thanks for all the tips!
@7years I'll have to get the specific mpg and other numbers to do a calc tonight... there is no one car in particular he is looking to replace the explorer with at this point, as he's looking to get the most of the current car (although I can see the argument for switching sooner than driving this car into the ground).
@ketchup My qualm about getting a car that is 10+ years old is simply the mileage accompanying that aged car. Before I confirm the numbers tonight, it's my estimate that he drives easily 500 miles/week (based in greater Boston.. going to outer reaches of Maine and southern points of RI); but maybe I am just ignorant and there are older cars with really low mileage.
some cargo space is needed, actually, since he will bring samples from their warehouse... and then our dog goes with him from time to time, but he's not a HUGE breed, ~75 lbs. So some, but not a ton of space is necessary.
I can't confirm/deny that he needs a specific standard of car, but will find out. Didn't even think of it (I am clearly NOT in sales!).
@ fixer I did happen to leave out that he's over 6'3 and will sooner move out of our house to live in a gutter than drive a yaris/prism every day. Although, I do agree a hybrid is not necessary.
@bogart... yes, the payment is generous, and its north of 500. However, right now he's taking that as add'l income each month (since he has no car payment) so in my mind, the more of that which can stay as (non taxed) cash in his pocket, the better
thank you!!