Definitely a new Toyota/Homda vs a used Lexus/RDX as far as reliability goes. Toyota has bullet proof hybrids so a new RAV4 final choice.

This just comes down to personal preference. Personally, I would be curious about the hybrids. You're probably supposed to use higher-grade gas in the Lexus and Acura, so you would see the difference at the pump. I have no opinion on the CRV versus RAV4. I would go with the one that seems more spacious and/or has better visibility.

I have test-driven the RDX and did not find it that interesting; I was going to opt for the MDX, but you may not need the space. I do like the RX-350, and it is known for its longevity.

New Toyota or Honda no question

How is this even a ?

Anonymous wrote:We were looking at the Toyota and Honda. Ended up with a Subaru. It seemed more modern, esp with tech and safety feature.

I really want to like suburu but those gasket issues they have a bad history.

Mid range family beater, go new if for nothing else warranty coverage.

We were looking at the Toyota and Honda. Ended up with a Subaru. It seemed more modern, esp with tech and safety feature.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:This isn’t quite an apples to apples comparison as you’re comparing “base” cars to their luxury counterparts. If you like more creature comforts, I’d lean towards the luxury. Actually, for a good compromise, maybe check out a new CRV with leather.

OP. I'm trying to get the most value for my money. We typically hold onto cars for as long as possible. Would I be better off buying a brand-new Honda-CRV/Toyota Rav4 or an older Lexus/Acura for the same price, all things (reliability, driving experience, etc.) considered? My budget is mid $30ks..

Yes, you would be better off.

100% Acura - I recently just sold my 2010 Acura, and never once had an issue with it just normal upkeep.

Anonymous wrote:This isn’t quite an apples to apples comparison as you’re comparing “base” cars to their luxury counterparts. If you like more creature comforts, I’d lean towards the luxury. Actually, for a good compromise, maybe check out a new CRV with leather.

Maybe they have changed by my 2016 CRV has zero pickup. My next car will have a little more zip.

A family member has bought a lot of high end cars over the years and says that Acura was one of his favorites.

Anonymous wrote:This isn’t quite an apples to apples comparison as you’re comparing “base” cars to their luxury counterparts. If you like more creature comforts, I’d lean towards the luxury. Actually, for a good compromise, maybe check out a new CRV with leather.

OP. I'm trying to get the most value for my money. We typically hold onto cars for as long as possible. Would I be better off buying a brand-new Honda-CRV/Toyota Rav4 or an older Lexus/Acura for the same price, all things (reliability, driving experience, etc.) considered? My budget is mid $30ks..

I love my Honda. It is by far the most reliable car that I have owned. I used to have a RAV-4, and at the end of its life, I asked my trusted repair guy what he would recommend I that I shop for. He said, “I’ll hate to see you less frequently, but you should get a Honda.” That did it for me.

This isn’t quite an apples to apples comparison as you’re comparing “base” cars to their luxury counterparts. If you like more creature comforts, I’d lean towards the luxury. Actually, for a good compromise, maybe check out a new CRV with leather.

Buy the new Toyota or Honda. You will get 3 more years of use out of them.

The upscale versions just have a little more expensive parts in them. Under the skin, there's not a lot of difference. And it will cost you more to repair them.

We are down to 4 suvs - Toyota CRV Hybrid 2025 (new), Honda CRV Hybrid 2026 (new), Lexus RX350 2022 (about 40K miles), Acura RDX 2022/23 (about 30K miles). All in the same neighborhood in terms of price - $35-$38K. If you were in my shoes, which one would you pick and why?