Like many car buyers, patience and thorough research are key to my vehicle purchasing process. Before making any decisions, I dedicate time to understanding all aspects and ensuring my choice makes practical and financial sense. My recent car shopping journey initially led me towards luxury SUVs, specifically the Lincoln Aviator and Lexus RX 350. Having spent years prioritizing family needs with more basic transportation, I felt ready to explore vehicles in that premium category.
However, two key considerations led me to reconsider the luxury SUV path at this time:
Firstly, several neighbors and a close friend had recently purchased high-end SUVs – a Range Rover, Acura MDX, Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, and a Yukon Denali – all within a short timeframe. My wife astutely pointed out that acquiring a luxury vehicle now might appear as though we were simply trying to “keep up with the Joneses.” While I generally disregard others’ opinions on my car choices, I also wanted to avoid any appearance of chasing trends.
Secondly, with my youngest child still years away from driving independently, the reality of family life with its associated messiness remains. The thought of constantly battling a dirty interior in a brand-new Lexus was unappealing. Opting for a more mainstream and budget-friendly vehicle seemed a wiser decision for the present, with plans to upgrade to a truly desired luxury model once the kids are no longer the primary passengers.
This shift in perspective led me to explore the market of more mainstream SUVs such as the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, and Buick Enclave. While these models offered appealing features, none truly stood out, and the sticker prices felt excessive for vehicles that didn’t fully capture my interest. It felt illogical to pay premium prices for something that wasn’t genuinely desired.
Interestingly, the 2019 Pathfinder wasn’t initially on my radar. However, a chance rental experience changed my viewpoint. I was particularly impressed with the cruise control system and completed a 450-mile drive in the 2019 Pathfinder without experiencing any back discomfort. This positive experience prompted deeper research, revealing that used 2019 Pathfinder models were available at very competitive prices compared to their rivals.
The Hertz bankruptcy situation presented an unexpected opportunity. Numerous 2019 Pathfinder models with low mileage (under 10,000 miles) were available at discounts of $5,000 to $6,000 from their new car prices. Given my driving habits, purchasing one of these used vehicles would still provide at least three years of remaining powertrain warranty coverage. This warranty offered peace of mind, particularly concerning potential CVT transmission issues. Furthermore, the convenience of a reputable Nissan dealership located less than a mile from my home was a significant advantage for any servicing or warranty needs. Should any significant issues arise near the powertrain warranty expiration, transitioning to another vehicle at that point remains a viable option.
This detailed evaluation ultimately led me to the conclusion that a used 2019 Pathfinder represented a smart, practical, and value-driven choice for my current needs.
