I currently own a 2020 Golf R Line (1.5tsi) and used to have a 2016 X3 20d m sport. I got rid of it as it was a heft diesel, I didn't do the miles and there were looming costs coming including brake pads, discs and I was worried about potential DPF issues. I also ended up servicing locally or Halfords which meant selling was difficult as didn't have full iDrive stamps.

A year on and I want to go back to BMW. Here are my shortlists all around £25k - £30k, and around 2020 year models or maybe a bit newer.

1. BMW 330i
2. BMW M340i
3. BMW X3 20i
4. Golf GTI

My initial feelings are the M340i is probably too quick and a bit unecessary. Concern is the X3 is just going to have the same future costs, tyres are pretty pricey for example. The golf is great, so cheap for insurnace, tax and amazing on fuel but I am missing that premium feeling and a bit of guts.

I work from home and don't need to commute anywhere, for now.

Any advice is much appreciated.

Hello! I’m 19 and trying to get my first car. I was looking at 2022-2026 Honda Civics at first, but I’ve just looked into Volvo and really love almost everything about this car. Obviously if it’s not a smart choice I’m going with the Honda, but I wanted to hear from people who have experience in Volvo sedans specifically! I literally just found out about these cars today so I want to know all I can!

If commute matters I’m almost always on a highway. I frequently take drives that last an hour or more. Thank you!

I currently have a 2023 BRZ manual and love it. It is the most fun car I've owned and planned on keeping it longterm. I bought it new over 3 years ago and recently been thinking a 981 Cayman S might be the next progression in my sports car journey.

Does anyone here have significant experience in both the BRZ and Cayman S and is it a significant performance upgrade on the street? Is the 981 CS worth double the price and I'm sure repair and maintenance costs are probably double too?

I appreciate any feedback!

My 2017 Chevy Cruze was totaled. It only had 55k miles on it and was a great little car for the nearly 10 years I drove it. I don't drive much (I'm a homebody and wfh) but looking for a reliable car for myself and family to get us around. My partner is a T1 diabetic and we depend on a car so we can get his meds and to hospital.

All the cars I'm finding in my budget have either like 150k+ miles on them or have rebuilt titles.

I technically have $10k to spend but leaving some wiggle room for fees, registration etc. And I would prefer NOT spending the entire $8k/10k. Finances are unfortunately tight for me at the moment. I'm very upset my car was totaled as I feel I now have to settle for something worse than my previous vehicle.

This has been so stressful and to boot, I know nothing about cars. Does anyone please have suggestions for what I should look for that won't break the bank but will be reliable and last for years to come? ):

Looking at these options for what would be my first car. Narrowed it down to these models, but not sure which way to go. Prices might seem high, but it's totally inline with the market in my local area unfortuantely.

Cargo space is the biggest priority. I regularly travel, and will load a lot of sports equipment, so large boot space and roof bars is essential. Needs to be automatic.

Other than that, something which gives me minimal headaches and maintenance issues is a high priority, good fuel economy is important. But I'm really not a car person so don't really care about much else beyond that.

I feel the toyota is the sensible choice. Hybrid drivetrain, minimal maintenance issues, does everything I'd need. But I can't help but think the extra space in the octavia would be a huge bonus in the long run (640l boot vs 530l), plus more space in the back seats.

If it was to be the octavia, petrol or diesel is another doubt. Lots more diesels available at better prices locally, but leaning towards petrol being the better choice even though they are harder to find.

Links:

Toyota 140,000km 2017 13,500€

Skoda Octavia TDI 199,000km 2020 12,000€

Skoda Octavia TSI 139,000km 2015 12,000€

Why in the world do we need touch screens? They're dangerous!

I wanted to buy a newer Corolla, But I hate that they have the equivalent of an iPad sticking out of the dashboard blocking a portion of the windshield.

Somehow, automakers decided they need up-to 50 computers talking to each other to make the vehicle run and drive!

And if something goes wrong with them, Sometimes the dealer can't even figure it out!

I'm a big fan of knob, cables, and switches, And being able to work on my own vehicle.

I miss the days of being able to buy a reliable vehicle that I don't need a scanner worth thousands of dollars to tell me the computer for my left $5000.00 tail light can't talk to the ECM and let the car start and run...

I'm thinking about getting a V6 Mustang as my first car, and I'm trying to decide between the New Edge (1999–2004) and the S197 (2005–2014).

I've always liked Mustangs because they're American cars, and I like their styling and history. I remember seeing a Mustang in one of the Bullitt movies, which helped get me interested in them, even though it wasn't necessarily one of these exact generations.

I'm around 5'5"–5'6", so I'm also curious about how comfortable these cars are for someone my height. I don't need a ton of passenger space, and I do school online, so I don't have a daily school commute.

I'm mainly interested in the V6 versions because I want something fun to drive without the extra costs that can come with a V8.

For people who have owned or driven these Mustangs, I'd like to know:

• Which generation has the more reliable V6 engine?
• Which is cheaper to maintain and repair?
• How different are the performance and fuel economy?
• Are there any common problems I should know about?
• Which one is more comfortable and enjoyable to drive every day?
• Would you recommend either generation to someone buying their first car?

I'm willing to learn basic maintenance and do some repairs myself, but I'd prefer something that won't constantly give me problems.

If you had to choose between a New Edge V6 and an S197 V6 for a first car, which would you pick and why? I'd appreciate hearing from people who have real experience with these cars.

I'm looking for some advice on what car to buy because I've been going back and forth for weeks and can't make up my mind.

I currently drive a lifted 2019 F-150 Platinum with the 3.5 EcoBoost on 35s. I love my truck, but I recently started a new job with a roughly 100-mile round-trip commute, and the fuel costs are getting ridiculous.

I'm considering getting a commuter car instead of putting all those miles on my truck, but I don't want to spend $25k on something boring that I won't enjoy driving.

What I'm looking for:

Budget: $20–28k, preferably closer to $25k. Could go up to 30 or more but I'm trying to be practical

Used 2-5 years old

Commute: Approximately 100 miles round trip, mostly highway.

Fuel economy: Ideally 30+ MPG highway, but willing to compromise for the right car.

Transmission: Manual preferred, but definitely open to automatics.

Comfort: Important since I'll be spending around 2 hours a day driving.

Performance: Something with decent power and handling. Doesn't need to be a sports car, but I want to enjoy driving it.

Reliability: I plan to keep it for several years, so I don't want something that's constantly in the shop.

Interior: I appreciate a nice interior, good sound system, and modern features.

I've looked at everything from Audi A6s and BMWs to more economical options. I've also considered Miatas, Audis, and Toyotas, including the Camry, Corolla, and GR86. I'm open to hybrids or EVs if the numbers make sense.

I do most of my own basic maintenance, so I'm not completely opposed to German cars, but I also don't want maintenance costs to cancel out whatever I'm saving on gas.

My biggest dilemma: Do I buy something practical and efficient purely for commuting, or spend a little more on something I'll actually enjoy driving every day?

What would you buy in my situation? Any specific models, years, or engines you'd recommend or avoid?

Im thinking about A6 C8 2019-, now im not sure which version, either A6 55TFSI or S6 TDI ??? I live in Montenegro where everything is relatively close. Supermarket 1km, sea 1 hour and 30 minutes, mountains 2-3 hours. I drive around 10,000 - 15,000 KM per year, also i heard that this models of TFSI are queit which needs change of exhaust to have that nice sound. Does anyone have any experiance to share?

Ok folks, I am deep in analysis paralysis.. Nightly rabbit holes regarding payload's, mpg's, drivetrain specs and so forth.. I am considering four completely different vehicles for my small mobile mechanic business and could use some external insight.

I am currently working out of a 2016 ram 1500 short bed ecodiesel w/160k, ive owned it since 50k and its been absolutely great (23mpg average but at $6.50 gallon it hurts being the equivalent to 14mpg gasoline, also it is getting up there in miles even with strict maintenance its risky with these engines) I work out of the bed mostly, it has a hard sided canopy with bed slider that has 6 Milwaukee packouts for tools and small parts, as well as a floor jack, stands, oil pan and trash can. In the cab i keep sensitive electronics like scan tools, an oscilloscope, evap smoke machine, digital torque wrenches, multimeter, jump box etc., I occasionally tow our travel trailer(5000lbs) as well as take our kids to school, the back seat is large enough to have my "inside" tools and our family. It will end up being an "extra" vehicle or selling depending on this decision.

Daily drives to and between jobs equates to 60-100miles in the DC suburbs. Most of our work consists of diagnostics, tune-ups, brakes, pre purchase inspections, starters, alternators, batteries, radiators, water pumps, etc., we are NOT replacing engines/transmissions or any job that takes more than a day typically. We occasionally work in parking garages so low height would be beneficial but not a must. Parking in congested areas is not fun with my current truck so i would like to stay the same length or smaller.

2018 Ford Transit Connect; 23mpg average. Plenty of dry enclosed space for all the tools i currently use. Tried and true 2.5l engine but transmission is notoriously bad. Uncomfortable to drive but can be had for less than $15k. If i purchased this i would probably buy it and use the standard deduction model as .72cents a mile rate compared to the "actual expense method" it makes more tax benefit sense.

2022 Ram 1500 5.7l (non e-torque) crew cab 6'4" bed w/ contractor canopy; 17mpg average, has back seats and plenty of usable interior space for tools. Can tow our travel trailer. Plush and comfortable interior. Bed would be used exactly the same as current setup only space gain would be the contractor style canopy with side doors(current is a hard sided canopy) Upper end of price range at $25-35k depending on miles and options.

2023-2024 Ford Maverick Hybrid w/ contractor canopy; 40ish mpg average, sits higher up than the Connect and much more comfortable to drive. Bed is comically small but i took measurements and i could make it work. To keep tools inside the cab i would probably remove the rear seat eliminating the ability to occasionally use it to take the kids to school. Reasonably priced between $20-25k but i have found new 2026 models for $30k so that may be an option.

2017-2019 Transit 150 or 250 3.7l 130"wb; 15mpg average. Heard lots of horror stories regarding the transmissions but these years seem to be the sweet spot. It has more than double the payload of other options and can almost stand up inside a medium roof. I really dont like how they drive(new or used) maybe just because they have been empty they seem to constantly be hunting for a gear and feel like much lesser quality compared to the sprinters ive driven. I dont plan on expanding to do other areas of my occupation and am extremely busy already with my current areas so this seems like overkill. These can be found for $15-25k depending on condition and miles.

I believe i am trying to check off too many boxes with this dedicated work vehicle and that's my biggest problem. Its a big investment and i am the type to spend hours researching even the littlest of purchases so that has also made this search more difficult. I am positive my wife and friends are sick of me going over all the specs. Which of these do you like or think would fit my scenario best?

Context: My first car, which I mostly bought with my own money, was a 12 BMW 328i (N20 engine), and I regret it. (The only performance mod is a cold air intake.) But I'm willing to sell soon because maintenance costs are just too much for me. For reference, I'm driving my first car, a 05 BMW 330xi, and both my dad and my family friend said it's a tank. But it won't last forever. So essentially I'm buying my first car again.

I'm told it won't sell for much, so my budget is $12k, and I want something fun and sporty, with good mod support, modern if possible, and most importantly, reliable. I also like cool, techy car features.

My dad can do some maintenance, like brakes, spark plugs, etc., so I don't really have to worry about going to a shop for those things.

I already looked at 2nd-gen Lexus models, and I think the center infotainment area looks old. My dad suggested an Acura TLX.

What cars do u recommend?

Hello all,

I’ve traded a 2018 Lexus Lc500 7 months ago to a Defender v8, l’ve been having a minor buyer’s remorse/regret thinking back and forth on the LC that I sold since 2 months after I traded. Now there is another opportunity that I could trade the Defender v8 back to the LC with the perfect color combo that I’ve always wanted. If you were me what would you do? Will you just go for it even though you lose some money or just keep the Defender as being highly practical/capable daily.

I've been driving a 2021 Camry SE AWD (~50k miles, mint condition) and I'm ready to treat myself to my first luxury car. I've been researching for days and could use some real-world opinions before I keep going deeper into this rabbit hole.

About me:

- Ohio, so real winters. AWD is non-negotiable
- 1 hour commute each way, all highway
- I deal with back pain, so seat comfort and ride quality are my top priority
- I love sporty stuff, but luxury comes first this time since it's a long ass drive
- It's just me and my small dog, so I don't need a huge SUV but also don’t mind one.
- Budget is flexible, but I'd like to stay around $1,200/mo or less with the Camry as a trade and some extra down payment if needed.
- I'll probably keep it about 3 years. Leasing is out because of how fast the miles add up
- No home charging right now, so EVs and plug-ins are out unless I move
- I'm religious about maintenance

What I'm hoping for:
- Massage seats
- Soft suspension
- Good power for highway merging and passing
- Coupe/sportback style if possible
- Solid highway driver assist (hands-free would be amazing)

On my list:

- **Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe:** current favorite. Pinnacle trim gets massage seats, plus AIRMATIC. New ones near me are $87-97k, so I'm leaning certified pre-owned
- **Mercedes GLE 350 / GLC 300:** the GLC doesn't seem to offer massage seats or and I don’t know about the suspension being soft.
- **Lexus RX 350h:** reliability king and way cheaper, but no massage seats; unsure about the suspension.
- **Audi Q5 / SQ5 Sportback:** Prestige trim has massage + air suspension and costs less than the GLE
- **BMW X6 / X5:** hands-free highway driving is really tempting

**My questions:**
1. For a long daily commute with back pain, which of these actually has the most comfortable seats and ride?
2. Since I'll only keep it ~3 years, is a 1-2 year old certified German SUV the smart play with how fast they depreciate?
3. Anyone put real miles on a GLE 450 or SQ5? How's reliability holding up?
4. Is the Lexus's reliability worth giving up massage seats and air suspension?
5. Anything I'm missing that checks more boxes?

Thanks in advance!

Hey guys, a local dealer reached out to me since i had recently been looking for a new car.

They have a 2015 cayman gts manual on hold for me if i want it. Its sitting at around $100k. 18k miles on it and a clean title.

My question is, is this worth it? Im seeing alot of newer porsche caymans for this price on the used market along with alot of other cars that seem very interesting/equally performant if not better.

Between the 2026 Volvo XC40 Plus ( hybrid FWD) and the 2026 Mercedes Benz GLA 200 ( petrol) - which would you buy brand NEW ? Would appreciate any perspective / comments. Thank you.

Looking to pick up a used EV. Will be my daily driver to work (10 miles one way). Will also likely be the roadtrip car to visit family (~230 miles away), but am fine stopping to recharge.

I liked test driving the Ioniq 5, but the ICCU and 12V battery issues worry me.

What other small to mid-size SUV EV models should I be looking at? I’m seeing the Mach E come up, but I’m really not a huge fan of the touchscreen only (hence no Tesla). Trying to stay under $30k for budget.

Any ideas/recommendations would be appreciated!

Hey All,

I’m looking into buying a 2027 Honda CR-V Sport L. I went through the Costco Auto Program which knocked off $1900. So my out the door price including taxes and DMV fees is looking to be about $43,665. Good deal or could get lower without the Costco discount?

Appreciate the help.

Would you make an offer on this and if so how much? My city goes crazy with the salt every winter, so I've been wanting a beater to spare my nice car. Plus I've heard Yarises can be fun with some minor mods.