In April 2013 (*sigh* before I found MMM) I purchased a new 2013 Honda Accord, cash. After trading in my truck I think I paid $11k. I bought it for the luxury/reliability/MPG. Turns out the first two were spot on, but even with Econo mode and feathering the brake and gas I only achieve high 20s MPG unless driving highway.
I currently live five minutes from work and can bike most days, but every six weeks or so I travel 350 miles back home to visit family. I also sometimes need to travel in the local area for work, so I'm not in a position to be without a car entirely. I'm military, leaving the service next year, and not sure where I'll be working next (working with a recruitment/placement firm). I'm married, my wife works, we have three kids (4, 2, newborn), and about $350k in savings and investments. My wife drives an SUV.
Is it worth it to trade in the Accord and get a less expensive car? If so, what would you all recommend? KBB dealer trade-in is about $19k, private party about $21k.
Thanks!