I'm about to start a new job with a massive pay increase, but much further commute (53 miles each way). This commute will be for about 2 years, and then my wife can switch jobs and hopefully we can both move closer. I live in New Hampshire to AWD is helpful but not crucial. The highway is almost always clear enough for snow tires on a FWD car. We do a lot of road trips for fun - we like to go into Maine or Canada pretty frequently. I do a lot of biking and want a wagon or small SUV for utility purposes.

Current: 2013 Focus ST and 2006 Miata Considering: CPO Ford Escape 2.0T, CPO BMW 328i xDrive Wagon, CPO Audi A4 wagon, VW Golf wagon (regular vs AllTrack), Subaru Outback, Toyota Prius Also considering, but less so: Honda CR-V (road noise concern), Mazda CX-5 (same), Mazda CX-9 (too big), Toyota RAV4 (road noise concern)

Desires: * Quiet, refined, low NVH * Good fuel economy * Reliable * Good utility * Relatively cheap to own

I'm leaning towards Prius due to its utility, cheapness, and ridiculous reliability. I think NVH is reported to be a little worse than the other choices, but also supposed to be much better than previous generations. The Outback seems universally loved and is my #2 choice, although my wife has an XV Crosstrek and the seats are very uncomfortable for me - will have to test drive the Outback to be sure. I like how my Focus drives, so the Escape is a natural upgrade, although the fuel economy seems not-great. CPO Escape Titaniums are a great value, given the level of luxury for around ~$25k. It's my #3 choice at this time. BMW and Audi options probably drive great and have good utility, but reliability might be worse. The Golf has pretty great levels of NVH and is practical and economical, but reliability scares me a bit.