If reliability is honestly key at this point, I'd hunt for a TSX wagon. I'm seeing a few on a nationwide search on Cars around $11k, but over 100k miles. It does come with the 2.4, so all that "needs" to be checked out is if the PO took care of the oil consumption recall.
For the BMWs, all E61s came w/ AWD and the majority of E91s came with AWD; few with RWD and even fewer w/ a stick.
I never even knew a TSX wagon existed until this thread. 201hp paddle shift and tons of storage. I like
For the price of the TSX you can get into a +2015 Golf Sportwagen. I don't know anything about the 5 cylinder jetta wagons.
FuzzWuzzy said:The Acura TSX wagon is gorgeous, but with the rarity comes the price tag.
...and they were never sold Stateside with a manual. Though I realize that the OP said that was desirable but not required.
I'd like to think the newer VW's aren't bad. If you want to go the Jetta Wagon route, I would avoid a turbo and go with the 2.5 liter and as base model as possible.
What about a Chevy HHR? Those aren't too rare and you could get an SS in your price range:
I drive a normally aspirated Volvo V70 every day. Unless you want a sports car, there's nothing not to like. It doesn't cost any more to maintain than any other car. The utility is outstanding; aided by the near vertical rear gate.
Wife hates HHRs. They are a little small too. We looked at those years ago.
Enterprise used to have a lot of HHRs in their fleet. I spoke to a rep once that said they were the most hated car by customers. Everyone wanted to exchange them for something else. I can't understand why the PT Cruiser was a success and the HHR wasn't.
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