[avamerican]

I'm in the market for a new vehicle but have not purchased one for several years so looking for some advice. I need something that seats 7, is economical, reliable, good gas mileage, good safety ratings, reasonably priced. Used is fine as long as it has low mileage and is certified. So any suggestions about what to buy and where?

[Wayne]

You might consider a Chevy Equinox. I have been reading good things about them for some time now. A used one would make a lot of sense. A car rental agency that is replacing its fleet can be a great place to get a used car, because they take really good care of them, and miles are usually low.

[avamerican]

I'll look into that. Thanks! And actually, I have considered purchasing from car rentals in the past but then I researched online and found forums where some employees were saying to stay away because the cars are abused! So that kind of scared me away...

[Dodge Doll]

An ex-lease at a dealership may suit you, too.

The Equinox is nice, it's well-rated; the original Dodge Grand Caravan with the 3.3 liter engine would be my first choice, though.... big surprise, eh?

[jason]

I wish I could think of the mini-van my friend had. Was really nice. I want to say Odyssey but I could be wrong. I thought it was a Chrysler or a Nissan, but the Odyssey name sticks out.

Ford has the Flex which looks interesting. Not sure how reliable it is.

@avamerican I've heard the same thing about rental agency cars when I researched them. Seeing how my friends driven their rentals, it would make me nervous too.

[vroombaby]

I have had a Tahoe before but that would not really seat seven, would it? Goodness you have a big family to need that many seats. Right now I am just thankful that our auto's still scoot after the wear and tear we put on them.

[avamerican]

We do have a big family--5 kids! LOL Yeah...it makes car shopping difficult because it immediately puts us in the higher price bracket and limits our choices a lot. We have an Oldsmobile minivan now and we are kind of leaning toward an SUV now. I know it isn't as economical but the ride is so much more comfortable. But we're keeping our options open. And an ex-lease might be a way to go. I think leasers have more incentive to take better care of their cars. But I can't verify that!

[Guy]

I have read good things about the Honda Insight. I'm not sure how many it seats though. Price range is $19,800 to $21,300. A used one would cost you less, of course.

[avamerican]

Thanks guy, I'll look into the Insight--that's a hybrid, isn't it? Hopefully it's got 7 or more seats, the price definitely looks good. If it's a reliable vehicle, it might be perfect for us.