The transmission is garbage. And, for a hybrid, they could have provided better sound insulation. It’s the van equivalent of a Prius... it’s fiiine. I guess. If your heart pumps room temperature blood at 1 beat per minute.

Volvo V70R (with third-row seat from a donor V70)... buying used is better for the environment than buying new... credible architects drive Volvos and Saabs.

Neutral: The newly planned Ford Courier. If it’s done right (compact, capable, and tough-looking), it’ll sell like crazy

The merits of the ILX can be debated endlessly, but Steven might just be the customer Acura is looking for... Used, top trim, will come in under $25K.

Our dear friend is broke AF... he needs a car with zero surprises, and easy to fix when the going get rough. A new Rio or Fit is the right answer, but he wants “character”.

First Gear: While every automaker is looking to build itself as a “premium” brand, Ford should snatch up the US budget segment. Lower profit margins, but greater volume. Get ‘em on the back-end with OEM parts, subscription services, extended warranties, etc.

The base genesis with the 2.0L is a very good value (same goes for the Kia Stinger). However, the 3.3L Prestige (the one you want) goes waaay up in price, and you then start having to question if it’s worth it... Arguably, the Audi S4 might be a better value than g70 3.3L

A loud gasser is the right answer... A Chevy Nomad here to represent Jalopnik Wagon bia.

We’ve all been there... some more than others, but we’ve all done it.

Yes, Mexico... a few more years and we’ll be able to import them under the 25 yr law.

Ford made 4 door Rangers for Mexico... US didn’t get them.

Ford made 4 door Rangers for Mexico... US didn’t get them.

CP - 128k miles... Truck manufacturers should take note at these absurd resale values of small 4-door pickups. They’re stupid high, so clearly there’s a demand that new trucks aren’t filling. This ‘09 Ford All Trac is a good half-foot narrower than the “small” Honda Ridgeline.

Basically a new P100D under $35K... with unlimited tires and free supercharging.

Another option... if one exists without 150K+ miles or 99% rust...

Tom clearly has the right answer with the VW Golf Alltrac, so consider this an second place alternative...

Real physical buttons and knobs to control the basics (heat/AC, Radio, windows, etc.) Touchscreens are annoying; dangerous to use while driving (b/c you kinda have to look away, even if just for a split second), can’t be used with all gloves/mittens, shrine bright blue light in your eyes at night... and more.

Agreed... people constantly make the argument of “just rent an SUV (pick-up truck) when you need one”... but the cost savings of a minivan over an SUV can be lost after 1-2 rental excursions...