help me pick a JDM lifestyle mover
I has me a truck and a Jeep already, but none that sits more than 5.
Because of 2 dogs, in-laws and a new kiddo on the way, I'd like a 7 seater that isn't a Suburban or a Dodge minivan, NOR am I interested in crazy priced new vehicles with insane interest rates, NOR ridiculously priced in the used market thanks to excessive exports.
Doesn't leave me alot of options, and I am also very much a 'lifestyle' person...
Over the years, I've learned that my lifestyle defines me far more than my material possessions, and while I'm not a vegan hobo, getting older, I value reliability over all attributes. IF I had my choice, I'd probably restart with a fleet of Toyota/Hondas with Landcruiser, Taco, Highlander and a Element.
Being in the need to be able to haul up to 7 people(3 - under 10 year olds, a MIL, a spouce) and 2 dogs to go skiing, hockey practice, back forth from Radium, biking etc.. and in a cost effective/efficient way.
I am leaning towards a RHD people mover... likely in the form of a RB2 chassis Odyssey with AWD and the K24a motor thats in the absolute.
This has been ages since I've owend/driven a Honda, but from what I understand, the K series is a bigger and more evolved version of a B series motor and ALL of them should be rock solid reliable. This one in particular as either the K24a/a8 are used in CRVs and TSX (the 200hp one)
This RB2 however, in AWD I am more concerned about finding more driveline parts than motors/transmissions, as those seem to be the easiest sourcable. But I think that is just part for the course when you're looking at +15 year old vehicles.
When I called out a couple JDM importers around BC and here, it seems like this is one heck of a popular model, as basically it seems to me like its a Civic Wagon or TSX Wagon
I am also interested in what is called the Stepwgn... which based on what I can tell, is very much a Honda Element with an extra row. Its very low on HP (160) for the curb weight, but all of these cars with the K motors seem to avg like 7x L/100 on the highway.
But before I make any decision, I'd love to learn experiences and even hear any recommendations.
I like the fact that the Odyssey is basically a wagon/minivan without looking or driving like one... while the fuel economy and reliability 'seemingly' is outstanding. The styling in the 3rd gen, even the 2nd is still very appealing.
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Originally Posted by killramos
