R I C H

My experience is the complete opposite.

JD Power dependability ratings suggest a mixed bag of North American, far eastern and European vehicles depending on market sector.

Hurlabrick

Thanks guys.

I was trying to say the Ford Escape is the sort of thing and size I will be looking at.

I will of course be looking at many of the alternatives - including / especially Japanese....

MarkG

JD Power is the one that classes things like my American-speaking Subaru's inability to understand English as a reliability problem, isn't it?

R I C H

I've no idea. After suffering 3 Subaru low mileage engine failures, my own experience is of utter unreliability, in whatever dialect you choose.

Piff Poff

OH wouldn't touch and Escape with a barge pole, he doesn't understand the popularity the things have. But people love them. He'd probably say go Japanese. (He also wouldn't have a diesel, mainly because he hates working on diesel more than anything else).

TrishP

Currently driving a VW Jetta tdi and love it, don't give a monkey's about the emissions, fuel economy is brilliant (1200-1300km on a tankful) and it's peppy to drive. Never plug it in during the winter and it starts every time without so much as a splutter. Much prefer the Jetta over the other car in the household (Mazda 3 hatch).
Just hanging on until 21st June to find out what VW is offering tdi owners by way of compensation ...

Edo

Hi. Is it a Mexican made Jetta or German?

TrishP

Not a clue, bought in Ontario., so I would assume Mexico.

Edo

OK, we have one of those too. But having previously owned a German model of the same I personally think the two are a world apart in terms of driving experience and build quality (especially the interior).

Although I hope some good news come out from VW on the emission thing soon. Something much more than just a $1000 Visa gift card

TrishP

The last info I read was that VW Canada customers would be eligible for the same compensation as would be offered to the US owners, which would include a buyback option. VW has to file their offer with the US authorities by 21st June. My Mazda 3 is the middle of the range model, while the Jetta is the Highline model ... the heated leather seats in the Jetta did it for me

Sidie82

I bought an Explorer when I moved over (it was 10 years old at the time), its been the most reliable car I've ever had. The gas mileage is terrible though.

getoutofbritainquick

Our only issue with diesel is Costco don't sell it. Who needs a F150 when our 3.0 liter Mercedes GL SUV diesel pumps out 450lbs of torque and does over 30 miles to the gallon. Much cheaper than regular gas as well in BC. I just don't get.

Atlantic Xpat

'Cos an F150 is a lot cheaper to buy/lease?

Atlantic Xpat

Did a bit of research yesterday on towing capacities of CUVs as that's important to me. The Escape leads the pack at 3500lbs which is one reason why we have one today. Most - CRV, RAV4 etc are 2000lbs or less but was surprised to see the Subaru Outback can tow 3000lbs as can the Audi Q5. Might have to take a look at them before deciding on a new vehicle this summer,