WyattH

Hey guys... I am looking to buy a new car this Summer. It will be a daily driver.
I want a midsize SUV, or maybe a truck.

I don't want to spend over $7,000.
I am looking at 1997-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokees.

I want something cheap, reliable, easy to maintain, not stolen everyday, comfortable, etc.

Any idea?
I briefly looked at mid-late 90s Land Rover Discoveries and Toyota 4Runners.... Hmmm

1998 Infiniti QX4?

Chris Stack

How about a non-grand Cherokee? My gf had one (traded for a Liberty) and it was a great little truck. If you buy a late model one, they had all the bugs worked out after almost 20 years of making them. The only "problem" is that the Jeep fans love them, and it keeps prices a little high. But you should definately be able to get one for $6-7k.

The Discovery is NOT what I'd call cheap or easy to maintain.

WyattH

Yeah, I am not too serious about the Discovery.

The problem with the Cherokee is that I am NOT a Jeep fan. And to me they are too ugly and boxy.

I do like the 96-98 body style of the GC though.

I would like a Wrangler, but they are too pricey. Suckers dont depreciate at all!

I wont be offroading or towing, but I would like 4WD and not a complete turd.
Keep the suggestions coming! Thanks!

steve c

Based on personal experience here -- 4runner.

Saint_Spinner

My friend went through 3 Mazda (for ranger) pickups...never had any problems with those. So simple. It does what its supposed to do. Not too big either. Just make sure you get one with the extended cab (extra jump seats in the back).

Theyre very affordable too.

S2KBDub

Do NOT get a GC. I had a 2004 for 7 months , and after 32 trips back to the dealer for various problems, Chrysler took it off of my hands reluctantly, and I got the S. Before the 2004, I had a 1997, and I had few major problems, but the car will nickle and dime you to death! Go for the 4 Runner or try to find an XTerra.

Saki GT

You could get a Subaru Forester as new as 01 for 7k. Or a Hyundai Santa Fe as new as an 02 for 7k. Also an 02 2wd Xterra for about 7k.

WyattH

Thanks guys!

I think the GC out now, mainly because of the gas mileage and now the nickle and diming statement.

My dad has a Ranger, and I dont really need the bed of a truck so to speak. I would like to keep the search for an SUV if I can, for more usable backseats.

4Runners are nice, and in the range. I just need to check maintenance costs.

I am really thinking about spending a little more and getting a 1998 Inifiniti QX4. Any opinions? I love the 2001 with the bigger engine, but that is closer to $14k. Nissan Pathfinder is similar, but I hate getting less than the best (in it's range). HMM...
Hmmmmm do I take out a 1 year loan on $5k to start building my credit?

(I'm 18 and paid for the S2 in cash so I have no credit)

Thanks, guys!

<FWIW, I bought the S2 myself and will be buying this myself>

S2KBDub

I don't think you can go wrong with a Q.

The QX4 is rated as a "best buy" by Consumer Reports.

Here's what else they had to say about it.

"Overview: This upscale version of the Nissan Pathfinder has a relatively comfortable ride, good front seats, and predictable handling. The steering feels slow, rubbery, and heavy in normal driving. Acceleration is slow and the automatic transmission often shifts annoyingly to maintain speed on hills. 2000 brought a more powerful engine, stronger brakes, and better-placed controls. Except for the QX4's selectable full-time 4WD system (available on the Pathfinder LE from 2001), the Nissan is a better choice. The car-based FX replaced the QX4 in 2003.

Safety equipment: Dual front air bags standard. Side air bags and safety-belt pretensioners standard from 1999. ABS standard."

Looks like 2000 model year was the best year for the Q, and was only rated slightly less until Infiniti axed it in 2003.

Estimated retail prices

1998 $8,500 - $10,600
1999 $10,300 - $13,500
2000 $13,000 - $15,500
2001 $15,900 - $19,600
2002 $18,400 - $22,500
2003 $21,000 - $25,300

S2kracka

Montero Sport.