Another car question - Advice/perspective appreciated

[NewPerspective]

Hello!

I'm hoping to get some advice in making a car decision.

I currently have a 2004 Honda Pilot, approx 160k miles.  The transmission just went out and will need to be rebuilt (prob about 3k).   We also have a 2006 Honda Civic.    We have been talking seriously for about six months about replacing one of these cars.

I would like a small SUV, one that I plan to keep for at least 15 years.  I'd like something "nice" (not top of the market but not bottom either).

I'm trying to decide if I should repair the transmission with the idea we will likely replace the car in the next year or so or go ahead and replace the car now.  If I replace it now, I have no idea what to get.  I was considering the 2018 Honda CR V but I've read about issues with the engine and battery.  I've looked at Lexus and Acura, but nothing is really compelling (also, not sure I want to spend that much).

As far as financial details, no debt at all, no mortgage, healthy savings and 70k in a money market account.

Thank you for any advice!  (Including face punches for those that feel I should just take care of the transmission and keep trucking on with the Pilot).

[AlotToLearn]

Have you considered a 2015 or 16 CRV? You may be able to secure better pricing vs an 18.

[rothwem]

Fix the transmission regardless. If you decide to keep the car, you’ll have a rebuilt trans, if you decide to sell it, you have a perfect car to sell private party for 6-8k.

Having a working vehicle when you go to buy another one is a great thing too, there’s no pressure to make a hasty decision with 20 grand.

[Another Reader]

If you buy the LX trim in the CR-V, you get the older 2.4 engine that is normally aspirated.  I would avoid the turbos.  I can't speak to the transmission issue.

Overall, Hondas, especially the CR-V, don't depreciate as fast as other cars.  You may find yourself paying close to a well negotiated price on a new one for a one to two year old car with low miles.

[NewPerspective]

Thank you for the input!

I dropped the Pilot off at the mechanic this morning.

I'm actually thinking we keep the Pilot and get rid of the Civic at some point in the near-ish future.  (I really dislike the Civic - if I had to drive it regularly I would have already gotten rid of it).  I think the Pilot should be ok for another couple of years with a rebuilt transmission - fingers crossed!