Buying a New Car

RedStar · June 20th, 2009, 02:43 AM

Well new to me. I'm in the market and I've got my eye on a few SUV's. I was wondering if anyone could give me any feedback as to personal experiences.

Right now I've got my eye on one of these:

A 2004 Isuzu Axiom

or a 2004 Nissan Xterra

They are both what I'm looking for. A fairly new Japanese SUV with good gas mileage (considering they are SUV's) Reliable, inexpensive, and unique. Although the Xterra could hardly be called unique anymore since it seems I see 30 or 40 a day.

Does anyone here own either of these or know someone who does? The Axiom is interesting to me because I don't know anyone who's owned one. It looks pretty amazing to me and one of the appealing things about it is the fact that no one does own it. Anyway, I know Nissan and Isuzu are known for their durability, just hoping for some first hand input, but really any input is welcome. Thanks guys!

1FitToBeTide · June 20th, 2009, 10:01 AM

Just ran these through Consumer Reports, it a nutshell:

The biggest beef with the Isuzu was the truck-like ride. It's built on the Trooper chassis. Otherwise, it rated out average; not awful, not awesome.

The Xterra reviewed as slightly better. Poor gas mileage biggest downer.

Don't know what your priorities in buying are, but CS is a pretty good resource for vehicle ratings.

Bonne chance!!

bayoutider · June 20th, 2009, 10:50 AM

I owned 1 Isuzu Rodeo it was the second year they made them. First year had GM drivetrains and after that they were all Isuzu. It was one of the better SUVs I owned, great dealer, great service and few problems. My son drove it through HS and college.

Rattlehead82 · June 20th, 2009, 12:09 PM

I drive a 2007 Xterra. I have no complaints other than the aforementioned gas mileage.

rhYno · June 20th, 2009, 01:17 PM

I drive an Aston Martin. It's an okay car, just not as luxurious as I wish it could be.

derek4tide · June 20th, 2009, 04:41 PM

MPG would be my top priority. Oil will hit $100 per barrel by August. We will see $3.50+ at the pump by then as well.

TheBamaMan · June 20th, 2009, 05:25 PM

My fiance has an 02 Xterra. been reliable but it has a VERY stiff suspension. You feel the entire road. I drive a Grand Cherokee that rides very smooth so thats what I am used to. I dont notice the gas mileage in the Xterra because neither of the two vehicles get very good I am sure butt hats what we are used to. Only drawback to me is how stiff it is.

RedStar · June 21st, 2009, 10:26 AM

I went with the Isuzu. The Xterra was sold before I had a chance to look at it, and the Axiom just looks sharp. It's an '04 but to me it looks like an '09. I even got them to knock 1,500 of the asking price too, all in all a pretty good day. This is the first vehicle I've ever bought.

This economy is one of the best things that could have happened to my generation (gen. Y) Cheap cars, extremely cheap houses, I just bought a $6,000 bedroom suit last week for $400. There is no better time to be in your mid to early 20's and be on the verge of starting a career and family.

Thanks for the vehicle input, too bad Isuzu doesn't make vehicle for the U.S. market anymore.