Vehicle Help

[MisterStickabee]

Hello folks.  I have a few questions that I'd like to ask if you don't mind lending a hand answering them, though I don't think that this is really the appropriate forum(I didn't notice any others that would be more applicable though...  Sorry!).

My wife and I are in the process of shopping up a new vehicle for ourselves.  We really took to IBSP last year, myself for the fishing, and for her, the atmosphere. We were looking at potentially getting an SUV (we also have our first child on the way in very early July) in order to fit our child, gear and boxer (Bad dog!  )

We have thus far looked at vehicles in the size/price range of the Ford Escape.  What I was concerned about with the Escape was that it's "Automatic All-the-time 4WD".  I don't know if this will meet legal and practical requirements to drive on the beach.  My other concern is the 3.0L 6 Cyl. engine.  Would I feel underpowered driving along in the sand? 

Are there any minimum specs that those among you with experience and savvy would recommend?  I'd appreciate your help here, as I'm a bit out of my league in terms of practical knowledge here and family members are of little assistance in this regard.  Thanks in advance!

[Luna Sea 5]

first of all, very good choice of cars, and when you find the one you like, give me a email and I will get you a discount since I work for Ford Motor Co.  When you price the car, tell them you have a family member who works for Ford and you would be interested in the "A" plan price.  Once you get that price, contact me so I can move forward for you if your interested.

Now, 4-wheel drive is what you need for the sand, and I would perfer the 6 cyl. for the exact reason you explained, power, but not necessary.

What I would reccommend would be the Explorer though as it has slightly more room and more torque.

[Fishin Dude]

I agree with Luna Sea 3 about buying a bigger vehicle. Not only for the beach / fishing aspect, but if you have a second child in the next few years, the extra space WILL come in handy, unless of course you like buying new cars every few years.

The 3.0 V6 will have enough power for the beach, just make sure you "air down" . If you also plan to "off road" through the woods & MUD  , I would recommend the V8.

Here are a few links for some good beach driving info.
http://www.njbba.org/
http://www.fishermansheadquarters.com/fishfacts/Driving.PDF
http://island_beach_park.tripod.com/sport_fishing.htm

Good Luck with your new ride.   <'((((><

[PeggyLee]

Get in the trucks and ask for a test drive,you willl be able to determine which one feels most confortable.Consider the ride and the family;every body needs some room.You will not always be riding on the beach 24/7.The gas mileage and safety features are important.
Luna Sea can take it from here.......
Good Luck.

[sea nymph]

Mister - definitely take Luna Sea up on his offer.  The A plan is a great discount!  If you're looking mid-size SUV, you can't beat the Explorer with the value and reliability.  My Dad use to get the A plan and has owned many Explorers with no problems!  I had one and now am into a Expedition because of family size.  Also, Ford is the most stable of the "big" 3.
Good Luck!

[Luna Sea 5]

For your needs, the Explorer is very nice.  The Expedition is better. 

I beach with my Ford F350 and my Ford Excursion.  Both are excellent on the sand.

Choose your weapon and let me save you some $$$$. 

Let me recommend, whatever truck you choose, if you get a left over 2008, (if you can find any left), your looking at an extra $7,000.00 incentive on top of my discount.

[ped579]

I have to agree with everyone above.  I have an Expedition and totally love the ride on the beach.  I have had it for 9 years now and I would not hesitate to but another one.  I bought my daughter an Escape and even though it looks like it hasd enough room believe me when you start to pack everything up your room is very limited.

With all my fishing gear, dog, wife and daughter the Expedition becomes very crowded fast.  I can't believe the amount of stuff I have to carry along with the women aboard.  

Good luck in your search.

Paul

[Luna Sea 5]

Since I have young kids, and my youngest will be only 6 months old this summer, I will be taking the Excursion on the beach even without the fishing pole.  Its much easier to enjoy the beach with young kids when you have a large hatch in the truck to change the baby in, along with gear and shade for the kids.  Who wants to lug along all beach gear in a red wagon for the kids when all you have to do is open the trunk and your ready.

[sea nymph]

Mister - Since this is your first child you'll be amazed how much "stuff" you'll have to travel with to get to the beach:
Car Seat, Stroller, Diaper Bag, Pack-n-Play, Beach Tent, Small Blow up Pool, BIG Bag of Toys.
For overnight stays add:
Bath Seat, High Chair, LOTS of Baby Clothes and much, much more.

My point is, like Paul said, the Escape will fill up fast!  An Explorer is the perfect vehicle for a family of 4 (unless you want a van).  If you need more space, just add a cargo carrier to the roof!

I had to get an Expedition so I could fit 3 cars seats across the back seat.  When we travel, we pack the Expedition, use a roof carrier and even fill the boat! 
Again good luck with your choice!