So I need to get a new car.  My current car has been great, no I take that back, it’s been a fantastic car.  I’ve had my little Honda Accord since I graduated from college and moved to the big city to start my new life.  It was gently used at the time but great on gas mileage, low maintenance and the sportiest thing I had ever owned.  Of course compared to a hand-me-down Volvo Station Wagon and a stock-model Ford Ranger this isn’t saying much. 

My little 2-door Honda represented a life that was carefree and simple. 

But life changes and now I’ve found myself at a crossroad. 

I’m more financially stable, have achieved a certain status in my career and am now responsible for a young child (who will travel in said new car).  The truth is I am really torn on what type of a car to buy. 

This wouldn’t be such a hard decision if I was one of those people who got a new car every four years, but I’m not.  This car has got to last me at least seven or eight years.  That means I will own this car when I am nearing the 40-year old mark, Wow.        

I have never owned a brand new car and I definitely want one for this purchase.  My husband drives a behemoth GMC Yukon Denali which, despite it’s gas guzzling tendencies, has been great for the long road trips that we take at least two to three times a year.  Also, the better gas mileage I get on my vehicle, the higher my company car allowance goes.  So, here’s the skinny: 

Do I go with the Lexus RX350 “I’ve arrived in life” luxury SUV, with room to expand when Mason gets a sibling?

OR

The Nissan Altima Hybrid aka “I’m a semi-sporty, enviro-conscious, mom who just may run out of trunk space at any given moment.” 

The sensible side of my brain is at odds with the ego that wants to be unleashed.  Which would you choose for me?