Any advice on what car I should buy?

Question

I'm a college student who is going to be driving between Miami and Tallahassee semi frequently.

I need a car that will make the trip but at the same time be very fuel efficient. I need a car that can hold a fair amount of stuff.

I don't want to get a truck or SUV. What I'm really looking for is a nice hatchback with good safety ratings.

Its wierd but I really like station wagons. The most I can spend is 12,000 bucks.

You guys know of a good car I should keep my eyes out for?

Perhaps like a website or two that I can look at that has some online listings.

I know about like craigslist and vehinx and carmax and cars.com....

Know of any other ones?

Answer 1

For $12,000 you may not be able to buy new.

If you like the wagons, look at the Suburu wagons (used, like an 04 or 05). They are sporty AWD wagons that will be great in any weather and are good on gas.  They run forever too.

Of course almost any Honda or Toyota is a good bet too.

Answer 2

Hi Whitnae,

Try My Product Advisor, I've put the link in the source box. There are four advisors on the site, go to 'new autos.' The site helps narrow your search based on what you want in a car.  

Further, Cartalk might help, too.

Happy shopping and enjoy your new car! :-)

Answer 3

Check out the Subaru WRX Wagon.

Answer 4

Honda Civics are GREAT on gas! And they come in hatchbacks. The seats fold down either way. You can probably get a good used one for 12.

You could probably buy a brand new Kia or Hyundai with 12, but those won't last you well over 100,000 miles. Even if you keep up with the oil changes, ect. They simply weren't designed or built with that in mind.

Honda's, Toyota's, and Nissans. If you pay attention when you're driving you'll see all of these cars on the road for 12-15 years still running like a champ. Honda's and Toyota's are 200,000 mile cars when you take good care of them.

Answer 5

Hondas are great in terms of reliability, resale value and safety -for $12K look at used Civics (although due to gas prices they may be hard to find) The Honda Fit is a good choice also but again is hard to find new; let alone used. Also consider a Hyundai Elantra -Consumer Reports top choice for small sedans -lots of features, great warranty & low price. You just about can't go wrong w/ Honda but Hyundai's are greatly improved in the last few years. Good Luck.

Answer 6

Pontiac Vibe - they start at about $16,000 brand new so I'm sure you can get a fairly late model for around 12K.  The cargo capacity is excellent and so is the fuel economy.  I've gotten up to 38 MPG fully loaded with the AC on.  Mine's a stick and the autos average 1-2 MPG less.

Answer 7

Subaru Forester 03

Pontiac Vibe 05

Toyota matrix 04-05

(same car)

Hyundai Santa Fe V6 04

Answer 8

Try a Scion XB.  Used ones go at a premium, but at $12,000 you're almost at a new price range.