Quote:
Originally Posted by booger
yeah I agree. The crossover and mid size SUV is based off of a minivan platform anyway with FWD standard/base and the AWD/4x4 is based off FWD configuration with a transfer case etc. So no matter how they desribe it its an a V6 sitting in there sideways in a FWD platform. Whereas my Envoy sits on a half ton pickup frame and its base is a RWD platform but with the 4x4 and extra weight and moving parts which equals probably 2 plus MPG loss.
In the case of an AWD or 4x4 in the FWD platform you just can't expect much extra in those vehicles in regards to four wheel drive. If you want extra performance there you should go with a truck or full size SUV. I really like the Tahoe and Yukon, especially the new look of 2015 when they switched to a square body style like Ford Trucks. Those and the Suburbans are all really good looking vehicles but like a half ton truck the MPG is in the high teens.
If I she likes the traverse or Acadia or enclave I will probably tell her don't be upset if you find one with FWD only and not 4x4. Those set ups will probably perform comparably to a Chrysler minivan as far as MPG. I think the actual vans actually have a bit more horsepower but the gm mid size suv/crossover is a much better vehicle to look at. And a Toyota Sienna minivan probably makes the most sense for her. But any breakdowns are going to be more costly at the dealer because the good honest mechanic she uses doesn't work on foreign vehicles. He's never had the customer base with those vehicles so it never made sense for him to grow his business to work on them.
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Man, I was about to post and recommend a Trail Blazer/Envoy. Those were outstanding if not boring vehicles. I had precisely 0 problems with that 4.3 IL6 you can park it anywhere you want and turn it around in a phone booth. I’d buy one today if I could get a low mileage well cared for one.
I was trying to remember. I think the Traverse we had was AWD. Seemed like it was better in ice and snow than my limited experience with minivans (SILs had a Sienna and whatever the Pontiac one was. Montana?). I’d rather drive it than the minivans, but if I was a house to school commuter, I’d probably rather have the minivan.
RE FWD: people should seek out FWD. when I was in high school I had FWD cars and traversed some absolutely horrid roads that jackasses were getting pickups stuck in. It’s amazing what proper weight distribution will do for you. Only thing there is to worry about is clearance, and in my case, the condition of your tires (your guy here may have hydroplaned pretty hard on the turnpike outside of Topeka because I was running absolute rags. After I got control I pulled over on the shoulder and had to gather myself. )