Rusted_Busted_Spit wrote: What about the new Fiat 500X? On paper at least it seems to hit all the things you want.
Yea, he needs to try at least try out the 500x Trekking and Renegade Trailhawk(no option version is about $25k)
I can't find a towing figure for the Jeep, but the 500x is able to tow 4500lbs from the looks of it. 
http://i.imgur.com/H8v2qNq.jpg
Picture from the 2015 Juke factory service manual. I can't find any mention of AWD operation being disabled in relation to speed.
In reply to WOW Really Paul?:
100% agreed, from everything I've read both the Renegade and 500X are reviled for no good reason by Jeep diehards and Fiat purists, but both post shockingly good numbers in most areas. C&D really, really liked the Renegade too for what it's worth. I'm waiting for the rumored 500X Abarth myself...will likely be my next vehicle if they make it.
In reply to pointofdeparture:
I told them they needed to make it on their book of faces page....
Count me in for another vote on the Subarus. Don't knock one till you've tried it, they drive better than they look on paper.
pointofdeparture wrote: I'm the same way. I need a hatchback/wagon for occasional hauling so a ton of options are immediately out based on that alone. It is a huge shame Subaru axed the WRX hatchback, now the only cars in that class are the Focus RS and Golf R which are both significantly more expensive. That's part of the reason I actually like the Jeep Renegade, they market the thing as an SUV but it's basically a lifted hatchback. I just put dedicated snow tires on my Fit for the season, Milwaukee isn't toooooo bad when the white stuff hits but I'm curious to see how it does in ~6" or so. I was looking real close at the Impreza before I bought, hoping I don't regret my decision.
You'll be fine. Good actually. My 2013 fit handled Chicago's last winter really well with snow tires. I came back from visiting family via train in January to find my fit buried in snow that was up a little higher than the bottom of the doors so about a foot maybe a little more. I motored out of that parking lot and thru the 3 ft snow plow walls no problem. 
Fwiw, my understanding is that Jukes disable the manual AWD override at 6mph, but the computer will still vector torque to all wheels at higher speeds.
Run_Away wrote: http://i.imgur.com/H8v2qNq.jpg Picture from the 2015 Juke factory service manual. I can't find any mention of AWD operation being disabled in relation to speed.
That's interesting. All the juke fans on an enthusiasts website said it disabled at 6mph,25mph, never, etc. usually, when I encounter this sort of inconsistent information, I chalk it up to "these kids that buy these cars have no idea what they are talking about..." On fitfreak, that's about 90% of the time. Which is why I no longer visit that site. (Also why I practically live on here!)
If the AWD system stays in play at higher speeds but is just "nannied" I'm ok with that. Like I said, it's a daily driver for the wife, and she has cleaning jobs that are sometimes off the main streets and could use AWD to get there. The fit does well on snow tires and studs, but only if said streets are plowed. No deep stuff. Heck, the sport's chin spoiler is only six inches off the ground. I have literally had to "unclog" the radiator airflow. I REALLY want to like the Juke. But until I get confirmation of the AWD, I'm out.
Update: called my local dealership and spoke with the head tech. Per him: "the AWD lock will look all four wheels into a 4wd. It will disable at 17mph and go into FWD mode. This is a safety feature because it would be undriveable on the streets like this" then he said "but in AWD-v mode, the ECU controls torque biasing front to back and left to right. This is done at all speeds to ensure maximum grip." Great news. I might buy it.
Older element?
With a little lift and tires? 
Even in stock form they have decent clearance. I know its more SUV, but they are pretty slick.
In reply to java230:
I do love the old elements. Would get one in a heartbeat. Sadly, they are hardly available in my area. The good thing is most of them are owned by old ppl, so haven't been abused, just neglected.
In reply to Trackmouse:
That's too bad because I too love them, with an ecamper on top it would be a sweet rig. If I were in your shoes id be looking at one. Shipping cars is not that expensive....
Is this where I recommend Isuzu Trooper?
Fly and drive for an Element!
Tom Suddard wrote: Is this where I recommend Isuzu Trooper?
Hahahahaha!
I liked the Renegade but couldn't wait for one when I was car shopping. The Buick Encore was nice but underpowered.
Edit: At the auto show every time I heard the guy say HPV I heard either HPV or HIV.
You'll need to log in to post.
