Used Cars: 5 Bargain Family Vehicles for Back to School
Just in time for back-to-school season, parents are catching a break on car prices.
As we've already reported, prices have risen sharply this year on used cars with high gas mileage. But if you're looking for a larger vehicle to carry the family -- or a lot of cargo -- there's some good news: Prices for thirstier SUVs have fallen 1.3% this year through July, according to auto shopping web site CarGurus.com. If you can handle the weaker gas mileage, CarGurus has put together a list of well-priced, haul-worthy 2008 and 2009 SUVs and minivans.
The CarGurus editors picked models selling for $25,000 or less -- a reasonable price in this category. They looked only at large vehicles that could seat seven or more. And with the emphasis of family buyers on safety, they included only models that had received "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The typical models have been driven between 40,000 and 50,000 miles.
"SUVs, crossovers and minivans are often the only fit for large families with busy kids and the associated carpooling responsibilities," says CarGurus founder and CEO Langley Steinert, who previously also was a co-founder of travel site TripAdvisor.
Here are some of the highlights of the CarGurus list. The prices they cite reflect current and recent online listings (many of which are dealer asking prices) for base models, although many of the better-equipped models are also under $25,000.
Next: 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
2009 Chevrolet Traverse
This mid-size SUV seats up to eight, configured with three rows of seats and ample storage space behind the third row. The Traverse is mechanically similar to its General Motors corporate sibling, the GMC Acadia, but reviewers have found the Chevy version more stylish (and less expensive).
Test drivers like the quiet ride and the smooth acceleration powered by the 281-horsepower V-6 engine, which also provides easy towing for a boat or trailer. Despite its size, the Traverse shows car-like handling and braking. The MPG rating is 17 mpg in city driving, 24 highway.
CarGurus' average price for the base LS model: $21,371. As with the other picks, even better-equipped styles should stay below $25,000.
Next: 2009 Ford Flex
2009 Ford Flex
With its distinctive grooved sides and boxy silhouette -- plus the option to get a top in a contrasting color -- the Flex styling won't be to everyone's taste. But its partisans love it for having minivan qualities without looking like a minivan. The Flex seats seven if configured with a second-row bench seat (or six with captain's chairs), and reviewers found even the third row comfortable -- an uncommon occurrence in large vehicles.
Test drivers praised it for its attractive interior and smooth and quiet highway ride, but found the acceleration a bit sluggish vs. some competitors. The Flex's MPG rating is 17 city, 24 highway. The CarGurus price for the base-level SE style: $21,398.
Next: 2008 Honda Odyssey
2008 Honda Odyssey
For those who like minivans and don't sweat the image, the Honda Odyssey has long been a top choice. The Odyssey seats seven with second-row bucket seats, but can pack in eight when a child-size third seat folds up in the middle of the second row. The Odyssey has stood out among minivans from this vintage through the most recent redesign for its acceleration and nimble, car-like handling. (See 2011 Honda Odyssey Test Drive.)
Its 244-horsepower V-6 engine involves what once was cutting-edge technology that shuts down some cylinders at cruising speed to boost gas mileage. But the MPG ratings are still an SUV-like 16 city, 23 highway. Price for the LX style is $19,507.
Next: 2008 Honda Pilot
2008 Honda Pilot
If you like Hondas but not minivans, try the Pilot. It has a 244-horsepower V-6 similar, to that of the Odyssey, and reviewers found it had plenty of power to climb hills or pass easily on the highway. Its handling through twisting roads is adequate if not athletic.
The Pilot seats eight in three rows, although the third row is a tight fit for adults. The interior is comfortable and the highway ride quiet, especially compared to competing SUVs. The Pilot's MPG rating is 16/22. The CarGurus price for the VP style is $19,434.
Next: 2008 Hyundai Veracruz
2008 Hyundai Veracruz
At the time of its debut, the Veracruz was the Korean automaker's highest-priced model ever. But reviewers immediately praised the seven-seat SUV for having luxury touches inside at a relatively bargain price. The well-made leather upholstery and tasteful interior materials come in for praise, along with the quiet and comfortable ride.
The Veracruz comes with more standard features than competitors in the same price range, as well as getting Hyundai's 10-year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. The Veracruz MPG rating is 16 city, 23 highway. The CarGurus price for the GLS style is $20,797.
Photos courtesy of the manufacturers, Wiki Images and CarGurus.com
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