What new (to me) vehicle should I get?

In My Humble Opinion
1

It is time to say goodbye to the little truck that could.
Sniff, sniff, moving on.

Here are my requirements:

Fuel efficiency: I’m not averse to diesel, since I can’t afford the Prius

Space: enough for two dogs, a lanky husband, and several suitcases and dog beds, so maybe something like a wagon, like the TDI

Safety: ABS and swift acceleration, good crash ratings, all wheel drive would be awesome since we may be moving to a snowy area, but there goes the fuel efficiency.

Reliable, and not too expensive to maintain.

So, there are my hopes and dreams for a new to me vehicle, I’m hoping some car buffs out there will be able to help point me in the right research direction. I’ve been to Edmunds.com, but am interested in what real people might come up with.

Also, I’d like to keep it under ten grand, and around five thousand would be ideal. I hate car dealerships, so we’re talking private party prices out there.

Thanks in advance!

2

So you want a big, fast, efficient, safe, reliable cheap vehicle…join the club.

3

So you want a big, fast, efficient, safe, reliable cheap, vehicle…join the club.

4

Terribly helpful, but not quite the comment I was looking for…

How is the weather in the “Land of Make-Belive”[sic]?

The resale value on a five year old TDI Volkswagen Jetta Wagon isn’t so bad, perhaps someone who isn’t a social retard could supply me with other options, or personal experiences with a similar vehicle?

5

Sorry, Passat wagon, not Jetta.