Finding a new vehicle should not be this difficult. We bought our current vehicles in 2014 and 2016. COVID and inflation sure have changed car shopping. Reports of $50k as the price for the average new car are spot on. You definitely don’t get as much for your money and quality doesn’t seem to be the same. All one has to do is look at the recalls on 2020-2023 models.

I found models from Toyota, Honda and Subaru that meet my criteria. Availability in the trim levels and colors I prefer is a concern as many units sell as soon as they reach the dealer’s lot. Considering a used car? Previously owned models (2022-2024) aren’t priced that much less than a 2025 model either.

Basically, I need a smallish SUV that is nimble enough to get in and around Atlanta for therapy dog visits, plus have enough cargo room to carry my sewing gear to different events. I drive a lot, so AWD, good gas mileage and a comfortable ride are important to me. Enough legroom for hubby, a heated steering wheel and heated front seats are also must-haves. The desire for leather interior puts the Honda and Subaru products at the top of my list.

Then there’s one additional constraint. Due to the way our garage is configured, one parking spot is a bit shorter than the other side to accommodate stairs leading from the garage into the kitchen. Vehicle length is something I have to take into consideration. Anything over 190″ in length is out. After seeing the Honda Passport next to my current vehicle at the quilt show on Saturday, I’m questioning if it might be too big, even though comes in at 189″ in length.

My current ride is starting to act a little flighty again. Given all that is coming in 2025 with teaching bi-weekly classes at the SQTM and weekly therapy dog visits, I’d like to get the new vehicle purchase finalized before Christmas.