Decision time!

[otterhere]

Well, the old reliable Suzuzki Swift hatch (nine years old; 112k miles) is finally having some "issues"... Nothing out of the ordinary except for some pretty pricey front axle repairs which I'm not necessarily prepared to invest in given that I intended to buy a 2009 Yaris within the next year anyway; so "time."

Got one quote for a 3-door lift (not "S"), automatic, with convenience package (otherwise would have to order stripped down) for $14,500...

Good price?

That particular dealer told me I COULDN'T order one stripped down, that they come from the factory with one or another package included, but a second dealer told me I COULD... Except that his "stripped-down" price (no convenience or any other type of package; bare-bones base model) was even higher, at $14,800... CP an additional $680...

Also, his "all-weather package" (cheaper) included rear defrost, whereas the first dealer's didn't (???)... These two dealerships are just 50 miles apart...

Any advice welcome; do I fix the old car and keep driving for another year or go ahead now, getting the best price I can? I have the cash; no "financing."

Finally, how do you sell a dented-in car needing repairs?

[otterhere]

Also... Looks like my choices are either a) let the dealer "locate" one, which I can get within a matter of days (a consideration, since my axle may go at any time), but which will almost certainly have one of the packages included costing up to an additional $700 OR b) order direct from the factory stripped-down, which will not only take six weeks or longer but will also include freight charges of $700? Am I correct in assuming the freight charge is BECAUSE I'd be ordering it factory direct stripped down, or is that with ALL?

Help, guys; I need to make a decision soon here...

[Forrest]

From what I have read on these boards, there is no such thing as a special order for the Yaris. You can tell the dealer what you want or not want and they will try to locate one when delivered to US as close to your preferences.
There is a delivery/destination charge on all vehicles, so ask dealer to get one that is available that is the least costly..

[otterhere]

Have located two... One is about an hour away, on the lot, 2008 but new (no mileage); total cost (with everything) $14,500... The other is a 2009 that can be "traded for" within a few days (my car can make it that long, I think) with a drive-off price of $15,500. Both have options I don't want, but I'm reconciled to having to pay for those, along with the $150 floor mats (curses!). Both ARE the color and transmission I want.

Trying to decide whether to save $1,000 or go for the 2009 updated safety features.

[*MAD DOG*]

2009 Yaris is a great car. But so is the new Suzuki Swift. You being a Suzuki Swift owner currently/previously, have you test driven the new one? Aren't they about the same price as a Yaris but have more power and about the same fuel economy? Not that I’m trying to talk you out of a Yaris, I’m just wondering.

[PreciousPups4U]

Have located two... One is about an hour away, on the lot, 2008 but new (no mileage); total cost (with everything) $14,500... The other is a 2009 that can be "traded for" within a few days (my car can make it that long, I think) with a drive-off price of $15,500. Both have options I don't want, but I'm reconciled to having to pay for those, along with the $150 floor mats (curses!). Both ARE the color and transmission I want.

Trying to decide whether to save $1,000 or go for the 2009 updated safety features.

What color? Guess it depends on how you feel about the changes made for 2009. I am happy with my 2008 without the airbags and abs. Only you can deicide whether it's worth it or not. I paid $14,500 OTD (everything) for mine in May by the way. You've been anguishing over this for months as it is, don't think there's anything we can say to help you at this point. You've heard it all. Either would be a great choice. I assume you are looking at the 3 door LB.

[LtNoogie]

I bought mine through CarsDirect.com. I listed the options I wanted and they contacted all the dealers in town to get the best price.

[dg4rez]

take your time, look around on craigslist, autotrader, etc etc, till you find one used. I picked up mine used 12,400 US, and it only had 4,300miles on it. Its not the S, but it has the power package, and all the goodies, and auto. buying them used and not at a dealership, makes it for you dont have to get ripped off at a dealership, and have to pay sales tax, and all that stuff.