Need some help with a new vehicle for a friend...

[Original_Ranger84]

Keep her away from Zubadus. The boxer engines aren't great, they leak and break right around 100k, every time.

I'd say keep an eye out for a TDI Jetta wagon. They run forever, have a lot of space, and get great mileage. They tend to run a bit on the pricey side, but they also hold their value very well (3 years ago I booked one that was 5 years old and had 100K and it still came in over 10 grand).

You may all now begin flaming me for suggesting the VW.

YOur subarus made it to 100K miles?

My moms subaru would go through one every 40K miles probably, my friends went through 1 in 38K and it was on its way out again by 70K miles and my other friends just blew the motor at 29K. And no I am not joking or making this up. Subarus although some may actually be good I expect 7 of every 10 made will blowup before 100K miles.

I also say the element, its got or had plastic side panals which are great cause its not like your scratching paint if something happens, less door dings. Pretty rugged look and feel.

 

[dasfinc]

1. something that's good in the snow (she'd REALLY like a part-time 4x4 system, but would think about FT AWD or just FWD)
2. needs to have four doors & a hatchback of some sort, a small wagon would be nice
3. easy to get into and out of (she's in her early 70's, but still pretty spry)
4. inexpensive to buy, maintain & insure.
5. good on gas, she's frugle, but not anywhere close to a tightwad.
6. It's gotta be safe, but she doesn't want something that feels like it will crumple and be totaled at the slightest parking lot ding.

Its been mentioned, but you have seriously described a first generation honda CRV...

1) On the fly AWD
2) 5 doors
3) are fairly low, but have very upright seating stance
4) being first generation they are selling for 4-6K typically Vs 14+ of the second, and the B20 motor shares platforms with a large number of other hondas and are EXTREMELY cheap to maintain and repair
5) mid 20's without a problem
6) Plenty safe and roomy