Auto Trends

Continuing from our list of the best used cars from 1998 and up, we come to the letters H through I of the manufacturers alphabet:

Honda Accord-

Honda Civic-

Honda Civic Hybrid-

Honda CR-V-

Honda makes a good vehicle in general, but in the small SUV market we sure like the Honda CR-V for both its performance, convenience, and overall value. With being one of the first car platform SUV’s out in 1996, Honda hasn’t had to perfect to many faults over the years. But one of its so-called worst faults, isn’t actually all that bad.

The CR-V was slightly underpowered over the years, especially in 1998 ($3,700) at 126 horsepower, but in todays gas crunch, that 126 ponies translates into low fuel consumption (22/26 mpg) and high reliability. 1999 saw a boost of 20 ponies with their stout 2.0 liter, which was later boosted to 160 horsepower from 2002 to 2006 ($8,700 - $20,000) with a more potent 2.4 liter 4-cylinder (all engines have around the same mpg).

The Honda CR-V is a lot more rugged than it would appear and is highly capable of tackling snow, rain, and ice with its all-wheel-drive, and then heading out on the dry highway, where it is every bit as agile and light on its wheels as most any similar priced sedan.

While the CR-V may handle like a car, it does not have the same convenience features as one, and we mean this in a good way. The Honda has quite a bit of space on the inside for passengers, a large cargo area, and a nifty picnic table that folds up from the floor.

The price range of the CR-V ranges from $4,000 to $30,000 from 1998 on up to 2007, so there should be something in there for anyone.

Honda Element-

Honda Odyssey-

Honda Pilot-

Honda S2000-

Infiniti FX-

Infiniti G20-

Infiniti G35-

About $15,000 will get you a used 2003 Infinity G35. These were introduced in the spring of 2002 as infiniti’s newest affordable luxury sedan. While luxury was certainly a focus, sport enthusiasm was one of its key selling points.

Its rear wheel configuration combined with a potent 280 horsepower V-6 for the coupe, could be described best as a family persons version of the Nissan 350Z. While longer than the 350Z, its sport capabilities were still quite impressive for its size.

The sedans were scaled down a bit to 260 horsepower, and both body styles featured a 5-speed automatic transmission and 6-speed manual. Such classy options for both include leather, 17 inch alloys, Xenon headlights, wood interior trim, Bose stereo/satellite, DVD navigation, sunroof, and a premium package with sport tuned suspension and performance tires to match.

The sportier coupes had the additional options of 18-inch wheels, limited-slip differential, heated front seats, and performance rated brakes, while the sedan had the exclusive feature of reclining rear seat back. Safety wise, both body styles had anti-lock disc brakes, power brake assist, and side airbags.

The G35 is second to none in its class, which includes the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, and the Cadillac CTS.

Infiniti I30, I35-

Infiniti QX4-

(…to be continued)