Almost There!

[gd01]

Well, after browsing this forum for a time now, and comparison shopping between the RAV4 and the CRV, I am convinced that if I'm trading up, it will be to the CRV (hopefully EX, but may have to "settle" for the LX :? ). It looks like the best car for my purposes, and the insurance is considerably cheaper than the Toyota (safety rating? - probably :) ).

So, if I could impose upon you folks one more time with some questions... :

1) For those with 2nd generation CRV's, have you found the RT AWD living up to your expectations, particularly on snowy or drifted roads in high winds?

2) Any maintenance issues that are of a serious nature after a year or so driving (>20,000 km)?

3) What sort of gas mileage may I expect for the AT version (l/100 km preferably, but mpg as well - please state if the mpg are USA figures so I can convert to imperial gallons - thanks :wink: )

4) Anything else I should know about the vehicle, considering I live in SW Ontario, Canada but drive up the Bruce and to Muskoka and Sudbury on a reasonably frequent basis?

Thank you once again very much for your time and indulgance. Really appreciate it!

gd01

[bigdongers]

I have had my 02 V for almost 2 years now. I can only really answer questions 2 and 3 since I am not in your area and we dont get snow here.

2) I just had my 30,000km service done and it was a regular service. The only extra I had done was to replace the transmission fluid because the next service was a big one and adding the cost of the tranny fluid change would have made the 40k service quite expensive.

3) I have the AT and I get about 11-12L/100km with regular city driving.

If the budget stretches, get the EX. It will be worth it in the long run.

Good luck with your choice :)

[gd01]

Thanks bigdongers :D . Appreciate your time. Yup, I'll take your advice and go for the EX version (if I hang on for a few more months, I'll try to stretch it to the EX w/leather option - I LOVE moonroofs!).

Thanks again for your insights.

[Shel]

gd - I checked with my insurance before purchasing, and it was US$20 less per month than if I purchased the Rav4. Had I added some safety options to the Rav, it may have made that more even.

I have driven my V through some snow/snowstorms here - performed very well.

I have a MT so cannot give you an answer to that question on mileage.

IMO I felt the EX was worth it for the extra safety features.

[gd01]

Thanks very much for this! I was told by my insurance agent the RAV4 would be a whopping $400 more per year :-). Guess which choice I'll make (and yes, it would be the EX version)! Thanks for your help here.

[EnglishBob]

Definately stratch your budget and get the car you want.... if you got the LX and saved money and liked it, you would still be wishing you had got the EX...

Also, the extra you spend on this one will save you money on the next one, the EX is easier to sell and has a better residual value.

[wildswing]

Hi gd01,

I agree with English Bob. Stretch a little an buy the EX. You won't regret it. I have an '02 EX.

1 - the RT4WD work great in the snow (I'm in the Soo). The push you get from the rear when the RTAWD transfer toque to the rear takes a little getting used to. Results in understeer, but it beats anything I've driven in the past.

2 - No serious maintenance issues. I've had all TSBs taken care of: rocking seat, brake click, transmission shifter linkage at no cost. All were minor inconveniences. The linkage deal was to guard against possible future corrosion. It's the best new vehicle I've ever owned.

3 - My AT averages about 26 (US) mpg. I've got the L/100km written down too but I can never remember it. My milage started out lower then steadily increased during the first 10k.

4 - Accesorise it! Best stuff I bought were the cargo area liner and tray and a set of Husky floor mats for the winter. A HondaSUV.com and GoongalaGoonga sticker adorn the rear glass.

Don't forget to check out the Ontario Memberclub. There's a link in my signature.

[gd01]

Thanks guys! Man, sounds good! I think that's gotta be the next vehicle I own! :-). Appreciate the advice.