MMH

HI guys - my TT cab arrives in Dec and i can't bear the thought of putting snow tires on it. So I'm thinking of getting an inexpensive SUV for a second car. I'm thinking about getting a new or used Ford Explorer V8... owned a 1992 manual transmission 4x4 and was pretty happy with it. Just want something basic and under $35k. Any thoughts? Thanks

ZAMIRZ

Take a look at the Toyota 4Runner too, great car.

StgII++S4&996TT

I drive a 1999 Toyot 4runner and am very happy with it. It is a great SUV for the price. I was never a fan of Ford SUV's.

Targa Tim

See if you can get a good deal of a 6-speed Cayenne V6 from your dealer.
Yes, I know it is a Volkswagen V6, but I don't see any problem with that as Volkswagen to me is a good car maker. You may pay a little more up front, but will get it back in resale. The Cayenne will definitely match up nicely with your TT than any other SUV out there.

adsc4s

Yukon Denali because of the 300 hp and 3 rows of seats. The 4runner if you are concerned with resale. It will hold up a whole lot better than any VW.

rs4308

wow this is too easy- 4wd lexus RX300, Land Rover Disco II, or an A4/A6 Quattro. The Lexus for hard use and comfort, the Rover uncompromised durablity, or the Audis for a good combination.

PogueMoHone

If you trade your cars often..anyone of them.

If you keep your cars a long time, the Cayenne because it's a new paradigm. There can also be some tax advantages.

docjackson1

if all you want is awd and ground clearance, take advantage of the low leasing/financing rates on a subaru outback or foraster. for in the low 20's, you can get a new car with a warranty that has crash test results better then any suv, as it must conform to auto standards.

BC

Nissan Murano. CVT Transmission, Nissan Z engine, and a HUGE back seat.

Like 26-32k.

OldGuy

If you really want value then a used Land Cruiser is the way to
go. If you can get into a 98 then you get a V8. the 4.7 is a sweet
motor. If not the 4.5 straight six is absolutely bullet proof.
The 93 and newer got the lexus designed 4.5 and the new
EC Tranny. They are very comfortable and great in the snow.
I had a 93 and got caught in several huge snow storms in
central Nevada and Idaho and I had no problems. you get
room, amenities and someone else took the huge depreciation
hit. This goes for the Lexus LX 470 too.
OG

HBdirtbag

FX35 or 45

Sun Ra

put snow tyres on it and go!!! ne whimpe' pas!!!

and i like my yukon [xl] the xl part is optional. great truck in 4wd

docjackson1

watt-you are correct. i put 4 snows on my tt and drive it all year. it is a car. but, on the real bad days, he's gonna need something else.

LSM

I agree with the Audi. I am in a similar situation and of all the vehicles available, I think the Audi A6 2.7t gives a lot of bang for your buck. 2001 wholesales at $23-24k, 2002 slightly higher. It means you could get an 01 for 26-28k and an 02 for about 30k. If it is Audi assured you get an extra 2 years 100k miles added to the existing warranty. Also, Audi assured cars have really low (1.9-3.9, depending on term) rates. All in all a great car that still looks good and will not depreciate to much more. It already took its big hit. Good luck and let me know what you decide.

-Lou

TT Gasman

Ford Expedition if you need a real SUV.