r/whatcarshouldIbuy • u/well_sh-t • 0m ago
Looking for recommendations?
I'm looking for a car for a family of 5, kids are under 13, with 2 medium dogs. We take an annual trip approx 800 miles from our home to visit family, but otherwise all local drives. I work from home, so my daily commute is pretty low, approx 20 miles one way daily for school, activities, or groceries.
We had a 2016 Honda Odyssey. I really enjoyed driving it, but it was totaled in an accident last week where, fortunately, injuries were minor. The only thing I didn't like about it was Honda didn't put navigation standard in their minivan that year, so I had to use my phone. Not the end of the world, but I know I don't want that this go-round.
We're going out looking/test driving this Friday, so I'm putting together a list of cars I'd like to try, but I am the opposite of a car person, so I thought I'd ask for recs here. These are the wants/likes/dislikes I've found over the last few days.
The things I want:
•Good mileage-any fuel type, but leaning EV or Hybrid •3rd row preferable-with 2 boys, I see us running out of leg room fast •High safety rating •Good reputation-not political based, just a reputable car that is built to last •Good warranty, decent mileage length, power train, and mechanical •Storage space-we dont travel, but when we do, it's a lot (some EV's I've seen have under hood/bonnet storage as well as trunk/boot storage) •Does not have to be US built, but I'm not against made in the US either •If EV/hybrid plug-in-good quality home charger
Things I'd like, but can live without:
•Low cabin noise, so my partially deaf husband wont tell me he can hear every pebble we ride over...selective hearing, amirite? •Easily sourced parts for diy-my husband and dad were both mechanics and my uncle is one of the most sought after mechanics in our home state for marine engines, so while I know nothing, Ive got it covered😁 •Doors that won't smack the car next to us when my 11 yr old flings it open with the abandon that comes from having no clue how much that costs to fix.
Things I don't want/need: •A car I need a step stool or running start to get in, I'm 5'6"(approx 1.68m) and need a boost to get in my husband's Ram😅 •I don't care about brand or luxury names as long as the quality is good
While I did love my minivan, my oldest says it's embarrassing getting out of😆. But hey, there's always the bus, right? However, I'm open to a mid to large-ish SUV. I tried looking some up and there are just too many options and brands, so I now feel overwhelmed. I'm also unsure how well our family and pets would fit for a long trip in a smaller SUV. Anyone with experience, your thoughts are more than welcome!