2011OB vs. Ford Edge/Lincoln MXK

[KptKrunch]

Ok folks - it think I have it narrowed down to one of these three vehicles.

I'd most likely get the 3.6 OB Limited if I go that route, which lists here for 40 grand MSRP (42 if you throw in the Multimedia options).

I can get a fully loaded 2011 Lincoln MKX for 46 grand MSRP (after the discounts Ford is offering right now).

On the plus side for the Subaru - it's smaller and has better gas mileage, also has a better AWD system and possibly a more reliable engine(?).

On the plus side for the Lincoln - a much more powerful engine with comparable (though not quite as good) gas mileage (305 hp vs. 256 hp), much cheaper to run (i.e. repair) a much better warranty (4 year bumper to bumper and 6 year power train with 1st year free maintenance).

On the negative side for the Outback is the steering wheel shake problem and the comments from posters here on how Subaru are handling it. Parts costs (more than double of a domestic like Ford/Lincoln). Standard warranty with no maintenance.

On the negative side for the MKX - past AWD models had a problem (Ford Edge - assuming the MKX has same issue) but still doing more research on that. Larger vehicle (more susceptable to door dings and harder to maneuver in tight spaces) and, well, it's a Ford.

Now, my question is for all you 2010/2011 owners - what vehicles other than the OB were you considering before selecting the OB, why did you decided on the OB - and other that the Steering Wheel shake (which as I understand is not necessarily starting until about the 1500 km mark) what should I look for when test driving one? I plan on buying a 2011.

Thanks

[subcon]

not sure where you are (i'm guessing not in the US since you said 1500km) but if you pay 40 Gs for a 3.6R Limited, you got ripped off. most are selling ±1000 of invoice, and invoice price for the 3.6R Limited with no extras is around 30.

if you're not in the US, then ignore that previous bit.

don't let the comments about the steering wheel shake scare you from what is otherwise a great vehicle. test drive one for yourself and make your own decision. i have ~2000km (fuzzy estimate of 1250mi) on mine and have had no problems.

[bluezurich]

Canada?

[KptKrunch]

Sorry - yeah, Canada of course

Just listing MSRP's (the one dealer here is actually quote me above MSRP but also quoted a $900 delivery when Subaru.ca says it $1595). I of course would not pay MSRP (for any new vehicle) and plan on offering about $1000 over invoice if I do indeed tender an offer. Whether they'll take it or not is another story, but that's why I have (at the moment) three on my short list.

Worse case scenario is I drive my '03 Pathfinder for another year and collect more interest on my money

[mpnret]

Originally Posted by KptKrunch

Ok folks - it think I have it narrowed down to one of these three vehicles.

I'd most likely get the 3.6 OB Limited if I go that route, which lists here for 40 grand MSRP (42 if you throw in the Multimedia options).

I can get a fully loaded 2011 Lincoln MKX for 46 grand MSRP (after the discounts Ford is offering right now).

On the plus side for the Subaru - it's smaller and has better gas mileage, also has a better AWD system and possibly a more reliable engine(?).

On the plus side for the Lincoln - a much more powerful engine with comparable (though not quite as good) gas mileage (305 hp vs. 256 hp), much cheaper to run (i.e. repair) a much better warranty (4 year bumper to bumper and 6 year power train with 1st year free maintenance).

On the negative side for the Outback is the steering wheel shake problem and the comments from posters here on how Subaru are handling it. Parts costs (more than double of a domestic like Ford/Lincoln). Standard warranty with no maintenance.

On the negative side for the MKX - past AWD models had a problem (Ford Edge - assuming the MKX has same issue) but still doing more research on that. Larger vehicle (more susceptable to door dings and harder to maneuver in tight spaces) and, well, it's a Ford.

Now, my question is for all you 2010/2011 owners - what vehicles other than the OB were you considering before selecting the OB, why did you decided on the OB - and other that the Steering Wheel shake (which as I understand is not necessarily starting until about the 1500 km mark) what should I look for when test driving one? I plan on buying a 2011.

Thanks

Outback is a great car but I don't know why you would even consider one until this steering shake thing gets sorted out (which hopefuly will be soon). Why buy a car that seems good on the test drive and take the chance of developing the shakes later. And if that happens, you get a half ash attempt to mask it out (not correct it) and then whatever shake is left they call acceptable road feel.

[urbanamom]

I had a 2002 volvo v70 2.4t and I started looking at new cars and ended up buying a 2011 outback 2.5i limited. I ordered mine for 100 ove invoice in the usa.
I looked at other cars including the Volvo XC90 and the Ford Edge.... The XC90 and XC70 have no leg room or cargo room anymore. Also, the gas mileage was not that great. Also, for the Edge, sit in the back seat and then sit in the Subaru. I find it hard to believe that a ford has better reliability and cost less to repair than a subaru. One othe items I liked best about the subaru is the proved reliability with the AWD and the car is very easy to work on. Lastly, we just took a trip and don't let the back fool you. We fit a ton on stuff in the back including suitcases, boogie board, beach chairs and a number of other items for the beach. MUCH more room than my volvo ever had. I am averaging about 32 mph highway with a loaded car.

Also, by the time you get an Edge with AWD and comperable options to the Subaru, it will end up costing more.

Test drive a Subaru and you will love the car!!!

[urbanamom]

Also, take a look at the fuel requirements.... 2.5i is regular unleaded and I think the 3.6R is super unleaded. Don't know what Ford recommends

[awd-gg]

Originally Posted by urbanamom

Also, take a look at the fuel requirements.... 2.5i is regular unleaded and I think the 3.6R is super unleaded. Don't know what Ford recommends

2010-2011 Subaru Outback 3.6R (the ones sold in USA) are requires regular unleaded.

[KptKrunch]

Originally Posted by mpnret

Outback is a great car but I don't know why you would even consider one until this steering shake thing gets sorted out (which hopefuly will be soon). Why buy a car that seems good on the test drive and take the chance of developing the shakes later. And if that happens, you get a half ash attempt to mask it out (not correct it) and then whatever shake is left they call acceptable road feel.

Yep - that's a good point and something I am weighing very heavily on. However, that being said, I don't really think there is a car/CUV/SUV/Truck anywhere that's made that is perfect. Some certainly have more problems than others, and some can really start falling apart right after a warranty expires.

I'm considering the Subaru because of reputation and because of they drive in the winter. I'm in Central Alberta Canada and spend a lot of time in my job driving in rural areas. Winter tires and a 4 wheel/ all wheel drive system is a must as my job is stressful enough without having to 'whiteknuckle' it on the way there.

Also as I understand it, it's not every OB that has the shake, so maybe I get lucky two ways, I can use it as part of the negotiation process and I might not get the problem.

But again, the point is well taken and I am weighing it heavily - thanks

[KptKrunch]

Originally Posted by urbanamom

I had a 2002 volvo v70 2.4t and I started looking at new cars and ended up buying a 2011 outback 2.5i limited. I ordered mine for 100 ove invoice in the usa.
I looked at other cars including the Volvo XC90 and the Ford Edge.... The XC90 and XC70 have no leg room or cargo room anymore. Also, the gas mileage was not that great. Also, for the Edge, sit in the back seat and then sit in the Subaru. I find it hard to believe that a ford has better reliability and cost less to repair than a subaru. One othe items I liked best about the subaru is the proved reliability with the AWD and the car is very easy to work on. Lastly, we just took a trip and don't let the back fool you. We fit a ton on stuff in the back including suitcases, boogie board, beach chairs and a number of other items for the beach. MUCH more room than my volvo ever had. I am averaging about 32 mph highway with a loaded car.

Also, by the time you get an Edge with AWD and comperable options to the Subaru, it will end up costing more.

Test drive a Subaru and you will love the car!!!

Thanks for the info UM. Great feedback. A Volvo was another vehicle I was looking at but for the options I want it gets out of my price range really fast.

You are kind of right on the Edge/MKX but right now Ford is offering huge incentives, even on the 2011 models. I can get an MKX at a $7300 discount before negotiations - the offer I've worked out it will be a lot close to $10,000 off. That price puts it only about 6% higher than a fully loaded 2011 OB (and it would have to be fully loaded and it still wouldn't have the options the Lincoln would have - like adaptive cruise control, adaptive HID headlamps, and even park assist (though that's a feature I really don't need it's a neat toy to have especially when re-selling down the road).

Of course, the more 'stuff' you have, the more that can go wrong with it. I believe the Lincoln is the better value for creature comforts and technology not including the powertrain, and lets face it, the powertrain is the most important part of the vehicle when you get right down to it.

So it's like I have two angels (or devils) on each shoulder. It's tough,I'd rather be focused on one. This feedback does help and is very much appreciated!

Thanks