Your other vehicle

Disclaimer: Links on this page pointing to Amazon, eBay and other sites may include affiliate code. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission.

MMM

Senior Member
Joined
Aug 16, 2014
Posts
123
Reaction score
41
Ram Year
2014
Engine
5.7 Hemi
Please bear with me.
So I have a 2014 RAM Laramie with only 42k miles that I bought brand new.
Don't get me wrong, I love my truck.
However, after 4.5 years, work now says I have to start coming in again, versus working from home.
Now, the truck is not the most economical vehicle to drive into work and park in smaller spots.
So I have been debating a small putt-around vehicle.
I live in New England, so snow capable is desired.
I have been all over the spectrum from a Jeep Wrangler, Subaru Crosstrek, BMW Mini and even fun cars like Miata RF convertible hardtop and even the BRZ. (Yup, I know, but the whole mid-life crisis thing. lol)
My wife has a Rogue and while I don't love the car, the seating height and in-out isn't terrible.
I recently tried a 2020 Camry for short money. While a nice car with great MPG's, I feel it's impossible getting in and out without trouble. (No, I'm not fat, 165lbs.)
Being in a truck like the RAM has spoiled me from a seating height, comfort and safety standpoint.

What have you bought that you are happy with for a capable smaller vehicle?

Thanks!
 
Last edited:

turkeybird56

Military Vet 1976-1996 Retired US Army
Military
Joined
Aug 2, 2018
Posts
18,759
Reaction score
42,960
Location
Central Texas
Ram Year
2019 Bighorn, 4 X 4, 3.21 rear, Bright Flame Red Pearl Coat, Mopar tonneau cover,Westin Bed rug
Engine
Hemi 5.7
Well, only (1) truck option: My other (2) slightly limited: But no Blizzards here normally, just tornadoes and hurricanes and a lil warm.

Of course I am being facetious. But with the OP being in New England and weather issues, maybe something like a Rogue or Murano would work, something with AWD or 4WD available. I did need the 4WD option in Feb 21 when it was -5F and 8" of snow on ground with ice (10 years of snow 1 night).
 

Attachments

  • IMG_1188.JPG
    IMG_1188.JPG
    258.6 KB · Views: 12
  • Misty.jpg
    Misty.jpg
    87.1 KB · Views: 12

PolarisCobra

Senior Member
Joined
Jul 16, 2018
Posts
457
Reaction score
643
Location
Mendon, MA
Ram Year
2017
Engine
5.7 HEMI
Never met anyone who owned a Subaru who didn't like it. Don't know if they are that good, or if it's a cult thing like Jeeps. My daughter had one a while back, and it was a good car.

Don't be afraid to look at the Hyundais, they are really quite reliable, and you can't beat the warranty.

I picked up a low cost commuter car a while back, to reduce the miles on the truck, and for ease of parking. I didn't worry about 4WD for that. On a snowy day, I would just take the truck, but more often the visit was cancelled anyway. Nothing says you can't take the truck once in a while when it makes sense.
 

KoboldTaco

Senior Member
Supporting Member
Joined
Mar 6, 2022
Posts
418
Reaction score
532
Location
Los Angeles
Ram Year
2022
Engine
Cummins 6.7L
After 4.5 years, what is the reason your employer is requiring you to come to the office? I would find a job that fits how you want to work vs. just accepting going back into the office because they said so.

You hit an issue for me here - just because is not a good enough reason. Covid is still a thing and well, inflation and the oil prices are all the more reasons to offer flexibility.

I also realize that remote work is not an option for all business models. Perhaps it is just time for you to go back to the office but not knowing the details, I might push the issue a bit.

I say away from anything Ford or Chevy. Subaru would be my first brand to investigate and older models seem to be reliable as heck along with helping the affordability factor.

Don’t forget to weigh the cost of having another car in the stable. Insurance, maintenance, tags etc is all money still leaving your wallet. I’m sure if you are having to report in 5 days a week it will still be savings over fuel Cost; only calling it out as not to overlook it :)
 
OP
OP
M

MMM

Senior Member
Joined
Aug 16, 2014
Posts
123
Reaction score
41
Ram Year
2014
Engine
5.7 Hemi
Hyundai's reading about the engine problems between them and KIA had me a little shy about it.
I was looking at their cube vehicle, but backed away after reading about their engine problems over several years.

Never met anyone who owned a Subaru who didn't like it. Don't know if they are that good, or if it's a cult thing like Jeeps. My daughter had one a while back, and it was a good car.

Don't be afraid to look at the Hyundais, they are really quite reliable, and you can't beat the warranty.

I picked up a low cost commuter car a while back, to reduce the miles on the truck, and for ease of parking. I didn't worry about 4WD for that. On a snowy day, I would just take the truck, but more often the visit was cancelled anyway. Nothing says you can't take the truck once in a while when it makes sense.
 
OP
OP
M

MMM

Senior Member
Joined
Aug 16, 2014
Posts
123
Reaction score
41
Ram Year
2014
Engine
5.7 Hemi
I've been at my company for over 24 years.
They starter a pilot to work from home over 4.5 years ago and I was on the list first.
I worked more hours when I worked from home, so it was a win/win for everyone.
3-4 hours a day travel just sux.
(Between driving to train station, parking fees, t-pass fee's, etc. Full time going in cost me $4-7k a year extra , not to mention wear on my truck on tires and brakes. That's why I have lower milage.)
For me, I kind of ruled out American cars/SUV's, just based on reading over many years. Love my truck though.

When covid hit, everyone went remote. After it recently eased up, they decided to go to a hybrid model. So now everyone must do it.
Really sux to be honest. Working from home, making my lunch, being healthier about it, losing 85lbs, running 7+ miles every day, worked because I had more control. I've already gained back 5+ lbs since coming back in just over a month ago. Losing that 4 hours of my day, makes it tough. Also had to buy new work clothes, do laundry more often. lol
I'll stop my rants for now. :)

Yes, insurance, tags, that all plays into it as well.
Originally I wanted another car, for the mid-life crisis thing, but it seemed like a good idea to get something practical if I went that route.

After 4.5 years, what is the reason your employer is requiring you to come to the office? I would find a job that fits how you want to work vs. just accepting going back into the office because they said so.

You hit an issue for me here - just because is not a good enough reason. Covid is still a thing and well, inflation and the oil prices are all the more reasons to offer flexibility.

I also realize that remote work is not an option for all business models. Perhaps it is just time for you to go back to the office but not knowing the details, I might push the issue a bit.

I say away from anything Ford or Chevy. Subaru would be my first brand to investigate and older models seem to be reliable as heck along with helping the affordability factor.

Don’t forget to weigh the cost of having another car in the stable. Insurance, maintenance, tags etc is all money still leaving your wallet. I’m sure if you are having to report in 5 days a week it will still be savings over fuel Cost; only calling it out as not to overlook it :)
 

PolarisCobra

Senior Member
Joined
Jul 16, 2018
Posts
457
Reaction score
643
Location
Mendon, MA
Ram Year
2017
Engine
5.7 HEMI
I have a 2022 Palisade, only been six months, but we are very happy with it. My son has had several, they have been very good, and when there was a problem, the warranty work was done without issue. They have a Santa Fe, the transmission started acting up. One visit to the dealer, they agreed to replace it, and gave them a loaner while the work was in process. Others I know have had very good performance.

I have seen reports of engine issues, but don't know any one personally. But - I also have not experienced hemi tick, or any of the other things you read about on this form that scares lots of people away from our trucks.
 
  • Like
Reactions: MMM
OP
OP
M

MMM

Senior Member
Joined
Aug 16, 2014
Posts
123
Reaction score
41
Ram Year
2014
Engine
5.7 Hemi
Besides my factory brake pad material falling off the backing off on the highway and causing me to soil myself, mine has been good. I do have the issue where when it is bitter cold out, the air suspension throws a code to get immediate service. I heard this was common on 2014 air rides and the valve must be replaced, or something.

I need tires now and dread the $1200 price tag, since they will rott out before I wear them out. :)

I have a 2022 Palisade, only been six months, but we are very happy with it. My son has had several, they have been very good, and when there was a problem, the warranty work was done without issue. They have a Santa Fe, the transmission started acting up. One visit to the dealer, they agreed to replace it, and gave them a loaner while the work was in process. Others I know have had very good performance.

I have seen reports of engine issues, but don't know any one personally. But - I also have not experienced hemi tick, or any of the other things you read about on this form that scares lots of people away from our trucks.
 
Last edited:

turkeybird56

Military Vet 1976-1996 Retired US Army
Military
Joined
Aug 2, 2018
Posts
18,759
Reaction score
42,960
Location
Central Texas
Ram Year
2019 Bighorn, 4 X 4, 3.21 rear, Bright Flame Red Pearl Coat, Mopar tonneau cover,Westin Bed rug
Engine
Hemi 5.7
Besides my factory brake pad material falling off the backing off on the highway and causing me to soil myself, mine has been good. I do have the issue where when it is bitter cold out, the air suspension throws a code to get immediate server. I heard this was common on 2014 air rides and the valve must be replaced, or something.

I need tires now and dread the $1200 price tag, since they will rott out before I wear them out. :)
I bought my AT3W's Falkens at the Dealer. I got "C" rated, it was buy 3, get 1 free, was $863.00 out the door. 18" tires on MY 19 DT Truck RAM 1500.
 
  • Like
Reactions: MMM

turkeybird56

Military Vet 1976-1996 Retired US Army
Military
Joined
Aug 2, 2018
Posts
18,759
Reaction score
42,960
Location
Central Texas
Ram Year
2019 Bighorn, 4 X 4, 3.21 rear, Bright Flame Red Pearl Coat, Mopar tonneau cover,Westin Bed rug
Engine
Hemi 5.7
Sorry, forgot to add that I was looking at possibly a Subaru Crosstrek as well.
Subaru AWD seems to be highly rated.
I have a Friend that has a Subaru that is his DD and he loves it. He has his non-daily driver Chevy LT Camaro in garage.
 
  • Like
Reactions: MMM

Dean2

Senior Member
Joined
Jun 17, 2021
Posts
2,719
Reaction score
3,941
Location
Near Edmonton
Ram Year
2021 2500
Engine
6.4
A good used Lexus GS350 AWD is hard to beat. Good size car with lots of room, quiet, nimble, great handling in sport mode, great ride in regular mode and a ton of go from the naturally aspirated 6. Great cars, reliable, decent mielage and an excellent, rear wheel drive based AWD system, so it is rear biased on dry roads.
 
  • Like
Reactions: MMM

ncdave

Junior Member
Joined
May 26, 2022
Posts
15
Reaction score
14
Location
28117
Ram Year
2021
Engine
5.7 hemi
wife has a honda CRV. available in AWD for your snowy commutes and I find getting in and out easier than sedans which are lower to the ground. they can be lifted somewhat too for better entry/exit. 30 mpg commuting. can't complain too much except it's not my truck. :)

BTW...I ride my motorcycle to work to avoid the current fuel costs.
 
  • Like
Reactions: MMM
OP
OP
M

MMM

Senior Member
Joined
Aug 16, 2014
Posts
123
Reaction score
41
Ram Year
2014
Engine
5.7 Hemi
My brother worked for a place up until recently.
I could have got 4 of another brand for ~$650.
I lost out.
I bought my AT3W's Falkens at the Dealer. I got "C" rated, it was buy 3, get 1 free, was $863.00 out the door. 18" tires on MY 19 DT Truck RAM 1500.
 

tcass

Junior Member
Joined
Apr 20, 2014
Posts
28
Reaction score
10
Location
Southern Maryland
Ram Year
2022
Engine
3.0 V6 Echo-diesel
why not trade it in for a new Rebel echo-diesel. @ 28 MPG and its ready for the snow. I have one on the way. I went from a 2000 Cummins 6 speed to a 2014 RAM SPORT to a Gladiator High Altitude and I'm going back to RAM for similar reasons, it spoiled me. Its a little pricey but its the last vehicle i should be buying. I decided i would go down my list with the order form and get what i wanted. Supposed to be in Baltimore tomorrow or so. then hoping no more than a week to get to southern maryland.
What part of New England are you from. I'm from the NY border area near Pittsfield Mass and Bennington VT. i go back yearly for hunting season, so a capable snow and off road vehicle is what i wanted. Rebel fit the bill.
 
OP
OP
M

MMM

Senior Member
Joined
Aug 16, 2014
Posts
123
Reaction score
41
Ram Year
2014
Engine
5.7 Hemi
TBH, not looking to get into a diesel. (Those diesel gas prices though!)
Also, it appears the jury is still out on the 3rd gen eco-diesel reliability, as it is too new.

I am keeping this truck for now, just need that small putt-putt locally.

I am in close to the Boston Area and travel locally.

Thx

why not trade it in for a new Rebel echo-diesel. @ 28 MPG and its ready for the snow. I have one on the way. I went from a 2000 Cummins 6 speed to a 2014 RAM SPORT to a Gladiator High Altitude and I'm going back to RAM for similar reasons, it spoiled me. Its a little pricey but its the last vehicle i should be buying. I decided i would go down my list with the order form and get what i wanted. Supposed to be in Baltimore tomorrow or so. then hoping no more than a week to get to southern maryland.
What part of New England are you from. I'm from the NY border area near Pittsfield Mass and Bennington VT. i go back yearly for hunting season, so a capable snow and off road vehicle is what i wanted. Rebel fit the bill.
 

tcass

Junior Member
Joined
Apr 20, 2014
Posts
28
Reaction score
10
Location
Southern Maryland
Ram Year
2022
Engine
3.0 V6 Echo-diesel
i hear ya. yeah, prices are high but its still cheaper cost per mile for my other vehicles other than my harley....good luck finding something. Gladiator was nice but it was too small for what i wanted to do such as tow a smaller camper or throw a canoe in the back.....so back to the ram. i commute 104 miles a day 4 days a week to and from work. miles an $$ add up fast. i have 26560 on my Gladiator which i bought back in May of 2021.
 
  • Like
Reactions: MMM
OP
OP
M

MMM

Senior Member
Joined
Aug 16, 2014
Posts
123
Reaction score
41
Ram Year
2014
Engine
5.7 Hemi
The JEEP was on my original shortlist. (JEEP. Mini, Miata RF and BRZ)
2018 or newer is what I was searching, but damn they cost a lot for what they are equipped with. (even before the pandemic prices hit.)
I'm the kind of person who wants to get plenty of options in the vehicle I buy.
I would be going with the 4-door since I got the family.
The one thing is, we would/may take whatever I have on family type trips.
Not sure how comfortable JEEP's are on 3 hour rides during vaca season.

Thx

Two pages and nothing but yak'n?
Threads suck without pictures, my other.
View attachment 494385
View attachment 494386
 
Last edited:
Top