Townshend

Anyone have an SUV they've enjoyed having as a winter/car to carry things around in? Looking at picking up a Q5. GLK and ML350 haven't struck my fancy (2009-2011 MYs)

ToXicXxX

If you're going to go Q5, spring for the SQ5. At least then you end up with a somewhat adequate engine. The 2.0TFSI is somewhat of a laughing stock in a vehicle 1000lb heavier then an A4.

Or consider a BMW X535i (or 35d If you like tons of torque, and a true workhorse).

I've spent a ton of time around all the major SUV's in that price range, I'd spring for an X5 in a heartbeat (and a 50i, if it was me).

CarHopper

I just picked up a Ford edge. So far I love it. So it doesn't give me that big kick in the pants, oh well. I got a smokin deal and has an extremely reliable engine. Plenty of room for things like my dogs and even put the Xmas tree inside.

I honestly only planned on keeping it until May or so but I might just keep it.

austintipton

Check out a used Cayenne GTS. I got an '09 with CPO. Handles great and is four wheel drive. (They are cheaper than a new Q5, at least to buy)

rentzington

Really depends on what you want out of one, if I was looking for a good durable 4wd suv I'd look at 4Runner or maybe a jeep Cherokee

You want luxury and sporty then the x5

jcfay

I just leased a new Jeep Grand Cherokee and I'm happy with it. I even opted to not get the larger engine, or too many bells and whistles, and instead went with the altitude edition which is an OK middle of the road model. Drives great in the weather, super comfortable, and wasn't too pricey. The Cherokee would've worked too. Looked at the Explorer but it seemed overpriced relative to the segment.

I've had a Q5 in the past and liked it. I had the 3.5 IIRC. I ended up going with the larger Jeep as I wanted a bit more space and I'm happy with the choice. If I'd had more cash to spend I'd certainly consider many of the above options as well. The new Range Rover sport could be a lot of fun too, and looks like it'll be quite reasonably priced.

ToXicXxX

Gotta be careful with those older Cayenne's. Not the most reliable and upkeep is pricey.

Have you considered a Volkswagen Touareg? It's basically a Q7/Cayenne.

CarHopper

You can get something American far newer with MORE amenities than an older german SUV

Baked

We have an SRT8 Jeep that we bought back in 2008 and it's been great and 100% reliable. With the winter tires it's good in the snow with the AWD.

abcut973

SRT8 is good choice particularly the latest one. All other SUV mentioned above are great as well. It all depends on your budget and what you want to do with it. I had a Q7 3 years ago and would not hesitate to buy another one. Spacious, practical and luxurious. GL

chrisridebike8

Go get an FJ60 for like $11,000 and put some lockers on it. Then when some idiot slides into you in the snow, you won't be heartbroken. Plus, those tanks will never die.

austintipton

I did mention it is cheaper to buy, I didn't mention anything about ownership....

However, a Touareq/Q7 is basically a Cayenne GTS like a C300 is basically a C63. :-P

Nanook

YUp..this..

edwardsflight33

Look into the new Lexus crossover. I believe it is called the NX. Starts in mid 30's. A friend of mine just bought one and I was with her when she ordered it. We test drove a Euro spec hybrid model that I got to drive. The interior is much nicer than my wife's GLK's and comes with a Heads Up Display as standard. It comes in AWD and because it is a hybrid gets over 30mpg. I was very impressed. It isn't fast, but no crossover under $50,000 is. You should check it out.

zibby43

For those with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, have you tried this?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaYFLb8WMGM#t=63

Has Jeep taken care of this issue?

jcfay

Ouch. I have no idea. I just know that in my research, and looking at vehicles in that price range, it was higher rated (in general) versus the explorer, etc. But it drives like a boat. I'll make sure to hit a moose straight on in I ever encounter one in my "heep". those blown tires are crazy

zibby43

Yeah I wouldn't worry too much about it. In those situations (which are extremely rare), 99.9% of drivers are going to hit the brakes first, an act which would further aid in the stabilization of the vehicle.