Location: central/midwest USA, we travel for work so could be Minnesota or Texas, mainly stick around central midwest though
Price range: $15,000-$30,000 ish
Lease or Buy: Buy
New or used: Either one, wouldn't mind a warranty for once
Type of vehicle: Crossover
Must haves: Navigation, decent power so it doesn't struggle to get to highway speeds at the on ramp, Rear folding seats to increase cargo space for dogs (would be nice if the seats folded to be flush with the trunk), no leather, 22+mpg. Long term reliability on powertrain.
Desired transmission (auto/manual, etc): automatic
Intended use: Daily driver for my wife
Vehicles you've already considered: Mazda cx-5 has been the main focus
Is this your 1st vehicle: No
Do you need a Warranty: If it is $25k+ it would be nice.
Can you do Minor work on your own vehicle: (fluids, alternator, battery, brake pads etc) Yes
Can you do Major work on your own vehicle: (engine and transmission, timing belt/chains, body work, suspension etc )
Depends on the make/model, I have previously done all of the above minus body work. I usually won't go much further than the valves. Typically if it takes more than 8-10 hours for a weekend warrior I take it elsewhere.
Additional Notes: I have a truck with 4x4 already, encounter snow/ice most winters now so either FWD or AWD would be nice addition to the truck for her to drive safely. I have a supercharged truck so I want something quick and fun but it is not needed.