HELP opinions MATTER

[RobinGFE]

I have a minivan (No I am not whining about gas) this morning I realized that the transmission is not going into gear correctly tried all the little tricks conditioners and nothing also at 300K+ the engine is going to go sooner than later. SO as it appears I ought to move swiftly Aim asking your HONEST opinion, as I and Buying TODAY! What's good I am affectionately known as car drunk (i.e. taking in to many cars and their info) I only want a small car as my needs have changed A LOT. 4 cyl low gas is a plus automatic and preferably loaded Looked at Saturn Ion
Ford Focus
Dodge Neon (and the upper sport models sxt or something I think lol)
A Suzuki that I really liked but for the life of me can't remember the name of (but I know about the bad resale and that is one of the only reasons for not choosing it.
I REALLY like the Saturn and the Suzuki...I am wondering about the Vibe (Pontiac) someone said Kia ummmmm not sure i like them lol I know A LOT about cars but not about buying them. So any info would help or any ideas that I have not come up with... I will buy New or 2003 with low K (under 30K) I am in the east end of the city THANK YOU IN ADVANCE

 

[Cardinal Fang]

Robin,

Have a look at the Consumer Reports Website for information on the cars you just mentioned. You may find it interesting.

http://www.consumerreports.org/main...ASSORTMENT<>ast_id=333137&bmUID=1084550290865

 

[RobinGFE]

the ion is VERY quiet for a small car i was shocked lol thanks fang for the link it is very helpful
I like the idea of the dent proof sides on the saturn I live in a subdivision with LOTS of kids on mikes scooters and skates so that would be helpful around here (as my van can attest to)

 

[kbluejayk]

Also check out the Toyota cars, Robin. the whole Toyota range get a high rating in Consumer reports.
I bought a new Sienna LE Mini van last Fall and am very pleased with it....but while in the showroom there were some nice cars as well. but if you plan to do much highway driving, the Corolla has little pep!
However, the thing to watch out for with any of the cars you mentioned, is the safety rating and the past 5 yr service record, and Consumer Reports will give you this info.

 

[papasmerf]

to tell you the truth
I have never hard anything bad about a saturn