I SERIOUSLY doubt that the FJ with any features is going to be in the low 20s. I'm thinking more like 27k. Another minus for the FJ is that it looks like it will be using the 4runners engine and drivetrain which is good for offroad, but bad for gas mileage (especially with the bigger tires). I'm thinking the FJ is going to get 18mpg with the current setup. The gas mileage might change if they put the Solara/RAV4 engine in the FJ.

 

If utility is important, none of the mentioned vehicles offer the same space as the Element for the price. It is an odd vehicle, but once you check it out, it grows on you.

 

I owned a Vibe (same as Matrix inside), and was pleased. It is a great utility vehicle, handles like a car, very roomy, and averages 33 mpg. The downside, the Corolla engine is just adequate - I recommend the manual transmission and/or the GT if you enjoy driving at all. The flat rear cargo area is versatile: long enough to sleep with camp pads for 2 friendly people under 6'. 2 bikes will also fit vertically with front wheels removed.

At the time, GM incentives plus a GM credit card let me buy it for $13k with some options. Too bad it was stolen, lived in for a month, and the tires worn bald. I sold it to Carmax.

 

Thanks for the input everyone; keep it coming!

 

[QUOTE=lyndon_h,Feb 16 2006, 05:11 AM] I SERIOUSLY doubt that the FJ with any features is going to be in the low 20s.

 

I was in the market for the same thing as you. Needed a decent wagon/small ute that had plenty of space, comfy (I drive 150 miles a day) and got good gas mileage.

I bought an 03 Vibe Gt. It has a little bit of guts (180horse), 6 speed manual, has alot more space than you would think, is comfy for my commute and I get 31mpg. I got it with moonroof and audio package. The fold down seats are awesome along with the plastic covering so you don't wreck your interior. tie downs everywhere.

I didn't look at the element for 2 reasons. 1) ugly as sin, 2) way overpriced.
I did look at the Rav4, Mazda3 hatch (which I really liked, but smaller inside and pricey)equinox, volvo hatch, ect... Vibe was the best bang for my buck..

good luck.

 

Well point 1 is subjective - I really like the '06s.

Nonetheless, point 2 is odd - I'm finding the Element to be a relative bargain compared especially to the CR-V. The CR-V is pricey, and dealers aren't willing to budge. On the other hand, dealers around here seem to have quite a few Elements in inventory.

San Diego loves the Element?

However, I'll take a look at the Vibe. Thanks.

 

Yeah, the Element is a little cheaper than the CR-V, definitely.

But i paid under 8k for my used Vibe Gt.. can't beat that for the price..

 

The Forester kicks ass if you can afford it. We have a 02 and it has got to be one of the best handling small suvs out there. I live in a mountain comunity w/ 30 miles of canyon coumuting every day and I'm always amazed at how well it handles. It also goes just about anywhere with, in my opinion, the best AWD system available. I've got a bunch of stories about how our little Forester drove confidently through snow storms while other 4wd suvs/trucks slid into the ditches. My only complaint about ours is that it's a little underpowered. However, my Father in law just purchased the 06 Forester XT and it's FAST. Just my 2 cents.

 

+1 for the Forrester if you can get a good deal