Cars

I am currently driving a 2008 Saturn Vue. It is a compact SUV, which means it fits anywhere *I* fit, and yet I sit up higher for better comfort and visibility. I have the mild hybrid version, which is a 4-cylinder gas engine paired with an electric motor for acceleration. The vehicle is thus at least as peppy as the V-6 version with better gas mileage. Lastly, my car is mechanically sound and paid for.

Alas, it is seven year old, and showing the various minor dings and wear of a seven-year-old vehicle that's driven every day. So I've started looking, and as typical of my profession and generation, that meant via the Internet. I've been a fan from afar of the Chevy Volt, but I'm not sure the vehicle would meet my needs or desires. I would like to test-drive one, if just for kicks.

I really like SUVs - all but two of my vehicles (both bought decades ago) were SUVs, so I'm adjusted to them. But I'm not a fan of large SUVs. They suck gas and don't fit in parking spots. I've had a selection of 4-wheel drive vehicles, but since off-road for me is an occasional gravel parking lot most of the time I don't need that feature.

As mentioned above, I've been doing my shopping so far on the Internet, and have used Kelly Blue Book to compare models. What looks like the right vehicle so far is the GMC Terrain. It's only a few inches longer than my Vue, and I think comes with the appropriate goodies to make me happy. The standard engine is a four-banger, which I suspect will be too doggy for my driving style, but if I order one I should be able to get the V-6.

Now to find the time to actually drive said vehicles and see if the rubber really meets the road...