Since everyone has an opinion
When Megan and I return to the states in July, we’ll need to buy a few things to get us settled in again: new stamps, groceries, sunscreen, and…a, oh yeah, a car. See we sold both of our cars before we left for our year abroad.
I’ve been researching for what seems like forever and narrowed it down to two (well, basically–I took the Jetta TDI out since it may not start well in very cold weather, and the Civic is a fantastic car, but a bit wee, and Megan just doesn’t we don’t think the Prius fits our style).
So let’s pretend we’re choosing between the CR-V and Accord. We’re going to be a one car family so we need the vehicle to be reliable – both are. We need something safe, big enough for car pools, and fun to drive is always nice – both got it. So here’s my thoughts…
CR-V: Everyone I know who has one loves it. Great room everywhere, especially the back – that’d be real handy for our bikes. It’s crazy safe. And, hey, it’s much cooler than I am. The main problem is ethical. It gets the best mileage in its class, better than most cars, but 20 city 30 hwy isn’t a hybrid. Then again, if we’re going to keep it 10+ years it’s upkeep costs are lower than the Accord. But would I be joining the ranks of an SUV owner (rather than a “crossover vehicle”)?
Accord: My previous car was an Accord and my experience was as most: great solid car. It’s not a looker, but it performs like none other. The bikes would be more of a problem, but the mileage would pay for the annoyingness of a rack. We’d get a manual, which the CR-V doesn’t offer. Dual AC is pretty spiffy. But would I be the boring predictable pastor?
So I’d be real interested in what folks had to say. Are we sinners if we get the CR-V? Is the classic styling of the Accord just too boring for my uber-boring personality?
To vote, go to this simple, straight-forward, bound-to-work poll here. If you vote “other” I’d love to know what “other” you have in mind.
(and if anyone knows how a better way for polls in posts in wordpress please let me know)
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You mean you aren’t even considering a Prius? We LOVE ours, and have found it has much more room than you’d expect. Our previous car was a used Accord, and we’ve been much happier with our Prius.
Now you’re making me feel guilty!
Yes, we’ve considered a Prius but here’s my main concerns/questions. How will it run in 10 years (when Megan will have thousands of med school debts and I may be considering further education)? How will it strike members of my unknown first call who might have certain stigmas against folks who drive Prii?
Then specifically about the car: if we got a car, I’d prefer a manual (so the civic hybrid?); I don’t like the electronic spedometer placement; I just don’t get an exited feeling about it–I’m not sure we could bond.
My Dad has one and loves it. We hope to go carbon neutral next year, and live more sustainable lives so a Prius makes sense but it just doesn’t speak to me.
Alright man – well, Sarah automatically said, “Why is he not considering a Yaris?”
I love Hondas but an Accord is too boring I think. A Civic Hybrid would be cool, but you lose TONS of trunk room (which is important to me). That’s why we like the Yaris because it has a TON of room in it – inside, trunk, etc.
If money wasn’t an issue, we probably would have gone with a Hybrid, but…it was, and the 40mpg of the Yaris at $15k brand new was pretty damn good.
Great lease deal on the H2 now. Zero down, $330 a month. For a $55K car, you’re never going to see an offer like this again. Don’t get too self-righteous about “joining the ranks of SUV owners.” They are the ones keeping the economy running and keeping the global temperature steady as the earth naturally is heading to an ice age thanks to the decrease in sun spots.
http://www.hummer.com/?goto_page=/finance/special_offers_h2.swf&goto_nav=finance#/AMERICAS/us/
Daniel, I’ll keep your comment up because I’m in a nice mood and it’s good for people to see what’s out there, but it’s ludicrous.
I am against everything a Hummer stands for, on theological, ethical, environmental, and common-sense grounds. The future of a strong American economy lies in environmentally-friendly products and technology, and the future of our world depends on it.
Acts 10; Romans 14:2.
The future of a strong American economy is on reducing reliance on imports. It is part of the reason the dollar is so devalued today. All the cars suggested are imports (even if some were manufactured in the US).
I am for everything a Hummer stands for, on Genesis 1:28.
What about the Ford Escape Hybrid?
We have both a CRV and an Accord. Love the CRV. A Civic hybrid is too small for Adam. Eric was crushed into the drivers seat. Tall people have special needs.
Oh, I missed the boring predictable part. Yes, you would be boring and predictable, just like Eric. Our daughters even proclaimed “Daddy is boring” when he bought the exact same car he already had only without 15 years wear and tear. You Accordians (HA!)just can’t make a switch.
Sometimes you just have to say “you know, I’m not too exciting, and that’s OK.” Accord drivers unite!
Barbara
p.s. I think worrying about what people think of your Prius is a little silly, though. Unless one of your alternate personalities surfaces during the interview process, I think it extremely unlikely that you would be called to a congregation where Prius drivers are stigmatized in any way…and the handful of people who might stereotype you on that basis will QUICKLY find other things to hold against you instead.
Thanks Barbara. I love your “they’ll quickly find other things to hold against you” point. But hey, worrying is something I’m really good at. Don’t take that from me.
Adam and Megan, I have the best solution. Buy my car. Its a Subaru Forester and I love it. What a great car and I promise nothing but good vibes coming from it. Besides its Reformed. It suits you perfectly. Of course it does have a 6 CD changer. That might be more than you need