picked up an extended bumper to bumper warranty and put it on the .9% financing. The total bill is less than $30,000 and the carrying charges will be under $500. Pretty good, I think.
The SUV's didn't have the trunk room we wanted for the dog. It came down to needing a people mover with cargo room, and my Lady is happy with our van. The younger kids love the van - they call it "Comfort" and the youngest one says "thankyou" when the sliding door opens and closes for her.
The basket we put on the top brings it to 6' 6" in height - something to think about when entering parking garages.
Here is a picture of the vehicle, and of our Haili sitting happy in her new space.

Thanks everyone for your input in this thread. It really helped to solidify our thinking, and gave us a lot to consider. It made our final decision seem that much more solid and happy-making

BadNick · 07-28-2008, 07:42 PM

Wow, thanks for your follow up report. Those Odyssey vans are well built, roomy, and reliable, so I suspect you will have a good ownership experience. Good luck with it.

If my car did things for me automatically, I'd have to give it a name. Something car'ish, butler'ish and robot'ish....maybe Rodney or Rhoda.

01-02-2008, 09:20 PM	#1 (permalink)
kramus loving the curves Location: my Lady's manor	6 Passengers and a dog - recommendations? This coming spring the old Volvo wagon will be traded in for something or other. What, I don't know. I wondered what your thoughts are. We have 4 kids and a large dog to drive around. We go camping for a week at a time, and go on 600 mile road trips a few times a year. We also live in a big city which gets snow a few months per year. I am more interested in road-worthyness, cargo space and passenger comfort than I am in gas mileage and parkability (but we can't ignore these factors). My Lady is not thrilled with passenger vans, however we drove a rental for over a thousand miles this week and it turned out ok. We wondered what cross-overs there were between SUV's and wagons. I liked the Dodge Challenger until I saw one stuck in the snow 2 weeks ago. Any thoughts on what a worthwhile vehical to check out would be? __________________ And now to disengage the clutch of the forebrain ... I'm going with this - if you like artwork visit http://markfineart.ca

01-03-2008, 06:36 AM	#2 (permalink)
Ilow Junkie Location: Pats country	Nissan Armada, Chevy Tahoe/Suburban, Ford Expedition all come to mind. Pretty much any of the grande SUVs should do it. It will be nice to hear of someone using all of the capabilities that they are designed for! __________________ "Religion is the one area of our discourse in which it is considered noble to pretend to be certain about things no human being could possibly be certain about" --Sam Harris

01-03-2008, 08:44 AM	#5 (permalink)
kramus loving the curves Location: my Lady's manor	Thanks, guys. I haven't cracked a flyer yet and I found the idea a tad intimidating - everything will sound like it is just perfect in the dealer handouts. The large SUV's do seem a good fit. I'll check the brands listed for sure, and especially the Toyota. Didn't their pickup get good marks recently by some consumer group? __________________ And now to disengage the clutch of the forebrain ... I'm going with this - if you like artwork visit http://markfineart.ca

01-03-2008, 09:11 AM	#7 (permalink)
amonkie Drifting Administrator Location: Windy City	I would suggest you strongly try out a true pickup by having everyone climb in before getting it for a passenger load of that size. A full size SUV usually has 2 rows of passenger seats, behind the driver/front passenger, which is where you will find the extra space to comfortably travel with 5 people and a dog. __________________ Calling from deep in the heart, from where the eyes can't see and the ears can't hear, from where the mountain trails end and only love can go... ~~~ Three Rivers Hare Krishna

01-03-2008, 11:12 AM	#8 (permalink)
Scorps Lost!! Location: Kingston, Ontario	The new Tahoe from Chevy has a E-85 option __________________ A.K.A. PainTrain

01-03-2008, 08:34 AM	#4 (permalink)
BadNick Riding the Ocean Spray Location: S.E. PA in U Sofa	I don't know what your budget is, or taste/preference, but if I needed a large SUV type thing, I'd go for the Toyota Land Cruiser, new or used.

01-03-2008, 09:09 AM	#6 (permalink)
Craven Morehead Custom User Title	I like Mazda's CX line. http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/mostw...3/article.html

01-03-2008, 12:04 PM	#9 (permalink)
BadNick Riding the Ocean Spray Location: S.E. PA in U Sofa	I also like the Mazda CX but I can't see being comfy in it with six people and large dog. We just purchased a new '07 RAV4 LTD, with AWD, V6 (269hp), tow pkg, JBL, leather ...I really like it though it's not heavy off road capable since I don't need that; ride is very comfy and supple; but not large enough for what the OP defined, so I suggested the larger Land Cruisers which I ride in frequently between those owned by neighbors and friends ...a great large SUV with unparalleled reliability and durability ...imo.

01-03-2008, 06:14 PM	#10 (permalink)
silent_jay Her Jay Location: Ontario for now....	Rover, Rover https://www.landrover.com/ca/en/Vehi...3/Overview.htm __________________ Absence makes the heart grow fonder

01-05-2008, 05:57 PM	#11 (permalink)
kramus loving the curves Location: my Lady's manor	I have to admit that I had a crush on the Tahoe many years ago - but not as many as the Land Rover! It was in the 60's that that car was the coolest do-anything vehical I'd ever heard of. Rover Rover = yummy Now, to find a way to finance it . . . __________________ And now to disengage the clutch of the forebrain ... I'm going with this - if you like artwork visit http://markfineart.ca

01-05-2008, 06:03 PM	#12 (permalink)
Willravel ... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.	What's your budget, Kramus?

01-05-2008, 07:08 PM	#13 (permalink)
kramus loving the curves Location: my Lady's manor	Hi will - no budget as yet. This will be a spring thing, and I may be going as high as $500/month when the time comes. No idea what that will mean in vehical ticket price. That is my dad's method of costing - monthly carry cost instead of final ticket price __________________ And now to disengage the clutch of the forebrain ... I'm going with this - if you like artwork visit http://markfineart.ca

01-05-2008, 07:32 PM	#14 (permalink)
Fotzlid Junkie Location: Greater Boston area	$500/month will cover about $26k in financing over 60 months with around 5%apr.

01-05-2008, 08:01 PM	#15 (permalink)
Willravel ... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.	Fozlid, read my mind. For around that budget, I'd get a 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid ($33,700 MSRP), which means around $39k when all is said and done. It's really an impressive vehicle.

01-05-2008, 08:45 PM	#16 (permalink)
Ilow Junkie Location: Pats country	Nissan Pathfinder now has seating for 7, and you could probably get a 4x4 for around $33k. I like that off road package. __________________ "Religion is the one area of our discourse in which it is considered noble to pretend to be certain about things no human being could possibly be certain about" --Sam Harris

01-06-2008, 05:38 PM	#18 (permalink)
Willravel ... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.	A bit, but not enough for 6+animal issues.

01-06-2008, 05:50 PM	#19 (permalink)
The_Jazz Asshole Administrator Location: Chicago	The Rover also has maintenance issues. They were a big thing in my office a couple of years ago (5 folks got them), and every one of them had problems. I've been told in no uncertain terms not to get one. If you get one, I hope your results vary. We're also looking at a new car since Bec's Infiniti M35X doesn't have enough room in the back seat. Max constantly kicks the seat in front of him, which is both annoying and damaging the seat. Moving him isn't an option with the new baby. We're thinking of going the SUV route, so does anyone have any thoughts on SUV's with a lot of leg room in the back? My alternative is to get her an Audi A8, but I'm not sure I really want to do that for a lot of reasons. __________________ "They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." - B. Franklin "There ought to be limits to freedom." - George W. Bush "We have met the enemy and he is us." - Pogo

01-06-2008, 06:04 PM	#20 (permalink)
Willravel ... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.	Jazz—My 2006 Audi A6 was the worst investment in my life. As you said above, if you get one I hope your results vary. If it's in your price range, the Cayenne is quite an impressive vehicle. If not, then Lexus is doing good things with SUVs.

01-06-2008, 08:23 PM	#21 (permalink)
BadNick Riding the Ocean Spray Location: S.E. PA in U Sofa	if you want a smaller SUV ...maybe now adays it's midsize... with surprising amount of rear leg room even with the front seats moved to accomodate largish adults, I am very surprised how roomy my '07 RAV4 is back there. But the big Lexus and Toyota SUV's are of course much larger.

01-06-2008, 08:32 PM	#22 (permalink)
kramus loving the curves Location: my Lady's manor	I need to keep the 70 pound dog separate from the kids (dog-breath and slobber are Not welcome during a 9-hour cruise) - which means an extended vehical with comfortable seating for 6 passengers in 3 rows, and cargo space large enough for Haili to cheerfully sit in for a few hours at a time. The dog in the cargo area means a roof rack and pod (towing a trailer would be nice, but there is no trailer storage that would be cheap, secure and convenient where we live). I have been looking at the suggested vehicals and going through links. Some fine looking automobiles. My final choice will in part depend on my future employment because it will be my paycheque that carries the loan, and I am presently looking for work. The bad vibes from Land Rover experience are noted with thanks. __________________ And now to disengage the clutch of the forebrain ... I'm going with this - if you like artwork visit http://markfineart.ca

01-06-2008, 08:53 PM	#23 (permalink)
Willravel ... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.	To be honest, most 3 row vehicles make room for that third row by making the trunk small. If you need a big trunk, fold down the back. If you need a third row, then the back seats are up. Even on beasts the size of the Expedition or Tahoe, the back is tiny when the back seats are not folded down. You may need 2 vehicles or an economy van to transport 6 persons and a large animal.

01-06-2008, 09:08 PM	#24 (permalink)
Plan9 I Confess a Shiver	Get a Suburban with a dog-cage for the rear area. The Suburban's "cargo area" is much larger than the Tahoe's. The only difference between the two vehicles, really. __________________ *Whatever you can carry.* "You should not drink... and bake."

01-06-2008, 09:28 PM	#26 (permalink)
Willravel ... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.	The trunk of a 2008 Suburban: kramus, does that look big enough? I've got no idea how big your dog is.

01-06-2008, 09:38 PM	#28 (permalink)
Willravel ... a sort of licensed troubleshooter.	It's a big time gas guzzler, which is why I went with the Highlander Hybrid first, but if the shoe fits. At least you won't be one of those people who drives a Suburban and has one kid and a chihuahua. The trunk of the Highlander (IN THE END THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE) is smaller and probably couldn't fit a Golden Retriever.

01-06-2008, 09:47 PM	#29 (permalink)
Plan9 I Confess a Shiver	Suburban is less of a gas-guzzler than it has been, but still a deadly sin unless you've got four kids. __________________ *Whatever you can carry.* "You should not drink... and bake."

01-06-2008, 09:55 PM	#30 (permalink)
Baraka_Guru warrior bodhisattva Super Moderator Location: East-central Canada	I know what it's like traveling with a lab. Also, I come from a family with six kids. Go big, or stay home. But, ultimately, my votes are for the Toyota Highlander or the Nissan Armada. Hybrid option preferred. __________________ Knowing that death is certain and that the time of death is uncertain, what's the most important thing? —Bhikkhuni Pema Chödrön Humankind cannot bear very much reality. —From "Burnt Norton," Four Quartets (1936), T. S. Eliot

01-06-2008, 09:58 PM	#31 (permalink)
kramus loving the curves Location: my Lady's manor	In this day and age you catch flak no matter what. If I have an SUV and I am doing groceries or at the hardware store, and there aren't 7 people sitting in the damned thing while I do my errands, I am going to catch some nasty looks and probably a snide remark. So long as I can either suck it up or manage the proper rejoinder that keeps me from getting shot or my vehical keyed, I am going to do ok. Now to choose something. __________________ And now to disengage the clutch of the forebrain ... I'm going with this - if you like artwork visit http://markfineart.ca

01-06-2008, 10:13 PM	#32 (permalink)
snowy Kick Ass Kunoichi Location: Oregon	What's wrong with another Volvo? The Volvo XC90 has gotten good reviews. Their XC wagon also has a surprising amount of room. Another choice would be a late model lease return, especially if you're looking at a nicer car. It'll knock thousands off of the price but the car is almost new, and some even come with warranties remaining, or a dealer certification. Buying a car takes a lot of research. Find out if there is an auto show near you--that way you can take care of sitting in a lot of the cars you want to see all at the same time. __________________ If I am not better, at least I am different. --Jean-Jacques Rousseau

01-07-2008, 07:05 PM	#33 (permalink)
Ilow Junkie Location: Pats country	For all those suggesting small midsize SUVs like the Volvo, Highlander, etc, I don't think that will ever work for 6+dog. you will need a full size SUV (Suburban, Armada, whatever Toyota's fullsize is, or a Expedition.) Course you could always just get a used Chevy Express full size van or something for your trips. __________________ "Religion is the one area of our discourse in which it is considered noble to pretend to be certain about things no human being could possibly be certain about" --Sam Harris

01-07-2008, 07:52 PM	#34 (permalink)
BadNick Riding the Ocean Spray Location: S.E. PA in U Sofa	Lately I see these Dodge Sprinters on the road once in a while and the passenger versions seem practical if you need the space; 3L V6 turbo diesel, not sure what OTD price is but looks like about mid $30k:

01-08-2008, 06:34 AM	#35 (permalink)
Ilow Junkie Location: Pats country	My roommate's girlfriend, who sells Hondas is pissed that I did not mention the Honda Pilot, which she informs me now "seats 8." So there you go... __________________ "Religion is the one area of our discourse in which it is considered noble to pretend to be certain about things no human being could possibly be certain about" --Sam Harris

07-28-2008, 05:56 PM	#36 (permalink)
kramus loving the curves Location: my Lady's manor	Well, we got a 2006 Honda Odyssey van - EX, but I don't recall if it is an EX-L. It has 47,000 kilometers (about 28,000 miles) on it - in great shape except for some carpet staining in the trunk. Not an issue - the dog sits there on a blanket. Remote power sliding side doors, a sunroof, DVD player, leather seats . . . . all for $27,800 Canadian. We did a lot of research, looked around at different lots and did test drives - read a few used car guides and went through a lot of online information. The end is a van for a price which seems fair to us - we picked up an extended bumper to bumper warranty and put it on the .9% financing. The total bill is less than $30,000 and the carrying charges will be under $500. Pretty good, I think. The SUV's didn't have the trunk room we wanted for the dog. It came down to needing a people mover with cargo room, and my Lady is happy with our van. The younger kids love the van - they call it "Comfort" and the youngest one says "thankyou" when the sliding door opens and closes for her. The basket we put on the top brings it to 6' 6" in height - something to think about when entering parking garages. Here is a picture of the vehicle, and of our Haili sitting happy in her new space. Thanks everyone for your input in this thread. It really helped to solidify our thinking, and gave us a lot to consider. It made our final decision seem that much more solid and happy-making __________________ And now to disengage the clutch of the forebrain ... I'm going with this - if you like artwork visit http://markfineart.ca

07-28-2008, 07:42 PM	#37 (permalink)
BadNick Riding the Ocean Spray Location: S.E. PA in U Sofa	Wow, thanks for your follow up report. Those Odyssey vans are well built, roomy, and reliable, so I suspect you will have a good ownership experience. Good luck with it. If my car did things for me automatically, I'd have to give it a name. Something car'ish, butler'ish and robot'ish....maybe Rodney or Rhoda.