Looking for Opinions: Keep the Z or buy an SUV
 

I've seen a number of members here move on to their next car for many reasons. Unfortunately, I'm faced with making a decision to keep or trade in my car, so I've decided to ask for some opinions.

I was recently promoted to a position which requires a lot of driving (almost 1000 miles of driving a month just for work). I thought the Z would be fine, but I quickly found I need more space in my car, will be toting around more than 1 person, and I frequent Industrial areas (has many driveways which scrape my underside and rough roads). I decided an SUV would be a more functional option considering I'm looking to settle down, will need something to haul materials for home improvement, I have an active lifestyle (Biking/snowboarding/camping/etc), and like the room (I'm 6'3" and having a taller car is much easier in and out).

So after much consideration, I've decided on the following options:

1) Buy a new car, trade-in the Z. I've been looking at the Q5, FX 35, and X3 as SUV that still have a somewhat sporty feel. (I've test drove them all, I feel the Q5 2.0T is the front runner) Downside: No more sports car, no more rowing through 6 gears)

or

2) Buy a new/used car for 20-24K, and keep the Z. In this category, I've looked at the V6 RAV4, used 4Runners/Highlander. Downsides: Two cars, currently living in a complex with limited parking, and double the cost of maintenance/insurance.

Things to consider:

1) I still have about a year worth of payment for the Z.
2) My company pays for mileage and maintenance.

I'm sure many here have had to make similar decisions. If anyone can chime in with some opinion or even other options, I'd appreciate it!

Of course I'm going to go with option 2, since I love my car, but I'll give you my reasoning.

Your costs in insurance or maintenance won't be close to double, since you'll be splitting your mileage between the two. If you are the only driver, your insurance will probably only go up a small amount. Will you know ahead of time if you need to go to a industrial area? If so, and of course you still enjoy your car, I'd just keep it and get a used vehicle as well.

I'm doing option 2. I live in a snowy area anyway, so I need a 2nd car, or something that's usable in snow.

Also, I tried having one car but I hate worrying about it when it's parked at the grocery store or whatever, so I never use the Z for that kind of stuff.

Go with option 1, so that I can get first dibs on the BERK HFC's:)

Well I set my schedule as far as where I'm going. Another issue is where I keep my cars. I prefer to keep the Z garaged. I'm moving to a new a place where my gf and I can save money for a wedding and a house. Out here in OC its difficult to find a nice place with a garage, and save money at the same time.

Also, buying a used car/2nd car may require a second loan which would increase my income to debt ratio affecting getting a larger loan for a house.

If you're planning on keeping the Z I would get a cheaper used car than what you listed.

Older 4-Runners, Xterras, and Pathfinders are still really reliable and are easy to find.

If you're ultimate goal is to buy a house you should try to buy the cheapest/ most reliable car available rather than something brand new that will just put you further in debt.