Freri-swami
Member
Hi All,
I'm new to this forum ... time will tell whether I stick around ... your advice could be a big factor too! Thanks in advance!
I am currently evaluating several options for my new car including the Mazda CX-9, Saturn Outlook, Honda Ridgeline, Chevy Avalanche, Lincoln MKX, etc. Since I don't want to put much $$$ down and I need/want AWD and fully loaded (ex-DVD player is fine), some things just don't fit the budget ... monthly payment needs to start with a "5" (or less if possible!). My two most enjoyable test drives (for cars that I can afford) were the CX-9 and the Saturn Outlook. Next weekend I'd like to do a back-to-back test drive to get my second opinion.
For anyone that looked at the Saturn Outlook before buying their CX-9, any input for me? All topics are fair game (reliability, looks, drive, electronics, pricing, features/amenities, etc.).
My initial impressions were:
- Outlook looks & drives more like an SUV ... CX-9 more like a car/mini-van
- Both had really nice electronics (NAV, climate controls, etc.) ... CX-9 did have a back-up camera which was nifty (available on '08 Outlooks I hear) & the credit card shaped key is cool!
- Outlook's interior plastics & carpet seemed a bit lower grade than the Mazda, as did the storage compartment latches, etc. (although the faux wood-trim was nicely done in the Outlook)
- CX-9 did not feel as "luxurious" in its appointments ... it felt like a stereotypical Mazda (fully functional, practical, nicely appointed Japanese car) ... I almost felt like I was driving a mini-van. Frankly, I'm not sure the Saturn was that much better in this regard but for some reason I just didn't feel as "cool" in the CX-9. With that said, telling your friends you just bought a "Saturn" has some risk as well but maybe the tide is turning there.
- sticker prices are comparable but I know that I can get the Mazda down ... not sure about this Saturn "no negotiation policy"
I believe my comments will sound like I'm partial towards the Saturn ... but in the end I will admit I love seeing a Stormy Blue Mica CX-9 rolling down the street and when I test drove one I couldn't really point to many/any flaws. Hence this post!
Notes:
- 90% of the time the third row seats will be folded down ... I have no kids
- I am replacing an Audi A6 which I love to drive but it just spends too much time in the shop and I feel like I want a bigger car for my 6'3" height
Thanks!
Scott
I'm new to this forum ... time will tell whether I stick around ... your advice could be a big factor too! Thanks in advance!
I am currently evaluating several options for my new car including the Mazda CX-9, Saturn Outlook, Honda Ridgeline, Chevy Avalanche, Lincoln MKX, etc. Since I don't want to put much $$$ down and I need/want AWD and fully loaded (ex-DVD player is fine), some things just don't fit the budget ... monthly payment needs to start with a "5" (or less if possible!). My two most enjoyable test drives (for cars that I can afford) were the CX-9 and the Saturn Outlook. Next weekend I'd like to do a back-to-back test drive to get my second opinion.
For anyone that looked at the Saturn Outlook before buying their CX-9, any input for me? All topics are fair game (reliability, looks, drive, electronics, pricing, features/amenities, etc.).
My initial impressions were:
- Outlook looks & drives more like an SUV ... CX-9 more like a car/mini-van
- Both had really nice electronics (NAV, climate controls, etc.) ... CX-9 did have a back-up camera which was nifty (available on '08 Outlooks I hear) & the credit card shaped key is cool!
- Outlook's interior plastics & carpet seemed a bit lower grade than the Mazda, as did the storage compartment latches, etc. (although the faux wood-trim was nicely done in the Outlook)
- CX-9 did not feel as "luxurious" in its appointments ... it felt like a stereotypical Mazda (fully functional, practical, nicely appointed Japanese car) ... I almost felt like I was driving a mini-van. Frankly, I'm not sure the Saturn was that much better in this regard but for some reason I just didn't feel as "cool" in the CX-9. With that said, telling your friends you just bought a "Saturn" has some risk as well but maybe the tide is turning there.
- sticker prices are comparable but I know that I can get the Mazda down ... not sure about this Saturn "no negotiation policy"
I believe my comments will sound like I'm partial towards the Saturn ... but in the end I will admit I love seeing a Stormy Blue Mica CX-9 rolling down the street and when I test drove one I couldn't really point to many/any flaws. Hence this post!
Notes:
- 90% of the time the third row seats will be folded down ... I have no kids
- I am replacing an Audi A6 which I love to drive but it just spends too much time in the shop and I feel like I want a bigger car for my 6'3" height
Thanks!
Scott