Hey everyone, new guy to the forum.
I'm currently driving a 2007 Toyota RAV4 V6 and have been looking at a replacement on/off for the past 12 months. Originally I had my eye on a '18 Honda CR-V, but their engine issues stopped that process in its tracks. I was also waiting on the release of the new RAV4 hybrid, but after test driving a non-hybrid one (and watching reviews), I think that ship has sailed as well. The quality, experience, and quiet cabin just isn't there.
I think I've reached my tipping point on my current RAV4 due to Toyota's inability to resolve a rear-end suspension/alignment issue. It's been the source of 3 recalls (https://www.torquenews.com/1083/toyota-rav4-suspension-recall-update-third-time-s-charm). I've now had the rear control arms replaced twice in the last 18 months; once as part of the recall and a second time due to alignment issues. Each time they do it, they have to epoxy the adjustment bolt, make it impossible to adjust. When it gets out of alignment (which it will...), it's a $400-500 fix; not including the tires you've probably already ruined. For that reason, I'd like to move on sooner rather than later.
With the inclusion of the new 2.5L Turbo, I'm now looking at a '18 CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve or Signature and definitely like what I see. I test drove one the other day and the only thing I didn't love was the driver seat and it's proximity to the center console. I'm 6'0 and it seemed my knee was too close to the padding. The seat also felt a little small in terms of width. Everything else about the drive was great. It definitely has the power I came to love from my current V6. The seat size and location are probably designed that way on purpose and just something to get used to. Probably not deal breakers.
Wow, seems I've already got a novel going. I guess I'll get to it. I had a couple questions I was hoping to shed some light on.
Well, if nothing else, thanks in advance for listening to me ramble.
I'm currently driving a 2007 Toyota RAV4 V6 and have been looking at a replacement on/off for the past 12 months. Originally I had my eye on a '18 Honda CR-V, but their engine issues stopped that process in its tracks. I was also waiting on the release of the new RAV4 hybrid, but after test driving a non-hybrid one (and watching reviews), I think that ship has sailed as well. The quality, experience, and quiet cabin just isn't there.
I think I've reached my tipping point on my current RAV4 due to Toyota's inability to resolve a rear-end suspension/alignment issue. It's been the source of 3 recalls (https://www.torquenews.com/1083/toyota-rav4-suspension-recall-update-third-time-s-charm). I've now had the rear control arms replaced twice in the last 18 months; once as part of the recall and a second time due to alignment issues. Each time they do it, they have to epoxy the adjustment bolt, make it impossible to adjust. When it gets out of alignment (which it will...), it's a $400-500 fix; not including the tires you've probably already ruined. For that reason, I'd like to move on sooner rather than later.
With the inclusion of the new 2.5L Turbo, I'm now looking at a '18 CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve or Signature and definitely like what I see. I test drove one the other day and the only thing I didn't love was the driver seat and it's proximity to the center console. I'm 6'0 and it seemed my knee was too close to the padding. The seat also felt a little small in terms of width. Everything else about the drive was great. It definitely has the power I came to love from my current V6. The seat size and location are probably designed that way on purpose and just something to get used to. Probably not deal breakers.
Wow, seems I've already got a novel going. I guess I'll get to it. I had a couple questions I was hoping to shed some light on.
- On my current RAV4, I can lock the "4WD" up to 25 miles per hour. I know the AWD system in the CX-5 automatically and predicatively engages the rear wheels when needed, but can it be "locked"?
- Safety ratings are really important to me for my next vehicle. The CX5 scores really well in both IIHS and NHTSA. On the GTR and Signature models, for the IIHS "Forward Collision Warning" rating, it says, "This system does not meet the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's criteria for forward collision warning." I did find where it explains how you earn a point of that test. It explains, "To earn a point for forward collision warning, the system must meet NHTSA criteria. That means the system must issue a warning before a specified time in 5 of 7 test trials under three scenarios. The agency identifies vehicles with systems that meet the standard as part of its online ratings." To me, it means the CX5 didn't warn either during a specific scenario or fast enough. Does anyone have more color on that result?
- For exterior color, I'm trying to decide between White and Deep Blue. I like the idea of black rims with those colors. When I asked the dealer about it, he said they will often powder coat factory wheels and include a warranty for their work. Have others had this done? How did it go?
Well, if nothing else, thanks in advance for listening to me ramble.