What if you were to lose your Kizashi?

[KuroNekko]

Haven't thought about it much because I'm happy with the Kiz, but probably a Subaru 4x4 with a manual trans. I'm kind of limited in choices here in the USA because I like a manual transmission. I've read that in Europe manual trans vehicles outnumber automatics.

Hate to break it to you but Subaru is ditching manuals in some models much like the others in the industry. The new Legacy and Outback will be exclusively CVT from now on. The only manuals in the line up are the BRZ (only a RWD car), the Impreza, the WRX, STI, and the Forester. The larger cars are no longer offered in 3 pedals.

Europe is definitely more manual-friendly. I've also heard that manuals outnumber autos and in fact, renting a car can be difficult for an American who can't drive stick. I've heard that you have to reserve one in advance since most rental cars are manual. That's the opposite of the US where there are no manual rentals. I've even asked Enterprise employees and they said they've never seen a manual in their fleet.

On the scale of manual offerings, I find domestics to be the worst, Asian cars to be in the middle, and European cars to be the best at offering them. Even Suzuki killed of the manual for the Kizashi in MY 2013 except for the S base model.

[WESHOOT2]

I would jump right into a 2015/2016 WRX with CVT.

[paininthenuts]

Yep. I live in the UK and manuals outnumber autos about 5 to 1. People prefer them because they fet they have more control and they are better on fuel. That said I prefer autos and love the cvt box

[redmed]

Yep. I live in the UK and manuals outnumber autos about 5 to 1. People prefer them because they fet they have more control and they are better on fuel. That said I prefer autos and love the cvt box

"More control" that's the main reason reason I like a manual. I can feel the cars connection with the road, a big plus on snow covered roads. Also more fun to drive, unless your in bumper to bumper traffic.

[redmed]

Yeah, North Americans don't have much of a choice when it comes to diesel + wagon + manual. I can only think of one car that offers all of the above.

However, even Canada is different and has cars Americans don't get. Import laws are also more laxed and I've heard of Canadians getting R34 GT-Rs from Japan.
When I visited Canada, I saw a Mitsubishi Delica and was excited about seeing it. I've only seen them in Japan until that point.

Before I bought my Kiz I test drove the one car your probably thinking of a VW Sportwagon. It was a diesel, manual trans, high grade interior, huge sunroof, bright red, black leather interior. I was sure I had found my car. Then I took it for a test drive. Like Paininthenuts said "it was just a box with wheels". I really liked the sunroof though I think it was called a panoramic sunroof.

[bootymac]

Yep. I live in the UK and manuals outnumber autos about 5 to 1. People prefer them because they fet they have more control and they are better on fuel. That said I prefer autos and love the cvt box

"More control" that's the main reason reason I like a manual. I can feel the cars connection with the road, a big plus on snow covered roads. Also more fun to drive, unless your in bumper to bumper traffic.

I used to be on the "manual only" boat as I mostly take transit to work and only drive on weekends with no rush hour traffic. Then I started driving my GTI to and from the office and also for field work. Never again. You get no benefit of having a manual in these conditions so it's pointless.

My new stance is an automatic for a car that sees any commuting and a manual for a more dedicated weekend toy (MX5, FRS/BRZ, etc). No compromises!

[~tc~]

R34 is now outside the age limit and there are no special restrictions to import one - just buy it and have it brought over.

[Firefly]

Even in the NYC metro area, service centers are sparse. I can't do too much DIY and need a reliable daily driver. I would move on to something else.

My lease is up next month so that will pretty much do it for me.

What will the dealership do with the car once you turn it in? Do you think they'll try to sell it or wholesale it?

I'll see what I can find out once I start the process. It's financed and owned by Suzuki.

As for my next vehicle, I'm looking into an AWD Fusion. It suits my needs. I have driven one and I know it's not as engaging to drive as the Kiz, and that's something I'll miss.

[SamirD]

I've read that in Europe manual trans vehicles outnumber automatics.

In the UK, most definitely the last time I was there. A lot more diesel too.

[SamirD]

I love the R34. I wanted to get a sedan with the RB25 in it just as a fun and unique commuter. It's still a dream...