Originally Posted by dgunay
Small update: After taking a look at all other options, I have to eliminate almost all 3 row-premium SUVs as they are priced over $50k Canadian with tax, or I have to go with lower trims, which I wouldn't prefer.
I currently drive Ford Edge ST for a week (I have a small car blog-website and I review cars), honestly I didn't like it. Driving position is weird, transmission is not the smoothest and it doesn't shift quickly, plastics trims feel cheap. Also, all wheel drive system is extremely front biased which I wouldn't expect that from a car with ST badge. The suspension, and engine are excellent though. Not to mention Ford infotainment system is not the best and looks like it's from 2008. I also drove Lincoln Nautilus 2.0T few months ago, which I enjoyed a lot more despite having the same weird driving position, but at least it isn't trying to be a "wannabe" racecar.
I narrowed my alternatives down to
- Mazda CX-5 GT or Signature - It only has two disadvantages, relatively smaller space (still way better than my car) and no glass roof. Not a deal breaker for me.
- Subaru Forester - Outback (2020) - I will definitely be waiting for the newest Outback before making a decision, and hoping that they also offer the same turbo 2.4L engine in Forester in 2020.
- Hyundai Santa Fe - It's a great SUV with good financing options (like 60 months 0%) and probably the best warranty in this group. The engine is a little bit underwhelming due to it's size, but I can live with it.
- Honda Passport is also a great alternative but their financing options start around 3.99+%. I would probably wait till the end of this year to see if they offer better rates. I wasn't even thinking about this option before this topic, so thank you guys.
Speaking of financing, my plan is to pay 40-50% cash and the rest 4/5 year financing. I am not sure if this is the best idea as I rarely buy a new car.
I'd snag the CX5 GTR/Signature, or wait for the 2.4 Turbo Forester, although if it's going to be a CVT, man...I'd need that 150K mile warranty aftermarket or buy from a dealer with a lifetime powertrain warranty or something.