We have a 2008 GMC Acadia (same exact car as the Traverse, just a different brand name) with 50,000 miles on it since we bought it brand new in late 2008. It runs fine with no major issues so far; the only complaint I have is the transmission is slow to downshift and upshift, especially when getting on the freeway. You do get used to it, but it's weird for the first few months (or years...)
Our Acadia is fully loaded with everything but navigation. The $100 TomTom was a better option than spending ~$2,000 on a built in system since we would barely use it.
The third row seat is phenomenal for a family with small kids, or even adults. We used to have a GMC Yukon and the third row seat was pretty much useless for anyone over 5 ft.; the way it was designed, you ended up sitting with your knees in your face. The Acadia/Traverse also has a fold flat third row which is great if you don't need to use it all the time and want the storage space.
We looked at the Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Lexus RX350, and found the Acadia to be the most family friendly. The Lexus doesn't even have a third row, and the Acura and BMW had unbelievably small ones.
I personally drive a 2010 VW Jetta bought new in August of last year. It has 13,000 miles and drives great! Mine is loaded with vinyl seats (they look and feel like leather without the hassle of maintenance) automatic transmission with sport mode and can also shift to manual, sunroof, Bluetooth, alloy wheels, and splash guards. I got it for $20,000. It's a great vehicle and I plan on driving it until something major goes wrong (knock on wood) or the wheels fall off, whatever comes first...
I really like the VW Tiguan. It's a small SUV without a third row, but has great Volkswagen quality and amenities. New costs a pretty penny, but used ones can be had at a great price. If all goes well with my Jetta, I'm going to look at them when the time rolls around for a new car.
We also have a 2006 BMW 5-series, bought brand new off the ship from Germany in 2005. It has 70,000 highway miles and drives great, but is SUCH a pain to maintain. Parts have to be ordered from Germany and are shipped over here SO slow. The routine maintenance costs are insane, and to be honest, it's not the best quality car. The seats are uncomfortable, and they don't go down enough to accommodate my 6'1" frame, so needless to say, I barely drive it...
We're looking at replacing it within the next year with an Audi S4, Mercedes C63, Cadillac CTS V, or BMW M3. I better be able to fit in the M3...
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. Yuckko! We couldn't find the dang thing and so we said "seat, begone!!!" or something that contained a great deal of bleeping. The engine is sounding really loud (not a happy sound..) now so we are not sure how much longer it will last, but it has been a great van!
Both of the 08's were purchased in 09 with low mileage.
