thanks for the feedback! we'll definitely take a more serious look at the Scoobies now.
to answer a few of your comments:
1) The Saab can hold a 4x8 sheet of plywood. In fact, it can hold five. So that is covered for the time being. Besides, that is the one household item I haven't found necessary to buy ... YET!
2) The Saab SUV, 9-7x, is just a rebadged TrailBlazer and it's ugly, IMO. And I don't want to invest in GM products.
3) I realize that the Escape and Tribute are essentially the same car, but I have driven both and there is something about the Mazda that looks and feels sportier. And the customer service is far better.
4) The Freelander shares *some* components with the Ford counterparts, but it is a completely different car. I think some of the engine bits are shared and that's about it.
5) As for pickup trucks, I don't need THAT much utility and I need A LOT more sport than they can offer. And she says a Lightning is out of the question for now...
6) As for wagons, we are sort of considering the Mazda 6, Volvo XC70, and Saab 95 Aero. But neither of us are completely enthralled about driving a wagon at age 27.
7) As for Nissan, our Infiniti is a great little car. 41000 miles on it and nothing to repair except an O2 sensor which was under warranty. So, Nissan is currently at the top of the list, but I don't know much about their trucks other than the QX4 which is just a hopped up Pathfinder, and the FX35/45 which is an amazing machine, but she doesn't like that either. (But I get to drive her dad's when I want.)
Keep the suggestions coming....
