“IN SEARCH OF.. A NEW CAR. OR USED.” — 2010 JEEP PATRIOT, FORD FLEX
I have an awesome ML320 SUV right now but it is up there in miles and age and it’s just time. She’s been there for me through thick and thin so I hope her new owners will love her just the same. She’s in the garage – hope she doesn’t hear me. Oh and why do I call my SUV a “she?” Because she’s reliable :-)
My search takes me to two cars that have caught my eye because of style and mileage. I am constantly driving up and down Southern California. I also have two children so I need to have something that is safe and comfortable as well. The cool stuff that the car needs to have? For me, media. I’m looking for a car that has a great media package – iPod capability, navigation system, and possibly wireless Internet connection. (I have a great GPS already. More on that later.) I don’t need a phone since I have one already but if that’s in the package, I’m not going to turn it down.
MY FIRST ROUND OF CHOICES
Jeep Patriot – “In reviews, we found the Jeep Patriot to offer a comfortable and quiet ride. Driven moderately, the vehicle feels well-balanced, even over bumps, and corners capably, with limited body roll. The Patriot’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is rated near the top of the class in terms of power, but the optional CVT snuffs much of the life out of this vehicle and makes it feel like one of the slowest in its class. Another major complaint about the Patriot involves the very disappointing quality of its interior materials, despite an overhaul for 2009.” — Edmunds.com
http://www.edmunds.com/jeep/patriot/review.html
Ford Flex – “Overall, the 2010 Ford Flex is a vehicle with few faults. Even if you’re not wild about its hip-to-be-square styling,
there’s no denying its extensive capabilities as a practical family vehicle. However, there are still alternatives. A sportier driving experience can be found in the Mazda CX-9, and those in need of more space should consider a Honda Odyssey or Chevrolet Traverse (or its Buick and GMC siblings). The Honda, in particular, is more appealing from a practical standpoint. But if the kids (or their parents) turn up their noses, the appealing Ford Flex is just the thing.” — Edmunds.com
http://www.edmunds.com/ford/flex/2010/review.html
Thoughts
Doesn’t sound too good for Jeep Patriot. Maybe other models in the brand will prove better. Ford Flex had great reviews. Next step for me will be to find used versions. The depreciation when a new vehicle drives off the lot is too much to stomach right now. If I had to go that route, I’d consider leasing. Let’s see where the reviews take us next..
Thanks Edmunds.com!
“The Road” by Cormac McCarthy
